Father's Refuge

James Moffitt
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

The Father’s Refuge Podcast is a faith‑centered space for fathers navigating grief, loss, trauma, and emotional healing. After losing my daughter Jessica to cancer, I discovered how little grief support for fathers existed — and how many men were grieving in silence. Each episode explores men’s mental health, Christian grief, mourning, bereavement, and the emotional journey of rebuilding life after loss. Through honest conversations, personal stories, and faith‑rooted encouragement, this podcast offers hope to fathers who feel unseen in their grief. Topics we explore: grief support for fathers, men grieving, Christian grief, loss and healing, bereavement, trauma recovery, fatherhood and grief, emotional healing, hope after loss, spiritual healing, navigating grief as a dad

  1. 5d ago

    Educating Men Through Prostate Cancer, Recovery, and Faith with Michael Bovarnick

    I would love to hear from you. Click the link now Educating Men Through Prostate Cancer, Recovery, and Faith James Moffitt talks with Michael Bovarnick, an 83-year-old Reno resident who has lived with prostate cancer for more than 23 years and also survived triple bypass surgery. Michael shares the full arc of his diagnosis, recurrence, treatment, and recovery, with a strong focus on the emotional impact on men and families.This episode matters because it goes beyond medical facts and shows how education, communication, and faith can help patients and spouses navigate a prostate cancer journey with more clarity and less fear. Key topics Michael introduces himself as an 83-year-old man living in Reno, Nevada, who has spent 23 years dealing with prostate cancer and also survived a triple bypass.He explains how his first prostate cancer diagnosis started with a PSA rise from 4.5 to 5.4 after a missed routine test and a recent virus.He shares why his father’s death from prostate cancer influenced his decision to choose a radical prostatectomy.Michael describes his first surgery, including a laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in the Boston area and pathology that showed the cancer was very close to breaking out of the prostate.He walks through the long stretch of monitoring after surgery, including 20 years of undetectable PSA results.He recounts the recurrence years later in Reno, beginning with a PSA of 0.2, then 0.5, then 1.7, which led to a PET scan showing cancer had returned.He explains how radiation was used to treat two pelvic nodes, followed by a later scan that revealed metastasis through the T9 transverse process.Michael discusses androgen deprivation therapy, or ADT, including its intended effect of lowering testosterone and its difficult side effects.He speaks candidly about the emotional and physical effects of treatment, including mood swings, night sweats, sleep disruption, and strain on intimacy.He describes why prostate cancer education became his mission and how the Prostate Education Project grew from a book idea into a larger educational library, including a Spanish-language version.James and Michael discuss faith, mortality, gratitude, and the importance of leaving a legacy through service to others.Michael emphasizes that education, communication with a spouse, and self-advocacy are key tools for getting through the uncertainty of cancer treatment.He stresses that prostate cancer is not a death sentence and that quality of life is still possible with treatment, support, exercise, and diet.Timestamps (00:00) Welcome to the show and Michael’s introduction  (02:17) The first PSA rise and how the diagnosis began  (03:43) Choosing surgery after seeing his father’s experience  (04:43) Recovery after prostate removal and years of clear tests  (05:11) The recurrence returns in Reno after 20 years  (06:37) Radiation treatment for pelvic lymph nodes  (07:30) Cancer reaches the T9 area and the fear of bone involvement  (08:00) Starting ADT and why testosterone suppression matters  (08:59) Side effects nobody talks about enough  (10:26) Why Michael started the Prostate Education Project  (12:21) The reality of living with treatment and still having hope  (13:13) Faith, prayer, and a sense of higher purpose  (16:21) A nurse’s prayer and support during open heart surgery  (18:01) A doctor’s question about what is left to do in life  (20:54) Why sharing stories helps other people  (22:12) Education as Michael’s current calling and legacy  (25:35) James explains the need for Father’s Refuge  (27:54) Why many men stay silent about prostate cancer  (30:44) Living with the side effects of ADT and the importance of perspective  (34:12) How the journey changed Michael as a husband and father  (36:47) Building a guide that answers the questions people do not know to ask  (38:42) Why education and self-research matter  (39:30) Where to find the Prostate Education Project  (40:25) Michael’s advice to men facing prostate cancer  (41:34) Closing encouragement to seek help and not suffer in silence Notable quotes “Knowledge reduces fear.” “Education changed my journey.” “There is life at the end of the tunnel.” Action items Get routine PSA testing and do not skip follow-up screenings.Ask questions early, especially after a diagnosis when it is easy to feel overwhelmed.Communicate openly with a spouse or partner about side effects and emotional strain.Learn about treatment options, including surgery, radiation, and ADT.Use support resources instead of suffering in silence.Support the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/

  2. Jul 31

    Keep Those Feet Moving: A Resilient Journey Through Grief and Fatherhood with AJ Coleman

    I would love to hear from you. Click the link now This heartfelt episode features AJ Coleman, a resilience mentor, who shares his deeply personal story of grieving the loss of his wife Corey to brain cancer while raising their young daughter, Zoe. AJ discusses how grief transformed his life, the importance of closure, faith, and the power of perseverance—offering practical wisdom and hope for anyone navigating life's toughest seasons. In this episode: AJ's life before and after his wife’s diagnosis and passingThe impact of childhood grief, including living with hearing impairmentHow Corey's resilience and outlook on life shaped AJ’s perspectiveThe significance of closure in the grieving processPersonal stories of fighting cancer, treatment challenges, and financial strainThe meaning of a "storybook ending" and the importance of legacyLessons learned about caregiving during illness and the strength of father-daughter bondsHow faith was tested, lost, and rediscovered amid lossPractical advice for healing, keeping movement in grief, and seeking helpThe inspiration behind AJ's book, Keep Those Feet MovingSupport the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/

  3. Jul 24

    The Quiet Place Where God Finds Us — Facing Suffering Without Losing Faith with David Libby

    I would love to hear from you. Click the link now In this heartfelt episode of Father’s Refuge, David Libby shares his profound journey through suffering, faith, and the transformative power of trusting God amid life's toughest challenges. This conversation is a reminder that our struggles aren’t the end, but part of a larger story of grace and renewal.Main Topics:   The impact of childhood models of fatherhood and their influence on adult relationships  Navigating chronic illness within the family and its effect on faith and perseverance  The biblical perspective on suffering, purpose, and trusting God's sovereignty in pain  The importance of honest vulnerability and hope for men walking through hardship  Practical encouragement for fathers and men to embrace their journey with courage and faith  Timestamps:  00:49 - Welcome and introduction: Facing the quiet battles of manhood  01:18 - David Libby’s story of suffering and resilience  02:38 - The toll of chronic illness on family and faith  04:10 - Childhood influences shaping views of fatherhood  04:27 - Carrying childhood lessons into marriage and life  05:55 - The challenge of maintaining vows amid sickness  06:28 - The foundation of Christ in family life  07:05 - Objective and subjective faith: doctrine versus relationship  08:19 - How suffering revealed the depth of spiritual life  09:07 - Transition from health to crisis: confronting unexpected trials  10:39 - Biblical stories of Job and trusting God through pain  11:12 - How faith sustained David in the depths of suffering  12:47 - Facing the loss of loved ones and the strength found in God's promises 16:42 - The philosophical defense for the existence of God  18:39 - Wrestling with unanswered "why" questions  19:42 - The reality of emotional and spiritual battles in suffering  20:09 - The biblical view of pain and God's purpose in it  21:07 - Trusting God's sovereignty in the face of tragedy  22:37 - The hope rooted in an objective Faith amidst subjective pain  23:49 - The promises that help us endure moments of despair  30:57 - Learning to accept the mystery and trust God's plan  33:27 - The importance of surrendering control and trusting in eternity  40:52 - A father's encouragement: Your story is still being written  43:44 - The suffering of Christ as the ultimate act of shared pain  45:31 - Accepting God's sovereignty even when answers are elusive  46:47 - Men's invitation to honesty, healing, and hope  47:32 - Closing thoughts: You matter, your story matters, and God's grace is still at work Resources & Links:   Book: Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering by Tim Keller  Book: Job: Facing the Trials of Life by John MacArthur  Romans 8:28  Hebrews 12  Romans 8:18  Connect with David Libby:   LinkedIn  Twitter  May this episode serve as a refuge for those navigating grief, hardship, and the journey of faith. Remember, you are not alone—God is still writing your story. Support the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/

  4. Jul 6

    Aaron Story told by Gayle Keech

    I would love to hear from you. Click the link now Today on Father’s Refuge, we welcome someone whose story is woven into my own in ways only grief and faith can explain. Gayle Keech and her husband Anthony lost their son, Aaron, many years ago — a loss that reshaped their lives forever. Our families met through Camp Happy Days during our daughter Jessica’s battle with cancer, and through the heartbreak of losing her. Gayle and I walked different roads, but the same valley. In this conversation, we’re going to talk about Aaron’s life, the weight of losing a child, the long road of healing, and the faith that keeps us standing when the world feels shattered. This is a conversation for every parent who has loved deeply, lost painfully, and is still trying to find their way forward. Support the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/

  5. Jun 19

    Healing and Hope Through Loss with Amy Lou Jenkins

    I would love to hear from you. Click the link now Keywords: grief, loss, fatherhood, men's mental health, healing, trauma, faith, hope, recovery, grief support, fathers grieving, Christian grief, loss and healing, men’s mental health Embracing Healing and Hope Through Loss with Amy Lou Jenkins Joins us in this heartfelt episode as Amy Lou Jenkins shares her personal journey through grief, resilience, and finding meaning amidst life's challenges. Whether you're mourning a loved one, facing personal setbacks, or seeking inspiration to carry on, Amy’s insights provide comfort and actionable hope.  In this episode: Amy discusses her background in nursing, writing, and how her personal losses shaped her outlook on life and healing The importance of storytelling, journaling, and nature as tools for emotional processing and growth  How societal and gender expectations influence grief and emotional expression  Practical ways to honor loved ones and keep their legacy alive through acts of kindness and storytelling  The misconception that grief lasts forever and the truth about healing over time  How repeated losses teach us resilience and the importance of gratitude and thankfulness  Encouragement for fathers and men to express their emotions and process grief authentically  Amy’s insights on navigating social media negativity and advocating for kindness   Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Amy Lou Jenkins and her journey of healing through life's challenges 02:09 - Amy shares her story of personal struggles, writing, and uncovering life's meaning 04:54 - The significance of purpose-driven community work in shaping resilience 07:15 - Exploring grief and loss: Amy’s personal experience with her daughter Jessica 08:13 - The transformative power of nature and journaling in healing processes 10:05 - Practical tips for connecting with loved ones and honoring their memory 12:13 - The therapeutic benefits of writing and storytelling in overcoming grief 14:40 - How to use personal stories to leave a legacy for future generations 18:15 - The misconception that grief is a permanent state and understanding the healing timeline 20:38 - Strategies for surviving difficult seasons and finding purpose beyond pain 22:36 - The spiral nature of grief and the importance of gratitude in healing 25:38 - Challenging cultural gender stereotypes and their impact on emotional health 27:41 - Building a kinder, more compassionate world and confronting social negativity 33:22 - The importance of mindfulness and speaking up against injustice and bullying 37:12 - How understanding the healing process evolves and embracing the uniqueness of each grief story 39:35 - Message for fathers and men who are silent about their pain 41:03 - Final words of hope: cultivating gratitude as a guiding light in tough times 42:17 - How to connect with Amy, access her writings, and support her ongoing workResources & Links:   Amy Lou Jenkins Website  The Alchemy of Sass (Upcoming Book)  Free Journal for Fathers and Father Figures  Every Natural Fact Memoir (free download)  Connect with Amy Lou Jenkins:   Website  Facebook Author Hub  Remember, grief is a journey, not a destination. Healing takes time, and hope is always within reach. Thank you for listening, and be sure to share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Support the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/ Support the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/

  6. May 23

    Even Though, We Will with Matthew Elfrid

    I would love to hear from you. Click the link now Finding Hope and Faith After Child Loss: An Interview with Matthew EfirdIn this heartfelt conversation, Matthew Efird shares his journey through unimaginable grief after losing his son Noah to trisomy 13. Discover how faith, community, and personal resilience can guide parents through sorrow towards hope and healing.Main Topics: The emotional journey of diagnosing and mourning a child with trisomy 13The role of faith and Scripture in navigating griefHow men can process emotions and support each other during lossPractical advice for fathers grieving the loss of a childBuilding community and seeking help when feeling isolatedTimestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and overview of Matthew Efird's story  01:13 - The emotional impact of Noah's diagnosis and early grief 03:40 - Recognizing and processing feelings of helplessness  05:43 - The medical journey and diagnosis of trisomy  13 07:23 - Early thoughts and emotions as Noah’s life was coming to an end  11:14 - How faith in Jesus sustains during tragedy 1 3:29 - The significance of understanding that children belong to God  17:34 - The importance of example and mentorship in faith 20:02 - Reflecting on Noah’s unique story and God's mercy  22:14 - The importance of trusting God's plan amidst suffering  23:43 - The hope of reunion in heaven and trusting God's sovereignty  26:56 - Navigating faith when emotions threaten to shake trust  27:44 - The process of sanctification and walking with God in grief  30:10 - Embracing worship and lamentations in times of hardship  33:34 - Supporting others and offering presence over advice  36:20 - The importance of listening and asking permission in support  44:19 - Challenges faced by men without faith or community support 4 6:17 - Taking initiative to build meaningful friendships  48:26 - The necessity of relying on Christ and avoiding isolation 4 9:15 - The leadership role of fathers in grief and resilience  50:45 - Practical steps for men to seek help and community  52:27 - Resources for grief support and how to connect with Matthew Efird  53:35 - Final encouragement for grieving fathers and the power of faithResources & Links: Even Though We Will - BookMatthew Efird - WebsiteEven Though We Will FoundationConnect with Matthew Efird: LinkedInTwitterRemember, you are not alone. Reach out, lean on faith, and find community to walk this path of grief. Your story and feelings matter, and hope is always within reach. Keywords: grief, loss, fatherhood, men's mental health, healing, trauma, faith, hope, recovery, grief support, fathers grieving, Christian grief, loss and healing, men’s mental health Support the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/ Support the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/

  7. Apr 10

    The Unspoken Grief of Fathers: Lessons from Kenny Stoddart

    I would love to hear from you. Click the link now Kenny Stoddart shares his deeply personal journey through the loss of his child, the impact on his marriage, and how he found hope and purpose through faith and helping others. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone navigating grief, especially fathers, and emphasizes the importance of community, faith, and resilience.  keywords grief, loss, fatherhood, men's mental health, healing, trauma, faith, hope, recovery, grief support, fathers grieving, Christian grief, loss and healing, men’s mental health Keywords: grief support, fathers grieving, Christian grief, loss and healing, men’s mental health Support the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/ Support the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/

  8. Apr 3

    Grief, Growth, and the Father’s Journey — with Coach Rev

    I would love to hear from you. Click the link now  summary In this heartfelt interview, grief and resilience coach Lee Atherton shares her journey into end-of-life care, the importance of compassion, and practical advice for supporting loved ones through loss. Discover insights on grief stages, honoring life, and caring for those who serve as first responders.  keywords  grief, loss, fatherhood, men's mental health, healing, trauma, faith, hope, recovery, grief support, fathers grieving, Christian grief, loss and healing, men’s mental health  key  topics End-of-life and grief counseling The role of faith and compassion in healing Stages of grief and emotional resilience Supporting loved ones and caregivers Unique grief experiences of first responders  guest  name Lee Atherton Titles The Power of Compassion in End-of-Life Care Navigating Grief: Stages and Healing Strategies  sound bites "Forgiveness is key to healing and peace." "Schedule time for self-care, even in chaos." "Living well and dying well require intentionality." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Grief and Resilience Coaching 03:05 Finding Purpose in Grief Counseling 04:26 The Role of Faith and Compassion 06:11 Understanding Coach Rev at the Crossroads 07:15 Common Misconceptions About Grief 08:25 Personal Experiences with Loss 09:52 Navigating the Stages of Grief 11:51 Supporting Loved Ones in Mourning 13:54 Lessons from the Dying 15:30 Planning for End of Life 16:43 Celebration of Life vs. Traditional Funerals 20:15 Unique Grief of First Responders 23:50 Preventing Compassion Fatigue 25:09 Living Well and Dying Well 26:21 Future Goals and Outreach  resources Coach Rev - End of Life and Grief Support - https://coachrev.com Phoenix Rising Service Dogs - https://phoenixrising.sdsl.com Critical Incident Stress Management Teams - https://www.cism.org  guest links Website - https://coachrev.com Email - lee@coachrev.com Phone - 508-308-7116 Keywords: grief support, fathers grieving, Christian grief, loss and healing, men’s mental health Support the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/ Support the show Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583591441571 Podcast Support https://www.fathersrefuge.com/support/ One Time donation  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2528600/support Monthly Support Want to be a guest? https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/fathersrefuge Mobile Follow Page https://www.fathersrefuge.com/follow/

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5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

The Father’s Refuge Podcast is a faith‑centered space for fathers navigating grief, loss, trauma, and emotional healing. After losing my daughter Jessica to cancer, I discovered how little grief support for fathers existed — and how many men were grieving in silence. Each episode explores men’s mental health, Christian grief, mourning, bereavement, and the emotional journey of rebuilding life after loss. Through honest conversations, personal stories, and faith‑rooted encouragement, this podcast offers hope to fathers who feel unseen in their grief. Topics we explore: grief support for fathers, men grieving, Christian grief, loss and healing, bereavement, trauma recovery, fatherhood and grief, emotional healing, hope after loss, spiritual healing, navigating grief as a dad

Information

  • Creator
    James Moffitt
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Father's Refuge
  • Show Website
    Father's Refuge