Father Talks

Michael Darden
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Father Talks isn’t just another podcast — it’s the locker room, the barbershop, the late-night kitchen table all rolled into one. This is where men show up for the real talk — unfiltered, no fluff, no faking. From the struggles and wins of fatherhood to the highs and lows of relationships, sex, sports, money, and everything in between, nothing’s off-limits. We mix raw honesty with straight-up humor and hard-earned wisdom — the kind of conversations that leave you nodding, laughing, and thinking long after the episode ends. This is for fathers, sons, brothers — for every man who’s tired of sur

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    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 distinction between discipline and punishment. Dr. Marcus emphasizes the need for fathers to create a soothing presence for their children, teaching them emotional language and resilience. The conversation also delves into the fairness trap in parenting and the significance of self-care for parents to effectively support their children.

    59 min

  2. 15 FEB

    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 significance of deep conversations, and the role of healthy masculine leadership in love. The discussion emphasizes the need for both partners to listen actively, validate each other's feelings, and create a supportive environment for emotional expression. Ultimately, the conversation aims to equip listeners with tools to foster deeper connections and understanding in their relationships.

    59 min

  3. 8 FEB

    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 family health through diet. He emphasizes the importance of communication in relationships, the dynamics of siblings, and the need for community support. Paul also shares insights from his book, 'Autism Sucks, Finding Hope in the Chaos,' which aims to provide hope and practical advice for parents facing similar challenges.

    49 min

  4. 31 JAN

    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 parenting. Sean shares his insights on raising boys in a world that often feels hostile to their nature, emphasizing the need for connection, understanding, and emotional resilience. The discussion also touches on the role of humor in parenting and the importance of learning from mistakes. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder that being a great dad involves continuous growth and the willingness to be present for one's children. Takeaways Staying calm and collected is crucial in parenting. Boys face unique challenges in today's culture. Men need to foster community and brotherhood. Discipline should be a shared responsibility between parents. Emotional expression is vital for boys' development. Learning from past mistakes is part of growth. Humor can be a deflection mechanism in parenting. It's important to model behavior for children. Parents should strive for connection over compliance. Being a great dad means being present and caring.

    52 min

  5. 28 JAN

    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 both fathers and daughters. Oscar shares his journey of learning and growth as a father, emphasizing the significance of community support and redefining masculinity in parenting. The discussion highlights the lessons learned from past experiences and the ongoing journey of becoming a better parent.

    48 min

  6. 24 JAN

    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 breaking these cycles for future generations. The conversation highlights the significance of personal peace and self-reflection, with Michael sharing his journey of prioritizing mental well-being by setting boundaries. Bev provides insights into understanding and communicating personal needs, emphasizing how these practices can lead to healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Together, they advocate for open discussions about emotions and mental health, particularly among men, to foster personal growth and stronger connections.

    59 min

  7. 18 JAN

    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 a promising college football career to facing unexpected challenges in his early adulthood, including job loss and feelings of inadequacy. Through mentorship and self-discovery, he realized the importance of taking responsibility for his own life and the value of vulnerability in building connections with others. DJ elaborates on the structure of 'Be That Guy,' a program designed to help young men cultivate good habits through accountability and community support. The program emphasizes the importance of hard skills, such as exercise, reading, and sleep, while also fostering emotional intelligence and vulnerability. Both DJ and Michael discuss the societal pressures young men face today, the stigma around seeking help, and the critical need for open communication and emotional expression among men. This conversation is a heartfelt exploration of the challenges young men encounter and the resources available to help them navigate their paths to success.

    56 min

  8. 10 JAN

    A Father's Heartbreak: The Story of Kevin

    In this heartfelt conversation, Barry Adkins shares the tragic story of his son Kevin, who died from alcohol poisoning at the age of 18. Barry recounts the moments leading up to Kevin's death, the profound grief that followed, and his journey towards healing and purpose. He emphasizes the importance of making good come from tragedy, the need for awareness about alcohol abuse, and the power of forgiveness. Through his experiences, Barry aims to educate others and honor his son's memory by sharing his story and advocating for change.

    46 min
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About

Father Talks isn’t just another podcast — it’s the locker room, the barbershop, the late-night kitchen table all rolled into one. This is where men show up for the real talk — unfiltered, no fluff, no faking. From the struggles and wins of fatherhood to the highs and lows of relationships, sex, sports, money, and everything in between, nothing’s off-limits. We mix raw honesty with straight-up humor and hard-earned wisdom — the kind of conversations that leave you nodding, laughing, and thinking long after the episode ends. This is for fathers, sons, brothers — for every man who’s tired of sur

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Darden
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Michael Darden
  • Show Website
    Father Talks