That Dope Dad

Michael Hedgecock
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Parenting

That Dope Dad Podcast is a platform for fathers who are committed to growth — not just as parents, but as men. In a world where fatherhood is often reduced to stereotypes or surface-level advice, this podcast goes deeper. We explore the real work of being a present dad while navigating ambition, relationships, mental health, masculinity, identity, and purpose. Through raw conversations, practical insight, and powerful storytelling, we create space for honesty — the wins, the failures, the lessons, and the healing. We talk about breaking generational patterns, building emotionally secure families, leading with strength and vulnerability, and redefining what modern masculinity looks like. This isn’t about “having it all figured out.” It’s about showing up intentionally. It’s about growth over ego. It’s about becoming the kind of man your children are proud to call Dad. That’s what makes a dope dad.

  1. 18 hr ago

    Ep. 23 - One on One w/ James Townsend

    What happens when a 17-year-old finds out he's going to be a father—and refuses to let his past define his future? In this powerful episode of That Dope Dad, Michael sits down with James Townsend—husband, father of four, coach, and man of unwavering faith—to talk about breaking generational cycles, choosing presence over excuses, and fighting for the opportunity to be a dad. James opens up about growing up without a consistent father, being raised by a resilient single mother, becoming a father while still in high school, and the heartbreaking battle to be present in his oldest daughter's life. He shares how racism, prejudice, and an unfair court system shaped parts of his journey, while also revealing the mindset that kept him moving forward instead of becoming bitter. The conversation explores what it truly means to lead a family, why time is the greatest gift a father can give, and the three values James is intentionally instilling in his children: Bravery. Strength. Confidence. This episode is a reminder that your past doesn't have to become your children's future—and that a father's legacy is built one intentional day at a time. In this episode, we discuss: Becoming a father at just 17 years oldGrowing up without a present fatherBreaking generational cyclesFighting for fatherhood through adversityFaith, forgiveness, and resilienceRaising confident, courageous childrenThe legacy every dad has the opportunity to leave If this conversation encouraged you, share it with another dad who needs to hear it. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow That Dope Dad for more conversations that challenge men to become the fathers their children deserve. James Townsend: https://www.instagram.com/thejamestownsend/ Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/thatdopedad_podcast/ HOST: https://www.instagram.com/michael_hedgecock/

    Ep. 23 - One on One w/ James Townsend

  2. 27 Jul

    Ep. 22 - The Listening Room Experience

    Sometimes the most powerful conversations don't begin with words. In this episode of That Dope Dad, I share my experience attending The Listening Room—a gathering of men who came together with one simple purpose: to sit, listen to an album from start to finish, and be fully present. No phones. No distractions. Just music, memories, and a room full of men willing to slow down. What started as an evening of listening unexpectedly became a journey back through my own life. Driving into a place I hadn't visited in over 20 years brought back memories of friendships, brotherhood, loss, and the passage of time. As the first track of Jay-Z's The Blueprint filled the room, I was reminded how music has the power to unlock emotions we've buried for years. This isn't just an episode about an album. It's about nostalgia, healing, connection, and the importance of creating spaces where men can simply be present—with themselves and with each other. If you've ever wondered what happens when we stop talking long enough to truly listen, this episode is for you. Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/thatdopedad_podcast/ HOST: https://www.instagram.com/michael_hedgecock/

    Ep. 22 - The Listening Room Experience

  3. 20 Jul

    Ep. 21 - One on One w/ Sheriff Taiwo

    What does it mean to become the father you never had? In this episode of That Dope Dad, Michael Hedgecock sits down with transformation coach, entrepreneur, and father of three, Sheriff Taiwo, for an honest conversation about growing up in a strict Nigerian household, overcoming adversity, and choosing to lead his family differently. Sheriff shares how his upbringing shaped the man he is today, the lessons he carried forward, and the ones he intentionally left behind. Together, Michael and Sheriff dive into fatherhood, men's mental health, physical health, discipline, identity, and the responsibility dads have to break unhealthy generational patterns. This isn't just a conversation about raising kids—it's about raising ourselves first. If you're a father, future father, or simply a man striving to become better, this episode will challenge you to reflect, grow, and lead with purpose. In this episode you'll hear: • Growing up in a traditional Nigerian household • Turning pain and adversity into purpose • Breaking generational cycles as a father • Men's mental and physical health • Building discipline and accountability • Why becoming a better man creates a better family

    Ep. 21 - One on One w/ Sheriff Taiwo

  4. 13 Jul

    Ep. 20 - Every Birthday Changes Me

    There are moments in fatherhood that quietly change you. For me, it's my son's birthday. In this deeply personal episode of That Dope Dad, I open up about what it feels like to watch my son turn seven years old. Every birthday brings unexpected emotions—not sadness, not just joy, but the realization of how quickly time passes. As he grows older, I'm reminded that I'm growing older too. This isn't just an episode about celebrating a birthday. It's about asking the hard questions every father should ask himself: Am I present enough? Am I leading my child well? Does my son feel safe with me? Does he know how deeply he's loved? I share the lessons fatherhood has taught me, the fears that come with watching your child grow up, and why I believe every birthday should be more than a celebration—it should be a yearly reflection on the kind of father we're becoming. I also end the episode with a heartfelt letter to my son that I hope he'll hear one day when he's older. Whether your child is seven months old, seven years old, or already grown, this conversation is a reminder that our greatest legacy isn't perfection—it's presence. If this episode resonates with you, share it with another dad who needs to hear it. And if you're enjoying That Dope Dad, please follow the show and leave a rating and review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Your support helps us reach more fathers and build a stronger community of intentional dads. Because our kids won't remember everything we gave them—but they'll always remember whether we were there. Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/thatdopedad_podcast/ HOST: https://www.instagram.com/michael_hedgecock/

    Ep. 20 - Every Birthday Changes Me

  5. 6 Jul

    Ep. 19 - Present Father w/ Roderick Richard

    In this episode of That Dope Dad, Michael Hedgecock sits down with Roderick Richard II—fatherhood coach, entrepreneur, athletic director, podcast host, and founder of 4 Fit Fatherhood—for a powerful conversation about what it truly means to be a present father. Roderick shares how growing up in a hardworking family and spending years in sports shaped his values of discipline, accountability, and leadership. But fatherhood taught him something even greater: providing for your family goes far beyond paying the bills. It means showing up with your time, your presence, your guidance, and your love. Together, Michael and Roderick discuss the challenges of balancing ambition, career, business, and family, why leaving professional baseball became one of the most important decisions of his life, and how raising two daughters completely changed his definition of success. They also dive into his "Present Provider" philosophy, the importance of emotional availability, and why kids don't just need financial support—they need a father who is fully present. Whether you're a new dad, a seasoned father, or simply striving to become a better man for your family, this episode will challenge you to rethink success and remind you that your greatest legacy isn't what you build—it's the relationships you build at home. Roderick Richard www.4fitfatherhood.com Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/thatdopedad_podcast/ HOST: https://www.instagram.com/michael_hedgecock/

    Ep. 19 - Present Father w/ Roderick Richard

  6. 29 Jun

    Ep. 18 - Enjoying Fatherhood

    The more we enjoy being a dad, the more our kids enjoy being a kid. Life gets busy. Work is demanding. By the end of the day, we're exhausted. But while we're counting down to bedtime, our kids are counting down the minutes until they get time with us. They don't need perfection. They don't need expensive trips or endless entertainment. They simply want our attention, our presence, and a few moments where they know they're the most important thing in our world. In this episode of That Dope Dad, we're talking about choosing connection over convenience, why the little moments matter more than we realize, and how enjoying fatherhood creates a childhood our kids will never forget. Because one day they'll outgrow wanting us to play—and we'll wish we had just one more chance. Be present. Enjoy being Dad. Your kids are only kids once. Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/thatdopedad_podcast/ HOST: https://www.instagram.com/michael_hedgecock/

    Ep. 18 - Enjoying Fatherhood

  7. 22 Jun

    Ep. 17 - Autism Awareness w/ Will Adams, SR

    In this episode of That Dope Dad Podcast, Michael Hedgecock sits down with entrepreneur, podcast host, nonprofit leader, and father of four, Will Adams Sr. Will shares how growing up in a single-parent household shaped his commitment to being a present father, the life-changing impact of becoming a dad at 32, and the lessons he's learned raising both a son and a daughter. He also opens up about his son's autism diagnosis, his passion for advocating for the autism community, and how fatherhood fuels his purpose in business and life. This conversation is a powerful reminder that fatherhood isn't about being perfect—it's about showing up, growing, and creating a better legacy for your children. Connect with Will: https://linktr.ee/ThaVillagePodcast Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/thatdopedad_podcast/ HOST: https://www.instagram.com/michael_hedgecock/

    Ep. 17 - Autism Awareness w/ Will Adams, SR

  8. 15 Jun

    Ep. 16 - The fear of judgement

    The fear of judgment keeps too many people stuck—stuck from chasing their dreams, trying something new, or becoming who they were meant to be. In this episode, we talk about why other people's opinions should never have the power to dictate your life. As parents, our kids are always watching. When they see us step outside our comfort zones, take risks, and pursue what truly matters to us, they learn the courage to do the same. Don't let fear of what others might think hold you back. Go after what you want, and show your kids what it looks like to live boldly and unapologetically. Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/thatdopedad_podcast/ HOST: https://www.instagram.com/michael_hedgecock/

    Ep. 16 - The fear of judgement
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About

That Dope Dad Podcast is a platform for fathers who are committed to growth — not just as parents, but as men. In a world where fatherhood is often reduced to stereotypes or surface-level advice, this podcast goes deeper. We explore the real work of being a present dad while navigating ambition, relationships, mental health, masculinity, identity, and purpose. Through raw conversations, practical insight, and powerful storytelling, we create space for honesty — the wins, the failures, the lessons, and the healing. We talk about breaking generational patterns, building emotionally secure families, leading with strength and vulnerability, and redefining what modern masculinity looks like. This isn’t about “having it all figured out.” It’s about showing up intentionally. It’s about growth over ego. It’s about becoming the kind of man your children are proud to call Dad. That’s what makes a dope dad.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Hedgecock
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Michael Hedgecock

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