The Dads Project Podcast

In this episode of the Dad's Project Podcast, Nick Mann interviews Jonathan Sharp, a father of three boys, discussing the unique challenges and joys of parenting. They explore the importance of keeping kids engaged during summer break, the lessons fathers learn from their children, and the significance of repairing relationships. Jonathan shares his approach to exposing his boys to challenges, creating meaningful rites of passage, and the power of community support in parenting. The conversation emphasizes the importance of encouragement and legacy in fatherhood, highlighting how fathers can intentionally shape their children's experiences and beliefs.Positive Behaviors Discussed:Demonstrating Emotional Intelligence & Vulnerability Through the Act of RepairCommunicating Encouragement & Support For Your KidsChapters00:00 Navigating Summer Break with Three Boys01:14 Lessons from Fatherhood: Emulating Positive Traits02:28 The Importance of Repairing Relationships07:09 Exposing Kids to Harder Challenges11:18 Leading by Example: A Father's Influence17:14 Rites of Passage: Creating Meaningful Experiences17:43 Creating Meaningful Rites of Passage25:36 The Power of Community in Fatherhood30:47 Encouragement and Repairing Relationships36:24 Legacy of Fatherhood: Passing Down Values---------------🔗 Connect with JonathanLinkedIn🔗 Connect with Nick:⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

In this episode of the Dad's Project Podcast, Adam Halberstadt shares his insights on the importance of prioritizing family over career success, the journey of personal transformation from corporate life to coaching, and the significance of building resilience in children. Adam emphasizes the need for fathers to reflect on their life choices, embrace change, and be present for their families. Adam's story is one of overcoming challenges, finding balance, and redefining what it means to be successful in both work and family life.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation02:50 The Importance of Prioritizing Family Over Career05:32 Redefining Success: The Greatest of All Time08:19 Lessons from Scotty Scheffler for Everyday Dads11:03 The Power of Reflection and Mindset13:56 Adam's Journey: From Corporate to Coaching22:38 Taking Action: First Steps for Overwhelmed Dads25:41 Investing in Yourself: A Necessary Shift30:16 The Importance of Presence in Parenting35:44 Building Resilience in Children41:07 Mindset and Coaching: Transformative Journeys46:43 Messages for Dads: Living in the Moment--------------------------------🔗 Connect with Adam⁠Website⁠⁠LinkedIn🔗 Connect with Nick:⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Instagram

In this episode of the Dad’s Project Podcast, Nick Mann sits down with Russ Kimura, founder of Fathers With Daughters and a dad to three girls. Russ shares the heart behind his mission to help dads build intentional, lasting connections with their daughters through events, coaching, and everyday presence.Topics:- Why Russ started Fathers With Daughters- The power of holding space instead of “fixing” emotions- How he uses events like father–daughter proms to spark connection- Practical ideas for dating your daughter in ways she will never forget- How circling back and owning mistakes strengthens trustThis is a conversation full of humility, wisdom, and actionable steps for dads who want to show up better every day.-----------------------------------🔗 Connect with RussWebsiteCoaching InformationFWD - InstagramPersonal Instagram🔗 Connect with Nick:LinkedInInstagram

In this episode of the Dad's Project Podcast, Nick Mann is joined by Knight Campbell, Navy veteran, mountain guide, father of three, and founder of Cairn Leadership. Together, they explore the messy, beautiful terrain of fatherhood, leadership, and what it means to truly be present.Knight shares real, hard-earned lessons from guiding in the mountains and raising kids under one very active roof, including:The mindset shift that makes outdoor adventures with kids meaningful (even when exhausting)Why it’s better to “prepare for change” than expect to be comfortable with itHow mountain climbing taught him to value the journey over the summitWhat parenting has taught him about letting go of control and slowing downWhy his top family values are courage, kindness, and curiosity, and how to pass them onA warning about the effect of AI on learning and critical thinking, and what we can do about itThis is an honest, insightful episode packed with humor, wisdom, and practical takeaways for dads who want to raise intentional, grounded kids in a fast-changing world.-------------------------------------🔗 Connect with Knight:LinkedIn: Knight CampbellWebsite: www.cairnleadership.com🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dads Project On Instagram⁠

In this episode of the Dad’s Project Podcast, Nick sits down with Freeman Beals, a lifelong river guide, dad to a toddler, and certified NLP practitioner, to talk about real fatherhood, the kind that makes you face yourself. Freeman shares how growing up on the river taught him to adapt, how fatherhood reshaped his emotional reactions, and why breaking old patterns requires rewiring, not just willpower. They explore everything from spontaneous travel, mental load, and value shifts to how dads can reframe frustrating moments (like a toddler launching a milk cup) using neuro-linguistic programming.Topics Covered:- What rafting teaches us about adapting in life and parenting- How to shift your reactions using NLP (live on the show!)- Why dads need to rewrite the playbook—not follow an outdated one-The battle between provider guilt and presence at home- Healing old patterns with self-forgiveness and curiosity- A simple daily gratitude hack that rewires your brain- The value of male vulnerability and why you’re never aloneFreeman’s 3 Dad Principles:1️⃣ Rewire, Don’t Repeat2️⃣ You’re Not Alone3️⃣ We’re Writing the Playbook Now💬 Quote of the Episode: “You’re not reacting that way because you don’t care, you’re reacting because you do.”-------------------------------------------------------🔗 Connect with Freeman:freemanbeals.comNLP Audio ToolLinkedIn🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dads Project On Instagram

What if you treated “Dad” like the most important title on your LinkedIn profile?In this episode, Nick sits down with Warren Devarennes, co-founder of the rapidly growing Dadgood community, to unpack what it means to lead with love, live with purpose, and show up fully for your family.From the daily discipline of 75 Hard to middle-of-the-night snuggles with his daughters, Warren shares how fatherhood cracked him open, reshaped his priorities, and sparked a global movement to connect and empower modern dads.This conversation is a masterclass in presence, purpose, and building a legacy.In This Episode:Why Warren is doing 75 Hard and what’s hard about itLaunching Dadgood and building a global community for dadsBalancing hustle with presence in fatherhoodWhat a four-year-old can teach us about curiosity and timeThe “legacy builder” mindset and redefining successWhy real fatherhood has no room for gurus or pretendingThe power of male connection and community accountabilityJoin Dadgood: https://www.dadgood.co/------------------------🔗 Connect with Warren:⁠Warren on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dads Project On Instagram

Benji Donhardt’s life didn’t start easily, but that didn’t stop him from becoming a joyful, passionate, and powerful father. In this raw and inspiring conversation, Benji shares the story behind his energy, how trauma shaped his approach to parenting, and how he leads his blended family of five kids with discipline, resilience, and love.From hiding under his childhood home to now running a global marketing company and leading his household with intention, Benji’s story is proof that you can break the cycle and lead with strength and heart.Topics Covered:Turning childhood trauma into fatherhood fuelBlending families and building unconditional loveDiscipline vs. punishment: what kids really needWhy fitness is non-negotiable for modern dadsLeading your family through your actionsFatherhood lessons from the militaryBenji’s Message to Dads:“Lead with love. Always.”------------------------🔗 Connect with Benji:Benji on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dads Project On Instagram

In this episode, Nick sits down with Major John McCormack, USMC, to talk about living a life of service, how military leadership translates into fatherhood, and the emotional growth required to be present with your family.From tactical pauses to ice cream after hard days, John shares practical ways he’s learning to lead at home with the same intention he brings to his career.Topics Covered:What does living a life of service mean as a dad?Using the “add up to 10” tool to communicate better with your partner.Helping young kids navigate emotional transitions like moving.Applying military tools (like tactical pauses) to fatherhood.Why being authentic and vulnerable matters at home and work.Letting kids see the full range of your emotions and why it matters.John’s Dad Leadership Principles:1. Be Genuine & Authentic2. Have & Seek Out Perspective3. Be Deliberate With Your Time & EnergyQuote of the Episode:“You’re not the only one going through it. You’re not alone. And that conversation you’re scared to have? It might be exactly what another dad needs, too.”------------------------🔗 Connect with John:⁠John on Instagram⁠⁠⁠🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠Dads Project On Instagram

“You deserve better. Your family deserves better. And you deserve a guide who will help get you there.” — Miles DavisIn this powerful and deeply honest episode, Nick is joined by Miles Davis, father of two daughters and successful fitness business owner, to explore what it truly means to lead at home. Miles shares wisdom on balancing career and fatherhood, the emotional growth required of modern dads, and how the lessons we model are often more impactful than the words we speak.Together, they explore what it means to show up fully, not just as a provider, but as a present, emotionally available, and intentional leader in your family.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: “Present > Perfect”Why your kids don’t need you to be perfect, they need you to be there.The power of eye contact, attention, and phone-free connection.Emotional Availability as a FatherHow Miles grew from a task-oriented provider to a dad who holds emotional space.Tactical tips for creating open communication with your kids as they grow.Disarming the Overwhelmed DadHow to remove the mental blocks that keep men from taking action on their health.Why you don’t need a gym to start building a better you.Balancing Business and FatherhoodWhy stepping back from work to lean into family helped Miles’ business grow.The importance of peer groups and choosing your inner circle wisely.Dad 3.0Miles introduces his new program, Dad 3.0, designed to help busy dads regain their health, clarity, and confidence, without sacrificing family time.Miles’ 3 Dad Leadership Principles:1. Always Lead by Serving – Model servant leadership at home and work.2. Put Your Oxygen Mask On First – You can’t carry the load if you’re running on empty.3. Show Your Work – Let your kids see the process, the struggle, and your growth.------------------------🔗 Connect with Miles:Miles on InstagramMiles’ Gym⁠🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Dads Project On Instagram

In this episode, Nick explores a critical leadership insight:👉 Your greatest strengths, when overused, can become your biggest weaknesses.Drawing from his personal leadership experience, Nick dives into how awareness, humility, and intentional adjustment are key to balancing your natural talents, both as an executive and as a dad.🔑 Key Points from the Episode:1️⃣ Overused Strengths Turn Into Blind SpotsDecisiveness can become overbearing control.Creativity can lead to a lack of focus and execution.Communication skills can morph into talking over others instead of listening.2️⃣ Leadership at Work and HomeIn business, unchecked strengths can alienate your team or slow growth.At home, they can create a disconnect with your spouse and kids.3️⃣ How to Keep Strengths in CheckSelf-awareness is the first step; notice when your strength is becoming a liability.Seek feedback from those around you at work and home.Adjust your leadership style based on the needs of the moment, not just your default strengths.4️⃣ The Path to Sustainable LeadershipGreat leaders are flexible, not rigid.They refine their strengths to serve their teams and families, rather than overpower them.💬 Reflection Prompt: Where might one of your greatest strengths be slipping into a weakness, either at work or at home?---------------------------------------🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedInExecutive Dad on Instagram⁠⁠

In this solo episode, Nick breaks down Leadership Principle #4 from the U.S. Marine Corps:“Keep your Marines informed”, reimagined for executive dads as “Keep your family and team informed.”Clarity and communication are essential whether you're leading a business or a household. Nick shares personal stories and tactical insights to help you lead with purpose, build trust, and create alignment with the people who matter most, your team at work and your family at home.Key Takeaways from the Episode:1️⃣ Give the WhyKeep your team and family informed not just about what you're doing, but why you're doing it.Buy-in increases when people understand the purpose behind your decisions."A man with a big enough why can endure anyhow." – Viktor Frankl2️⃣ Inspect What You ExpectTrust your team to pass on information, but verify it.Leadership means checking in to ensure the message (and intent) is clearly understood.3️⃣ Replace Rumors with the TruthRumors grow in silence. Confront miscommunication directly and clarify with ownership.Choose the discomfort of hard conversations to prevent confusion and maintain integrity.4️⃣ Celebrate SuccessesTake time to acknowledge wins at home and work.Own failures publicly; defer credit for wins to your team.Recognition builds loyalty, morale, and momentum.------------------------------🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Executive Dad Podcast Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ - The Executive Dad Podcast

In this episode of the podcast, Mycal Anders shares his multifaceted journey as a father, Marine Corps Veteran, entrepreneur, and author. He discusses the importance of emotional intelligence in parenting, the lessons learned from military leadership, and the philosophy of 'Progress Always' in personal growth. Mycal emphasizes the significance of discipline over grades in children's education and the need for parents to be present and supportive during their children's learning processes. He also introduces the concept of the 'sheepdog mentality' in teaching children to stand up against bullying and the importance of integrating various life pillars for holistic growth. In this conversation, Mycal Anders and Nick Mann explore the importance of prioritizing personal time, the quality of parenting over quantity, and the significance of being present in family life. Additionally, they discuss the concept of honest conflict versus dishonest harmony in relationships and the necessity of leading by example. The dialogue emphasizes the need for Executive Dads to protect their values and flow while navigating the challenges of leadership and family life.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Michael Anders02:45 Lessons from the Marine Corps06:00 Emotional Intelligence in Parenting08:48 Navigating Resistance in Learning12:03 Discipline Over Grades15:05 The Sheepdog Mentality18:03 Progress Always: The Philosophy of Growth20:57 Integrating Life's Pillars24:02 Bridging the Gap: Lifestyle Integration30:09 Prioritizing Personal Time32:56 Quality Over Quantity in Parenting37:54 Practicing Presence40:34 Honest Conflict vs. Dishonest Harmony46:38 Leading by Example47:07 Protecting Your Values🔗 Connect with MycalWebsiteInstagram🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Executive Dad Podcast Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ - The Executive Dad Podcast

In this episode of the Podcast, host Nick Mann explores the third principle of Marine Corps leadership: Knowing your Marines and looking out for their welfare. He emphasizes the importance of being present with family and team members, prioritizing self-care, and fostering an environment of trust and vulnerability. Nick shares personal anecdotes and offers practical advice on supporting loved ones and encouraging individual growth while fostering a positive family culture.-------------------🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Executive Dad Podcast Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠ - The Executive Dad Podcast

In this episode of the Podcast, elementary school principal Mike Earnshaw shares insights into the complexities of educational leadership and parenting. He discusses the often misunderstood responsibilities of a principal, the challenges of raising teenagers, and the importance of authenticity and honesty in leadership and family life. Mike emphasizes the need for personal growth and the impact of being present for staff and family while navigating the unique dynamics of parenting teenagers. In this episode, Nick Mann and Mike Earnshaw discuss the essential qualities of effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of honesty, trust, humility, and the influence of family. Mike shares personal anecdotes that highlight the significance of these values in both professional and personal contexts, ultimately encouraging listeners to reflect on their leadership journeys.Chapters00:00 Understanding the Role of an Elementary School Principal04:02 Navigating the Teenage Years as a Parent08:40 Personal Growth and Leadership Development11:55 Embracing Authenticity in Leadership19:40 The Importance of Honesty in Leadership and Parenting24:05 Building Trust Through Honesty26:46 The Role of Family in Leadership30:43 Embracing Humility as a Leader32:28 Staying True to Yourself33:53 The Importance of Doing Hard Things38:08 Lessons Learned in Leadership and Fatherhood🔗 Connect with Mike⁠TwitterInstagram⁠Mike's BlogBuy Mike's Book-------------------🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠Nick on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠The Podcast Instagram⁠⁠YouTube

In this episode of the podcast, Nick discusses the second leadership principle of the United States Marine Corps: being technically and tactically proficient. He emphasizes the importance of seeking a well-rounded education, learning from other leaders, and applying knowledge to create positive changes in both personal and professional life. The discussion encourages listeners to analyze their inputs, seek growth, and learn from diverse perspectives to enhance their leadership skills at home and in the workplace.-------------------🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠⁠Nick on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠The Executive Dad Podcast Instagram⁠⁠YouTube - The Executive Dad Podcast

In this episode of the Executive Dad Podcast, Nick interviews Scot Poore, an executive and father of two, discussing the challenges and rewards of balancing family life with a demanding career. They explore themes of leadership, empathy, and the importance of being prepared, creating purpose, and having a plan in both parenting and professional life. Scot shares his personal experiences and insights on how to lead by example, prioritize family, and instill values in children while managing a successful career.Leadership Principles:Create PurposeBe Prepared Mentally & PhysicallyHave A Plan🔗 Connect with ScotInstagram-------------------🔗 Connect with Nick⁠⁠Nick on LinkedIn⁠The Executive Dad Podcast InstagramYouTube

In this episode of the podcast, Nick introduces a solo episode series focused on the Marine Corps Leadership Principles, starting with Know Yourself and Seek Self-Improvement. He emphasizes the importance of evaluating personal strengths and weaknesses, seeking feedback from peers and family, learning from the successes and failures of others, and the critical role of accountability in personal growth.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Marine Corps Leadership Principles01:34 Know Yourself and Seek Self-Improvement04:02 Evaluating Strengths and Weaknesses06:00 Seeking Feedback for Growth07:48 Learning from Others' Successes and Failures09:13 The Importance of AccountabilityPodcast Mentioned: How To Take Over The World Founders

I am honored to share this week's episode with Danny Frazer. Danny is a father of two boys and has been a leader in the outdoor behavioral health industry for more than 25 years. "Your attitude and behaviors at work are contagious but especially at home, so live a life you are comfortable with your kids emulating," - Danny Frazer1️⃣ Leaders Define the What and Why, Not the How2️⃣ Start with Structure3️⃣ Beside Every Problem is an Opportunity🎧 Why You Should Listen: Gain practical leadership insights you can apply in your business and personal life. Learn how structure creates freedom and clarity in leadership. Understand how to shift your mindset to see opportunities where others see problems.🔗 Connect with Danny: LinkedIn:Danny Frazer Website: Gain The Ridge Consulting-------------------Follow⁠ Nick on LinkedIn⁠

I am honored to introduce Mr. Jason Vonk as our guest on this week's episode. Jason is a father of 5 boys, a former collegiate gymnastics coach, and a certified Sherpa Executive Coach.Jason's 3 Dad Leadership Principles:1: The Cop, Coach, & Consultant Paradigm2: Feedback as a Conversation3. Climbing Weakness MountainBe sure to follow and support Jason at the following links:Jason's WebsiteLinkedInInstagram-------------------Follow Nick on LinkedIn

*Name change post episode...📢 Podcast Summary:High-performance leadership shouldn’t stop at the office. The Executive Dad Podcast is your playbook for excelling in both your career and your family life—without sacrificing one for the other.This podcast, hosted by Nick Mann, executive coach, and high-performance dad, is for driven professionals who refuse to choose between career success and being a present, impactful father.We bring you real strategies, expert insights, and high-level conversations with CEOs, entrepreneurs, athletes, and leaders who have cracked the code on leading with intention—both at work and at home.What You’ll Get:✅ Tactical Leadership Strategies to advance your career while creating time for what matters.✅ Real Conversations with high-achieving dads who share what’s worked—and what hasn’t.✅ Proven Systems to avoid burnout, master time, and lead your family with the same precision you bring to work.✅ No-Fluff, Actionable Takeaways so you can execute immediately.Who This Is For:🔹 Business leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs who want to level up at work AND at home.🔹 High-achieving dads who refuse to settle for “just getting by” in their personal lives.🔹 Men who believe leadership is more than a title—it’s a responsibility to those who matter most.Because success isn’t just about what you build at work—it’s about the legacy you create at home.Subscribe now and join the movement of high-performance fathers redefining leadership.New Episodes Every Week