In this episode of the Dear Son, Show, hosts D Johns and Jey Blac have candid conversations about fostering better family life and personal growth on the cusp of the New Year. They discuss the importance of lightening the load at home, being more active in family roles, the art of delegating responsibilities, and managing frustrations. They also delve into the significance of setting resolutions, staying true to them, treating goals as daily commitments, and having a healthier, more intentional lifestyle. Importantly, they highlight the cruciality of self-care, checking in on family and friends, and treating group efforts seriously. Moreover, they express their determination to make significant changes in their personal and professional life in the upcoming year.00:00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdote00:01:35 Welcome to the DSR Show00:02:00 New Year Reflections and Resolutions00:02:20 The Problem with Resolutions00:03:09 Setting Goals and Focus for the New Year00:03:50 The Importance of Education and Follow Through00:05:31 Restoration and Learning to Ask for Help00:07:26 Diversification in Life and Business00:08:57 Lightening the Family Load00:19:07 The Importance of Time Allocation and Family Time00:21:37 The Struggle with Rest and Guilt00:22:23 The Dangers of Hustle Culture00:23:10 The Importance of Self-Care00:24:27 The Challenge of Overextension00:25:02 The Art of Saying No00:27:22 The Importance of Asking for Help00:27:26 The Consequences of Ignoring Health00:32:07 The Journey to Better Health00:36:11 The Importance of Treating Your Network Right00:38:50 The Power of Engaging with Your Circlefollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast  https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of The Dear Son Show, hosts Jay Black and D John engage in significant, reflective discussions regarding the quotidian influences that shape their sons' characters and actions. Drawing lessons from current events, such as the Club Shay Shay interview controversy (without focusing on the actual dispute), they transition to personal parenting experiences unveiling implications of hasty conclusions and the significance of influence. Insights are shared on how teenagers' actions can lead to severe consequences while shedding light on recognizing their own influence over friends. The hosts consider the prevalence of passing quick judgments based on limited information, emphasizing the importance of hearing full stories before forming opinions.00:00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage00:01:16 The Dear Son Show Begins00:01:37 NFL Sunday, Week 18 Discussion00:04:43 Analyzing the Current Events00:05:15 The Comedian Battle Situation00:11:41 The Impact of Popularity Over Truth00:14:32 The Role of Character in Defining Truth00:18:26 Navigating Friendships and Character Judgments00:21:20 The Expectations from Family and Friends00:25:00 Understanding Friendships and Disagreements00:25:52 The Importance of Truth in Relationships00:26:15 The Consequences of Being 'Loud and Wrong'00:26:49 Recognizing the Influence of Troublemakers00:27:46 The Role of Parents in Guiding Their Children00:29:05 Reflecting on Personal Experiences and Lessons00:34:07 The Impact of Actions on Personal Relationships00:34:44 The Influence of Environment on Behavior00:36:14 Reflecting on Past Mistakes and Lessons00:39:54 The Consequences of Teenage Pregnancy00:44:15 Closing Thoughts and AcknowledgementsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual here: https://youtu.be/Qd_ZkSnbuwQIn this free-flowing conversation, the two hosts discuss various socio-cultural and personal topics. They delve into the complexity of navigating life, addressing their journey with personal growth, authenticity, and their experiences as fathers. They reflect on the power of ego, the influence of people around them, the role of effective communication, expectations in relationships, and the significance of self-awareness. They touch upon the repercussions of false accusations, the impact of fabricated narratives, and the societal inclination to amplify negativity. An important aspect of their discussion is on the inherent difficulty of being human, the influence of external situations, and enduring societal pressures that often skew personal values. They also encourage open, candid conversations as a tool to improve understanding of oneself and others.00:00:00 Introduction and Casual Conversation00:00:10 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Changes00:00:41 Discussing End of the Year Reflections00:00:49 Reminiscing About the Show's Evolution00:01:07 Appreciating the Journey and Acknowledging Challenges00:02:09 Sports Talk and Friendly Banter00:02:38 Official Show Introduction00:04:43 Discussing the Impact of Scandals and Controversies00:18:01 Reflecting on the Influence of Technology and AI00:24:22 Discussing Expectations and Misunderstandings in Relationships00:26:16 Desire for New Experiences and Physical Interaction00:26:43 The Game of Being the Catch00:27:16 Understanding Expectations and Communication00:28:15 The Power of Ego and Pride00:29:01 The Impact of People Around You00:30:11 Tolerance vs Acceptance00:31:21 The Importance of Genuine Conversations00:31:40 The Reality of Relationships00:32:18 The Challenge of Acceptance and Tolerance00:32:46 Re-evaluating Friendships and Relationships00:37:02 The Importance of Accountability00:46:34 Understanding Identity and Genuine Conversations00:48:46 The Importance of Growth and Progress00:53:53 Acknowledging Good Things and ProgressKey Takeaways:1.     The hosts discuss the importance of understanding one's own uniqueness and identity in the face of societal influences. They emphasize that understanding who you truly are can guide your approach to relationships, decision-making, and personal growth.2.     The conversation highlights the significance of clear, open, and truthful communication in relationships, specifically, expressing one's actual truths without fear of how the other person may react. They suggest that such communication may prevent misunderstandings and build stronger bonds.3.     The hosts stress the fact that the individuals in one's immediate environment greatly shape their identity and behavior. They argue that one's interactions and experiences with these people substantially affect how they perceive themselves and the world.4.     The hosts explore the distinction between acceptance and tolerance in interpersonal dynamics. They suggest that while tolerance can be seen as coping with or enduring something, acceptance involves a more wholehearted and genuine embrace.5.     Lastly, the conversation unpacks the idea of living a life that's in conflict with one's public presentation. The hosts warn about the potential repercussions of such a conflicting lifestyle, encouraging listeners to live authentically and harmoniously with their public image.“20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#fallfromgrace #weallneedgrace #judgenot #courtofpublicopinion Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sometimes you just need to slow down. In this episode, we discuss various personal experiences to emphasize the importance of slowing down in life. We got into our hectic daily schedules, balancing family and work, overcommitting to tasks, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. This conversation highlights the importance of effective communication within families and re-evaluating their priorities to maintain a healthy work-life balance.This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #beliefsystemLatest DSN Series, The Wealth Blueprint: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wealth-blueprint/id1714573861Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This platform focuses on lessons we’ve learned as men and how we apply them to fatherhood. Sometimes we need to take a step back and identify what we’re learning from our children. We used this episode to be very intentional about giving our children their flowers. The assignment was for each of us to bring five lessons to the episode, but we didn’t compare notes. Luckily, the lists didn’t overlap… so we’re really delivering the top 10 lessons we’ve learned from our children. The episode is serious but delivered in a lighthearted manner. Laughter is good for the soul. It is amazing how much you can learn from your children when a little humility is applied. Too often the pressures of parenthood are self-inflicted. That is, we take it so seriously that we miss the beautiful moments of being present. As a father of 5, I can assure you that there is no play-by-play guide to always getting parenthood right. I have learned to renew my commitment to being better every morning. Little by little…bit by bit, I’ve noticed the growth.This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #beliefsystemLatest DSN Series, The Wealth Blueprint: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wealth-blueprint/id1714573861Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The fatherhood journey has emotional phases. We should talk about that more. At some point, just being resilient isn’t enough. I encourage all fathers to find safe spaces to emotionally dump the toxins within. That’s what this episode was for me. If you feel a way, process that feeling. When necessary, seek professional help.  This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #beliefsystemFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Purpose is heavy and often looks foreign to others. Stay the course. This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #beliefsystemFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear son, I went too far! We don’t discuss this often, but I was once a child. Not only was I a child, but a very stupid one at different phases. Well, maybe not a stupid child, but if you isolated certain actions and behaviors, you could easily classify me as stupid-adjacent.  This was a very lighthearted discussion, and it the message is impactful. Yes, those two seemingly opposing concepts can be simultaneously true. Enjoy the banter, but don’t miss the jewels. We took advantage of this safe space to evaluate how far the apple fell from the tree. We take parenting seriously, but sometimes we need a quick reminder that we didn’t always have life figured out. We still don’t have life figured out. We departed the hypocritical role of the know-it-all dad and evaluated life through the lens of grace. That’s the beauty of having transparent meaningful conversations with someone that will hold you accountable. Sometimes collectively searching for answers yields collateral benefit beyond the desired solutions. That’s how this platform works, and I pray that you find value here. This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #beliefsystemFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear son, the torch is yours! I think every proud father looks forward to the day when he knows his son is ready to the lead the family. There’s no generic timeline for this transition of authority, and the path is nuanced for each scenario. What does the preparation look like? Do fathers and sons even discuss this in advance or do most wait for an untimely life event to thrust the weight of patriarchy onto an unsuspecting son.  I also want to believe that my son will be ready, yet this conversation caused me to question whether I’m fully prepared to receive the responsibility from my father. He is a great man and led the household with integrity, under the fear of God. The challenge was me. I didn’t always want his information as he attempted to impart it. Even with the information gap, his example was more than enough for me to understand the basics of manhood and fatherhood. We took advantage of this safe space to evaluate how we want our sons to honor the family legacy. There were several gaps identified between where we are and where we want to be. That’s the beauty of having transparent meaningful conversations with someone that will hold you accountable. Sometimes collectively searching for answers yields collateral benefit beyond the desired solutions. That’s how this platform works, and I pray that you find value here.This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #beliefsystemFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear son, don’t prey on broken women. In this age of opportunity and seemingly unlimited access to everything, don’t allow women to become a commodity in your mind. Every opportunity to gain, isn’t a good or fair opportunity, especially when it comes to women. The simple truth is that how you treat them is always a reflection of you. The woman you choose reflects your decision making, tolerances, and morals. Remember that. Now, I’ll dismount my high horse to communicate more transparently and practically. This conversation stems from experiences (personal and observed), and it caused me to address some of my past behaviors. Some of the perspective sounded hypocritical in real-time; however, I’d rather have these conversations with my son to give him a roadmap rather than celebrate him arriving at the same destinations I should’ve avoided.  We took advantage of this safe space to evaluate how we want our sons to view women, and how we want our daughters to view themselves.  There’s so much bad advice about who is the “prize,” and all the while prizes are rewards for playing games. We can play around with the semantics and delineate between earthly and heavenly applications, I get it. I don’t want my daughters believing that they are an objective accomplishment based on a man’s performance. Okay…so I’ve mounted the high horse again. Check the episode and sound off as you’re so inspired. This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #beliefsystemFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear son, the black woman is not your enemy. Society, media, and entertainment platforms often present a monolithic, unrealistic representation of what black women are (or are not). The narrative is even reinforced within our community (by some) for some reason. Black men and women are often pitted against each other, fueling hatred and disdain… or at least that’s what “they” would have us believe. The narrative can only shift through a collective understanding of how we should be valued. Before that, we need to understand how valuable we are as individuals. It’s very hard to love someone that looks like you when you don’t love yourself. Much more work is needed. The work won’t be easy, and everyone won’t do the work. We took advantage of this safe space to evaluate how we show up for the black women in our lives, and those that are not part of our traditional families. Do we even have a duty to protect the women that we’re not connected to in any way? Recently, there have been many stories about men standing idly by while black women are attacked. Some of these stories were proven to be internet fodder, but the conversation is still necessary. These attacks aren’t always physical and overt, sometimes they happen quietly in the workplace, the lender’s office, or the local municipal building where women of color are often treated differently. This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #beliefsystemFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Could you forgive a felon? Your answer may depend on the context, but should it? Order is a necessity in life. Order has several subcomponents such as structure, law, and consequences. One of the most extreme consequences is incarceration. This conversation isn’t about agreeing about law or the repercussions of breaking the law. What happens to those individuals after they’ve paid their debt to society? Your response to the last question above probably depends on the context as well. Many could care less about how a felon returns to society if they aren’t impacted by the felon’s return. For the felon, adapting to society and freedom can be a culture shock that many don’t handle well, ultimately returning jail or prison. Conversely, there are men and women that successfully acclimate and thrive in society after completing their sentences. Ladarius Bascom is one of those that continues to defy the odds. We took advantage of this safe space to discuss how he experienced life as a young child in Shreveport, LA and all of the positive and negative options that it offered. He offered no excuses of a challenged or struggle-ridden family life, but was still drawn in by the allure of street life. His love for material possessions superseded the morals and instructions handed down by his parents. Ultimately, those choices yielded a prison stint that lasted several years, separating him from his young son. This summary cannot do the conversation justice, and I assure you the full discussion is worth your time.  This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #restorationFollow Ladarius: https://instagram.com/coach_darius.5Follow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear son, life has cycles. Highs and lows are a part of life, but have you ever stopped to evaluate the associated patterns? Sometimes we revisit lessons that are presented multiple times throughout our lives. Is your natural response to complain about your current circumstance or learn from it? If you give this careful consideration, your final answer may not match your initial response. The other interesting thing about cycles, specifically in a family dynamic, is that it will not only repeat in your life, but it is likely to show up in the lives of your family members. Yes, that “little quirk” that you’ve accepted as part of your identity, can plague generations to come. That may be a scary thought for some and empowering for others. If you do the personal work to address and overcome the cycle, you can irradicate it from your bloodline. We took advantage of this safe space to evaluate what cycles are currently showing up in our lives and in hour home, including anger, complacency, and fiscal responsibility. Additionally, we considered how we (do or will) respond when we see our children dangerously close to a cycle that we’ve overcome. When they are younger and more receptive of direction, the correction is relatively easy. However, when they become adults, course correction can become a chore. This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #beliefsystemFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This conversation was so necessary. For most men, there’s a little boy spirit that is tough to evict. It shows up in different ways for different individuals. A consistent theme from this discussion is that little boys need their fathers, even when they become adults. Chapo and Savv (The Chop It Up Podcast) stopped by the set to share several vulnerable moments from their childhood, teenage, and adult years. The stories are too deep to capture here, but this was definitely an emotional roller coaster for me. One thing is for certain, and that is having a father is a blessing. Unfortunately, some learn that lesson only after losing a father, and others learn that lesson when they become fathers. We took advantage of this safe space to evaluate how fragile life is and the role that fathers play at every stage of life. Whether you’re a young boy learning how to hit a baseball or a young father learning how to manage a family, a strong, positive father (or father figure) influence is essential to navigate life. Of course, every familial scenario is not ideal, and many young men are left longing for father-son relationships that may never materialize. However, we need to keep the conversation going to influence the societal standards of fatherhood. This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #beliefsystemFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The title is a bit jarring by intent, but is it inaccurate? Every day we hear about acts of violence and malice, but the assailants and orchestrators are getting younger. For some, that’s all they’ve been given, or at least, that’s what they see in their environments most frequently. In other scenarios, the children are blessed with a loving two-parent household that seemingly doesn’t struggle financially or emotionally. So, what’s happening?This discussion was inspired by a social media clip featuring Charleston White. He’s a polarizing persona by design, and we’re not here to argue for or against that. The message in the clip sent our minds spiraling down a path that we thought was worthy of discussion. Charleston’s message basically suggested that the current generation of youth is lost, unloved, and basically hopeless (paraphrased). That’s a pretty strong indictment, but is it really that far-fetched? You may have formed a strong opinion just in the short time it took to read this video’s description. Keep that energy as you watch, but I’d dare suggest it is likely to adjust midway through. We took advantage of this safe space to evaluate how our actions as fathers align with our ideals, morals, and beliefs. Inasmuch as we’d like to believe our children are anchored in every area of life, that simply isn’t the case. We realized that as we pursue truth, clarity and conviction of our personal beliefs, we’ve gambled with the foundations laid for our households as we led too silently at different stages of the journey. I dare you to ask your children what they believe. Some might be a bit shocked at their responses. This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #beliefsystemFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Stop! Don't! Sit down! Wait! Just be patient. Sound familiar? If not to you, then ask your children how often they've heard these exclamatory statements. Sometimes these outburst are warranted whether to keep the child safe or to keep the child from harming someone or something else. Other times, parents are just too far spent with life to deal with an annoying request for mild and cookies (oat milk, of course). What is the lesson for the parent? That's simple...take a dose of your own medicine. Life comes at you fast, and sometimes we make the mistake of trying to outpace it instead of taking a step back to analyze what's really going on. Sometimes the clutter is all mental or perhaps a collection of small frustrations, or maybe even an indication that our health is in jeopardy. The source is important, but very much irrelevant when it yields mistreatment of our children. We took advantage of this safe space to evaluate how patience, or the lack thereof, has informed how we parent. There were periods when the angst of life prevailed, but thankfully, we've grown through and from those challenges, which positions us to be better fathers today. There's also a new segment, during which we responded to a sincere question from one of the DSN faithful. There's a pretty great chance that this will be a consistent part of the show moving forward. Let us know your thoughts in the comments.This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #struggleFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

My eBook is finally available! I appreciate your support. https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1The journey of manhood is nuanced. We are often called to be everything to everyone at the expense of knowing our purpose and identity. Some would argue that those concepts are interchangeable, and yes, they are similar; however, they are not the same. In this series launch, we assembled 16 panelists, men from varying walks of life, to discuss what some might consider a very simply defined word, identity. We learned very quickly that while everyone understood the assignment, there wasn't necessarily one correct answer. Nerves aside, every panelist provided context with transparency to push the conversation forward. Each panelist (and event participant) left in a better condition than when they arrived. This conversation focused on identity challenges the panelists faced throughout life and the impact women have had on their identity. The responses addressed learning how to treat women, learning how to respect and set boundaries as a husband, and the impact of a woman seeing more value in him than he does.  All of us are works in progress, yet were several triumphs shared.  In kind, the Dear Son, Network presents these stories to you. We ate, we drank, and we celebrated each other. It was (and still is) powerful. I sincerely pray that this series is a blessing to you and your circle. Let it be a life prompt that facilitates necessary conversations with those you love. Be sure to engage in the comments section As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village.#fatherhood #healingjourney #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #affirmation #confirmation #identity Participants:Forrest Brooks: https://instagram.com/forrestlaurentLes Jackson: https://instagram.com/inspirvationzPhillip Washington, Jr.: https://instagram.com/askphillipSalute to Love's Luxe Event Styling and Della's Lunchbox for upgrading the environment. The space was styled beautifully, and the food was top tier. (links below). https://linktr.ee/dellaslunchboxllchttps://instagram.com/loves_luxeFollow the show: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popshttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

What is your motive for success? For some it’s personal, while others have an external “why.” Ultimately, most of us are either doing it for the castle or for the crowd. Stated differently, we’re pursuing success to take care of our home (the castle) or to impress those outside of our home. The delineation is vanity, doing the thing to be seen and praised.Sometimes our motives are misaligned. The effort looks good and plausible from the outside, but internally, the individual is pursuing selfish gain. Even though the outcome may seem positive to the outsider, the root is rotten. This conversation forced me to take accountability of my missteps over the years. I was calling success something that it wasn’t.This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #struggleFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The burden of manhood is heavy. Sometimes we get weighed down with its duties and responsibilities, which leaves little room for an expectation of being loved the way we want and need to be. Some men want a fairy tale love too. This may be a hot take for some, and others may assume the title is just for the views, but I challenge you to really give this some thought. A fairy tale is just a curated escape from reality. I’d submit that everyone has (or has had) those moments in life. For this episode’s conversationalist, Tim Nicholas, the escapes were frequent and necessary to manage the hand that life dealt him. He gives us a transparent peek into his challenges with finding love throughout his life. As a young child he struggled with finding acceptance and often felt overlooked by his father. Later in life, he learned several tough lessons about manhood, love, parenthood and how they intersected. Now he revels in his role as a husband, father of seven (yes, seven), and most importantly, a son of the Most High. Buckle up…this is a great one.This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #struggleFollow Tim: https://instagram.com/mr_locsloungeTim’s Podcasts: https://linktr.ee/timnicholasspeaksFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience: https://youtu.be/emwkuqJqGxMThe curse of the unworthy is a quiet disruptor, distancing many men from the life they deserve. Many of us constantly speak negative outcomes over our lives because we simply believe that our past mistakes define who we are. Sure, the bad behaviors must be addressed, but once they are in the past, we cannot allow them to be the ceiling to our joy, peace, freedom, success, wealth, and love that we crave (and deserve). This conversation, as do most, provides a transparent view of life through the lens of fatherhood; however, it does not exclude women. There may be parallel experiences that resonate with you, or you may just want a peak into the minds of men. We wouldn’t be here without you. You're welcome.... you’re all welcome. We invite you to take this ride with us to experience life as we know it.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. “20 Life Prompts that Facilitate Effective Parenting” (eBook) - https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1DSN Merch Store: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #struggleFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

My eBook is finally available! I appreciate your support. https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1The journey of manhood is nuanced. We are often called to be everything to everyone at the expense of knowing our purpose and identity. Some would argue that those concepts are interchangeable, and yes, they are similar; however, they are not the same. In this series launch, we assembled 16 panelists, men from varying walks of life, to discuss what some might consider a very simply defined word, identity. We learned very quickly that while everyone understood the assignment, there wasn't necessarily one correct answer. Nerves aside, every panelist provided context with transparency to push the conversation forward. Each panelist (and event participant) left in a better condition than when they arrived. This conversation focused on identity challenges the panelists faced throughout life and the impact women have had on their identity. The responses addressed learning how to treat women, learning how to respect and set boundaries as a husband, and the impact of a woman seeing more value in him than he does.  All of us are works in progress, yet were several triumphs shared.  In kind, the Dear Son, Network presents these stories to you. We ate, we drank, and we celebrated each other. It was (and still is) powerful. I sincerely pray that this series is a blessing to you and your circle. Let it be a life prompt that facilitates necessary conversations with those you love. Be sure to engage in the comments section As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village.#fatherhood #healingjourney #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #affirmation #confirmation #identity Participants:James Johnson (moderator): https://instagram.com/jeyblacShawn Serfass: https://instagram.com/shawn2ndchanceAnvalon Elliott: https://instagram.com/iamanvalonAdrian YowmanSalute to Love's Luxe Event Styling and Della's Lunchbox for upgrading the environment. The space was styled beautifully, and the food was top tier. (links below). https://linktr.ee/dellaslunchboxllchttps://instagram.com/loves_luxeFollow the show: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popshttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/1N1VrNMuEcoDear Son, the world will offer you many definitions of what a man is and how he is expected to behave. Most of these definitions are filtered through the lens of personal experiences. Some may sound logical while others will clearly sound farfetched. It’s important that you understand how to recognize your full range of emotions and embrace them responsibly.   Merriam-Webster defines masculinity as “the quality or nature of the male; the quality, state, or degree of being masculine or manly.” Many will automatically associate characteristics such as brave, strong, fearless, leadership, and assertiveness with being masculine. Conversely, weak, sensitive, fragile, and scared are characteristics commonly associated with being feminine. As a man, you’ll likely have experiences that evoke all of these characteristics if only for a brief moment. In this episode, we’ll get to know Nate Cottman, a viral social media personality and thought leader in the self-love and accountability space, and why he champions the concept of “masculine vulnerability.” He provides a transparent look into his life and how he navigated emotional traumas related to an unsuccessful marriage, losing the relationship with his father, and ultimately his father’s death. We discussed the importance young men being able to cry as an acceptable response to hurt and why processing vulnerable thoughts and feelings is a vital component of being a man. I’m certain that you’ll find this conversation valuable, but please don’t keep it a secret. Be a blessing by sharing this with someone you love.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. Follow Nate: https://instagram.com/fromnatewithlove28-Day Self-Love Journal: https://fromnatewithlove.com#daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/PFb0F48L4NYDear Son, It isn’t what it looks like! Sometimes we see things and people how they are presented to us, not knowing what is really happening at the core. We live in a microwave, celebratory, highlight reel of a world. Our timelines are constantly flooded with unimaginable lifestyles, wins, and “goals” that shape how we view and value success.  Comparison has been stealing joy for centuries. It may be more pronounced at different stages of life, but it is always potentially there. Think about the elementary school kid that wants the gaming system that some of his classmates have. Perhaps the high school teen wishes she had style like the homecoming queen. There was a period where I compared my success to peers that reached a level that I had not. It's important to focus on your path. There will be parts of the journey that won’t look like what you envisioned, and you may not understand it in the moment. In those moments, don’t start measuring your success based on someone else’s path. Your experiences are shaping your story and uniquely qualifies you to impact the world in a way that can be substituted or duplicated. Remember, at the party, not everyone is celebrating. Some are just trying to temporarily escape the chaos that haunts them daily. When the music is pumping and the drinks are flowing, it all looks the same. Mind your envy.We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give the podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/95JSeJ7-kT4Dear Son, don’t jump out the window for your friends! This is a metaphor for being so passionate about a person or a thing that you rush to defend the person or thing no matter what. Your friend says that someone hurts their feelings, and you’ve already put your boxing gloves on, ready to spar. You don’t even know if the friend antagonized the person, and you really don’t care. It’s up! Jumping out the window doesn’t just apply to negative scenarios. Some people will jump out the window for their love interest. These gestures can be interpreted as endearing or off-putting. What is over the top for one, may be the bare minimum for another. The primary focus is helping our children understand what comes with jumping out the window through sharing life experiences. I’ve been guilty of sheltering my children from my past because much of it was embarrassing. Withholding this information puts them at risk of repeating mistakes that have already taught me the lessons. I’d rather risk temporary embarrassment. We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishajstudios.comOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/4PiplHbIiSAI have a tough time understanding why some parents introduce their child as their best friend. I’m not talking about an adult parent and adult child, but literal kids (toddlers in some cases). There are so many barriers to creating that kind of relationship in my mind, but this conversation may have changed that. There are several circumstances that yield single parenthood. I can understand how parent-child friendships form when they are all they’ve got, or at least they spend a significant amount of time together. How does the friendship line get crossed though? What are those conversations like with a child or adolescent best friend?This conversation isn’t condemning or condescending. It does; however, provoke thought about the boundaries of parent-child friendships. For instance, discipline shouldn’t be discarded for the sake of the friendship. Also, the child shouldn’t assume that the parent is a peer based on the relationship behavior. A big one for me is ensuring that the child maintains a healthy respect for the parent and other adults. Forgoing any of these could set the child up for a rude awakening when they enter the adult world outside of the house. In this episode we provide our perspectives on the importance of being a parent first and provide some real-time conclusions that will spark conversations in your mind and home. Our experiences are different, so our recommendations differ, but they align, nonetheless. Our conversations are unapologetically conducted through the lens of fatherhood because that’s the only experience we’ve had. We welcome the enhancing perspectives of all. We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/Ti1q8YN92D0Practice DOES NOT make perfect. This is a fact. Practice only makes you consistently good at what you do in practice. Practice wrong…you’ll surely play wrong. Practice long, and you’ll only gain endurance. Perfect practice is the only key to greatness. Don’t you agree?This may initially sound like a harsh take, but it’s pretty sound when you think about it. Repetition builds muscle memory, and eventually creates a habit or an almost subconscious response to an action. For instance, a boxer that is properly trained can rely on his training to be successful in the ring. The boxer that isn’t properly trained will quickly find out how unprepared he is and will spend the rest of the fight in his head trying to simply survive. Both boxers may have trained for an equal number of hours, but only one was perfecting his skills. This conversation isn’t necessarily about sports, though we had a good time with the pseudo greatest NBA player debate. We ultimately realized that the behavior we model as fathers requires perfect practice as well. It’s not good enough to just push our children to be great in sports, education, or any other discipline of life when our actions don’t reflect the character we’re selling to them. In this episode we provide our perspectives on the importance of identifying areas where we need to practice what we preach and provide some real-time conclusions that will spark conversations in your mind and home. Our experiences are different, so our recommendations differ, but they align, nonetheless. Our conversations are unapologetically conducted through the lens of fatherhood because that’s the only experience we’ve had. We welcome the enhancing perspectives of all. We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I’m willing to pay for convenience, and I’m not ashamed of that. When it’s time to travel, upgrade me please and thank you. If I’m driving to an event, front row park me for a fee. If I’m bored on the plane, take my money, and give me internet. I, like many, want what I want when I want it. Unfortunately, that convenience-craving character doesn’t easily detach from my roles as father and husband. Through repetition, it became a way of life and has robbed my family of meaningful opportunities to grow. For instance, I grew up cutting the grass at least weekly, that was my chore. I hated it and couldn’t wait until I was able to make somebody else do it. Instead of teaching my sons how to do it, I just paid someone. Once I realized how my obsession with convenience was impacting how they understand hard work, I adjusted. It’s still a frustrating uphill battle today. For me, providing a comfortable lifestyle for my family was a status symbol. However, I was also frustrated when I didn’t see my children’s’ work ethic showing up in certain areas. That frustration was compounded when I realized that it was my fault. This dichotomy governed my life for several years. In this episode we provide our perspectives on the importance of identifying areas of comfort that are stifling growth, and provide some real-time conclusions that will spark conversations in your mind and home. Our experiences are different, so our recommendations differ, but they align, nonetheless. Our conversations are unapologetically conducted through the lens of fatherhood because that’s the only experience we’ve had. We welcome the enhancing perspectives of all. We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #parentingadvice #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, choose your wife carefully! Choosing a spouse is one of the most important decisions anyone can make in life. It’s a very intentional process, or at least it should be. The process is longer for some than it is for others, but there isn’t a process that guarantees favorable results after “I do.” Many feel like marriage isn’t worth it. I believe a healthy marriage is.People change, that’s just a constant in life. These changes differ by the individual and occur at different phases of life. This can take a toll on any relationship and requires a measure of patience and commitment to grow through it. Marriage is a future bet. Essentially, two people are in love with each other based on where they are individually and what they know about each other up to that point. If both people are going to change, that’s a huge risk to take. In this episode we provide our perspectives on the importance of the selection process, as well as the specific things that we want our sons (children) to focus on. Our experiences are different, so our recommendations differ, but they align, nonetheless. Our conversations are unapologetically conducted through the lens of fatherhood because that’s the only experience we’ve had. We welcome the enhancing perspectives of all. We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to have similar meaningful discussions in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #letsgetmarried #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable #vowsFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/n0CImUxDp4sDear Son, are you ready or are you prepared? Those are not interchangeable terms, as some may assume. Let's take an honest look back at various decision points throughout our lives for context. A teenager that doesn't care for his parents' rules, may believe (with full conviction) that he is ready to move out. Emotionally, that may be true, but is he really prepared to handle life independently? Maybe a young woman is so ready to be married that she accepts the first proposal that right, only to learn that she wasn't prepared to be a wife (this happens with men too). There are also scenarios where an individual may have all of the knowledge, skills, and abilities to 'do a thing', but isn't mentally ready to deploy them. Sometimes they need external encouragement to help them realize that they are indeed ready. This isn't necessarily something that one automatically outgrows with age. Consider some of your decisions as a parent, employee, entrepreneur, or business owner that didn't yield the desired results? Were you emotionally ready, but not exactly prepared? I'm guilty of that for certain. In this episode we discussed the importance of objectivity in decision-making. Emotions drive more actions than preparation (in my opinion). Further, we explored what our responsibilities are as parents to first demonstrate, but also guide our children through the stages of preparation and readiness.  We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to evaluate readiness and preparedness you in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, It's bigger than you! Life is a series of choices. Some choices you make, and others are made for you. All of it is connected though, especially within a household. Every member of the family has a unique value to offer that dictates its legacy.Have you ever been curious about how successful families become household names? Johnson & Johnson, the Ford family and many others have created business empires that have survived and thrived for several generations. Do you think there was at least one generation that wanted to do something different? Perhaps, yes...perhaps, no. One train of thought suggests that the family business is mandatory, and everybody must work in it (for some period of time) without compromise. That sounds extreme. Maybe the ideas and principles of the family business were effectively woven into the family rhythm so seamlessly that each generation genuinely wanted to be part of the business when they became of age. To some, that may sound extreme as well. In this episode we discussed how communication, selflessness, and value are the critical pillars of a family's legacy. Further, we explored where the line between directing our children and guiding our children is drawn. Sometimes we do know better as parents. Other times we don't know enough, and our ceiling becomes theirs. Tread lightly. We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to evaluate what's bigger than you in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable Three takeaways from this discussion:1. Have open conversations with your children about the family's business (or finances, budget, etc.)2. Teach your children the importance of being selfless and how their actions (or inactions) contribute to the family's success. 3. Define what the family views as valuable and evaluate each member's role in creating value for the family. Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcasAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this show a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/HqASbXeg_lIDear Son, you will be better because of me, not in spite of me.  A common sentiment amongst parents is the desire to provide a better experience to their children than what they had as a child. Every generation should be greater than the previous one, I agree. Sometimes we need to assess the source of our motivation to do or be better in life. In my opinion, anytime success is rooted in resentment, that’s a dangerous place to operate. Revenge parenting goes both ways. As a child I vowed to do many things very differently when I became a parent, and I had (have) great parents. The challenge is that I didn’t understand the full context of what they were going through as parents to appreciate the life that I was afforded. When I became a parent, I did indeed do things differently. The error in that approach is that I didn’t necessarily consider whether the approach was best for my children. In essence, the spite that I carried from my childhood gripes influenced my parenting approach. I can only imagine how parents that were abused or mistreated as children develop an obsession with being a great parent just to show their parents that they became great humans, despite their childhood experience. Erring on the side of caution feels like the right thing to do. I’m not arguing that. However, we must be mindful of what our children need to thrive in life instead of making them lead characters in our stage play of Revenge Parenting. Give this some intentional thought; it’s a precaution, not an attack.  We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to evaluate the revenge parenting tendencies displayed in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #parentingtips #betterparents #vulnerable Four takeaways from this discussion:1.     Discuss your struggles with your children, even the ones you believe they didn’t see. Be sure to convey how you overcame them or how you’re working through them.2.     Reinforce the importance of communication and be the example of how to do it effectively. 3.     Ask your children if they see you improving as a parent (and as a person).4.     Ask your children if they understand and feel prepared to carry on the family legacy.Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this show a 5-star rating, 4. leave a a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/k7wBOEBToH0The journey of manhood is nuanced. We are often called to be everything to everyone at the expense of knowing our purpose and identity. Some would argue that those concepts are interchangeable, and yes, they are similar; however, they are not the same. In this series launch, we assembled 16 panelists, men from varying walks of life, to discuss what some might consider a very simply defined word, identity. We learned very quickly that while everyone understood the assignment, there wasn't necessarily one correct answer. Nerves aside, every panelist provided context with transparency to push the conversation forward. Each panelist (and event participant) left in a better condition than when they arrived. This conversation focused on who God is to the panelists and how their relationships with Him impact their identities. Their experiences are distinctly different, yet they all found themselves in submission to His will through extreme adversities (an incarcerated father, the near loss of a child at the hands of violence, significant loss of professional prominence, and hitting rock bottom). As Reggie George mentioned, "adversity introduces a man to himself." In kind, the Dear Son, Network presents these stories to you. We ate, we drank, and we celebrated each other. It was (and still is) powerful. I sincerely pray that this series is a blessing to you and your circle. Let it be a life prompt that facilitates necessary conversations with those you love. Be sure to engage in the comments section As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village.Salute to Love's Luxe Event Styling and Della's Lunchbox for upgrading the environment. The space was styled beautifully, and the food was top tier. (links below). https://linktr.ee/dellaslunchboxllchttps://instagram.com/loves_luxe#fatherhood #healingjourney #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #affirmation #confirmation #identity Follow the show: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://linktr.ee/lovekishajLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sometimes we just need to acknowledge when our children a great job and shut up. Seriously, too often praise is delivered with a slight sprinkle of shade. Need example? “Hey son, you did a great job cutting the grass, but next time do it like this.” If this sounds familiar, congratulations on admitting it. I hear that’s the first step to most recovery processes. There’s a time and place for constructive criticism. The frequency of communicating it is as important as the delivery method. We had a candid conversation about where we’ve struggled with affirming our children without attaching criticism. One commonality was that our childhood experiences heavily influence how we parent today: both positively and negatively. Talking through it helped us acknowledge some areas for improvement, which happens during most episodes. Take note of what resonates with you as you listen and keep them readily accessible in the days and weeks to come. Hopefully, you’ll find yourself adjusting in real-time as we adjust our actions as well. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #positiveimages #leadbyexample #parentingadvice Four takeaways from this episode:1.  Check your demeanor and parenting posture to ensure you’re approachable2.  Congratulate your children without reservation3.  Be mindful of how your childhood experiences influence your parenting style (positive and negative).4. Be careful of how much you pressure your children to mature. Don’t expect them to be adults before their time. Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Men. Better Fathers.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/GfeXJSGkSGYAre you a bridge or a wall? Without context, one may seem more positive than the other. Consider what the bridge connects and what the wall protects. I’ll wait. Either can facilitate or stifle successful relationships with your children. Did your answer change?Ideally, parents always have their children’s best interest in mind, and would NEVER do, say, or block anything that would harm their future. I wish life really was that simple. The real-life version of parenting often looks different. Malice aside, some of our best efforts don’t yield the most positive results. For instance, the child may be interested in pursuing a career in artificial intelligence development, but the parent may not see the value in (or future) it simply because they don’t understand AI. Instead, they push the child to enroll in trade school, which is an honorable pursuit, but what does that matter if the child isn’t passionate about any traditional trade? The prior example may not resonate with you, but I’m pretty sure there’s another scenario to which you can apply the principal sentiment. We learned quite about ourselves during this dialogue, and that’s typical. Hopefully, a point or two will prompt you to evaluate the bridge and wall tendencies displayed in your home. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #bridge  #wall #parentingtips 5 Takeaways from this discussion:1.     Walls can protect and hinder family relationships. Neither is inherently negative, but the misapplication can yield negative results.2.     Bridges should connect one location (or phase) to another. It is important that the bridge operates in both directions in case the traveler needs to return home. 3.     Be careful not to burn bridges that others are building simply because you don’t understand their purpose. 4.     Not all walls are physical. Be mindful of those internal walls that have become a permanent way of life for you.5.     If someone else is better qualified (and trustworthy) to help your child build a bridge, let them. Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow to the podcast, 2. turn on the auto-downloads,3. give us a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/M2T0HlyJE9ADiscipline is a critical component of success. It's the principle that keeps you pushing forward when life seems to be working against you. As a parent, there's another side to the coin...how you discipline your children. Some of us discipline for correction, and others, for control. Discipline can be administered in many forms. We won't all agree on what's acceptable in every home, but I challenge this audience to reach a consensus on what is an acceptable motive for the discipline. For some, discipline is a reflex directly connected to their childhood experience. If that discipline was physical, then they may be prone to physically discipline their children. What is the end goal? This is the element often overlooked. Discipline should be tied to a cause and yield a positive outcome. That doesn't mean that it won't be painful for the child, but it should never be abusive in any form. Neither of us provided perspective atop of a high horse, and we had some revelations along the way. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #discipline  #control #consequences 5 Points to Consider When Disciplining Your Child:1.     Resentment from your past shouldn’t fuel your parenting style. 2.     It’s not your turn to be the punisher. That’s not the opportunity. 3.     Correction should be rooted in love4.     Control breeds resentment and rebellion. 5.     If punishing your child excites you, get the help you need. Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on the auto-downloads,3. give the podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/vPoh38Uzygs"If I would've known then what I know now"...is a common copout. Yep, I said it. This is literally the adult version of "I can teleport," as my 8-year-old often proclaims. For argument's sake, let's play this out. What would father of 5 me tell father of 1 me? A lot!Becoming a parent is a wonderfully terrifying experience; at least it was for me. I'm willing to bet that this sentiment is shared across many families, cultures, and ethnicities. Perhaps the root causes for the fear differ, but the fear is prevalent. For some, lack of resources may be the burden while others may fear the process based on their childhood experience. No matter the catalyst, the reality is that most parents aren't prepared for the experience in some way. In this episode we review some of our less than stellar behaviors during our fatherhood journey. Experts, we are not; however, we do have valuable perspectives as we've been entrusted with large families (by the today's standards). Hopefully, a few of these observations will help some new, veteran, and fathers-to-be understand that fatherhood is a blessing and is completely manageable with the right tools. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #justicesystem #juveniles #consequences Six tips for new or young fathers:1. You don't know everything about fatherhood, and that's ok. Be open to new information throughout your journey, and adapt quickly.2. Relax. Give your child time to learn and grow at their (healthy) pace, and don't judge them based on your unfounded expectations. 3. Help. Be attentive and accommodating to the mother (as much as circumstances allow). Parenting is a team sport.4. Follow through. Don't abandon a sound parenting approach before it has time to work. Children develop and respond at different paces, and may need more time to adjust.5. Never assume how strong the mother is. Childbirth is a traumatic experience. The mother may not have words to associate with what she is feeling. Don't leave her to manage those feelings alone. 6. Allow your child to have a voice. As much as you may believe the child wants to be just like you, he/she is an individual...a human. Guide them but allow them to become who they were designed to be. Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on the auto-downloads,3. give the podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/OdabzPxpVbYHave you ever reflected on your life and experienced feelings of regret? Even in the mildest case, one typically spends at least a few moments traveling down the hypothetical road of 'what if.' If you haven't, then now is the perfect time to fail.We had a candid conversation about the importance of embarking upon the unknown before life convinces that there's only one path to success (college... 40 years at a job...retire). It was all so simple when we were bachelors with no other dependents. If an idea sounded great (or just good enough), we'd take the leap of faith without a second thought. Then came family life, which is remarkable; however, many of us automatically suppress our dreams once we enter this phase. Why is that? More importantly, what are we teaching our children about the importance of pursuing their dreams? Lastly, for those who have abandoned their dreams, how do they explain that to the children?At some point, the children will value what we do much more than what we say. Surely, we have their best interest in mind, and want them to believe that they can accomplish anything. That's a tough script to sell when our walk doesn't match our talk. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #justicesystem #juveniles #consequences Three tips for child entrepreneurs1.  Pursue your passion: As a child entrepreneur, it's essential to choose a venture that you are passionate about. This will help you stay motivated and focused, especially when faced with challenges.2.  Seek guidance and mentorship: As a young entrepreneur, it's crucial to seek guidance from experienced professionals in your field. They can offer insights and advice that can help you navigate the uncertainties of entrepreneurship.3.  Be resilient: Entrepreneurship can be challenging, and as a child entrepreneur, you may face unique obstacles. However, it's essential to persevere and remain resilient in the face of setbacks. Remember that failure is an opportunity to learn and grow.Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on the auto-downloads,3. give the podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience here: https://youtu.be/rTMh5lTF82YThe journey of manhood is layered. We are often called to be everything to everyone at the expense of knowing our purpose and identity. Some would argue that those concepts are interchangeable, and yes, they are similar; however, they are not the same. In this series launch, we assembled 16 panelists, men from varying walks of life, to discuss what some might consider a very simply defined word, identity. We learned very quickly that while everyone understood the assignment, there wasn't necessarily one correct answer. Nerves aside, every panelist provided context with transparency to push the conversation forward. Each panelist (and event participant) left in a better condition than when they arrived. We ate, we drank, and we celebrated each other. It was (and still is) powerful. I sincerely pray that this series is a blessing to you and your circle. Let it be a life prompt that facilitates necessary conversations with those you love. As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village.Salute to Love's Luxe Event Styling and Della's Lunchbox for upgrading the environment. The space was styled beautifully, and the food was top tier. (links below). https://linktr.ee/dellaslunchboxllchttps://instagram.com/loves_luxe#fatherhood #healingjourney #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #affirmation #confirmation #identity Follow the show: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give it a 5-star rating, 4. leave a stellar review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://linktr.ee/lovekishajLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience: https://youtu.be/X_0mbUgt0HEHow far will you go for your son? Many parents proudly tout that they are willing to do anything for their children. The reality is that most of us will do anything (within reason) if our children are "representing the family correctly." What happens when they take on a moral compass that looks nothing like ours? While there are parents that will never turn their back on their children, most of us haven't been tested in a way that challenges that notion.Imagine committing all your resources, energy, love and patience to another human, and that human does something extremely disturbing and disappointing in return. Perhaps the action wasn't to or at you, but how can a product of your environment represent you in such a way? The harsh reality is that the human experienced is nuanced, and even apples from the best trees can spoil. With that, do parents (and caregivers) have an obligation to protect their children from the consequences that the children have earned? Would you turn your child in after they committed a serious crime that injured someone (or worse)?Sometimes growth requires that we remove the shield between what we want for our children and what they deserve. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #justicesystem #juveniles #consequences Three ways to help children deal with emotional pain: 1. Encourage communication: Encourage children to express their feelings and listen to them without judgment. This helps them feel heard and validated.2. Teach coping skills: Teach children coping skills such as deep breathing, visualization, and positive self-talk. These techniques can help children manage their emotions in a healthy way.3. Seek professional help: If emotional pain persists or becomes severe, seek professional help from a counselor or therapist. They can provide additional support and guidance for children and their families.Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. rate this podcast 5 stars, 4. leave a stellar written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Watch the show here: https://youtu.be/P_u3jbFLUs4What are we really teaching our sons about dating? Is this even a conversation anymore, or was it ever for that matter? Dear Son, nice guys finish last! That might be a myth but jerks certainly don’t win the race. Perhaps there’s a middle ground that will position our young men to mature into respectful companions for the right young lady.We had a lively discussion about the importance of dating with clarity and intention. Our sons need to be aware of what’s acceptable, questionable, and absolutely off limits when it comes to courtship. They need to have standards when identifying attractive characteristics and qualities in the young ladies they pursue. Also, how much energy and effort should be invested into the pursuit? We agree that our young men must be respectable in all aspects as a baseline; however, we might have differing opinions on the appropriate level of “savagery or suckery”…you’ll just have to watch (or listen) to understand.With all the questions posed above, you’ll find several answers throughout. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #theblackfamilyexperience #stressedoutThree dating tips for young men: 1.     Be yourself and be confident in who you are. Don't try to be someone you're not to impress someone else.2.     Listen actively to your date and show genuine interest in them. This means putting away your phone and giving them your full attention.3.     Be respectful and considerate towards your date. This includes things like being on time, dressing appropriately, and being mindful of their boundaries.Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is just as the title implies. Am I about to pop? Every man (that I know) has come face-to-face with an ‘about to pop’ moment at some stage of life. For some of us, this is a mile marker at every phase, from adolescence to the elderly years. While seemingly inevitable, the more important part is how we show up in those moments. Losing a source of income, losing a relationship, losing health, or perhaps even losing a family member can trigger anxiety, feelings of inferiority, and uncertainty. Conversely, those ‘about to pop’ moments can cause the loss of the things and relationships mentioned above. Adversity introduces a man to himself, and some men don’t like that version of themselves. Life comes at us fast, and often without warning. Are you (or the men in your life) battle tested and prepared for these moments?We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #theblackfamilyexperience #stressedoutThree tips to help men manage stress: 1.     Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing.2.     Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help calm the mind and reduce stress levels.3.     Seek support: Talking to trusted friends, family members, or a mental health professional can help in managing stress and improving mental health.Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. leave a 5-star rating, 4. leave a positive written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience: https://youtu.be/hq9P3qQ93eoHow often do you reject a message simply because it was coming from a source that you don’t like? Whether the source is a person, place, or thing, you just don’t like it and, consequently, will not accept anything it has to offer, even if it could improve your life. Don’t shoot the messenger!Sometimes there is a valid reason to disregard information being offered to you. Other times, you might just be missing out on information that can change the trajectory of your family’s future. There are those that complain about not having the information that they choose not to access. Where do we draw the line between excuses and maturity?Now consider if you’ve been the source of information that people reject because of your character, behavior, beliefs, etc. Perhaps those in your community or church, at your job, or even in your home feel this way about you. How would you adjust if they told you this was so? For some, this would be a tough truth to accept while others would embrace the opportunity to grow and change. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #theblackfamilyexperience #Mali #ghana #tanzania #malawi #bahamasThree tips to become a better listener. 1.     Make sure to give the speaker your full attention. Don't let yourself get distracted by external factors. Make eye contact and stay focused.2.     Don't interrupt the speaker, even if you feel an urge to do so. Allow them to finish what they're saying before you respond.3.     Listen actively by repeating back the main points that the speaker is making. This will show the speaker that you are really paying attention and want to understand them better.Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience: https://youtu.be/udmv7aIX9ScIt’s a safe assumption that nobody likes to feel disregarded. Unfortunately, many of us have or will experience this in various phases of life. As a child, perhaps a classmate shared his candy with everyone in the class except you. Maybe as a teenager, the girl of your dreams rejected your invite to homecoming and laughed it off with her friends. Over time, we essentially become numb to it, or at least we put up a good front as if being disregarded doesn’t bother us. Don’t disregard the disregard.In this episode we address how being disregarded is viewed through the lens of fatherhood. This isn’t a grip session by any stretch, but rather an ‘aha’ moment of sorts when realize that we can be guilt of disregarding what’s important to our children. Many of us have shewed a child away while on a work call, preparing dinner, or watching something meaningless on tv. I’d also bet that many of us experienced that as a child as well. So…is it just our turn to be the givers in this cycle of carelessness? The ends don’t always justify the means. We shouldn’t take for granted that our children will simply get over things in time. Be mindful that our journey of “just getting over a hurt” may have taken months, years, or even decades. Let’s not try to condense the healing process for our children as a careless convenience. We don’t want them to arrive at adulthood as masters of disregarding the disregard. How does this play out in your home?We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #theblackfamilyexperience #Mali #ghana #tanzania #malawi #bahamasThree tips to ensure your children feel heard: 1.     Make sure to set aside undisturbed time each day to talk to your children. This helps them feel like you are truly listening to them and hearing their needs.2.     Ask open-ended questions that encourage your children to think and express themselves. This will help you understand their perspective and make them feel like their opinions are valued.3.     Show your children that you are listening by giving them your full attention. Make eye contact, take time to think before responding, and avoid distractions like cell phones or television. This will make them feel like their thoughts and feelings are being taken seriously.Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a positive written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience: https://youtu.be/UrSR_iiDdQYIt seems like everyone is looking for some kind of “goal” to help define personal success. Relationship goals, marriage goals, mom goals are popular hash tags across many social media platforms, but what about dad goals? Do men publicly proclaim that they admire how other men parent, or does ego limit those feelings to internal conversations? Manhood is tricky…well at least some of us make it harder than it should be.In this episode we have a transparent conversation about the top three focus areas for our families in 2023. Notice that I didn’t use the term “goals,” and that was quite intentional. It is easy to get caught up in identifying resolutions in alignment with the turn of the calendar year, but do they really yield meaningful results? In my opinion most resolutions are glorified checklists of things that are easily and objectively measured (i.e., weight loss, exercise habits, saving money, etc.). How we parent is not so cut and dry.Our lists are not presented as one size fits all as even our priorities differed. As with any other content offered on this platform, we believe this dialogue provides meaningful life prompts to promote the conversation in your home, neighborhood, and even the broader global community. Take some time to assess how you’re leading your family, and jot down a couple of areas that need improvement. Be mindful that the length of your list doesn’t equate to failure. Personally, I believe anyone that struggles to identify at least three areas for improvement is probably delusional about how great of a job they’re doing. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellenceConsider these three areas of focus to get the ball rolling:Communication: Fathers should strive to communicate better with their children. This includes actively listening to their kids and engaging in meaningful conversations about their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Quality Time: Fathers should make time for quality bonding experiences with their children. This could include playing games, going on walks, or engaging in other activities that allow them to spend quality time together and foster a strong bond.Empathy: Fathers should strive to show empathy and understanding to their children. This means being willing to take their feelings and perspectives into account when making decisions or addressing issues.Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps://tiktok.com/podcast_popsThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, you ain't the man of nothing! How often do young boys get thrusted into adulthood way before their time? There's an array of circumstances to blame, and many are plausible. Unfortunately, telling a boy he is a man, or worse, treating a boy as a man before his time can yield very damaging results.In this episode, we have a transparent conversation about the dangers of levying the weight of manhood on a young boy. Now there's no specific age guidelines, and there are exceptionally mature young boys in this world, but expecting one to be the man of the house too soon is dangerous. We explore the challenges that come with the responsibilities of manhood when a man (adult) wasn't properly prepared. Considering those challenges, we had to evaluate how the situations occur, who is responsible for the development of a man, and what are the reasonable expectations of women as it pertains to grooming responsible, accountable, and emotionally intelligent men. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellenceThree tips to help children deal with peer pressure1. Talk to a trusted adult - Having a supportive and understanding adult to talk to can help children find the strength and courage to stand up to peer pressure.2. Practice saying no - Role playing with a trusted adult can help children practice responding to peer pressure in a confident and assertive way.3. Spend time with supportive friends - Spending time with friends who share similar values and beliefs can help children stay away from negative peer pressure. Encourage your child to make friends with peers who can be a positive influence.#fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience: https://youtu.be/Ij2CYiwvCF0Dear Son, tell me who you are! I see what you are doing, but is that really you? I'm not sure how many households are addressing this, but it is critical for our children to understand the difference between their actions and their character. Adults struggle with this as well. As men, we often lead an introduction with our (job) title. "Hello, I'm Joe, Sr. Manager of blah blah blah."In this episode, we have a transparent conversation about the dangers of not knowing who you are as a parent and how that can impact your children. We explore the challenges of the internet age and how information outside of the home outpaces the information provided inside the home. Considering that challenge, we had to evaluate whether the children are willingly conforming to behaviors that don't accurately reflect who they are, or if the pressure is so great that they don't see any other way to be. We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. #fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellenceThree tips to help children deal with peer pressure1.     Talk to a trusted adult - Having a supportive and understanding adult to talk to can help children find the strength and courage to stand up to peer pressure.2.     Practice saying no - Role playing with a trusted adult can help children practice responding to peer pressure in a confident and assertive way.3.     Spend time with supportive friends - Spending time with friends who share similar values and beliefs can help children stay away from negative peer pressure. Encourage your child to make friends with peers who can be a positive influence.Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-download, 3. rate this podcast (5 stars), 4. leave a written review, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience: https://youtu.be/Ij2CYiwvCF0Sometimes men get struggle with the dual roles of father and husband. In fact, we can be downright jealous of our children when their needs supersede our physical and emotional needs as a husband. “Hey Son…get off my wife!” Is that unrealistic? Is there a way to balance the roles? What is balance?!In this episode, we have a transparent conversation about the responsibilities of fatherhood and how they impact the romantic relationships in our homes. We’re both fathers and husbands with relatively large families, but the household dynamics are different. This resulted in a healthy dialogue and several meaningful revelations along the way.We highly recommend that you consume the entire episode for the best results. Also, meet us in the comments or tag us with your opinion on social media via the links below. As always, we welcome your perspective. It takes a village. Consider the following recommendations when assessing your current performance as a father and a husband (or significant other).Three Tips to Balance Being a Father and a HusbandMake time for yourself - As a father and husband, it can be easy to put your own needs last. However, make sure to carve out some time for yourself each day. Whether it’s a few minutes of meditation, reading a book, or going for a walk, having some “me time” can help you stay balanced and energized for your family. Connect with your spouse - Make sure to keep the lines of communication open with your spouse. Talk about how each of you are feeling, what’s going on in your life, and how you can support each other. It’s important to stay on the same page and stay connected.Prioritize family time - Create meaningful family time each week. Whether it’s having a family dinner, playing a board game, or going out for ice cream, make sure to carve out time to be together and appreciate each other. This will help create strong bonds and build memories that will last a lifetime.#fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFollow the show: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on the auto-download, 3. rate this podcast (5 stars), 4. leave a written review, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosOther social media: https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcasthttps://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Visual experience: https://youtu.be/CpbNyHLJfBk"That time I almost died" is a phrase often thrown around in jest to make light of a scary experience or over-exaggerate an experience that wasn't so serious. This conversation doesn't fit into either category. Les provides a transparent account of the day his life changed for ever. One seemingly regular morning ended in emergency surgery, saving his life from the second heart attack he experienced in the same day. Summarizing it in this description won't do it much justice, so you'll need to consume the entire episode to get the full benefit. This season of the show will focus on men's health and identity. Consider these prompts as you prepare to join or continue on this journey with us. Join us via social media or via our website (links below).Why do some men avoid doctor visits?Men often feel embarrassed to discuss their health concerns with a doctor, or they may fear that they will be given bad news. They may also be intimidated by the medical environment and feel uncomfortable asking questions. Additionally, there is social stigma that men should be strong and independent and not need medical help, which can lead to a reluctance to go to the doctor. It's important for men to recognize that regular check ups and preventive care are essential for maintaining their health, and that seeking medical help is a sign of strength.Five tips to become a more confident father.1. Spend quality time with your children. Doing activities together and having meaningful conversations can help build a strong connection and help boost your confidence.2. Learn something new. Whether it's a new hobby, language, or skill, taking on something new and challenging can help you feel more capable and confident.3. Take time for self-care. Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential to feeling confident and being a good father. Make sure you are taking time to do activities you enjoy and get enough rest.4. Celebrate your successes. Acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how small. Doing so can help you feel proud and boost your confidence.5. Reach out for support. Having a supportive network of family and friends can help you stay confident and motivated as a father. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you need it.Three tips to help men improve communications with their family.1. Make time to talk: Make it a priority to set aside time to talk to your family members regularly. Even if it’s just a few minutes each day, it’s important to stay connected and to be present in your conversations. 2. Listen and be patient: Communication isn’t just about talking. To be an effective communicator, it’s important to listen to what your family members have to say and be patient as they speak. It also helps to be aware of nonverbal cues and body language so that you can be sure to understand what is being said. 3. Be respectful and open-minded: Respect is key in any relationship, and family is no exception. Always strive to be respectful of your family’s opinions and be open to different points of view. This will help to foster an environment of understanding and growth.As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village.#fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #grandfather #son Follow Les: https://instagram.com/inspirvationsFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. subscribe to the podcast, 2. turn on automatic downloads,3. give us a 5-star rating, 4. leave a written review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comIG: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcastSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosListen More Talk Less: https://l-m-t-l.myshopify.comLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help others through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience: https://youtu.be/aZX-HGscTekThis is the episode that I have been waiting for. I finally sat down with my father and my sons to discuss the history of fatherhood in my family. “What I wish my father told me” is not an indictment on my father, or on me for that matter. The fatherhood journey is nuanced and more dynamic than static at any stage. For every meaningful lesson that I learned late, I want my sons to learn earlier (from my experience when possible).We talked through the positive and negative tendencies that have been consistent in my family for generations. While some ideologies continued out of tradition, we found others to be very intentionally passed down for good reason. Everyone had a voice. For context, my youngest son was seven at the time of this recording, and, my father, 74…everyone had a voice. I spent parts of the conversation intrigued, proud, envious, and ultimately grateful. We need more of this. My father counseled us on the value of painful experiences. Sometimes these are necessary to develop a man’s character, his sense of worth, and his moral compass. I understand the principle very well, yet I struggle with allowing my sons (or any of my children) to experience hurt when I can prevent it. This is a disservice to them in some regards…I’m working on it.There’s so much more to say, and that’s what the episode provides. Listen all the way through to get the greatest value. Have you had a conversation like this with your family? If not, what is the roadblock preventing it? As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village.#fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #grandfather #sonAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosListen More Talk Less:  https://l-m-t-l.myshopify.comLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience: https://youtu.be/0UTlcdZ6MnIDear Son, the streets don’t love you. This message may not be an awakening for you, but so many young men learn this lesson through jail or death (of others). Though the story typically includes at least one of those outcomes, the backstories of these young men are nuanced. For many, their parents (or caregivers) were not aware of their street activity. In other cases, the parents (or caregivers) turned a blind eye because they enjoyed the financial benefit of the street life. In this episode, Martez Gurley-El gives us a look into his journey to and through the streets and provides a perspective on what that life cost him personally, financially, and professionally. He is a thriving positively contributing member of his community, a loving husband, and father of four young men. We discussed the parallels of street life and business, and how he has parlayed the objective success principles into a thriving business. Marty, as he is most affectionately known, has a passion for people. You can find him sharing his wisdom and experiences with anyone who will listen or working in partnership with multiple non-profit organizations such as People Helping People and The Friendship Lottery. Even when his time and energy are for profit, he approaches business with a strong desire to help his clients identify the best solution and form lasting business partnerships whenever possible. You won’t regret the time you invest into this episode. Listen to the full conversation to get the maximum benefit. As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village.#fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence Follow Marty: https://instagram.com/iesports.llchttps://facebook.com/iesports.llcAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. select the highest rating possible, 4. leave a stellar review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coListen More Talk Less:  https://l-m-t-l.myshopify.comLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosTate Whalun (Discount Code: THEDSP): https://tatewhalun.comLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Get the visual experience https://youtu.be/GI_fcc6c1DkParenting is a team sport, even when it isn’t. There’s an infinite number of circumstances that determine why or how a child lands in a single-parent home. While single parenthood is not an indictment on the child’s future, it can present challenges that weigh heavily on the primary custodial parent. How do single mothers navigate that process without losing it? The work is nuanced for every situation, yet the show must go on. In this episode, Gelina and Jondrea, hosts of the Queens of Kings Podcast, share their journey to and through single parenthood. Both are raising young black kings. They provide a transparent view of the challenges and heartbreak they experienced in prior relationships, which also yielded their greatest blessings, their sons. We walked through the range of emotions each of them experienced during their healing journeys, and how those lessons inform and empower them today.We also discussed the importance a positive male influence, be it the biological father or a #FatherFigure, they know their boys need to see certain behaviors and characteristics that a mother just cannot model. How else does a boy learn how to become a man? There are many narratives and agendas that attempt to devalue the importance of two-parent homes or positive co-parenting relationships that are endangering current and future generations. In some instances, boys are unfairly levied with grown man expectations in the absence of a responsible man in the house.Let’s be clear, Gelina and Jondrea are great mothers. This episode broadened my perspective on how my actions as a father impact how my daughters see and understand men. What has been your parenthood experience? If you could choose one lesson to learn without the pain you experienced while learning it, what would that be?As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village.#fatherhood #daddyissues #parenthood #singlemom #blackfathers #fatherandson #divorce #lifeafterdivorce #blackexcellence #breakupsFollow Gelina: https://instagram.com/trulygelinaFollow Jondrea: https://instagram.com/drea_rozayFollow the Queens of Kings Podcasthttps://instagram.com/queensofkings_podcastAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. give this podcast a 5-star rating, 4. leave a review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Watch the video version: https://youtu.be/-wwAu0DM5-AFatherhood is a learned behavior. Many of us mimic the behaviors that we saw or experienced growing up...sometimes to a fault. Children are like algorithms that are constantly being updated by some supernatural software.  What worked on us as children isn't guaranteed to work on our children, and, inevitably, there will be a need to reprogram the way we parent. In addition to the child evolving, the parent is also evolving. That evolution may have positive and negative phases, which might be processed differently by the child and the parent. These nuances make parenting difficult to navigate, and sometimes we must abandon the default parenting behaviors and reprogram the way we operate.This episode explores the journey of four fathers from varying backgrounds and highlights several vulnerable moments that changed the way they dad. Shawn Serfass is struggled with drug addiction at a young age, which ultimately landed him in prison. He spent the time behind bars working on himself to become a better man and father to the son he left behind. His experiences have fueled his purpose, and today he is a reputable member of society, advocate for at-risk youth, loving husband, and a great father. He's also a successful owner of the "2nd Chance Fitness" brand with two fitness facilities located in Texas (Mansfield and Midlothian).Follow Shawn: https://instagram.com/Shawn2ndChanceReggie George, the owner of the "Father Figure" brand, shares a riveting testimony of faith. His family experienced unimaginable trauma when his teenage twin daughter was stabbed in the head at school by another male student. The details are too dark to share here...just know that God restores. Through this journey of faith, Reggie identified his purpose of building an international community of father figures to ensure every child has a positive male influence to help them navigate life. This is an ambitious mission; indeed, however, the Father Figure brand is growing at warp speed. All of which, he credits to the Father above.Follow Reggie: https://instagram.com/FatherFigureApparelJames Johnson (co-host) provides a very transparent view of his experience as a father during his first marriage and what he experiences today in his current family dynamic. Divorce hurts all parties involved in some manner. His relationship with the children from the first marriage are strained, and you can see the pain in his demeanor as he talks about it. The lessons learned facilitated his growth as a man, but it is bittersweet at best. "Pay attention," he says. The message is to be mindful of your behavior and how it impacts those around you, especially the children. Don't learn the lesson at the expense of your relationship. Follow Shawn: https://instagram.com/JeyBlacMe...well, I get pretty vulnerable as well (per usual). Enough about that though, this is a very meaningful discussion, and I pray that it blesses you. As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village.#fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #survivor #overcomeaddiction #fatherfigure Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. set to "auto-download",3. give this podcast the highest rating possible, 4. leave a stellar review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comJoin the Dear Son, private FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/485411710167079/Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosFather Figure Apparel:  https://www.f2apparel.storeLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Finding profit in your purpose is a life hack, but many of us think that these are conflicting principles. For those that are courageous enough to jump into the deep end of the purpose pool with both feet, that leap of faith is also paired with financial frustrations as the money may not flow steadily if at all. Now the reward isn't due simply because the individual went 'all-in,' but there is a reasonable path to finding fulfillment...and funding. Entrepreneurship is a roller-coaster kind of journey. To be successful you must grow individually, make tough decisions and sacrifices, and (where applicable) keep your personal relationships together. Sometimes the challenge is that the people around you aren't growing, stretching, and changing at the rate that you are. This is especially critical in marriages; more so if entrepreneurship wasn't in the cards when you got married. Phillip provides some very practical perspectives about his journey to become a successful small business owner. We also discussed the importance of podcasting to the future of business. The industry is still relatively new, and opportunities abound. As a father transitioning into full-time entrepreneurship, this was an important conversation for me. I want my sons to know that you can be a responsible provider while doing something that you love.As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village.#fatherhood #entrepreneurship  #smallbusinessowner #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellenceFollow Phillip: https://instagram.com/askphillipCheckout his podcasting course:http://phillipwashingtonjr.comSupport the Dear Son, Network through a financial gift:  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=T7DXMR6UKP9HWAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.coLove Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Many of us take our senses for granted until one of them is compromised. Furthermore, once compromised, how would you respond? Personally, I cannot imagine living life without physical sight (or any sense for that matter), especially as a father with young children. This conversation gives us a bit of perspective on what life is like for the father and the child. Poetré is a rare breed. He’s an artist’s artist. His soul is seasoned, and it shines vividly through his music. This conversation reveals his joyful outlook on life, which can be credited to the example set by his hero, his father. He paints the picture of a loving father, who was always hustling to ensure his family never lacked. A musician as well, his father is a chip off the Stevie Wonder block. His mastery of the keys is the primary qualification for that comparison; however, losing his sight made the parallel more convincing.  Poetré is a gifted writer with roots founded in the spoken word genre. He admired his father from the toddler stage and could be found somewhere nearby playing the drums as his father played the keys. His music has soul…meaning…life! Some songs are heavier than others, but they all seem to just feel good. There just might be a snippet from his next single somewhere in the episode.  There’s so much more to say, but that’s what the episode is for. Grab a snack. This is a good one! As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village. #fatherhood #Gastroparesis #diabetes #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence  Follow Poetré: https://instagram.com/iam_poetreConsider supporting the By Faith Not Sight non-profit organization: https://byfaithnotsight.org “We aim to support, bring hope, and encourage families and individuals who experience various types of illnesses such as Gastroparesis, Diabetes, and other stress related illnesses.” (Excerpt from website)  Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.  The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com  Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:  Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Listen More Talk Less:  https://l-m-t-l.myshopify.com Tate Whalun (Discount Code: THEDSP): https://tatewhalun.com  Let’s connect socially:   https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast   The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma  2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all   “Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is the epitome of the platform's mission. In order to bridge the generational gaps, we need to understand perspectives of those that blazed the trail before us. How was fatherhood shaped in the early 1900s? Did the dads of old face similar challenges that are prevalent today? In this episode, Kevin Stalling shares a rich family history of entrepreneurship, business ownership, world-traveling, and, unfortunately, loss. He credits his father for molding him into the successful father and business-owner that he is today, and his big sister for teaching him the ways of the world.  Kevin's fatherhood journey wasn't without hardships. He shared how the initial news that he would be a father was "the worst thing" at the time. Let's be clear, he wasn't on a path to be a deadbeat dad. He just wasn't prepared. That phase didn't last long, and Kevin adapted to his greatest calling in life, fatherhood. I don't consider his story to be the typical experience, but there were many themes that resonated with me. As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village. #fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence   Prodigal Sight & Sound | Full-service audio and video installations and product sales.Authorized Dealer: Panasonic, Sony, Pioneer, Polk AudioWeb site: Prodigal Sight & SoundEmail: prodigalsoundllc@gmail.com Business: (314)-517-5707  Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.  The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com  Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:  Listen More Talk Less:  https://l-m-t-l.myshopify.com Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Tate Whalun (Discount Code: THEDSP): https://tatewhalun.com  Let’s connect socially:    https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast   The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma  2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all   “Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sometimes men don't know what they're lacking in life until fatherhood sets in. Ideally, there would be a deep catalog of positive experiences and references to pull from...a how-to manual of sorts. That's extremely aspirational even in the best scenarios. Where do men learn to be men? How does each man learn best? The truth is, a man will learn by what is modeled throughout his life. Good or bad, some version of manhood is being taught everyday. This conversation with Brandon was therapeutic for me. Our backgrounds are different, but the challenges of fatherhood resonated with me as I'm sure it will with other men. His story is colorful, eventful, and traumatic. He recalls all of it with a smile on his face, masking the hurtful moments that have shaped who is today. Through it all, he has chosen to be better than what was was modeled throughout his life, and strive to give his family gets a better version of him everyday. This is a good one. Follow Brandon: https://instagram.com/bbrad00Also, don't forget to:1.  follow this podcast, 2. turn on auto-downloads,3. leave a 5-star rating,4. leave a stellar review5. share this content with someone who needs it!  The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com  Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:  Listen More Talk Less:  https://l-m-t-l.myshopify.com Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Tate Whalun (Discount Code: THEDSP): https://tatewhalun.com  Let’s connect socially:    https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast   The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma  2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all   “Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

What are we really teaching our sons? Most dads have an immediate response listing all the topics that are most important or memorable to them, but what are the children learning from their actions? They know the difference between their parents’ talk and their walk. We had a deep discussion about teaching them to be tough, choosing friends, music and other cultural influences. My conversation counterpart, James Johnson, brought the energy again. I mean, he’s a DSN community fave, and more of a recurring co-host at this point. His perspective on the impact of the circles our sons choose is poignant and quite timely. We covered a lot, yet there’s so much left to unpack As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village. #fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence  Flexxion Chiropractic1201 N Watson Rd (at 360 & 30) Arlington, TX Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac  Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. follow to this podcast, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this episode, 4. leave a review, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.  The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com  Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:  Listen More Talk Less:  https://l-m-t-l.myshopify.com Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Tate Whalun (Discount Code: THEDSP): https://tatewhalun.com  Let’s connect socially:  https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast  The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma  2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all  “Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Enjoy the visual experience: https://youtu.be/dLFUPPlJn0kAccountability is the true measure of a man. Oftentimes we search for excuses as to why a man behaves a certain way. Perhaps his father wasn't around; or maybe, his father set a terrible example. I personally believe that there are more great examples of fatherhood than there are of terrible fathers, but that's a conversation for another episode. I am certain that there are men out here defying the odds, working through, and healing from trauma, and generally being the change that they want to see.  This conversation with Forrest Brooks is proof. We discussed somewhat taboo topics like church hurt, abandonment, and what happens when a father starts a new family with someone else. How do you extract the positives from those experiences and live a healthy healed adult life? Jump into this episode to get our perspectives. I'm not suggesting that you will agree, but I'm certain this episode will initiate a conversation in your mind, family, and maybe even your community. Be blessed. As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village. #fatherhood #daddyissues #accountable #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence  Follow Forrest: https://instagram.com/poshforresthttps://instagram.com/thisisthecouch  Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.  The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com  Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:  Listen More Talk Less:  https://l-m-t-l.myshopify.com Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Tate Whalun (Discount Code: THEDSP): https://tatewhalun.com  Let’s connect socially:    https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast   The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma  2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all   “Better Man. Better Father.”  Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, they're shooting at me! In this episode I caught up with my teenage son to get his perspective on school safety and the dangers of being tough (or at least trying to be). I shared a story about one of my run-ins with gun violence. Some days I'm paralyzed by the thought that my son might, at some point, have a similar experience.  Violence is so prevalent, that it can become numbing to kids, teenagers...and adults. Part of the struggle is navigating what is too much exposure, too soon. Part of me enjoys subscribing to the myth that ignorance is bliss. The rest of me wants to ensure my children know how to fight. The dichotomy.  As always, I welcome your feedback and perspective. It takes a village. #blackfathers #fatherandson #blackexcellence #entrepreneurship #toughguy Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and5. share this content with someone who needs it.  The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com  Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:  Listen More Talk Less:  https://l-m-t-l.myshopify.com Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Tate Whalun (Discount Code: THEDSP): https://tatewhalun.com  Let’s connect socially:  https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast  The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all   “Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mr. JB the Barber is a multi-faceted young entrepreneur with an old soul. He owns a successful barber shop filled with expressive art and hair artists that have become a staple in the community. Growing up, he was inspired by his father, also a barber, to take business ownership seriously, and he has become a savvy people leader in the process. We talked about his early days growing up in Pine Bluff, AR where he recalls life in the hood being fun as a child, but he later understood the dangers of that environment. His family ultimately settled in the DFW metroplex by way of Bellevue, NE. DFW is where he formed the friendships and relationships that have significantly shaped his life. He gives us a peak into his relationship with the mother of his child and a with a friend that was murdered over a very trivial matter.Fatherhood has been one of his most rewarding roles in life. His daughter is a brilliant and beautiful artist in the making. Though they are no longer a couple romantically, he speaks highly of his daughter's mother, and they work harmoniously to raise babygirl. The loss of his friend; however, clearly impacted him during the conversation. Their friendship created a brotherhood, and a collective of artists formed around that, Top Off Entertainment. He stepped away from the music business after losing his brother but has found the inspiration to rap again lately. His barbershop is named Top Off Cuts to honor the legacy. Success looks different for many people. Most of us have a tendency to judge someone's character by what we immediately see. That's just human nature to a large degree. However, for those of us that mature beyond that, we're able to find the beauty in the journey and celebrate individuals for who they are. This conversation broadened my perspectives on a younger generation and gives me hope that they'll be just fine. #fatherhood #blackfathers #blackartist #blackexcellence #entrepreneurship #dfwbarbers #barber #dallastx Be sure to follow JB: https://instagram.com/mrjbthabarberAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, and 4. leave a comment.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

https://linktr.ee/djohnsliveDo you know the vibes that resonate throughout your family? As fathers we are responsible for demonstrating manhood (amongst other important characteristics) in the home, which requires us to be mindful of our internal frequency. Don’t get tripped up on the wording, I’m just keeping it on par with this episode. Essentially, there is a tone that we set whether intentionally or unintentionally. It’s like the age-old parent-to-child [threatening] question: “Do you have an attitude?” Of course! Everyone always has an attitude. Typically, the inference is that the child is demonstrating some negative behavior at the time, and the parent wants them to “act better.”In this conversation with Phillip, he challenged my thought pattern to consider how my actions resonate within my household, and whether I’m really in tune with how everyone in my household is feeling. Phillip has always been aware of his inner-spirit and is very open about being sensitive to that voice throughout his life. Society often pairs sensitivity with weakness, which is often a gross misrepresentation of the individual’s emotional state. Embracing this gift propelled Phillip to increasing levels of personal, financial, business, and familial success throughout his life.Deep into the conversation, we began processing our thoughts on religion, God, and what this current life means. There are several points that require way more conversation to understand the full perspectives; however, I am always encouraged when men can intelligently discuss differences without judgement, anger, or any other unproductive result. We’ll continue the dialogue on a future episode. In the meantime, I challenge you to process your internal responses and why you believe what you believe. The end goal is not to change your mind, but you should be certain about your beliefs, and unbothered by those that believe otherwise. Be blessed.#fatherhood #blackfathers  #thoughtleader  #blackexcellence   #fatherandson #spiritual Learn more about Phillip's business:  https://stonehillwealthmanagement.comAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, and 4. leave a comment.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

There's trauma on the yard! Many of us (parents) considered the school to be one of the safest places to send our children at one time. Over the past decade or so, the senseless attacks on our babies may have caused a heightened sense of awareness for some, paranoia for others, and perhaps even panic for a few. How would your life change if your child was the victim of a violent act at school? That's an unfair question to those who've never experienced it, and I pray that it is a question you'll never be able to answer from experience. Unfortunately for the George family, they will have to live with such an experience forever. Reggie George is a loving husband, father, and father figure. One routine morning he dropped his twin daughters off at a Mansfield ISD (TX) public school not knowing that his life, his twin daughters’ lives, and his wife's life would pivot within hours due to a cowardly, horrific event at the school. The scenario is too graphic to type here, but one of the twins was a approached and stabbed...which landed her in an 8.5 hour brain surgery fighting for her life. This episode connects the dots from that eventful day to the Father Figure movement that was birthed through Reggie's healing process, much of which he credits to an evolved relationship with God. This testimony will rock your spirit, but, more importantly, will bless you. #fatherfigure #fatherhood #blackfathers #blackexcellence  #fatherandson #schoolviolence #girldad #childhoodtrauma Follow Reggie: https://instagram.com/fatherfigureapparelShop the F2 collection: https://f2apparel.storeLearn more about the movement: http://thefatherfiguremovement.comF2 podcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCPSX9PNtDHR8kj-pFEpdNjQAudio podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/father-figure/id1571057131Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. Subscribe to the channel, 2. Turn on the notifications,3. Like this audio or video content, and 4. Leave a comment.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Which comes first, black, or blue? Is there even a line between the two for police officers of color? Lieutenant Yowman gives us a peek into the everyday life and psychology of an officer, and how his journey to the force evolved. It all started in Port Arthur, TX, where Adrian grew up with his younger sister and single father in the home. He credits his father's drill sergeant background for the strict tone of the house. Adrian understood responsibility and leadership early as he was charged with overseeing his sister, ensuring that she handled her household chores and was safe and protected outside of the house. At a young age, Adrian spent time riding along with his uncle, also a police officer, and knew immediately that he wanted to follow in his footsteps. Even after his uncle's untimely death while on the job, Adrian's desire to join the force never wavered. At the time of this recording, Adrian is thirteen years in, and provides a real-world perspective of what his priorities are as a black husband, father, and cop. We talked about the challenges with inadequate training and expectations of the average police officer. Does more need to be done to qualify and place officers? Are there still traces of racism and discrimination in the police system? Watch the full episode to gain a broader perspective, and then sound off in the comments, respectfully. #blackandblue #blackfathers ##blackexcellence #stepdad #stepfather #stepmom #blendedfamily #fatherandson #dadhacks #emotionalintelligenceFollow Adrion: https://facebook.com/adrian.jamar.75Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, and 4. leave a comment.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

You've just entered the no step zone. For some, there isn't much thought given to the term step as applied to familial relationships. Stepmom, stepsister, stepbrother...stepdad. I'll agree that the word prefix doesn't seem all that powerful, but does it impact how the individuals act in those relationships? On the one hand, we consider it a mere technicality... a lack of a biological connection. On the other hand, treating someone like a stepchild has been a dismissive insult (or assault) for as long as I can remember. In this episode, James and I share the vulnerabilities we've experienced from both sides of non-biological fatherhood. Our stories are nuanced as is every fatherhood journey, but there are many core principles we share. Parenting in general is a very rewarding gift; however, do we really treat biological and non-biological children equally? If you just answered this question in your head, immediately share your thoughts in the comment section. You'll see how we answered this question by the end of the episode. I hope this blesses you where you are.#blackparents #blackfathers ##blackexcellence #stepdad #stepfather #stepmom #blendedfamily #fatherandson #dadhacks #emotionalintelligenceFollow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblacAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, and 4. leave a comment.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

My son thinks I'm a whole person, and I think he is amazing. We spent some time catching up on what's going on in his 14 yr-old life. He chronicles his bout with COVID and how it impacted him. I don't take anything my children say for granted as they are dealing with a different pace of information and emotional distress has many flags that are often unrecognized or ignored. I am grateful that he is in a good headspace all things considered.He also manages to take control of the conversation with a few questions for me. I wasn't shocked by the depth of the questions, but admittedly didn't think he would ask a couple of them on camera. The point of this channel is to expose our journey to a healthier relationship. I'm becoming a better man in the process. Hopefully, this blesses you where you are. #blackparents #blackfathers #blackexcellence #fatherandson #dadhacks #emotionalintelligenceAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, and 4. leave a comment.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudiosLet’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

My father taught me everything by telling me nothing. That may sound farfetched to some; however, this will make perfect sense as you progress through this conversation. Jermaine Lewis, Sr is an accomplished writer, business owner, community leader, husband, and father. In this episode he shares several poignant views from his philosophy on male leadership in the household.  These views include allowing children to explore, obedience, family finances, and mutual submission between spouses. I'm certain that you'll leave with an expanded and enriched perspective on the importance of fatherhood, and what family leadership looks like. I pray that it blesses you where you are. Connect with Jermaine and support his projects via https://jermainelewis.comAlso, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1.  subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications,3. like this video, and 4. leave a comment.#blackdoctors #blackfathers #blackexcellence #fatherandson #menshealthThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Leave a legacy of compassion. Dr. Eric Yancey is a general surgeon, and by many standards, is wildly successful. In this episode, he shares the experiences along the road through medical school to establishing medical practices and the how it intersected with parenthood and his relationship with God. Of course we'll get the backdrop of his childhood and relationship with his father for proper context, but you may be surprised by the one thing he wishes he'd done better sooner during his journey. There are so many practical and informative lessons woven throughout that you'll probably pickup a new one each time you watch or listen. When you're done, be bold enough to share this with someone who needs it. Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:1. follow this podcast, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. give it a 5-star rating, and4. leave a review to let others know this podcast adds value. #blackdoctors #blackfathers #blackexcellence #fatherandson #menshealthThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

"My dad will never know why his mom didn't want him." David Jones is a well-respected, well-educated business professional with an uncanny ability to see simple solutions amidst seemingly big problems. That's his gift as it pertains to business, but how does that translate into his personal life? Carefully.  High level conversations aside, his fatherhood journey is fascinating, and I left the conversation inspired. First, to clarify, David is not yet a father in the traditional sense; however, he processes life through a lens significantly influenced by the relationship he has with his father, and further, how his father's journey progressed. David spent much of his younger years with his great grandmother in Arkansas. She raised his father as well. While this isn't uncommon, I've never considered the commonalities that may (or may not) exist between a father and a son raised by the same woman. Though he recalls the time spent under his great grandmother's care with fondness, there's another side of the coin that reflects the pain that his father endured. His father's parents weren't actively involved in his father's life, which resulted in a feeling of emptiness. Thankfully, David's father was determined to break that cycle, and he poured into David the best way he knew how.  He was determined to always be there for his children. David is now a proud husband and family leader, and this conversation challenged him to take more introspective look at what fatherhood means. Let's see if practical business logic can also solve matters of the heart.   #blackfathers #blackexcellence #fatherandsonFollow David:IG: https://instagram.com/coahcdavejonesTwitter: https://twitter.com/coachdavejonesBusiness: https//4ward.Solutions, Inc.: The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This is what protection really looks like. As men we are often challenged to protect our families from harm in all forms, but what does that really look like in the average relationship? Sometimes we don't want to be the voice of reason. Sometimes we just need a reason...I digress. This conversation was inspired by the 2022 Oscars, but we don't say their names. Honestly, the event that trended worldwide sparked a different conversation with me and the guys. We take inventory of what we will and won't do for our families when it comes to protecting them. Do you know what your 'line' looks like? You need to have a healthy understanding of what is off limits, and what you're willing to do about it before you're presented with a well-timed, unexpected sla....Ok...ok...we've all had enough of the word, the reference, and all the Monday-morning quarterbacking that always ensues. This conversation is rich with three varying perspectives from successful black men. I welcome your feedback on the discussion as well as the look and feel of this episode. This has been a journey and I'm enjoying the process. Be blessed.Follow James:IG: https://instagram.com/jeyblacFB: James JohnsonFollow Anvalon:IG: https://instagram.com/iamanvalonFB: Anvalon ElliottThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I lost my dad and found me. Loss is hard. Multiple losses at a young age is even harder. Can you imagine holding a loved one in your arms as life leaves their body? Now, can you imagine taking on this life altering responsibility at the age of 12? Deborah was introduced to heartbreak at a very young age, and the thread continued throughout her early adulthood. In this episode we discuss the process of losing her father, and how that reshaped how she saw the world and herself in it. Deb's relationship with her father was somewhat complicated. As a Vietnam vet, he struggled with various vices due to PTSD. She vividly recalled a time when her father would lock himself in the closet with guns and struggles with alcohol. In addition to the loss of her younger sister (referenced above), her parents experienced the lost of Deb's older sister before Deb was born. I cannot imagine that level of pain as a father or a sibling. Deb's father was diagnosed with cancer and later passed away in 2016. She had 18 months with him from the time he was diagnosed and shares how their relationship transformed during that period. They connected on a deeper level and Deb found purpose in the process. There's so much more to the story, and this episode fills in the blanks. I am grateful for her transparency, honesty, and courage to reveal some of her past and present traumas, and her continued passion to help others heal.#teenagemom #abuse #overcomerBe sure to follow Deb via the social media platforms below:IG: https://instagram.com/faith100578IG: https://instagram.com/theXchangeplaceYouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCF6oWbPe4uc3E3WJq2wbcIAThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Dad, you hurt me. For some, being hurt is just a natural part of life. We've all experienced hurt, and likely, have been the source of others' pain. One thing for certain is that none of us can tell another person how to process their pain, grief, or trauma. As a 17-year-old mother to be, Cleo had seen and experienced a lifetime of traumatic events. She vividly recalls a story of police drawing guns on her, her mother and sister, and how she couldn't understand why it was happening in the moment, yet it also seemed to be the norm for her underserved neighborhood in Nashville, TN. Her relationship with her father has been strained for most of her life. There were brief glimmers of hope that he would show up for one important life event or another, but ultimately, she had to accept that the relationship she longed for would never be. The void he created impacted how she would see and interact with men throughout her life. Guarded. Cleo's story; however, is one of triumph, success, and incredible joy, primarily derived from the relationship she has developed with her daughter. She is an incredible mom, business owner, speaker, and overcomer. She looks nothing like what she has been through. There's so much more to say about this phenomenal woman, and that's what this episode is for. Open your mind and heart as you consume this one, and I'm sure you'll come out of it blessed. #teenagemom #abuse #overcomerBe sure to follow Cleo on the social media:IG: https://instagram.com/cleoyogfinanceTikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZTdPKLMxf/YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/CleoYogaFinanceThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

My dad chose me. This is a perspective that many of us never had to consider. However, many men decide to fill a biological gap for one reason or another. Sometimes it is due to the intentional absence of the birth father, the intentional actions of the birth mother, and a host of other reasons that aren’t germane to this episode. Instead, we celebrate the courage and commitment of my wife’s father to ensure she had a present and accountable father throughout her life.LaKisha (Kisha) is the oldest of three children and grew up in a modest household with both parents in Hampton, VA. Her fatherhood story begins just a couple years after birth. Her mother and father knew each other from high school, but their love story began years after, also after Kisha was born. While it isn’t clear exactly why her birth father wasn’t around, she made it abundantly clear who her father is. He saw enough in her and her mother to make the investment beyond marriage and adopted Kisha at a very young age. She recalls with fondness the quirky things that her father did to create meaningful experiences for the family, and also touches on how she didn’t always feel like she fit in.Kisha and her father share the bond of adoption as he was adopted at an early age as well. This gave him a unique, personalized insight on what is important to a child that didn’t have a biological parent in their life. He was her protector, advisor, counselor, and pastor at various stages of her life. As life often does for most of us, Kisha’s firstborn (our oldest) entered the world in somewhat similar circumstances. We discussed those challenges and how they impacted our family along the way. This conversation gave me a new perspective of my life partner, and I’m beyond proud and honored to share a portion of her story with the world. I hope this blesses you. #daddysgirl #herodad #adoptionBe sure to follow Kisha on social media and YouTube: IG: https://instagram.com/love_kishajThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

My dad is my hero. Those four words bring so much joy to my heart, not only as a father, but as a man that admires strong father-daughter relationships. This is the bond that sets the tone for how women value the relationship with a man, and also teaches men way more about themselves than they may expect. In part two of this series focusing on the woman's perspective of fatherhood, Gia Jordan graciously relives many fond moments of her fatherhood journey.Gia's father was her superhero as she grew up, and she still sees him through that lens today. She recalls the challenges he faced growing up in Panama as a child with learning disabilities that the educational community of that time wasn't prepared to support or manage. They simply called him dumb. Throughout his life he was told no and discouraged from achieving anything great. Gia also struggled with a learning challenge as a child, and luckily, she had the benefit of her father's triumph as a reference on how to overcome it. He condensed the years of his painful experiences into sound guidance, encouragement, and motivation, which propelled Gia to become successful in school and life.These are the stories that we need to see and hear about regularly. There is no substitute for a great father-daughter relationship. I truly hope this conversation empowers men to be or stay present in their daughters' lives, and encourages women to treasure and protect these relationships where possible. #daddysgirl #herodad #PanamaBe sure to follow Gia on social media and YouTube: IG: https://instagram.com/kaizenmindpodcastYT: https://youtube.com/channel/UC_pmyiYX7f0m7Dbt96hkbYwThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

A woman's perspective on fatherhood is oftentimes dismissed because 'they can't be fathers.' I understand the sentiment, but the value is misplaced. This 5-part series will explore how the fatherhood journey impacts women. We have to acknowledge the cycle; the woman has a father, some choose men to partner with in life, and a subset of that population may birth a baby boy at some point. That boy will grow into manhood and he may choose a woman to partner with in life. Of course, there are many off-ramps and differing scenarios that impact the story, but I think the point is clear.This is part one of a 5-part series, and my first conversation counterpart did not disappoint. Sade Benson is a loving mother, wife, podcaster, entrepreneur, and owner of a couple successful businesses. SHOP HER KOLLECTION BELOW. Accolades aside, she is a woman with a traumatic story. She is human. Humans hurt. We walked through some of the bitter parts of her past, and how therapy assisted in the overcoming process. The odds were stacked against her, but you wouldn't know it, not at face value anyway.She lost her mother tragically, became a pseudo caregiver for her younger siblings, and has spent most of her life trying to navigate the relationship with her father after finding out that he wasn't biologically responsible for her existence. This description cannot not do this conversation justice, let alone convey the incredible person that she is. Luckily, you can press play to dive deeper. I pray that you do so and receive this dialogue with an open heart and mind. I hear to help.Grab a snack and mentally prepare for this one. I’ll meet you in the comments.#childabuse #molestation #overcoming #blackmenheal #howtoheal #seektherapyBe sure to follow Sade on social media: IG: https://instagram.com/the_storybehindtheceo_podcastIG: https://instagram.com/KrownMeKollectionsShop the Kollection: https://krownmekollections.comThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, I work hard to create options for you. It is a common theme for many parents to work hard in hopes of providing a better life for their children. For the few radicals, entrepreneurs, that journey can be extremely difficult, frustrating, and unrewarding most of the time. In this episode, I sat down with Joshua (Josh) Wilson to understand how journeys of ‘husbandhood,’ fatherhood, and business builder is intersected, and how he manages through it all when times get rough. Josh's story is one of humble beginnings. His biological father was around for the first several years, but that relationship left a lot to be desired. His parents divorced while he was a young boy, and he vividly remembers the pain it caused the family. His mother later remarried and experienced a much more fulfilling relationship, but there was still a void that only a father (or father figure) could fill. He shares some of the painful memories of those times and credits his mother with providing him the unconditional love he needed to get through life. Some are frustrated by the pains of the past; others are fueled by those experiences. Josh has developed a rare degree of grit and determination that have propelled him into successful entrepreneurship and, more importantly, business ownership. There's a difference. He credits his wife, Devin, with believing in him (and them) when times got rough, and maintaining order in the home when the tables turned. There's a theme of a woman always being key to his success in life. Of course, there is way more to this story, and you'll get your attention's worth out of this episode.   Grab a snack and get into this one. I’ll meet you in the comments.#daddyissues #entrepreneurship #overcoming #fatherhood #howtoheal #seektherapy #offleash #dogtrainer #k9 #doglover #bigdogpodcastBe sure to follow Josh on social media: IG: https://instagram.com/that_dog_trainerFB: https://www.facebook.com/joshuawilsonThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, you can tell me anything, but that! Many fathers and generally 'good' parents across the world live in a fantasy world believing that their children can talk to them about anything. Oftentimes that definition of anything excludes very real topics like rape, molestation, or sexual promiscuity. See, it's much easier to adopt the 'not my child' mentality because it makes us feel good about where we've failed as parents. In this episode, Joevan Palmer braves the elements and helps us understand what life was like as a child dealing with molestation, and as an adult that decided to do the work to overcome his childhood traumas. Most importantly, Joevan has dedicated his life to helping others avoid and/or overcome the pain that he has endured. This is truly a redemptive and cinematic story. The more compelling part of the conversation is the expression of how Joevan will impact the world. I'm a believer, and I'd love to hear your feedback once you've watched. This is the first installment of many, and I look forward to watching and contributing to his growth. Grab a snack and mentally prepare for this one. I’ll meet you in the comments.Be sure to follow Joevan on social media: IG: https://instagram.com/joevanjpalmerFB: https://www.facebook.com/joevanjpalmerTwitter: https://twitter.com/joevanjpalmerThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, listen to your elders. There's such a wealth of information housed in prior generations that, too often, goes unsought. Sure, the world's perspective has and is ever evolving, but sound guidance from an era you never experienced is invaluable. Tim Allston brings decades of experience as a published author, public relations expert, educator, and public speaking professional to this week's show, and this conversation will not disappoint. We discussed the lows of the high. In Tim's case, the 'drug' was the command of the room as a public speaker. He references a quote from Johnny Carson, "I am impressive in front of 10 million, but I am horrible in front of 10." What is the real value of the world knowing your name when your family can't stand you? Now, I'm not suggesting that Tim's family wanted to kick him to the curb at times, but I know what it is like to have all of the confidence to communicate to a room full of strangers, and yet struggle to put a coherent string of sentences together at home. I'm willing to bet that several of you can relate. As usual, there's layers to the conversation that you'll only understand through consumption. I'd love to hear your perspective after digesting the whole episode. This is a good one. Grab a snack. Meet me in the comments.The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, I am not your father. I’m sure most of us have witnessed this conclusion being sensationalized on a late 90s midday talk show, but can you really put yourself in the shoes of a son hearing this for the first time at the age of 27? I’ve tried, but my imagination doesn’t roam that freely. Unfortunately, this was (and is) the reality for my conversation counterpart, Lamont Moore, on this episode. Several thoughts immediately ran through my head while trying to process the information in real time, but I simply couldn’t imagine what kind of man I’d be today if this were my truth.Growing up in Shreveport, LA, Lamont was the default role model for his two younger brothers. He resented the role at times but understood the value of setting the right example later in life. He valued the relationship he had with his father growing up, even though they didn’t reside in the same home. Lamont gives us a peak into a few very pivotal moments in his life; his mother’s passing, learning that the man he knew as his dad most of his life really wasn’t his father, and becoming himself. The story about his father’s identity unfolded almost as if it was a movie script. See, it all started when he met this girl in high school…Grab a snack and mentally prepare for this one. Tag the podcast when you share your thoughts on social media!Be sure to follow Lamont on social media: IG: https://instagram.com/castredale?utm_medium=copy_linkFB: https://www.facebook.com/lamont.moore.50The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, build a business for your family. We live in a world where the rich get richer, and the poor continuously get the short end of the stick. For some, apathy is the hurdle, and others just can't seem to connect with the right information that can change their lives. The pressure of maintaining adequate finances can be debilitating for some men. On this episode, Chris Williams lets us in on his fatherhood journey that pushed him to overcome the dark shadows of his past and create multiple successful side businesses that have helped position his family to live the life that they desire. Though rewarding, the road traveled wasn't all glitz and glamour. He recalls early life in Gainesville, FL and a pivotal tragedy when his brother and Chris' best friend were involved in a car accident that resulted in his brother's death. Chris' best friend was physically injured as well, but the mental trauma far exceeded any of the physical pain. Chris was the youngest of six boys and credits his vantage point as a benefit to see what behaviors he did not want to mimic. His life changed when the family relocated to Atlanta, GA. This was the restart he needed, as he navigated his teenage years through sports, entertainment, and a new circle of friends. Today he is a loving husband to one wife, and the proud father of two teenage boys. He has a passion for helping men gain control of their finances through building side businesses. There are so many more layers to Chris, and that's exactly what the full episode reveals. Grab a snack and enjoy this one. If you're inspired to learn more about building a successful side business of your own, contact Chris via the information immediately below. I'll meet you in the comments.Be sure to visit The World According to Chris: https://twac.live/podcast and follow him on IG: https://instagram.com/thechristopherwilliamsThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, I couldn’t coach my way out of this one. Sports is a way of life for many children and adults alike. Many have the love, but not the skill. Then there are those that have both, and a few of them mature into coaching once their playing days are done. George Massenburg’s journey was a pleasure to unpack. As the son of a military father, he knew early on the importance of discipline and reliability. Both are critical traits of any successful athlete, and he credits his father for setting these expectations, not just for sports, but for life. After playing for the greatest high school and arguably one of the greatest high school football team’s ever, the 1996 Hampton Crabbers (Hampton, VA), George went on to play at Virginia State University, and later became a football coach at his former high school and later served as the head coach for Heritage High School (Newport News, VA).His life experiences on and off the field gave him the tools to be a successful coach. He was able to relate through his struggles with the scholastic and athletic demands of a college athlete, challenges post college as he entered the ‘real world,’ and the humility of having to start over when life didn’t work out as planned. George lets us in on some of the lower points in his life and how therapy helped him manage and, ultimately, overcome those dark phases. It’s beautiful. Today, as a public school administrator, he revels in his passion for education and desire to impact students. His proudest accomplishment by far; however, is the relationship he has with his 13-year-old daughter. I mean, he couldn’t hide the joy in his face or tone when speaking about her. His best friend, as she is credited, is his biggest supporter, encourager, and source of purpose. George has so many layers and I’m grateful that he gave us a peek into a few of them during this conversation. Grab a snack and enjoy this one. I’ll meet you in the comment section and/or on any of the DSP social media platforms below.Be sure to follow George: https://instagram.com/1_lovechasers and his fiancé https://instagram.com/OshiCoutureThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially:https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, be emotionally fit above all. Sure, we've progressed a bit in recent years by 'allowing' men to feel their feelings, but that isn't enough. Today's guest, Rod, is no stranger to the gym, and has a passion for physical fitness. He has literally dedicated this phase of his life to helping and encouraging men to invest in their physical health and appearance. His approach is not exactly the norm, at least in my experience. He invests more time and energy into transforming the way and what his clients think about themselves. Through this empowering approach, many men credit Coach Rod with the collateral benefit of weight loss. He has the receipts. His fatherhood story; however, wasn't comprised of all high fives and celebratory fist bumps. As a Bay Area native (Richmond, CA to be exact), he experienced various traumas that shaped his childhood. Just outside of his doorstep awaited gangs, drug dealers and users, drive-by shootings, and inside his home he experienced the heartache of his parents' divorce. His mom ensured he was rooted in faith and kept him in church most days of the week. Rod became an athlete very early in his childhood, ultimately excelling in baseball and football, which afforded him a full college scholarship.I could write several more paragraphs about this phenomenal man, but that's what the podcast is for. Grab a snack. This is gonna be a great one!ROD'S OFFERING THE DSP FAMILY AN EARLY BIIRD SPECIAL!Click the link below for details on how to register and receive your FAST ACTION BONUS with crazy incentives! The challenge starts on January 31, 2022.https://potential4performance.mypthub.net/3/p/162214Missed the challenge? Checkout https://4fitfatherhood.com to see his current offerings and also find his podcast. You can find the rest of Rod's offerings via the link below:https://linktr.ee/ucancallmecoachThe DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, I need you back in my life. Many relationships begin with the best of intentions. The air smells sweeter, the flowers are bloom-ier, and all  seems right with the world. Then, as with any relationship, problems arise and character is revealed. Add children to the mix and it becomes more than some can or prefer to handle. James has experienced the hurt as a child and as an adult, and the impact at each stage is damaging. In this episode, we conversed about his humble beginnings as a child growing up in Shreveport, LA. Though he will forever regard it as his home with fondness, there were several memories that were painful to replay from his life there. Primarily raised by his mother and aunt, he recalls the financial hardships, constant moves, and the resulting school fights because he was the new guy. In middle school, he lost his big brother, who was his best friend, and essentially his identity. Anything big bro did, he wanted to do, and they spent everyday together until his big brother's untimely death. Compound these challenges with a pervasive gang culture right outside of his front door, and you'd potentially have.a recipe for disaster. Fortunately, James' story is one of overcoming. He survived the streets and navigated his way through early adulthood by way of college and the military. A tumultuous relationship yielded heartache and distrust, but also blessed the parents with three beautiful children. He later found love again with his current wife and was blessed with three more children. Life still hurts at times because he longs to have a relationship with his oldest son from the first marriage. He manages to wear a smile through that pain, and channels his energy into mentoring boys and young men to help them cope with and make better decisions in life. As he referenced, "he's lived 31 lives," and I'm grateful that he stopped by to share a few highlights with us.  Be blessed, Fam. I'll see you in the comments.https://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, you were just too different to love. Imagine being the youngest child and watching your siblings receiving love from the family differently. No explanations given, just different treatment. Compound that with being called ‘weird’ or worse, just because as a young boy you prefer to be in the band vice being an all-star athlete. This is sadly the case for many children, and it is especially painful for your young boys who want nothing more than to be validated by their fathers. Conversely, many fathers from generations past weren’t equipped with a high level of emotional intelligence or provided an example of fatherhood beyond being a provider. It’s easy to stand on one side and cast blame on the other, but that’s not what this platform is about. In this episode, Anvalon shares with us how similar circumstances impacted his life at an early age, and later played out negatively in his adult years. The story doesn’t end there, thankfully. He has learned to turn those painful years and negative behaviors into an uncanny level of self-awareness and desire to help others through sharing his journey. I’m grateful that he chose this platform as part of that process. I urge you to listen attentively as I’m sure there will be at least one truth that will resonate with you. If only we all could walk in truth daily. Be blessed, Fam. I'll see you in the comments.#fatherhood #blackmenheal #fatherandsonDear Son, you were just too different to love.I'll see you in the comments. Follow Anvalon to keep up with his story:https://instagram.com/iamanvalonhttps://twitter.com/iamanvalonhttps://facebook.com/anvalonelliott#blackmenheal #overcomingtraumahttps://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors: https://tatewhalun.com -- Discount Code: THEDSPJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merchJohns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcasthttps:// twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, I woke up on a park bench. What would be a humbling, better yet humiliating experience for most didn't brake Jaraud's spirit. At one of his lowest moments, he found himself taking shelter on a park bench in the Algiers area of New Orleans. Not sure where he'd find his next meal, he found the courage to will (and work) his way out of those circumstances. Not once did he blame others or feel sorry for himself. He simply "figured it out." This became a them throughout the phases of his life that he shared during this conversation. When life gets hard, he finds.a way. Now that he is a father, Jaraud has some very tough decisions manage. He is extremely passionate about changing the world and mapped out plans to do so. Then he became a father unexpectedly. Of course this changes everything, but does that mean he has to abandon his goals and purpose? There's one sure way to find out. Grab a snack and enjoy. Follow Jaraud to keep up with his story:https://instagram.com/iam_kingmac7https://instagram.com/royalknowledgepodcast#blackmenheal #overcomingtraumahttps://thedearsonpodcast.comSupport the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcastThe Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma3. Help through telling stories of it all“Better Man. Better Father.”Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, prison walls can’t separate us. Imagine being separated from your father at the age of two…for any reason. For some, this could be the start of a miserable life filled with anger, sadness, and regret (and understandably so). That’s not at all how this story plays out. Although he certainly felt the pain of his father not being around physically, Derrin was consumed with love from his family that eased the pain. Most notably, his mother poured into him beyond measure, and protected…no, promoted the relationship between him and his incarcerated father. They both waited patiently, believing daily that the family be would physically be reunited. After serving 27 years, Derrin’s father was released from prison, and they picked up continued the relationship he’d longed for his entire life. Derrin is a mild-mannered, respectful man, husband, and father. He made a conscious choice throughout his life to focus on the good. Even when presented with examples of what his character shouldn’t be, he chose to find the lesson in what not to do. He is mature beyond his years and revels in the joy of fatherhood. “I just want to be a great father,” he confessed during our conversation. I think he’s closer to greatness that he even knows. Give this one your full attention and let me know your thoughts in the comments (YouTube) or via social media if you prefer. There’s also an option to leave a voice note (link below), if you really want your voice heard. Be sure to follow him on social media and buy his merch if you’re also 2Stubborn2Fail. #fatherhood #blackmenheal #fatherandson Derrin’s Info: https://2stubborn2fail.com https://instagram.com/2stubborn2fail Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https:// twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, let that rage out! I had the pleasure of catching up with one of the legends from my hometown, Hampton, VA (757). Ahmad put on a show every time he touched the football field. His sports highlights can easily be found with a quick Google search, and would keep you glued to the screen for hours upon hours even if you’re not a football fan. What won’t be so obvious in the search results are the trials and challenges that riddled his life from a very young age. He opens up about his relationship with his father, [literally] fighting through life in elementary and middle schools, being envious of the spotlight in high school, making tough mental adjustments in college. See, his father and big cousin, Sean Hamlet instilled the discipline and toughness he needed to be great on the field, but he struggled with anger and managing his emotions off the field. It isn’t all doom and gloom though. The story pivots beautifully, and we get to know the mature professional athlete, loving husband, devoted and caring father, and community enthusiast that answered the call to inspire greatness through running the streets of Charlottesville, VA. While I’m not qualified to summarize his life in just a few paragraphs, I can say that I walked away from this conversation inspired. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below via the social media platforms below.    #UVA #wahoo #HamptonHigh #ColoradoCrush  Web site: https://ahmadhawkins.com IG: https://instagram.com/iamballhawk shop: https://sthujuice.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, I'm afraid to heal. This was a very sobering topic for me to address. I had to admit that not only was I broken in many ways, but I was comfortable in that state because I was afraid of what healing required from me. Selfish? Most certainly. However, I don't think that I'm the only man that has some aversion to the healing process. I do not like the unknown. I do not like not being in control. I do not like changing while it feels like the world is watching. But change, I must. Do you embrace change in general? More specifically, how eager are you to heal when it requires some uncomfortable work to get there? These are my top 10 reasons why I'm afraid to heal. I'd love to know if any of them resonate with you. Feel free to leave a voice note via the link below, or comment on a related IG post (see below).  #blackmenheal  Top 10 Reasons Why I'm Afraid To Heal: 1.  Healing requires me to be honest about parts of me that I’ve tried to hide from myself. 2.  Healing exposes feelings that I’m not currently equipped to manage. Sometimes those feelings weren’t nurtured as a child. 3.  Healing makes me uncomfortable. 4.  Healing removes excuses that once allowed me to operate at my lowest frequency (lower self). 5.  Healing hurts those around me. 6.  Healing looks silly to others, and I’d rather be cool than be complete. 7.  Healing takes a commitment that has no specific duration ( 8.  Healing requires me to surrender control. 9.  Healing brings clarity, and I may not like what I see. Healing raises the standard by which I must abide in all areas of my life. https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https:// twitter.com/dearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The three pillars of the DSP Community? 1.  Reveal trauma 2.  Heal from trauma 3.  Help through stories “Better Man. Better Father.” --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, time heals nothing. This perspective contradicts what most of us have been fed our entire lives, “time heals all wounds.” While there is merit to being sensitive to the timing of the necessary actions, the actions are necessary. Today’s conversation with Dr. Yardan Shabazz prompted me to take an inventory of my relationships and how I value them based on my actions. I realized how good I was at leaving things to chance. Sure, if there is a financial outcome or professional recognition attached, I’ve historically been more attentive to these things. Relationships though…I could take or leave some of them because my pride was bigger than my heart. This conversation with Dr. Shabazz is riveting to say the least. As his name may suggest (to some) his family has a very rich, deep history with several iconic figures that shaped this nation’s history. His life what not a cakewalk by any stretch, and he provides insight to the economic, social, and political challenges that his family endured. His fatherhood story is riddled with tough love, rejection, and pain, all of which fueled him to be a successful educator, author, business owner, husband, and father. This conversation was a joy, and it was also heavy. Dr. Shabazz and I had meaningful revelations that prompted us to take actions after. For him, the action was to engage with his father as their communication had deteriorated over the years. It proved to be a very timely engagement as his father passed away a few days later. He agreed to move forward with airing this episode as it is part of the testimony (his and this platform’s) and may help someone as God designs. Time heals nothing. Action does. My condolences are extended to the Shabazz family. May Minister James Shabazz rest in peace. IG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.shabazz/ www.thedearsonpodcast.com Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: www.instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast www.twitter.com/dearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, I've had one too many. Can you imagine having to explain that to your oldest son (or any family member for that matter)? Rudy's story is riddled with highs and lows, and his transparency is sure to help someone. Ultimately, he beat the odds and has reclaimed his greatness through overcoming alcoholism, restoring family relationships, and ultimately becoming the man he and his family can celebrate with pride. This is a must listen for anyone who has struggled with, seen, or simply is compassionate toward that struggle with addictions. I was truly blessed by this conversation, and I pray that you will gain something from it as well.  www.thedearsonpodcast.com Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: www.instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast www.twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, I'm listening. No really, I hear you. This will forever be the most meaningful conversation I have on this platform as it is reflection of how the podcast was birthed. See, I wasn't great at communicating important life lessons to my son. Heck, I'm still a work in progress. The articulation has never been my challenge, but great articulation does not a great communicator make (at least not that alone). This journey is about overcoming the fears, the inadequacies, the shortcomings of being father. I am convinced that we can shift the trajectory of the next generation of fathers through vulnerable, transparent conversations about fatherhood. Me and my lofty dreams....I get it. This is the cause, my hill if you will, upon which my life's work will be built. Legacy. The condensed version is that I love my sons (and daughters equally), and will invest in them daily to ensure they are prepared for the world that awaits. Grab a snack and enjoy. This is going to be a great one! Be blessed, fam. #fatherhood #blackfathers #breakingnegativecycles #iloveyouson Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: www.instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast www.twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, save your community. In this episode of The Dear Son, Podcast, we take a journey with community advocate, Tracey Parker, as he reveals the why behind his mission. He chronicles his life’s challenges and triumphs. The Newport News (VA) native learned the importance of ‘the village’ concept very early as he depended on friends and extended family members to fill the void of his biological parents not being in his life consistently. Tracey excelled in sports during his adolescent years, and found a father-figure in a high school coach. His life has been a roller coaster of highs and lows, but he found purpose when he met his Queen (Joy) who showed him unconditional love and ultimately challenged him to be a better man. Today, Tracey’s mission is to save everyone, literally. Lofty? Perhaps. His innate desire to help so many is reflective of the pain he experienced throughout his life. He simply doesn’t want others to experience it. There’s so much more to glean from this conversation, and I sincerely hope that you give it the attention due. The Friendship Lottery: The Friendship Lottery, founded by Tracey Parker and Noelle Parker, is a 501c3 non-profit organization on a mission to empower and educate our communities through outreach, partnerships with other non-profits, advocacy and financial blessings http://thefriendshiplottery.com/ info.thefriendshiplottinc@gmail.com instagram.com/thefriendshiplottery www.thedearsonpodcast.com Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: www.instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast www.twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

"Dear Son, You Are Your Brother's Keeper"...what a tremendous charge on anyone's life. During this conversation with Mikel Brown (www.instagram.com/iammikelbrwn) I was afforded insight into his journey into fatherhood, having lost his father, his hero, at the age of eight. While there's no good time to lose a parent, losing one during this impressionable stage of life can be very traumatic, and negatively alter the course of a child's life. Thank God that this isn't how Mikel's story plays out. His older brother stepped in and transitioned into a father figure, caring for Mikel as he did for his biological children. Did they lose the brotherhood relationship in the process? Was there any resentment for the additional burden? There's also the dynamic of the relationship Mikel had with his mother after his father died. He offers a very transparent perspective of blame turned guilt, turned forgiveness. Through it all, he found the lessons in time, and explains how he applies them as a father and husband. As some say, there's no manual for this thing called life. I offer Mikel's story as proof that there is hope beyond the loss of a parent. From fond memories of fedoras, diner runs, and a precious Cadillac, this conversation gave me all the feels. Grab a snack and enjoy this one with me. Be blessed, Fam! #copingwithloss #losingaparent #losingafather #ittakesavillage Checkout the 'Before You Go There' podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-you-go-there-podcast/id1587367887 www.thedearsonpodcast.com Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: www.instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast www.twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I had the pleasure of conversing with Javan (www.instagram.com/therazorscut), a Cybersecurity Systems Engineer by day, small business owner by night, about his fatherhood story, and there were many lessons to be gleaned. As a product of a blended family, he very quickly recognized the importance of creating family bonds and establishing the values he would later instill in his boys (15 & 22). He is passionate about helping others and, specifically, advocating for young black men to ensure their voices are heard and their developmental needs are met. Grab a snack. This is gonna be a great one! #theDSP #fatherandson #dearson #blackpodcasters  The DSP website is now live!: click here Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: www.instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast www.twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of The Dear Son, Podcast I took a hard look at my parent-to-friend ratio when it comes to my son. Let me explain (see what I did there), in the previous episode my father broke explained the meaning of a quote he’d tell me throughout my youth: “I’m your father, I’m not your friend.” You see, he was more concerned with providing me the right direction as an authority, than watching me fumble my way through life because he was too busy being my friend. I wanted different for my kids…or so I thought. Now I’ve created this parent-friend dichotomy; picking and choosing when to act in each capacity. I err more on the side of parent, but those moments where I slip up and get too friendly could be costly. Fatherhood is tough. Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: www.instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast www.twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode I dig deeper into my fatherhood story through an intimate conversation with the man who birthed me. The big showdown with my father! Well, not so much the smoking guns, but we both gained clarity on how we perceive each other, how we could’ve benefited from a more engaging relationship earlier in life, and ultimately, how much we appreciate and need each other now more than ever. Are there any relationships in your fatherhood story (as a father or between you and your father) that you regret not repairing before it was too late? I encourage you to take full advantage of the opportunities to repair or restore those relationships that still have a chance. I appreciate your time and attention. Be blessed, Fam. Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: www.instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast www.twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I had the pleasure of sitting down with one of my mentors, Dr. Ron Holloman. He is an accomplished educator and school administrator with a compelling fatherhood story. We discussed the valleys and peaks of his story, including a pivotal life event that prompted a full restoration of Dr. Holloman's relationship with his father before he passed. He provided me with a great deal of insight on life, the education system, and provided practical advice on how to partner with school leaders to ensure children have a rewarding educational experience. I think you'll find this conversation valuable. If so, let me know in the comments. #blackeducators #blackadministrators #blackfathers Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: www.instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast www.twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Where exactly is a '"child's place?" I've known the reference, I've made the reference for the majority of my life, but I've never questioned it more than I do now. In many scenarios this phrase is a complete cop out, a poor excuse for an adult not to give a child meaningful information (or context) that would actually benefit the child and the adult. My theory is that the adult may not actually have the information or may possibly be lacking the maturity required to provide an explanation to the child. What makes me such an authority on the matter? Well, I'm a repeat offender...or at least I was. I now understand the importance of giving my children vital information that I once reserved for some future never-to-be-had conversation. This is not at the expense of basic principles of respect that a child should have for an  adult. It works for me.   Support the pod by supporting our sponsors:   Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co   Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios    Let’s connect socially:   www.instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast  www.twitter.com/dearsonpodcast  www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This is my journey to understand the gaps between one generation of fathers and the next. Why is critical information and advice conveyed slower in some scenarios than in others? Is it cultural, familial, just plain apathy? **shrugs shoulders** What I do know is that fatherhood is situationally nuanced. Let's explore the stories of men that are on this lifelong journey as well. Support the pod by supporting our sponsors: Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios Let’s connect socially: www.instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast www.twitter.com/dearsonpodcast www.facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dear-son/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy