In this episode of the Why, Dad? Podcast, Paul Wandrey and Andrew Stolpestad dive into teamwork and partnership in marriage and family life. Paul reflects on a week of solo parenting, the highs and lows of patience, and how stress can either divide or refine you.

Together, they unpack the shift from living as a “lone wolf” to building a shared life with a spouse. They challenge the 50/50 myth, explore why communication is the foundation of strong partnership, and share practical tools like weekly family business meetings and intentional connection time.

They also discuss the importance of not projecting your own standards onto your spouse, the difference between managing and leading a family, and how modeling healthy teamwork shapes your kids’ understanding of relationships.

If you want a marriage that feels like a mission, not a roommate arrangement, this one’s for you.

📌 Episode Notes

In This Episode:

• Why 50/50 is a myth in marriage
• From “lone wolf” to shared mission
• The danger of unspoken expectations
• “Don’t expect you from anybody else”
• The difference between managing and leading your family
• Reducing friction to increase connection
• How to hold each other to a higher standard without becoming a dictator
• Modeling teamwork for your kids

Practical Tools Discussed:

• Weekly “Family Business Meeting”
• Friday connection time before picking up the kids
• Monthly date night goal
• Shared calendars and visibility
• Creating safe space for feedback
• Kids vs. Dad competitions instead of sibling rivalry

Reflection Questions:

• Are you operating like roommates or teammates?
• Where are you creating unnecessary friction?
• When was the last time you laughed with your wife?
• What systems could reduce stress in your home this week?