Podcast
Daring to Dad
Hosted by Ryan Walton · EN
Daring to Dad holds conversations at the intersections of fatherhood, faith and masculinity. Join us as we engage in candid conversations with fathers from all walks of life, sharing stories, challenges, and insights that inspire and resonate. Whether you’re a new dad navigating parenting, someone curious about the intersection of masculinity and spirituality, or just looking to connect with relatable experiences, ”Daring to Dad” offers a space to learn, reflect, and grow together. Tune in and be part of a community daring to rethink what it means to be a dad.
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Ryan Meeks on Embracing Death as a Life Guide
Oct 17, 202400:56:14Tap to summarizeSummary: This week's guest is Ryan Meeks. Ryan, along with his wife Michelle, has dedicated his life to guiding others toward healing, self-discovery, and deeper connection. With a background that spans 20 years as an ordained minister, Ryan now offers what he calls '(UN)Spiritual Direction'—a pragmatic, heart-centered approach to cultivating a sacred way of living beyond traditional religious frameworks. In this conversation he shares his journey through masculinity, fatherhood, and the transformative experiences that shaped his identity. He reflects on the influence of his grandfather, the impact of death on his perspective, and his departure from traditional faith. Ryan discusses the lessons learned from his battle with cancer and how psychedelics have played a role in his personal growth and understanding of emotional health. Podcast Moments: 00:00 Exploring Masculinity and Fatherhood 06:39 The Impact of Death on Life Perspective 11:24 Navigating Faith and Identity 18:42 Lessons from Cancer 34:30 Psychedelics and Personal Transformation Learn more about Ryan's work at www.loveisthepoint.com
Transcribe →Embodied Leadership with Travis Streb
Oct 4, 202400:57:18Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Daring to Dad podcast, Ryan reconnects with seasoned coach, Travis Streb, who shares insights on his work with men and couples, the emotional complexities of parenting, and the importance of integration in life. They discuss the fears parents face in today's world, the significance of community, and practical steps for men to reconnect with themselves and others. Travis emphasizes the need for men to engage with nature, spirituality, and their bodies to achieve a sense of wholeness and connection. Connect with Travis at travisstreb.com
Transcribe →Breaking the Cycle with Ryan Rucker
Sep 19, 202400:44:19Tap to summarizeWhat is the impact of growing up without a father? What impact does it have on the families that come next? In this conversation, Ryan Rucker shares his journey of navigating fatherhood without a father figure in his life. He discusses the impact of his upbringing, the lessons learned from his mother and grandmother, and how he strives to be a present and involved father. The conversation explores themes of masculinity, the importance of community, and the need for empathy in understanding the complexities of fatherhood. Rucker also reflects on his reconnection with his biological father and the insights gained from that experience, emphasizing the importance of breaking generational patterns and fostering emotional intelligence in parenting.
Transcribe →Zack Kasabo on Embracing Imperfection and Overcoming Parental Overwhelm
Aug 5, 202400:55:42Tap to summarizeIn this heart-to-heart episode, we chat with Zack Kasabo, the amazing school counselor who's taken social media by storm with his down-to-earth advice on managing kids' behavior. Zack opens up about his own mental health journey and how it inspired him to help kids and parents navigate the ups and downs of life. Zack's genuine and practical tips have struck a chord with many, and it's easy to see why. He breaks down the need for clear expectations and boundaries in a way that's easy to understand and apply. We dive into the crucial role male role models play in schools and how dads are stepping up in today's world. Parenting can be overwhelming, and Zack gets that. He talks about the importance of empathy and limits, setting rules, and backing them up with consequences. We explore how parents can align their values and expectations through open and honest communication. And yes, we touch on the pressure to be perfect and how embracing imperfection can make all the difference. Zack shares some golden tools for handling tough situations with kids, like anticipation, acceptance, and decisiveness. Tune in for a warm, insightful conversation that's sure to leave you feeling empowered and understood.
Transcribe →Ben Webster on Starting Over Again
Jul 17, 202400:54:20Tap to summarizeIn this heartfelt conversation, Ryan and Ben Webster open up about their deeply personal journeys of self-discovery and growth. They share their experiences with playing certain roles in life, such as the 'nice guy,' and how these roles have often kept them from fully expressing their true selves. The discussion delves into the struggles of shedding these limiting roles and embracing authenticity. Topics like divorce, co-parenting, and the crucial importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions are explored with raw honesty. This conversation goes beyond surface-level discussions, diving into the complexities of personal growth and the longing to live authentically. Ryan and Ben candidly talk about the difficulties of being a 'nice guy,' the pressures of seeking external validation, and the transformative power of letting go. They highlight the journey of rebuilding trust and self-belief through consistent, daily actions. The significance of men's groups and retreats is also brought to light, showcasing how these spaces foster vulnerability and genuine connection. The power of sharing one’s story and being truly seen by other men is emphasized, along with the importance of allowing oneself to feel and express emotions freely. As the conversation draws to a close, listeners are reminded of the profound importance of stepping out of isolation and into meaningful relationships and connections.
Transcribe →CJ Casciotta and The Power of the Collective Journey
Jul 9, 202400:40:28Tap to summarizeCJ Casciotta is an award-winning media producer of kids & family entertainment trusted by Forbes, Tech Crunch, Sesame Studios, and MGM. He's the author of 2 books, Get Weird and The Forgotten Art of Being Ordinary, both hopeful manifestos for the next generation. Most importantly, he's a dad figuring out how to raise thoughtful, creative humans in the 21st century. CJ and Ryan discuss the importance of using creativity and storytelling as a force for good in the world. They explore the concept of the collective journey, where individuals come together to challenge and reimagine systems and ideals. They also discuss the role of parents in fostering creativity and purpose in their children, emphasizing the need for intention and purpose in using technology. CJ shares his personal experiences as a father and the challenges and joys of raising creative children. The conversation highlights the importance of finding community and connection as fathers and embracing our unique perspectives and passions. Learn more about CJ's work at bycj.co.
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