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On this episode of Dad Hat Shenanigans, Brent sits down with Shaun Dawson—tech entrepreneur, pilot, and host of the Raising Men podcast—for a real conversation about raising boys in a world that feels increasingly stacked against young men.

You’ll hear a hilarious family story (the cherry slurpee incident), but the heart of this episode goes much deeper: how dads can model healthy masculinity, teach emotional regulation, and help boys grow into resilient, grounded men—without falling into the cultural extremes.

In this episode:

• Why boys are struggling more in modern culture
• The false choice: “masculinity is toxic” vs. “be a jerk”
• Vulnerability + resilience as real strength
• “Barbarian brain” vs. “Sherlock brain” and how dads can slow down reactions
• Pattern interrupts that de-escalate conflict fast
• Connection-seeking behavior (and how to respond to the need underneath)
• The mindset shift: “Excellence is failure”

Connect with Shaun: Links to Shaun Dawson and Raising Men are in the show notes / description.

Thanks for listening to Dad Hat Shenanigans—real dads, real stories, and the unfiltered truth of being a dad.

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E041 of the Dad Hat Shenanigans Podcast: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad

Want to be a guest on Dad Hat Shenanigans: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad? Send D Brent Dowlen a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/dadhatshenaniganspodcast


Guest Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, any organizations, companies, or institutions mentioned, or corporate entities represented by the host.

Our aim is to provide a platform for diverse perspectives and open dialogue. While we strive for accuracy and balance, it's important to recognize that opinions may vary. We encourage critical thinking and further exploration of the topics discussed.

This post & video is designed for educational and/or informational purposes only and should not be used in any other manner.

Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you, and I appreciate your support!

Send us a text

Ever wonder how to raise kids who believe they can achieve anything instead of settling for "realistic" expectations? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Troy Horn, a former touring musician and Broadway performer who walked away from fame to become the dad his kids needed—and discovered that teaching limitless thinking might be the greatest gift any father can give.

Plus, Troy reveals his revolutionary approach to supporting your children's "impossible" dreams—from professional gaming to content creation—and why showing them the actual work involved makes all the difference.

Key takeaways:
•The mindset shift from "what are the odds?" to "why not you?"—how to become your child's champion for limitless beliefs
•Why allowing your kids to fail early and often at home creates the resilience they need to succeed later
•How to move past your own limiting beliefs about what's possible in today's rapidly changing world
•The power of asking "why would you not choose to be the greatest of all time?" instead of settling for less

Troy Horn is a former touring musician, Broadway performer, and television actor who left the entertainment industry to focus on fatherhood and helping others. He's the author of "Mental Toughness for Young Athletes," which has reached hundreds of thousands of families worldwide, and his upcoming book "Middle Management" for adults navigating their second stage of life. As a father of three (two boys and one daughter), Troy brings both the wisdom of someone who achieved his dreams and the perspective of choosing what truly matters.

Ready to stop limiting your children's possibilities and start championing their biggest dreams? Let's explore how teaching them that failure is just practice creates the foundation for extraordinary success!

Connect with Troy Horne
https://troyhorne.com
https://awesomegang.com/troy-horne
https://www.linkedin.com/in/troy-horne
https://www.instagram.com/troyhorneofficial
https://www.facebook.com/TroyHorneOfficial
https://x.com/troyhorne
https://a.co/d/fvx9twZ Mental Toughness For Young Athletes

Sponsors:
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To get the best specials ever go to MyPillow.com/TFM or call 800-796-9775 and use promo code "TFM"

Support our podcast:
Support us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/thefallibleman

Want to Share Your Message with the World?
Looking to be a guest on a podcast and reach a wider audience? Or maybe you host your own podcast and want to find amazing, high-quality guests—without the hassle?
If you answered yes, PodMatch is exactly what you need. Join Here: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/dhsp

E040 of the Dad Hat Shenanigans Podcast: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad

Want to be a guest on Dad Hat Shenanigans: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad? Send D Brent Dowlen a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/dadhatshenaniganspodcast

Guest Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, any organizations, companies, or institutions mentioned, or corporate entities represented by the host.

This post & video is designed for educational and/or informational purposes only and should not be used in any other manner.

Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you, and I appreciate your support!

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Ever wonder how to build your children like you build your business—with intentionality, strategy, and purpose? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Chaz Wolfe, a serial entrepreneur and father of four who discovered that the same mindset that creates successful businesses can create extraordinary children.

Chaz shares his incredible journey from entrepreneur obsessed with building businesses to intentional father building future generations, including:

•The UNO game revelation that completely shifted how he sees fatherhood—it's not about playing games, it's about building the men and women his children will become
•Why he realized he's literally building his grandchildren's parents right now, every single moment
•The father-son fishing trip questions that revealed his 6-year-old son's surprising wisdom about what makes a great man
•How asking "What makes you feel most confident?" led to his son winning second place nationally in BMX racing

Plus, Chaz reveals his game-changing approach to curiosity as a dad—treating each child like a unique individual who needs their own custom playbook for becoming their best self.

Key takeaways:
•The mindset shift from "I'll do dad stuff" to "I'm building my children block by block, step by step"
•Why people do what they want to do—and how that changes everything about your approach to intentional fatherhood
•How to create meaningful conversations with your kids using simple but powerful questions
•The power of being curious about your children instead of just managing their behavior

Ready to stop just "doing dad stuff" and start intentionally building the adults your children will become? Let's explore how curiosity, intentionality, and treating each child as a unique individual creates the foundation for raising kids who know they matter!

Sponsors:
My Pillow
Free MyPillow Promo Code "TFM" for up to 80% off your entire order at MyPillow!
To get the best specials ever go to MyPillow.com/TFM or call 800-796-9775 and use promo code "TFM"

Support our podcast:
Support us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/thefallibleman


Want to Share Your Message with the World?
Looking to be a guest on a podcast and reach a wider audience? Or maybe you host your own podcast and want to find amazing, high-quality guests—without the hassle?
If you answered yes, PodMatch is exactly what you need. Join Here: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/dhsp


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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DadHatShenanigans


E039 of the Dad Hat Shenanigans Podcast: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad

Want to be a guest on Dad Hat Shenanigans: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad? Send D Brent Dowlen a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/dadhatshenaniganspodcast


Guest Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, any organizations, companies, or institutions mentioned, or corporate entities represented by the host.

Our aim is to provide a platform for diverse perspectives and open dialogue. While we strive for accuracy and balance, it's important to recognize that opinions may vary. We encourage critical thinking and further exploration of the topics discussed.

This post & video is designed for educational and/or informational purposes only and should not be used in any other manner.

Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you, and I

Send us a text

Ever wonder how the most brutal childhood can become the foundation for extraordinary fatherhood? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Steven Eichenblatt, a trial lawyer and father of five who survived a "Brady Bunch from hell" to become the dad he never had.

Steven shares his incredible journey from abandoned child to intentional father, including:
•The shocking moment his mom surprised him with a new husband and four stepkids without warning
•Why he wasn't allowed to eat meals with his parents or even walk through the front door of his own home
•The surreal day he witnessed his biological father's near-fatal car crash and chose to walk away without saying a word
•How living on a kibbutz in Israel became the turning point that taught him "self help means helping yourself"

Plus, Steven reveals his game-changing approach to breaking generational cycles—choosing to give his children everything he never received while building a blended family that actually works.

Key takeaways:
•The mindset shift from surviving chaos to creating connection—how growing up in a war zone taught him what love really means
•Why "Wild Steve" became his kids' favorite dad, even when it meant doing belly flops with two fake hips
•How spending time in nature and fishing creates the perfect environment for father-child bonding
•The power of showing up consistently, even when your own parents never did

Whether you're struggling with your own difficult childhood or wondering how to create the family you never had, this episode will challenge you to see that your worst experiences can become your greatest parenting strengths.

Ready to break the cycle and become the dad who shows up with love, support, and maybe even a fishing hat? Let's explore how choosing connection over protection creates the foundation for extraordinary fatherhood!

Connect with Steven Eichenblatt
Book: Pretend They Are Dead: A Father's Search for the Truth https://a.co/d/4SO7tRu
www.stevenscotteichenblatt.com
https://www.facebook.com/seichenblatt
https://x.com/sseichenblatt?s=21
https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-eichenblatt-b427009
https://www.instagram.com/seichenblatt

Sponsors:
My Pillow
Free MyPillow Promo Code "TFM" To get the best specials ever go to MyPillow.com/TFM or call 800-796-9775 and use promo code "TFM"

Support our podcast:
Support us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/thefallibleman
Buy us a Coffee! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/thefallibleman

Want to Share Your Message with the World?
Looking to be a guest on a podcast and reach a wider audience? Or maybe you host your own podcast and want to find amazing, high-quality guests—without the hassle?
If you answered yes, PodMatch is exactly what you need. Join Here: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/dhsp


Follow Us at
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dadhatshenaniganspodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DadHatShenanigans


E038 of the Dad Hat Shenanigans Podcast: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad

Want to be a guest on Dad Hat Shenanigans: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad? Send D Brent Dowlen a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/dadhatshenaniganspodcast

Guest Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, any organizations, companies, or institutions mentioned, or corporate entities represented by the host.

Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to

Send us a text

Ever wonder how to raise children who actually choose what's good for them instead of just following rules? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Matthew Jandernoa, a Catholic life coach and father of two who's discovered that the ancient wisdom of virtues isn't dusty philosophy—it's the most practical parenting tool you'll ever use.

Matthew shares his incredible journey from home birth delivery to intentional fatherhood, including:

• Why he delivered his firstborn daughter himself at 3am when she did a somersault onto the bed
• The game-changing moment when seeing Trump get shot made him realize what's truly worth fighting for as a father
• How understanding the four cardinal virtues completely transformed his approach to coaching men through addiction and marriage struggles

Key takeaways:

• The mindset shift from "willing the good" to actually receiving your spouse and children for who they are
• Why prudence, temperance, fortitude, and justice aren't old-fashioned concepts—they're the roadmap to human flourishing
• How to identify whether you're an upholder, questioner, obliger, or rebel and why that changes everything about your parenting approach

Whether you're struggling with how to discipline your kids or wondering how to build a marriage that actually gets stronger over time, this episode will challenge you to see that the path to extraordinary fatherhood starts with understanding how humans are actually designed to flourish.

Ready to stop fighting against your family's natural wiring and start working with it? Let's explore how the virtues create the foundation for children who choose good because they genuinely want it!

Matthew Jandernoa Links:

https://www.steadfastlife.net

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-jandernoa

https://www.facebook.com/matt.jandernoa

Sponsors:

My Pillow

Free MyPillow Promo Code "TFM" for up to 80% off your entire order at MyPillow!

To get the best specials ever go to MyPillow.com/TFM or call 800-796-9775 and use promo code "TFM"

Support our podcast:

Support us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/thefallibleman

Want to Share Your Message with the World?
Looking to be a guest on a podcast and reach a wider audience? Or maybe you host your own podcast and want to find amazing, high-quality guests—without the hassle?

If you answered yes, PodMatch is exactly what you need. Join Here: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/dhsp

E037 of the Dad Hat Shenanigans Podcast: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad

Want to be a guest on Dad Hat Shenanigans: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad? Send D Brent Dowlen a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/dadhatshenaniganspodcast

Guest Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, any organizations, companies, or institutions mentioned, or corporate entities represented by the host.

Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you, and

Send us a text

Ever wonder how to raise teenagers who actually respect you while navigating today's crazy digital world? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Albert Butler, a CPA and father of four who's mastered the art of staying connected with his kids through the chaos of social media, AI, and teenage attitudes.

Albert shares his incredible journey from nervous dad to confident father, including:

•Why his son's public declaration at a book launch brought him to tears and validated everything he'd done right
•The game-changing "2 to 12" rule his father taught him about when you really have influence over your children
•How he uses monthly book reports and literary presentations to combat "doom scrolling" and build real communication skills
•The unexpected connection between teaching financial literacy and raising kids who can handle adult responsibilities

Plus, Albert reveals his foolproof approach to managing teenage friendships and dating—creating a circle of "uncles" who set the standard for what real men look like in his daughters' lives.

Key takeaways:
•The mindset shift from "I can't" to "I can because I will"—the mantra that transforms both father and child
•Why learning to play Roblox with your kids isn't silly—it's strategic parenting in the digital age
•How to balance teaching independence while ensuring your daughters never settle for less than they deserve
•The power of treating technology as a tool rather than the enemy, and teaching kids to use it wisely

Ready to raise teenagers who choose good friends, respect themselves, and actually want to spend time with you? Let's explore how biblical principles and practical wisdom create the foundation for extraordinary relationships with your teens!

Connect with Albert
His Book: https://a.co/d/hq7RvwW
https://www.linkedin.com/in/butleralbert/
https://www.instagram.com/albertbutlercpa/
https://x.com/albertbutlercpa
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx6-wOn2tbc7Pkv0bc58NSQ
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577977890720#

Sponsors:
My Pillow
Free MyPillow Promo Code "TFM" for up to 80% off your entire order at MyPillow!
To get the best specials ever go to MyPillow.com/TFM or call 800-796-9775 and use promo code "TFM"

Support our podcast:
Support us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/thefallibleman
Buy us a Coffee! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/thefallibleman

Want to Share Your Message with the World?
Looking to be a guest on a podcast and reach a wider audience? Or maybe you host your own podcast and want to find amazing, high-quality guests—without the hassle?
If you answered yes, PodMatch is exactly what you need. Join Here: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/dhsp


E036 of the Dad Hat Shenanigans Podcast: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad

Want to be a guest on Dad Hat Shenanigans: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad? Send D Brent Dowlen a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/dadhatshenaniganspodcast

Guest Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, any organizations, companies, or institutions mentioned, or corporate entities represented by the host.

This post & video is designed for educational and/or informational purposes only and should not be used in any other manner.

Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you, and I appreciate your support!

Send us a text

Fatherhood has a funny way of keeping score quietly.

You don’t get a report card.

You don’t get instant feedback.

Most days, you’re just hoping you didn’t mess things up too badly.

Over the past year on Dad Hat Shenanigans, one question kept surfacing in different forms:

“What’s your best advice for dads?”

This episode is the answer to that question.

In this special year-end reflection, Brent steps into the mic solo to share 33 pieces of advice from 33 real dads—guests from across the season who opened up about presence, consistency, mistakes, repair, leadership, and what actually matters when you’re raising kids.

These aren’t theories or polished soundbites.

They’re lived lessons.

The kind you learn at the kitchen table, on the drive home, or sitting on the edge of a kid’s bed at night.

Some of the themes that come up again and again:

• Why showing up beats getting it right
• How repair matters more than perfection
• Why listening builds more trust than lecturing
• What it really means to lead at home
• How to think in generations, not just today

This episode is designed to be listened to slowly.

Paused.

Revisited.

If you’re a dad finishing the year tired, unsure, or quietly wondering if you’re doing enough—this one’s for you.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• 33 concise, hard-earned lessons from real fathers
• Honest reflections on mistakes, growth, and repair
• Why presence matters more than perfection
• How consistency shapes kids more than intensity
• A reminder that even on your worst days—showing up still counts

Who This Episode Is For

• Dads who feel the weight of responsibility
• Fathers navigating busy seasons
• Men who want to lead well at home without pretending to have it all figured out
• Anyone who believes fatherhood is about progress, not perfection

Memorable Quotes

• “Your kids don’t need a perfect dad. They need a present one.”
• “Who you are matters more than what you say.”
• “Showing up on your worst days still counts.”

Connect With the Show

If this episode resonated with you, share it with another dad who needs the reminder.

And if you haven’t yet, follow Dad Hat Shenanigans Podcast. real conversations about fatherhood—no filters, no pretending.

Sponsors:

My Pillow

Free MyPillow Promo Code "TFM" for up to 80% off your entire order at MyPillow!

To get the best specials ever go to MyPillow.com/TFM or call 800-796-9775 and use promo code "TFM"

Support our podcast:

Support us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/thefallibleman

Want to Share Your Message with the World?
Looking to be a guest on a podcast and reach a wider audience? Or maybe you host your own podcast and want to find amazing, high-quality guests—without the hassle?

If you answered yes, PodMatch is exactly what you need. Join Here: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/dhsp

E035 of the Dad Hat Shenanigans Podcast: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad

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Send us a text

Ever wondered why everyone feels compelled to share horror stories the moment you announce you're becoming a father? In this refreshing episode, I sit down with Chris Marhefka, a 40-year-old entrepreneur and father of a two-year-old daughter, who challenges the cultural narrative that fatherhood is nothing but sleepless nights and endless struggles.

Chris opens up about that pivotal 4 AM moment on his deck during his daughter's first week of life - when everything shifted from trying to control the situation to simply being present with his child. We explore his philosophy that fatherhood isn't about imposing your will, but about listening, feeling, and giving your children exactly what they need in each moment.

Choosing Fatherhood Every Day

Whether you consciously chose to become a father or it happened unexpectedly, Chris offers wisdom about embracing the role fully. Explore his insight that once your child is here, you're already a father - and you can either resist that responsibility and suffer, or choose it completely and find joy.

Remember, being a great dad isn't about having all the answers - it's about letting fatherhood change you for the better while appreciating the daily miracles happening right in front of you. Are you ready to stop listening to the horror stories and start celebrating the amazing adventure of raising another human being? Listen now and discover how one father's perspective can completely shift your approach to the greatest role you'll ever play.

Chris Marhefka Guest Links:

• https://www.chrismarhefka.com
• https://www.instagram.com/chrismarhefka
• https://www.facebook.com/cmarhefka1
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismarhefka

Sponsors:

My Pillow

Free MyPillow Promo Code "TFM" for up to 80% off your entire order at MyPillow!

To get the best specials ever go to MyPillow.com/TFM or call 800-796-9775 and use promo code "TFM"

Support our podcast:

Support us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/thefallibleman

Want to Share Your Message with the World?
Looking to be a guest on a podcast and reach a wider audience? Or maybe you host your own podcast and want to find amazing, high-quality guests—without the hassle?

If you answered yes, PodMatch is exactly what you need. Join Here: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/dhsp

E034 of the Dad Hat Shenanigans Podcast: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad

Want to be a guest on Dad Hat Shenanigans: The Unfiltered Truth of Being a Dad? Send D Brent Dowlen a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/dadhatshenaniganspodcast

Guest Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, any organizations, companies, or institutions mentioned, or corporate entities represented by the host.

This post & video is designed for educational and/or informational purposes only and should not be used in any other manner.

Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you, and I appr