Let me ask you something: Has a kid ever run up to you, not your own child, but somebody else's and just... grabbed your hand? Or maybe a young person you used to teach, coach, or mentor, reached back out to tell you something they haven't told their own father? If that's happened to you, this episode is for you. Because somewhere along the way, you became the Uncle. In this episode, I am talking about one of the most powerful roles a man can carry: not just father to his own, butmentor, safe harbor, and anchor for the generation coming up around him. I provide 5 facets to look for and 5 tips to use in becoming this role. Afterwards, ensure that you take on the 'Uncle Audit Challenge' (located at the end of the notes). Finally, ensure that you go to the website (www.nooffseason4dads.com) for these and other resources. My final ask is that you share this episode with someone you believe needs to hear these words. Listen. Enjoy. Share. Fund. Repeat Challenge: "The Uncle Audit" A 5-Part Reflection for Fathers, Uncles & Chosen Men Set aside 15–20 minutes this week. Find a quiet space. Be honest with yourself. Question1: Who are you the Uncle to? Write down the names of the young people in your life, biological children or not, who you feel genuinely trust you. Who runs to you? Who texts you when things go sideways? Who lights up when you walk in the room? Don't overthink it. Write the names. Question 2:When did you last invest in them intentionally? Look at your list. For each name, when was the last time you reached out not because you had to, but because you wanted to? Not at a family event or scheduled time, but just... because? If you're struggling to remember, that's your answer. Question 3:What do they see you modeling? If the young people in your orbit were describing how you handle stress, disagreement, failure, or success, what would they say? Is that the lesson you want to be teaching? Be honest. We model more than we mentor. Question 4:Who was your Uncle? Think about the (man or men) who played this role in your life. Whether it was a biological uncle, a teacher, a coach, a neighbor, or pastor. What did he do that you still carry? Write it down. Now ask yourself: am I giving that same gift tosomeone else? Question 5:What is your one next step? Choose one young person from your list. Identify one specific action you will take this week to invest in them. A phone call. A handwritten note. An invitation to spend time together. A conversation you've been putting off. Write it down. Put it in your calendar. Do the thing. Share your one next step in the NOS4Dadscommunity. Tag us @nos4dads and use #IAmTheUncle — let's hold each other accountable. For the scholarly reference list, please go to www.nooffseason4dads.com
