E20: Returning to Routine Is Not Moving On

How has Dad Always helped you redefine fatherhood after your loss?The hardest part of grief can be when the texts slow down, the calls fade, and you are back to routine life while everyone around you assumes you are “back to normal.” This episode talks about that hidden stretch after pregnancy or baby loss when routine returns, but you are still trying to survive what changed inside you.I dig into a core part of fatherhood identity that loss can shake to the bone: protector and provider. When you cannot be a protector, it can trigger guilt, shame, and that relentless question underneath it all: "what do I do now?" I share personal stories about reaching for the provider role as a way to find purpose and stability, including how going back to work can feel doable while still leaving your grief untouched.I also name the fine line between coping and avoiding. Using routine as an anchor can be healthy, but numbing out with busyness, overtime, or distraction often pushes pain into the future where it comes back heavier. You will hear practical ways to communicate, “I’m functioning, but I’m not okay,” plus concrete support options like exploring employee benefits, therapy, peer groups for bereaved dads, faith community care when it feels safe, and how partners can help without trying to fix us.If any part of this resonates, subscribe, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a review so more dads can find support._____________________________________________________________________________________________SUPPORT PATHWAYIf you are a bereaved dad who's struggling to cope with baby loss and you'd like to talk one-on-one, let's have a FREE private 30-minute conversation. Go to dadalways.com for more information. PEER-SUPPORTBlack Dads in Loss Support GroupFor a list of other support groups through Postpartum Support International click here.THEME MUSIC "Love Letter” was created using AI as a creative tool, with lyrics and direction shaped by the personal experiences and emotional intent of the host.SHOW MUSICJeopardy Theme Echo by Ghost BeatzMagic Garden by Daniele Musto