PODCAST · society
Father Talks
by Michael Darden
Father Talks is where the locker room, barbershop, and late-night kitchen table come together. Men show up for honest, unfiltered conversations about fatherhood, relationships, sex, sports, money, mental health, purpose, and the pressure of everyday life. With straight-up humor, hard-earned wisdom, and no pretending, each episode gives fathers, sons, brothers, and men from every walk of life room to speak, listen, grow, heal, and lead. Nothing is off-limits when the goal is stronger men, healthier relationships, and lasting family legacies.Real Men. Real Conversations. Real Life.
Episodes
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Can Happiness Come Back After Loss | Jen Santaniello
How do you keep showing up as a parent when grief changes the future you imagined? In this episode of Father Talks, Michael Darden sits down with Jen Santaniello, who was 36 and expecting her third child when her husband was diagnosed with cancer. He died within five months. Jen shares what it…
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Love Across Cultures with Pesa Shayo
On this episode of Father Talks, Michael Darden sits down with Pesa Shayo to talk about presenting a united front in marriage and parenting. Pesa explains how children can sense when their parents aren’t on the same page—and why honest conversations behind closed doors help families make…
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A Father’s Lasting Love. “Mark Stackpole on His Daughter Corinne.”
FATHER TALKS Mark Stackpole opens his heart about his daughter Corinne, who died from leukemia at 22 after an 11-month fight. He reflects on the grief his family continues to carry, the love that holds them together, and the stories, laughter, and memories that keep Corinne close. This is a…
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What Happens When Men Stop Hiding Their Feelings
What helps a relationship stay strong when life, expectations, and past experiences put it under pressure? In this episode of Father Talks, Michael Darden and Eric Williams explore how military experience, childhood influences, and societal expectations can shape the way men and women communicate...
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Legalized Doesn’t Mean Safe: The Blunt Truth About Marijuana
In this powerful episode of Father Talks, Michael Darden explores the hidden risks and realities of marijuana legalization with Sue Homola and Dr. Raymond Wiggins. Sue Homola is the co-author of The Blunt Truth: Ten Things Every Parent Needs to Know About Marijuana. A former New Hampshire State...
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Capable But Checked Out
Melissa Smith discusses how parents can raise motivated, resilient, and independent children. Drawing from her upcoming book, Capable and Checked Out, she explains how environment, responsibility, natural consequences, and earned autonomy shape a child’s development. Melissa also explores the...
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When the Job Follows You Home: Al DiPrima on Policing, Trauma & Fatherhood
SEASON 2 PREMIERE — EPISODE 51 In the Season 2 premiere of Father Talks, Al DiPrima shares his powerful journey through law enforcement, police trauma, alcohol addiction, recovery, mental health, and fatherhood. Al opens up about the pressure men face to hide their pain, how untreated trauma...
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The Dad Who Reinvented Baby Products
What happens when a single father turns everyday parenting challenges into innovative products used by families around the world? In this episode of Father Talks, Michael Darden sits down with Paul Moore, inventor, entrepreneur, and founder of Smily Mia. Paul shares his remarkable journey from...
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Why Talking Isn’t Fixing Your Relationship
Why Talking isn't Fixing your Relationship | Dr. Bruce Chalmer What truly destroys a relationship? According to couple's therapist Dr. Bruce Chalmer, communication usually isn’t the real problem. In this episode of the Father Talks Podcast, Michael L. Darden sits down with Dr. Chalmer to explore...
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Who are you when nobody needs you? With John Little
In this episode of the Father Talks Podcast, Michael L. Darden sits down with John Little, creator of the Leader in the Mirror Project, to explore the challenges men face through fatherhood, leadership, midlife, and changing definitions of success. They discuss emotional suppression…
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The Good Old Days Are Right Now
What if the “good old days” are not behind you, but happening right now? In this episode of the Father Talks Podcast, Michael L. Darden sits down with Alan Glanfield to discuss his family’s decision to travel full-time, build a business on the road, and create a life centered on experiences…
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Why Couples Stop Feeling Connected with Dr. Alexandra Stockwell.
In this episode of Father Talks, Michael L. Darden sits down with intimacy expert Dr. Alexandra Stockwell to explore emotional closeness, communication, and lasting passion. Dr. Stockwell explains why intimacy goes beyond sex, why many men struggle to express emotions, and how couples can build...
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Rebuilding After Divorce
On this episode of Father Talks, Michael Darden sits down with Ronald Platt, serial entrepreneur, foster parent, realtor, and founder of NASDF, the National Association for Single and Divorced Families. Ron shares the personal story behind creating NASDF after surviving a toxic relationship,...
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He Was Severely Dyslexic. Then He Became a Leading Researcher.
In this episode of Father Talks, Michael L. Darden sits down with dyslexia expert and researcher Russell Van Brockland to explore how science-based learning strategies can help dyslexic children succeed. Russell shares his personal journey from struggling with severe dyslexia to becoming a…
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Marriage Needs Team Work
Marriage does not thrive on love alone. It takes friendship, trust, communication, humility, and two people willing to keep showing up as a team. In this episode of Father Talks, Michael Darden sits down with Gottman-certified marriage coach Kameran Alareqi for a raw and practical conversation...
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The Hidden Impact of Divorce on Adults and Kids
In this powerful episode of Father Talks, Michael sits down with Kent Darcie to discuss the hidden impact divorce can have on both adults and children. Kent shares insight from his books, counseling work, and ministry, breaking down how divorce can leave emotional scars that show up years later…
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Fatherhood by Design with Nathaniel A. Turner
In this episode of Father Talks, Michael sits down with Nathaniel A. Turner for a powerful conversation about intentional parenting, fatherhood, and building a legacy that goes far beyond money. Nathaniel shares his “life template” approach, challenging fathers to stop leaving their children’s...
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Building a Purposeful Life: With Ashton Stevens
In this deeply moving conversation, Ashton Stevens opens his heart about what it means to build a life rooted in faith, fatherhood, and purpose. As a faith-based hip hop artist, father, and entrepreneur, Ashton shares the lessons that shaped him, the emotional discipline that keeps him grounded,...
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The Hidden Link Between Erections and Heart Health
In this episode of Father Talks, Michael sits down with Dr. Elliot Justin for a real conversation about erectile dysfunction, blood flow, cardiovascular health, and why men need to stop suffering in silence. Dr. Justin breaks down how erections can reveal deeper health issues, why nocturnal...
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Understanding Mismatched Sexual Desires/ With Dr Lori Davis
In this compelling episode of Father Talks, host Michael Darden sits down with Dr. Lori Davis, a nurse practitioner and certified sex counselor, for an eye-opening conversation about sex, intimacy, and emotional health in long-term relationships. Together, they unpack the often unspoken…
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How to Talk to Your Kids About Porn: A Guide for Fathers
summary In this episode of Father Talks, Chris Rogers, a certified porn addiction recovery coach, shares insights on how parents can navigate conversations about pornography with their children, the impact of screens on youth, and practical strategies for fostering healthy relationships and...
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Windsor Football Part II
This Winsor Football Part 2 episode continues the conversation we started in the first Windsor football discussion, but this time we go even deeper into what it really takes to build athletes, programs, and community support in Windsor. I sit down with players and coaches to talk about the gaps…
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Guiding Young Minds
summary In this insightful interview, Prasant Nukalapati shares expert advice on guiding young people through college and career decisions, emphasizing the importance of purpose, self-reflection, and parental support. Discover practical strategies for helping your child become self-sufficient and...
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High Conflict Divorce: What Parent Need to Know
High-conflict divorce can leave parents overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure how to protect their children in the middle of the chaos. In this episode of Father Talks, host Michael Darden sits down with Lisa Johnson, high-conflict divorce strategist, certified domestic violence advocate, and...
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From Anger to Awareness
In this powerful conversation, Emily Jacobson, a somatic coach and nervous system educator, breaks down how men can better understand what is happening inside their bodies before emotions like anger, stress, and frustration take over. She shares practical tools for calming the nervous system,...
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The Dominatrix, The Dad, and The Truth About Power
This week on Father Talks, the room gets charged with a different kind of honesty as Michael sits down with Amanda Dames, The Kink Consultant, for a conversation that pulls power, desire, control, and vulnerability out of the shadows and places them directly on the table. Amanda brings the fire…
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Led by Faith not By Rank
Michael sits with John Smith, a retired Marine Master Sergeant, to talk about life after the uniform and the identity shift every man faces. This episode dives into faith, fatherhood, and what it really means to lead when rank is no longer part of the equation.
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The Sou Love Mentor-Joanna Shakti
Today on Father Talks, we welcome Joanna Shakti, founder of Ecstatic Intimacy® and a powerful voice in the world of love, relationships, masculine-feminine dynamics, and conscious connection. Joanna brings a unique blend of wisdom, warmth, spirituality, and real-life experience to help people...
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Embracing Authenticity: Shermaine Melton on Leadership and Courage
In this inspiring interview, Shermaine Melton shares his journey as a successful black gay Christian leader, discusses the loneliness of achievement, and offers insights on authenticity, courage, and community building. Discover how to embrace your true self and lead with purpose.
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Fostering Authentic Connections Among Men
In this episode, men's embodiment coach Jason Lange discusses the importance of community, vulnerability, and emotional connection for men's well-being. He explores how men's groups can transform lives by fostering authenticity, resilience, and deeper relationships.
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The Engaged Father Project
summary In this engaging interview, John Hord shares insights on the Engage Father project, emphasizing the importance of intentional fatherhood, emotional connection, and practical strategies for building stronger relationships with children. Discover actionable tips to become a more present and...
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Fatherhood and Purpose
In this powerful and deeply grounded episode of Father Talks, Michael sits down with Albert Butler, CPA, MBA, author, and father of four, for a conversation that goes far beyond surface-level success. Albert brings over 25 years of leadership, financial expertise, and lived experience to the…
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Healing Your Relationship
Most marriages die quietly, long before the words "divorce" are even whispered. But what if you could flip the script and become the one person who changes everything? Larry Belotta reveals the powerful, counterintuitive mindset shift that turns unhappiness into freedom — not by blaming your...
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Balancing Life and Career with Dave Maldonado
In this impactful episode of Father Talks, Michael L. Darden sits down with accomplished actor and father Dave Maldonado—known for his work in major productions like The Founder and, most recently, the box office smash Sinners. But this conversation goes far beyond the screen. Together, they dive...
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Midlife Recalibration
In this powerful and insightful conversation, Philip Blackett opens up about the often-overlooked challenges men face in midlife and how this stage of life can become a turning point rather than a crisis. Drawing from both personal experience and the work he does with men navigating their 40s and...
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Breaking Family Cycles: A Personal Journey of Healing and Growth
In this powerful episode of Father Talks, host Michael Darden sits down with Savannah Brown for a deeply honest and moving conversation about breaking cycles that were never meant to define us. Savannah opens up about her journey through family trauma, the hard road to independence, and the...
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Therapy with Humor
In this candid interview, therapist Caasi O’Day and host Michael Darden dive into what authentic mental health conversations actually look like for men who’ve spent years in “survival mode.” They unpack why vulnerability feels risky, how societal expectations condition men to suppress emotion…
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Masculinity and emotional expression
What does it really mean to be a man when you’ve been taught to disconnect from your emotions? In this episode of Father Talks, Michael sits down with Kenneth G. Alexander to break down how early conditioning shapes men’s identity, communication, and relationships. Drawing from his experience in...
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The Hidden Truth About Dyslexia That Could Change Your Child’s Future Forever
Most fathers don’t realize how deeply dyslexia affects their children— or how often it’s being missed. 1 in 5 people are dyslexic. But in the African-American community, diagnosis rates are nearly cut in half. This isn’t just about reading. It’s about misdiagnosis, lost confidence, and kids…
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Building Intentional Lives: Lessons in Modern Masculinity
In this episode host Michael Darden and Chris Marhefka, focus on modern masculinity, fatherhood, and intentional living. Key themes include the scarcity of spaces for men to express emotions, the value of positive male role models, and the shift from chasing external success to finding…
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The Hidden Struggles of Porn Addiction
Summary In this enlightening episode of the Father Talks Podcast, host Michael Darden engages with GT Tan, a men's sexual health wellness coach, to explore the often-taboo subject of porn addiction. They discuss the emotional and psychological impacts of porn on men's lives, relationships, and...
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The Messy Reality of Fatherhood
In this episode of Father Talks, Michael Darden interviews Tony Berardo, a stay-at-home dad turned entrepreneur, who shares his journey of fatherhood, the challenges of building a brand called Human Dad, and the importance of fitness and mental health for dads. They discuss the messy realities of...
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Redefining Masculinity: A Conversation on Men's Mental Health
In this conversation, Michael Darden and Duncan Rich explore the complexities of men's mental health, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, emotional expression, and breaking generational patterns. They discuss the societal expectations placed on men, the impact of childhood experiences…
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Navigating the Challenges of Fatherhood
In this episode of Father Talks, host Mike D. engages with Dr. David Marcus, a seasoned phycologist and family psychologist, to explore the multifaceted challenges of fatherhood. They discuss the importance of communication within families, the role of fathers in child development, and the...
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Unlocking the Secrets of Emotional Connection
In this enlightening conversation, Michael Darden and Valerie Greene explore the complexities of relationships, focusing on the importance of vulnerability, emotional safety, and effective communication. Valerie shares insights on how both men and women can navigate their emotional needs, the...
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Navigating Fatherhood with Autism
In this episode of the Father Talks podcast, host Mike D. speaks with Paul Voss, a father of eight, who shares his journey of parenting a child with autism. Paul discusses the challenges and triumphs of navigating the autism diagnosis, the impact of sleep deprivation, and the positive changes in...
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The Emotional Landscape of Fatherhood
In this episode of Father Talks, host Mike D. engages in a deep conversation with Sean Dawson, a tech leader and father, about the challenges of modern fatherhood. They explore the importance of emotional vulnerability, the need for community among men, and the evolving dynamics of discipline in...
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Navigating Fatherhood: Insights from a Girl Dad
In this engaging conversation, Michael Darden and Oscar Pena discuss the intricacies of fatherhood, particularly focusing on raising daughters. They explore the challenges and joys of parenting, the importance of communication and teamwork between parents, and the need for emotional expression in...
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Understanding Attachment Styles with Bev Mitelman
In this episode of "Father Talks," host Michael Darden and guest Bev Mitelman, M. A., delve into the intricacies of attachment styles and their profound impact on personal relationships. They explore how societal pressures often discourage men from expressing emotions and the importance of…
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Be That Guy: Empowering Young Men to Thrive
Summary In this episode of the Father Talks podcast, host Michael Darden welcomes DJ LaGaurie, founder of the program 'Be That Guy,' which aims to support young men in developing confidence, discipline, and essential life skills. DJ shares his personal journey, detailing how he transitioned from…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Father Talks is where the locker room, barbershop, and late-night kitchen table come together. Men show up for honest, unfiltered conversations about fatherhood, relationships, sex, sports, money, mental health, purpose, and the pressure of everyday life. With straight-up humor, hard-earned wisdom, and no pretending, each episode gives fathers, sons, brothers, and men from every walk of life room to speak, listen, grow, heal, and lead. Nothing is off-limits when the goal is stronger men, healthier relationships, and lasting family legacies.Real Men. Real Conversations. Real Life.
HOSTED BY
Michael Darden
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Father Talks have?
Father Talks currently has 60 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Father Talks about?
Father Talks is where the locker room, barbershop, and late-night kitchen table come together. Men show up for honest, unfiltered conversations about fatherhood, relationships, sex, sports, money, mental health, purpose, and the pressure of everyday life. With straight-up humor, hard-earned wisdom,...
How often does Father Talks release new episodes?
Father Talks has 60 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Father Talks?
You can listen to Father Talks on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Father Talks?
Father Talks is created and hosted by Michael Darden.
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