Episode 002 – The Dad We Had and The Dad We’re Becoming

How much does your relationship with your dad shape the way you father your kids?In Episode 2 of the Relatively Functional Dads podcast, we explore how our fathers shaped us—for better and for worse—and how God continues to father us through the places we’re still growing, healing, and maturing.We also share real-life dad moments from the week, including a Big Dad Energy win and a classic Should’ve Known Better moment.In this episode, we discuss:How your upbringing affects your parentingThe “fathering scripts” we all inherit about work, rest, anger, affection, and faithWhy the danger isn’t having a script—it’s never examining itThe stages of masculine growth and developmentHow God meets us in the places we missed or got stuckHow to honor your dad while still healing from what you didn’t receiveWhat it looks like to rewrite the script for your familyThis episode is about growth, healing, faith, and becoming intentional fathers—no matter what kind of dad you had.Key Reminder: You don’t get to choose your dad—but you do get to choose what you do with the story.Weekly Reflection:Take time to name the scripts handed to you by your dad. What are you grateful for and want to build on? Which do you want to rewrite for your family?Ask yourself: Which stage do you need God to meet you in right now? How do I need God to father me to provide wholeness?Episode Mentions:Fathered by God: Learning What Your Dad Could Never Teach You – John Eldredge - https://a.co/d/04hfnF6KANBESSA | A BPN Media Film on Haftu KnightIs 30yrs Old Too Young to Lead? with John Eldredge6 Stages of the Masculine Journey - John Eldredge - Beloved Son – Being seen, delighted in, provided for; safe and secure attachmentCowboy/Ranger – Freedom to play, test strength, and navigate the world through adventure and hard workWarrior – Strength, courage, and initiation; learning to fight for what is rightLover – Tenderness, intimacy, and connection; leading a wife and familyKing – Responsibility, blessing, and legacy; ruling with wisdom and humilitySage – Wisdom, mentorship, and counsel to younger generations as an “elder at the gates”We’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment or send questions and feedback to relativelyfunctionaldads@gmail.comMusic Provided By: Derek McClardy Spotify