112 episodes

Helping men safely navigate family life without losing their mind.

I am James Macdonald and 5 years ago, I was stressed and overwhelmed at my role as a husband and (exhausted) father of 3, not really knowing how to be the best man I could be.

Many years, pitfalls and enough flat whites to sink a battleship later, I’m a lot happier and confident and on a mission to help other dads be the best family man they can be without losing their minds.

Dad Mind Matters is for the new(ish) dads who feel totally overwhelmed at their new responsibility and feel like their mental health is on a slow and silent decline. For the men who always feel like they’re in the doghouse but don’t know why.

Here you’ll learn effective and actionable ways to deal with things such as toddler tantrums, passive aggressive partners and hopefully getting more happiness and laughter into your life. You are not alone in how you are feeling, and in Dad Mind Matters you will find a much-needed place where hopefully you’ll realise that you're doing much better than anyone, including you, is giving you credit for.

With new bite-sized episodes every week you can learn to safely navigate family life AND have a laugh, all in the time it takes you to walk to the shop on your completely made mission to get milk.

If you’re ready to be the happier, more confident family man you know you can be, scroll up and click ‘FOLLOW’.

Dad Mind Matters: Parenting, Marriage & Mental Health For Men James Macdonald

    • Kids & Family

Helping men safely navigate family life without losing their mind.

I am James Macdonald and 5 years ago, I was stressed and overwhelmed at my role as a husband and (exhausted) father of 3, not really knowing how to be the best man I could be.

Many years, pitfalls and enough flat whites to sink a battleship later, I’m a lot happier and confident and on a mission to help other dads be the best family man they can be without losing their minds.

Dad Mind Matters is for the new(ish) dads who feel totally overwhelmed at their new responsibility and feel like their mental health is on a slow and silent decline. For the men who always feel like they’re in the doghouse but don’t know why.

Here you’ll learn effective and actionable ways to deal with things such as toddler tantrums, passive aggressive partners and hopefully getting more happiness and laughter into your life. You are not alone in how you are feeling, and in Dad Mind Matters you will find a much-needed place where hopefully you’ll realise that you're doing much better than anyone, including you, is giving you credit for.

With new bite-sized episodes every week you can learn to safely navigate family life AND have a laugh, all in the time it takes you to walk to the shop on your completely made mission to get milk.

If you’re ready to be the happier, more confident family man you know you can be, scroll up and click ‘FOLLOW’.

    #112 | What Does This Male Model, Actor & CEO Says About Healthy Living? - Dads Mental Health Podcast

    #112 | What Does This Male Model, Actor & CEO Says About Healthy Living? - Dads Mental Health Podcast

    Ever felt torn between pursuing your dreams and maintaining your mental and physical well-being?
    This episode delves into the mental and physical sacrifices needed to turn dreams into reality. As Dane Johnson, CEO of Crohn's Colitis Lifestyle, shares insights, we explore how prioritising health isn't a luxury but a necessity, especially in achieving long-term success and fulfilment.
    With anecdotes and practical advice, discover how aligning with positive vibrations and fostering community can transform your journey.
    In this episode, you will:
    1) Learn the importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive community when striving for personal growth.
    2) Understand the power of consistency and gradual change in achieving lasting success.
    3) Discover practical strategies to shift your mindset, embrace discomfort, and find joy in the journey towards your goals.
    Ready to transform your mindset and embrace the journey to success?
    Tune in to the episode now for actionable insights and empowering stories. Remember, your path to greatness starts with finding balance and prioritising your well-being
    CAN YOU HELP THE PODCAST?
    Dear Podcast Listener, Thank you for your support. This podcast aims to support dads all over the world, especially those struggling with their mental health.
    This podcast is my hobby, but I'd like it to become more than that one day. For that to happen, I need the support of either one very wealthy angel investor or a few thousand, possibly slightly less wealthy (but no less generous) angel investors.
    To develop the podcast and hopefully support more dads, I need some help. With that in mind, if you enjoyed this episode and want to help me with what I'm trying to do,
    here is the link where you can leave a tip.
    ALL tips, regardless of size, are hugely appreciated, and as a thank you, anyone who leaves a tip will be entitled to a voice note message from me on their next birthday.
    Just contact me via the website
    Thanks again for your support, and take care of yourself
    James
    To sign up for my FREE monthly newsletter - CLICK HERE
    ABOUT ME
    Hello, I'm James & not long ago, I was a very anxious and somewhat overwhelmed husband & dad.
    After about a decade of setbacks & enough coffee to sink a ship, I’m a much happier dad.
    As previously mentioned, I want to try & help other dads be the best they can without losing their mental health.
    Mental health battles are something I am all too familiar with.
    In 2010, my GP suggested I do a 12-week CBT course with the NHS. During this course, I was diagnosed as having Pure OCD, which explained a lot.
    To Buy My Audiobook, First Time Dad, Click this link
    FREE & "HOPEFULLY" USEFUL RESOURCES
    For your free digital copy of my book First Time Dad
    Please click this link.
    To be really quite awesome & leave me a review on Amazon
    Please click this link
    For your free digital copy of my book One Dad & His Dog
    a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1BfWlRM0vSUy2gIG-SIjx4hcjt29zI3zq?usp=drive_link" rel="noopener...

    • 22 min
    #111 | Dad Joke Six - Dads Mental Health Podcast - Embrace Your Cringe

    #111 | Dad Joke Six - Dads Mental Health Podcast - Embrace Your Cringe

    Welcome back to another episode of Dad Mind Matters, the podcast that's here to help dads navigate the rollercoaster ride of parenthood with humour, insight, and a healthy dose of dad jokes.
    I'm your host, James, and I'm thrilled to have you join me again for another week of dad-related activities.
    Whether you're a seasoned dad, a new dad-to-be, or just someone who appreciates a good dad joke, this podcast is for you.
    Each week, we tackle the joys, challenges, and everything in between of fatherhood, offering practical advice, heartfelt stories, and, of course, plenty of laughs along the way.
    We cover everything from diaper disasters to teenage tantrums, from bedtime battles to proud parenting moments.
    So grab a cup of coffee, settle into your favourite dad chair, and get ready to explore the wonderful, wild world of dadhood with Dad Mind Matters.
    And hey, if you've got a dad joke you're dying to share or a parenting topic you want us to discuss, we're all ears.
    Don't hesitate to reach out through our website at www.DadMindMatters.com. After all, in the world of parenting, laughter truly is the best medicine.
    Thanks for tuning in, and let's dive into another episode of Dad Mind Matters!
    More From Dad Mind Matters
    
    If you have a story you'd like to tell about living with a mental illness or about how you escaped the rate race that you'd like to share with my podcast listeners, please book a chat via
    this link.
    CAN YOU HELP THE PODCAST?
    Dear Podcast Listener, thank you, I appreciate your support. This podcast aims to support dads all over the world, especially those struggling with their mental health.
    This podcast is my hobby, but I'd like it to become much more than that one day. For that to happen, I need the support of either one very wealthy angel investor or a few thousand, possibly slightly less wealthy (but no less generous) angel investors.
    To develop the podcast and hopefully support more dads, I need some help. With that in mind, if you enjoyed this episode and want to help me with what I'm trying to do,
    here is the link where you can leave a tip.
    ALL tips, regardless of size, are hugely appreciated, and as a thank you, anyone who leaves a tip will be entitled to a voice note message from me on their next birthday.
    Just contact me via the website
    Thanks again for your support, and take care of yourself
    James
    To sign up for my FREE monthly newsletter - CLICK HERE
    ABOUT ME
    Hello, I'm James & not long ago, I was a very anxious and somewhat overwhelmed husband & dad.
    After about a decade of setbacks & enough coffee to sink a ship, I’m a much happier dad.
    As previously mentioned, I want to try & help other dads be the best they can without losing their mental health.
    Mental health battles are something I am all too familiar with.
    In 2010, my GP suggested I do a 12-week CBT course with the NHS. During this course, I was diagnosed as having Pure OCD, which explained a lot.
    To Buy My Audiobook, First Time Dad, Click this link
    FREE & "HOPEFULLY" USEFUL RESOURCES
    For your free digital copy of my book First Time Dad
    a...

    • 1 min
    #110 | What Does The Research Say About Promiscuous Behaviour? - Dads Mental Health Podcast

    #110 | What Does The Research Say About Promiscuous Behaviour? - Dads Mental Health Podcast

    Have you ever wondered about the unspoken questions in relationships?
    Join James as he dives into taboo topics and provides candid insights into the nuances of modern relationships. Get ready to uncover the answers you've been seeking in this eye-opening episode.
    Navigating sensitive topics in today's complex relationship landscapes can be daunting.
    From defining boundaries with friends to grappling with issues of trust and fidelity, the questions explored in this episode strike at the heart of common concerns in modern partnerships.
    James offers a refreshing perspective, encouraging open dialogue and honest communication to foster deeper connections and understanding between partners.
    In this episode, you will:
    1) Gain clarity on common relationship questions and concerns often left unaddressed.
    2) Explore practical strategies for maintaining trust, setting boundaries, and nurturing healthy communication in relationships.
    3) Discover insights to strengthen emotional bonds and navigate challenges with confidence and empathy.
    Scroll up and press play now to gain valuable insights and practical advice for overcoming common hurdles and fostering deeper connections with your partner.
    If you find value in our discussion, consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to support our mission of fostering healthy relationships for all.
    More From Dad Mind Matters
    
    If you have a story you'd like to tell about living with a mental illness or about how you escaped the rate race that you'd like to share with my podcast listeners, please book a chat via
    this link.
    CAN YOU HELP THE PODCAST?
    Dear Podcast Listener, thank you, I appreciate your support. This podcast aims to support dads all over the world, especially those struggling with their mental health.
    This podcast is my hobby, but I'd like it to become much more than that one day. For that to happen, I need the support of either one very wealthy angel investor or a few thousand, possibly slightly less wealthy (but no less generous) angel investors.
    To develop the podcast and hopefully support more dads, I need some help. With that in mind, if you enjoyed this episode and want to help me with what I'm trying to do,
    here is the link where you can leave a tip.
    ALL tips, regardless of size, are hugely appreciated, and as a thank you, anyone who leaves a tip will be entitled to a voice note message from me on their next birthday.
    Just contact me via the website
    Thanks again for your support, and take care of yourself
    James
    To sign up for my FREE monthly newsletter - CLICK HERE
    ABOUT ME
    Hello, I'm James & not long ago, I was a very anxious and somewhat overwhelmed husband & dad.
    After about a decade of setbacks & enough coffee to sink a ship, I’m a much happier dad.
    As previously mentioned, I want to try & help other dads be the best they can without losing their mental health.
    Mental health battles are something I am all too familiar with.
    In 2010, my GP suggested I do a 12-week CBT course with the NHS. During this course, I was diagnosed as having Pure OCD, which explained a lot.
    To Buy My Audiobook, First Time Dad, Click this link...

    • 11 min
    #109| What Is This US Dad Doing To Challenge The Idea That Masculinity Is Toxic?

    #109| What Is This US Dad Doing To Challenge The Idea That Masculinity Is Toxic?

    Have you ever wondered how to guide your son through the transition to manhood in a world that feels increasingly disconnected?
    In this episode of "Dad Mind Matters," U.S. dad and author Stephen Arms joins to explore the significance of a boy's rite of passage at the age of 13.
    With societal changes and increased isolation, finding meaningful ways to mentor young men is more important than ever.
    In this episode, you will:
    1) Gain insight into why the age of 13 is crucial for a boy's rite of passage and how it impacts their development.
    2) Discover practical rituals and activities to incorporate into a rite of passage weekend to help your son transition to manhood.
    3) Learn how to create a supportive community of male role models for your son's journey into adolescence.
    Ready to equip your son with the tools he needs for a successful transition to manhood?
    Scroll up & press play to learn how to create a meaningful rite of passage experience for your son at the age of 13.
    More From Dad Mind Matters
    
    If you have a story you'd like to tell about living with a mental illness or about how you escaped the rate race that you'd like to share with my podcast listeners, please book a chat via
    this link.
    CAN YOU HELP THE PODCAST?
    Dear Podcast Listener, Thank you for your support. This podcast aims to support dads all over the world, especially those struggling with their mental health.
    This podcast is my hobby, but I'd like it to become more than that one day. For that to happen, I need the support of either one very wealthy angel investor or a few thousand, possibly slightly less wealthy (but no less generous) angel investors.
    I need some help developing the podcast and hopefully supporting more dads. With that in mind, if you enjoyed this episode and want to help me with what I'm trying to do,

    here is the link where you can leave a tip

    ALL tips, regardless of size, are hugely appreciated, and as a thank you, anyone who leaves a tip will be entitled to a voice note message from me on their next birthday.

    Just contact me via the website

    Thanks again for your support, and take care of yourself

    James

    To sign up for my FREE monthly newsletter - CLICK HERE

    ABOUT ME

    Hello, I'm James & not long ago, I was a very anxious and somewhat overwhelmed husband & dad.
    After about a decade of setbacks & enough coffee to sink a ship, I’m a much happier dad.
    As previously mentioned, I want to try & help other dads be the best they can without losing their mental health.
    Mental health battles are something I am all too familiar with.
    In 2010, my GP suggested I do a 12-week CBT course with the NHS. During this course, I was diagnosed as having Pure OCD, which explained a lot.

    To Buy My Audiobook, First Time Dad, Click this link

    FREE & "HOPEFULLY" USEFUL RESOURCES

    For your free digital copy of my book First Time Dad
    Please click this link.
    To be really quite awesome & leave me a review on Amazon...

    • 13 min
    #108 | Why Does The School Run Feel So Overwhelming & What Perspective Might Help?

    #108 | Why Does The School Run Feel So Overwhelming & What Perspective Might Help?

    Ever feel like the school run is an endless struggle, leaving you overwhelmed and drained before your day even begins?
    If you're nodding along, you're not alone.
    Join us as we uncover why the school run feels like an uphill battle and explore practical strategies to transform your mornings from chaotic to calm.
    In this episode, you will:
    1) Gain insights into why the traditional nuclear family structure can lead to overwhelming parenting experiences.
    2) Discover practical advice from parenting expert Jen Lemanlan on how to navigate feelings of overwhelm as a parent.
    3) Learn actionable strategies for building community support and understanding your child's behaviour to ease the stress of the school run.
    Ready to reclaim your mornings and ease the overwhelm of the school run?
    Tune in to this episode now for expert insights and actionable tips to make your parenting journey smoother and more fulfilling.
    Have you ever wondered why parenting seems like such a solo journey?
    In this podcast episode I'm lucky enough to be joined by the host of the Your Parenting Mojo podcast Jen Lumanlan
    To find out more about our podcast guest click the links below.
    Your Parenting Mojo YouTube channel
     Tell Me What My Child Needs Quiz
    10 questions to help you decode your child's behaviour so you can find and meet their #1 unmet need - making your life easier as well
    Lists of Feelings and Needs > Includes printable, picture-based versions for kids. Helps to incorporate the language of feelings and needs into daily conversations, so it's easier to understand and address children's resistance in a way that meets their needs

    • 10 min
    #107 | Dad Joke Five - Dads Mental Health Podcast - Embrace Your Cringe

    #107 | Dad Joke Five - Dads Mental Health Podcast - Embrace Your Cringe

    Welcome back to another episode of Dad Mind Matters, the podcast that's here to help dads navigate the rollercoaster ride of parenthood with humour, insight, and a healthy dose of dad jokes.
    I'm your host, James, and I'm thrilled to have you join me again for another week of dad-related activities.
    Whether you're a seasoned dad, a new dad-to-be, or just someone who appreciates a good dad joke, this podcast is for you.
    Each week, we tackle the joys, challenges, and everything in between of fatherhood, offering practical advice, heartfelt stories, and, of course, plenty of laughs along the way.
    We cover everything from diaper disasters to teenage tantrums, from bedtime battles to proud parenting moments.
    So grab a cup of coffee, settle into your favourite dad chair, and get ready to explore the wonderful, wild world of dadhood with Dad Mind Matters.
    And hey, if you've got a dad joke you're dying to share or a parenting topic you want us to discuss, we're all ears.
    Don't hesitate to reach out through our website at www.DadMindMatters.com. After all, in the world of parenting, laughter truly is the best medicine.
    Thanks for tuning in, and let's dive into another episode of Dad Mind Matters!
    More From Dad Mind Matters
    
    If you have a story you'd like to tell about living with a mental illness or about how you escaped the rate race that you'd like to share with my podcast listeners, please book a chat via
    this link.
    CAN YOU HELP THE PODCAST?
    Dear Podcast Listener, thank you, I appreciate your support. This podcast aims to support dads all over the world, especially those struggling with their mental health.
    This podcast is my hobby, but I'd like it to become much more than that one day. For that to happen, I need the support of either one very wealthy angel investor or a few thousand, possibly slightly less wealthy (but no less generous) angel investors.
    To develop the podcast and hopefully support more dads, I need some help. With that in mind, if you enjoyed this episode and want to help me with what I'm trying to do,
    here is the link where you can leave a tip.
    ALL tips, regardless of size, are hugely appreciated, and as a thank you, anyone who leaves a tip will be entitled to a voice note message from me on their next birthday.
    Just contact me via the website
    Thanks again for your support, and take care of yourself
    James
    To sign up for my FREE monthly newsletter - CLICK HERE
    ABOUT ME
    Hello, I'm James & not long ago, I was a very anxious and somewhat overwhelmed husband & dad.
    After about a decade of setbacks & enough coffee to sink a ship, I’m a much happier dad.
    As previously mentioned, I want to try & help other dads be the best they can without losing their mental health.
    Mental health battles are something I am all too familiar with.
    In 2010, my GP suggested I do a 12-week CBT course with the NHS. During this course, I was diagnosed as having Pure OCD, which explained a lot.
    To Buy My Audiobook, First Time Dad, Click this link
    FREE & "HOPEFULLY" USEFUL RESOURCES
    For your free digital copy of my book First Time Dad
    a...

    • 1 min

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