Bear Crawl with Dads Ross Purdy

In episode #30, we visit with Michael, a fellow dad sharing his journey in fatherhood. Michael talks about being a new dad with a daughter and a son, along with his wife of almost 10 years. The conversation touches on the joys and challenges of parenting, highlighting the continuous learning experience that comes with raising kids. Tune in for some heartfelt insights and relatable experiences from two dads navigating the world of fatherhood.
Join us for this episode of "Bear Crawl with Dads" as we navigate the rewarding path of fatherhood, learning and growing along the way.
 
00:00:48 - Guest Introduction: Michael
Ross introduces his guest, Michael, who shares a bit about his background, family, and his transition from oil and gas to co-founding a software company.
00:02:47 - Michael's Work Explained
Michael explains the nature of his work in ERP software for wholesale distributors and how it helps businesses operate more efficiently.
00:04:19 - Michael's Role in His Company
Discussion about Michael's role as COO in his startup, overseeing operations, development, and customer support.
00:05:24 - Balancing Fatherhood and Entrepreneurship
Ross and Michael discuss the challenges of balancing new fatherhood with starting and running a new business.
00:06:56 - Michael's Childhood and Influence of His Father
Michael shares memories of his father, their relationship, and how it shaped his approach to life and fatherhood.
00:11:54 - Parenting Styles and Communication
Ross and Michael delve into the importance of communication in parenting and how Michael's father used dialogue as a form of teaching and discipline.
00:13:35 - Connecting Through Activities
Discussion on how physical activities like playing catch were a medium for bonding and communication between Michael and his father.
00:17:16 - Reflecting on Parental Influence
Michael reflects on how his parents encouraged his natural talents and how that influenced his approach to parenting.
00:22:09 - Transitioning to Discuss Michael as a Dad
Shift in conversation to focus on Michael's experiences and challenges as a dad.
00:25:24 - Challenges of Fatherhood
Michael discusses the challenges he faces in balancing work commitments with being a present and engaged father.
 
00:28:55 - Importance of Community and Communication in Parenting
Michael emphasizes the importance of community support and open communication with his wife to maintain alignment in parenting.
00:32:04 - Strategies for Being a Present Parent
Michael shares his strategies for ensuring he remains an active and present parent despite a busy professional life.
00:36:19 - Aligning Family and Career Goals
Discussion on how Michael aligns his career goals with his priorities as a husband and father, emphasizing the importance of his faith in guiding his decisions.
 
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Follow Michael McCormack on LinkedIn
Follow 10X ERP on LinkedIn
Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters by Meg Meeker
Raising a Strong Daughter in a Toxic Culture by Meg Meeker
Raising Emotionally Strong Boys by David Thomas
Faithful Fathering Initiative by Rick Wertz
What Makes Love Last? By John Gottman/Nan Silver
Eight Dates by John Gottman, Julie Schwartz Gottman, Doug Abrams, Rachel Abrams
 
 
WHERE WE CAN CONNECT: 
Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Instagram
Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Twitter
Connect with Bear Crawl with Dads on Facebook
Follow Ross Purdy on LinkedIn
Bear Crawl with Dad’s website
 
 
FOLLOW & REVIEW ON APPLE PODCASTS
 Are you following the podcast? If you are not, I want to encourage you to follow today so you don’t miss any future episodes! I have so many amazing guests and topics lined up; I would hate for you to miss a single one!

In episode #29, we visit a with fellow Houstonian and Baylor Bear, Brian Smith. Brian shares his journey of becoming a better father and husband, drawing from the profound transformation he witnessed in his own father after a pivotal moment of faith. We explored the challenges and joys of parenting, particularly the unique experience of raising daughters. Brian's stories about his father's shift from a hardworking provider to a present and engaged parent were not only inspiring but also a testament to the power of personal change.
Brian's message of gratitude to his father for the life lessons imparted and his desire to pass on those values to his daughters was a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of a father's love and guidance.
Join us for this episode of "Bear Crawl with Dads" as we navigate the rewarding path of fatherhood, learning and growing along the way.
  00:02:54 - Brian and His Wife's Long-Distance Relationship 00:03:42 - Brian's Houstonian Roots and Family Background 00:04:16 - Favorite BBQ Spot 00:05:07 - Daughters and Parenting Experience 00:06:02 - Father's Influence and Leap of Faith 00:07:10 - The Impact of Faith on Brian's Father 00:09:10 - Brian's Reflection on His Father's Transformation 00:11:12 - Father's Career Crisis and Faith Journey 00:18:19 - Challenges as a Father 00:20:04 - Realization of Fatherhood's Impact 00:21:28 - Thoughts on Raising Two Girls 00:22:13 - Advice from His Father 00:24:57 - Reflections on His Father's Advice and Legacy 00:25:41 - Parenting Philosophy and Challenges 00:27:24 - Aspirations for His Daughters' Self-Esteem 00:28:01 - Intentional Parenting Moments 00:29:07 - Perspective on Empowering His Daughters 00:33:06 - Transition from Guiding to Letting Go as a Parent 00:34:10 - Gratitude for His Father's Example 00:36:09 - Thoughts on Creating Family Traditions and Rites of Passage 00:37:10 - Plans for Creating a Family Culture 00:38:24 - Concerns About Social Media's Impact on His Daughters 00:39:39 - Intention to Protect His Daughters in a Digital Age 00:41:41 - Desire for Open Communication with His Daughters 00:42:56 - Thoughts on Establishing Family Traditions 00:44:10 - Family Culture of Community Service 00:45:03 - Personal Rites of Passage and Family Traditions 00:46:16 - Intention to Create Memorable Experiences with His Daughters 00:49:49 - Gratitude and Understanding Toward His Father 00:50:11 - Message to His Dad Now That He's a Father 
 
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Baylor University
Memorial High School
Stephen F Austin State University
Independence, TX
Enchanted Rock
Mexia, TX
Goode Co. BBQ
 Demaris BBQ
 
WHERE WE CAN CONNECT: 
Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Instagram
Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Twitter
Connect with Bear Crawl with Dads on Facebook
Follow Ross Purdy on LinkedIn
Bear Crawl with Dad’s website
 
 
FOLLOW & REVIEW ON APPLE PODCASTS
 Are you following the podcast? If you are not, I want to encourage you to follow today so you don’t miss any future episodes! I have so many amazing guests and topics lined up; I would hate for you to miss a single one!  Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts. 
Could I ask a big favor? If you are loving the show, I would LOVE it if you would leave me a review on Apple Podcasts. I read each and every one!  
Wondering how to leave a review? Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.  So easy and so appreciated! 
 
 
OTHER EPISODES YOU’LL ENJOY
 
01: Dads, Dogs, and Parenting with Lamar Smith
02: Texas Football, Greatest Generation, and More with Geoff King
03: Arkansas, Africa, and Father Memories on the Farm with Todd Brogdon

In episode #28, we had a heartwarming and insightful conversation with Hank, a father of three and a man juggling the responsibilities of managing auxiliary companies and a non-profit focused on land conservation and historical preservation in Houston and Virginia. We dove deep into the world of fatherhood, exploring the highs and lows that come with the journey. As a father, Hank opened up about the challenges of parenting at different stages of his children's lives and the lessons learned along the way. He emphasized the value of being comfortable with discomfort, a lesson he learned from his own father, who was a risk-taker and adventurer.
So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and join us for a conversation that is all about the adventure of fatherhood and the legacy we leave behind.
 00:01:19 - Hank's Professional Background and Non-Profit Work 00:01:56 - Hank's Involvement in Land Conservation and Historical Preservation 00:03:02 - The Need for Historical Narratives and Land Preservation 00:04:07 - The Non-Profit's Surprising Impact on Hank 00:05:00 - Restoring Historical Structures and Acknowledging the Past 00:05:44 - The Show's Focus on Fatherhood and Learning from Others 00:06:10 - Hank's Family and Parenting Experience 00:08:07 - Hank's Childhood and Family Business Background 00:09:16 - Moving from San Francisco to Wisconsin: A Culture Shock 00:10:18 - Hank's Relationship with His Father and Parenting Style 00:13:09 - Hank's Father's Adventurous Spirit and Its Influence 00:14:27 - The Challenges of Parenting Different Personalities 00:15:28 - The Importance of Being Present and Intentional as a Father 00:17:15 - Hank's Reflection on His Father's Advice and Example 00:18:06 - Outdoor Adventures and Life Lessons from Hank's Father 00:19:07 - The Significance of Being Comfortable with Discomfort 00:20:06 - Passing on Outdoor Experiences to Hank's Children 00:21:02 - The Impact of Outdoor Experiences on Personal Growth 00:21:38 - The Role of Fathers in Providing and Setting Examples 00:22:52 - The Importance of Acknowledging and Forgiving Parents 00:23:23 - The Legacy of Fathers and the Impact on Future Generations 00:25:04 - The Challenges of Balancing Discipline and Patience as a Dad 00:26:02 - The Value of Partner Support in Parenting 00:27:05 - The Dynamics of Parenting Styles Between Hank and His Wife 00:28:01 - The Importance of Family Meals and One-on-One Time with Kids 00:29:07 - The Impact of Intentional Parenting and Creating Memories 00:30:12 - The Role of Fathers in Shaping the Next Generation 00:31:15 - Hank's Greatest Challenge as a Father 00:32:32 - The Balance of Discipline and Grace in Parenting 00:33:00 - The Importance of Partner Support in Navigating Parenting Challenges 00:34:10 - The Role of Fathers in Household Responsibilities and Chores 00:35:05 - The Significance of Family Traditions and Individual Trips with Children 00:36:53 - The Impact of Fathers on Children's Lives and Future Generations 00:38:02 - The Importance of Fathers Being Present and Showing Love 00:39:01 - The Challenges Fathers Face in Today's Society 00:40:10 - The Importance of Fathers Understanding Their Impact on the Next Generation  
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
National Outdoor Leadership School
 
 
WHERE WE CAN CONNECT: 
Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Instagram
Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Twitter
Connect with Bear Crawl with Dads on Facebook
Follow Ross Purdy on LinkedIn
Bear Crawl with Dad’s website
 
 
FOLLOW & REVIEW ON APPLE PODCASTS
 Are you following the podcast? If you are not, I want to encourage you to follow today so you don’t miss any future episodes! I have so many amazing guests and topics lined up; I would hate for you to miss a single one!  Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts. 
Could I ask a big favor? If you are loving the show, I would LOVE it if you would leave me a review on Apple Podcasts. I read each and every one!  
Wondering how to leave a review? Cl

In episode #27, we visit with Miah who shares his unique upbringing, starting in Michigan and moving to Durban, South Africa, at the age of five. Through Miah’s story, we learn that fatherhood is a journey of continuous learning and growth. He reminds us that while we may not always meet our lofty parenting goals, it's the daily interactions and the environment we create for our children that truly define our success as dads. 
 00:01:19 - Miah's Background and Journey 00:02:24 - Miah's Early Memories of Moving to South Africa 00:03:43 - Discussing Michigan Roots and Family Connections 00:05:31 - Miah's Childhood Transition to South Africa 00:07:01 - Parental Influence and Framing Challenges as Adventures 00:07:34 - The Role of Miah's Father in His Upbringing 00:08:08 - Early Memories in South Africa and Family Dynamics 00:09:12 - Cultural Experiences and Family Adventures 00:11:19 - Learning About Father's Past During a Sermon 00:12:05 - The Importance of Communication Between Father and Son 00:13:19 - Miah Reflects on His Father's Approach to Parenting 00:15:05 - Challenges of Fatherhood and Time Management 00:16:16 - Family Traditions and Involving Kids in Decision Making 00:17:31 - Establishing Family Rules and Boundaries 00:18:49 - Intentionality in Parenting and Handling Sensitive Topics 00:20:37 – Miah’s Approach to Discussing Technology and Freedom with Kids 00:22:15 - Miah's Take on Family Traditions and Creating a Family Identity 00:24:37 - The Value of Capturing Family Moments and Decision-Making Tools 00:25:07 - Miah's Desire for More Guidance from His Father 00:26:19 - The Significance of Small Parenting Moments 00:29:37 - The Balance of Independence and Guidance in Parenting 00:32:17 - The Influence of Miah's Grandfather on Family Traditions 00:34:39 - The Challenge of Balancing Parental Expectations and Reality 00:36:05 - Teaching Kids About Family Values and Responsibilities 00:37:11 - Establishing and Explaining Family Rules to Children 00:38:13 - The Importance of Being Intentional with Children 00:39:53 - Creating a Safe Space for Open Communication with Kids 00:41:19 - The Impact of Miah's Wife's Profession on Parenting 00:42:53 - Discussing Sensitive Topics and Empowering Children 00:44:43 - The Importance of Ongoing Conversations About Difficult Topics 00:48:33 - The Importance of Addressing Taboo Topics with Children 00:49:52 - The Approach to Discussing Body Autonomy and Boundaries 00:51:09 - The Gradual Process of Discussing Sensitive Topics with Kids
 
 
 
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Durban, South Africa
Youth for Christ
Apartheid, South Africa
 
 
 
WHERE WE CAN CONNECT: 
Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Instagram
Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Twitter
Connect with Bear Crawl with Dads on Facebook
Follow Ross Purdy on LinkedIn
Bear Crawl with Dad’s website
 
 
FOLLOW & REVIEW ON APPLE PODCASTS
 Are you following the podcast? If you are not, I want to encourage you to follow today so you don’t miss any future episodes! I have so many amazing guests and topics lined up; I would hate for you to miss a single one!  Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts. 
Could I ask a big favor? If you are loving the show, I would LOVE it if you would leave me a review on Apple Podcasts. I read each and every one!  
Wondering how to leave a review? Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.  So easy and so appreciated! 
 
 
OTHER EPISODES YOU’LL ENJOY
 
01: Dads, Dogs, and, Parenting with Lamar Smith
02: Texas Football, Greatest Generation, and More with Geoff King
03: Arkansas, Africa, and Father Memories on the Farm with Todd Brogdon
04: Laughter, Parenting Three Girls, and Our True North with Steve Pulley

Franklin Swann Notes
Episode Summary: The Power of Fatherhood and VulnerabilityIn this heartfelt episode of "Bear Crawl with Dads," we had the pleasure of speaking with Franklin, a dedicated father and business owner from Tyler, Texas. Franklin shared his fatherhood journey, the challenges, and triumphs of running a family business, and the importance of being present and intentional as a dad.
Key Takeaways:
· Family Business Legacy: Franklin discussed his 128-year-old family business in furniture and interior design, highlighting the inherent pressures and his desire to contribute meaningfully rather than just taking over.· Fatherhood Insights: We delved into Franklin's experiences as a father, his relationship with his dad, and the lessons he's learned along the way. He emphasized the value of patience, presence, and the power of apologizing to your children.· Intentional Parenting: Franklin shared his daily practice of writing love notes to his wife and children, a simple yet profound act that strengthens his family bonds and ensures his loved ones know how much they are cherished.· Vulnerability Among Men: Franklin opened up about his podcast, "The World Needs Men," which aims to provide a space for men to share their struggles and support each other in their roles as fathers and husbands.· The Importance of Community: The episode highlighted the significance of men having a community where they can be vulnerable and honest about their challenges without fear of judgment.·  Reflections:
This episode was a powerful reminder of fathers' impact on their families and the importance of vulnerability and intentionality in parenting. Franklin's story and commitment to being the best dad he can be were genuinely inspiring. Creating a supportive community for fathers is beneficial and necessary for the well-being of families everywhere.
Remember, there is always time to reconnect with your children or your father. As we continue our journey to be better dads, let's take a page from Franklin's book and lead with humility, gratitude, and love. 00:00:03 - Introduction to the Podcast 00:00:14 - Welcoming Listeners to "Bear Crawl with Dads" 00:00:24 - Discussing the Spectrum of Fatherhood 00:00:34 - Introducing Guest Franklin from Texas 00:01:20 - Franklin's Background and Family Business 00:02:07 - Franklin's Age and Schooling 00:02:24 - Visiting All Saints School for Innovative Education 00:02:47 - Franklin's Experience with Texas Football 00:03:36 - The Legacy of Franklin's Family Business 00:03:57 - Expectations and Pressures in a Family Business 00:04:09 - Franklin's Decision to Join the Family Business 00:04:52 - The Challenges of Running a Family Business 00:05:56 - The Pressure of Continuing a Family Legacy 00:06:07 - Franklin's Faith and Personal Growth 00:06:45 - Franklin's Relationship with His Brother 00:07:04 - Franklin Reflects on His Father's Influence 00:08:01 - Franklin's Father's Intentional Parenting 00:09:33 - Franklin's Father as a Grandfather 00:10:08 - The Importance of Quality Time and Presence 00:10:50 - Franklin's Take on His Father's Parenting Style 00:11:29 - Franklin's Brother's Relationship with Their Father 00:12:12 - Franklin's Gratitude Towards His Father 00:13:01 - The Impact of Fathers and the Importance of Gratitude 00:13:54 - Franklin's Advice to Fathers and Sons 00:14:20 - Franklin Shares a Personal Story About His Father 00:15:36 - The Significance of Fathers Being Present 00:16:08 - Franklin's Challenges as a Father 00:16:59 - Franklin's Son Calls Him Out 00:17:10 - Learning from Parenting Mistakes 00:18:01 - The Power of Apologizing to Your Children 00:19:16 - The Legacy of Fathers and Sons 00:19:51 - The Importance of Intentionality in Fatherhood 00:20:47 - Franklin's Morning Routine for Family Connection 00:21:31 - The Impact of Writing Love Notes to Family 00:22:25 - Encouraging Fathers to Reconnect with Their Children 00:22:47 - Franklin's Passion for Helping Fathers 00:23:01 - The

For Episode #25 of Bear Crawl with Dads, we visit with Joaull Bazil. Joaull is a husband, father, videographer, and photographer who grew up in the Virgin Islands. Joaull is a houseparent at a children's home in Texas who discusses his role and the dynamics of living with eight boys and his own three kids. He pays tribute to mentors that changed the trajectory of his life, and how that gave vision to his life calling. Joaull is in the trenches of making a difference in the lives of young men. You will be inspired by his story. 
 
IN TODAY’S EPISODE WE DISCUSS: 
 
00:01:09 Working at a children's home.
00:06:54 Children's homes serve different purposes.
00:19:35 Family support is crucial.
00:23:08 Father's work ethic influenced him.
00:31:18 Finding stability and faith through adversity.
00:39:26 The power of positive male role models.
00:42:10 Father figures shape our lives.
00:57:38 Importance of mentorship and community.
01:13:09 Empathy and understanding for children.
01:19:20 Connecting with children takes intentional time.
01:31:47 Men struggle with vulnerability and seeking help.
01:36:15 Diverse communities can lead to growth.
01:46:22 Never too late to reconnect.
 
 
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Follow Joaull Bazil on Instagram
Joaull Bazil’s website
 St. Croix
 
WHERE WE CAN CONNECT: 
Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Instagram
Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Twitter
Connect with Bear Crawl with Dads on Facebook
Follow Ross Purdy on LinkedIn
Bear Crawl with Dad’s website
 
 
FOLLOW & REVIEW ON APPLE PODCASTS
 Are you following the podcast? If you are not, I want to encourage you to follow today so you don’t miss any future episodes! I have so many amazing guests and topics lined up; I would hate for you to miss a single one!  Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts. 
Could I ask a big favor? If you are loving the show, I would LOVE it if you would leave me a review on Apple Podcasts. I read each and every one!  
Wondering how to leave a review? Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.  So easy and so appreciated! 
 
 
OTHER EPISODES YOU’LL ENJOY
 
01: Dads, Dogs, and, Parenting with Lamar Smith
02: Texas Football, Greatest Generation, and More with Geoff King
03: Arkansas, Africa, and Father Memories on the Farm with Todd Brogdon
04: Laughter, Parenting Three Girls, and Our True North with Steve Pulley
05: The Pulpit to Nepal to Being Present with Adam Nevins
06: 5th Generation Texan, Refugees, and More with Joel Vestal
07: Loss of a Mother, Legacy of Laugher, & the Power of Being Present with David Hamilton
08: Wrestling with Faith, Thoughts ...