In this episode, we sit down for a “co-pod” with Dave Barnes and Jon McLaughlin from the Dadville podcast for an honest, funny conversation about parenting, podcasting, and why intentionality matters in the first place. We share the heart behind Intentional and Intentional Fatherhood, getting back to the basics of why we do this work and what we hope it creates. Along the way, there’s plenty of laughter and a shared acknowledgment that none of us have this figured out. Intentionality isn’t about getting it right all the time — it’s about consistently showing up in small, ordinary ways, even when things feel messy or overwhelming.

Dave and Jon tell the story of how Dadville began, how the show has grown and changed over the years, and what it’s really like behind the scenes of hosting a long-running podcast. Together, we talk about the importance of repair in relationships, how owning our mistakes can actually deepen connection, and why keeping the lines of communication open with our kids matters more than almost anything else.

We also wrestle with the downside of intentionality — when information turns into pressure and fear starts to drive our parenting. Grounded in Jesus’ words from Matthew 18:1-5, the conversation keeps circling back to the simplicity of “becoming like little children.” The question underneath it all is this: do our kids know our heart? At the end of the day, this episode is about helping our kids know they are deeply loved — and learning to lead from love rather than fear.

Dadville: Spotify, Apple Podcasts + YouTube

Dave Barnes: New Music on Spotify + Apple Music

Jon McLaughlin: New Music on Spotify + Apple Music / Tour with Ben Rector

Scripture Mentioned: Matthew 18:1-5

Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to hello@intentionalparents.org, mentioning your name and where you’re from.

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