The Athlete Dad

Ben Gibson
  • 5.0 (29)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

The Athlete Dad is hosted by Ben Gibson, an outdoor adventure athlete turned Dad who explores the intersection of physical pursuits and fatherhood. The show follows the stories of Athlete Dads as they attempt to pursue their athletic dreams while balancing their family responsibilities. We hear wide-ranging stories from modeling ambition to integrating families into passions, triumphs, failures, harrowing adventures, and how high-performing athlete Dads also win at home.

  1. #14: Josiah Middaugh (Professional Triathlete) - The path to going pro and parenting athletes

    10/29/2024

    #14: Josiah Middaugh (Professional Triathlete) - The path to going pro and parenting athletes

    Josiah Middaugh (@josiahmiddaugh) is a multi-sport athlete of all seasons, though primarily an extremely accomplished professional triathlete competing in Xterra triathlons (off-road triathlons). You'll discover Josiah's thoughtful strategies for integrating rigorous training schedules with his roles as a husband and father, all while maintaining peak performance. Josiah opens up about his unique upbringing in a northern Michigan commune, where a close-knit community and outdoor adventures laid the foundation for his love of sports. He shares personal stories of growing up with athletic parents and the significant impact of his wife's unwavering support as we journey through Josiah’s path from amateur enthusiast to professional athlete. Discover why he champions the benefits of sport sampling over early specialization, encouraging children to explore diverse athletic opportunities. Josiah’s experiences as both a coach and father shed light on the joy of shared athletic adventures, emphasizing the importance of raising well-rounded individuals who find their passion organically. Tune in for an inspiring discussion filled with actionable insights for balancing ambitious pursuits in both sports and parenting. Episode Resources: Middaugh Coaching (Josiah's coaching business)XTERRA TriathlonsSupport the show The Athlete Dad Resources: www.theathletedad.com Ben's Instagram The Athlete Dad's Instagram The Athlete Dad YouTube

    52 min
  2. #13: Andrew "Cotty" Cotton (Big Wave Surfer) - Riding the Highs and Lows of Surfing and Fatherhood

    05/14/2024

    #13: Andrew "Cotty" Cotton (Big Wave Surfer) - Riding the Highs and Lows of Surfing and Fatherhood

    Imagine straddling the line between the ferocious power of the ocean's biggest waves and the gentle, yet perpetual, tug of fatherhood. This episode takes you on an epic journey with Andrew Cotton, a titan of big wave surfing, as he shares the deeply personal narrative of his life's adventures and tribulations. From his humble beginnings in North Devon to the breath-taking swells of Nazaré, we traverse Cotty's path to a professional surfing career, his friendship and collaboration with surfing legend Garrett McNamara, and the indelible mark of fatherhood that propels his every move. This compelling conversation reveals the intricacies of balancing a life chasing thrills with the grounding force of family. We peel back the layers of Andrew's career highs and lows, including his daunting recovery from a devastating back injury and the emotional resilience required to navigate personal hardships like divorce. Listen as Cotty offers a masterclass in adaptability and determination, discussing the pressures of aligning family moments with the capricious nature of professional surfing and how these challenges are emblematic of a universal struggle faced by many. As we wrap up, Andrew Cotton's insights transform this discussion into a profound reflection on humility, the psychological hurdles of an athlete's journey, and the fine line between pushing one's children in sports and letting them find their own way. It's a story that transcends surfing, touching on the heart of what it means to relentlessly pursue one's passions while maintaining the delicate balance that family life demands. Tune in for an episode that promises to stir the soul and inspire the brave pursuit of dreams amidst life's ebb and flow. Support the show The Athlete Dad Resources: www.theathletedad.com Ben's Instagram The Athlete Dad's Instagram The Athlete Dad YouTube

    45 min
  3. #12: Olen Netteberg (Long Distance Hiking Dad) - The Adventure of Fatherhood on the Triple Crown Trails

    02/20/2024

    #12: Olen Netteberg (Long Distance Hiking Dad) - The Adventure of Fatherhood on the Triple Crown Trails

    Embark on an adventure with Olen Netteberg (@olennetteburg) as he recounts the trials, triumphs, and trails of his family's awe-inspiring quest to conquer the Triple Crown of hiking. Together with his wife, Denae, and their intrepid children, Olen weaves a tale of resilience that defies the conventions of both parenting and exploration. Their journey is not just about the paths traveled but also the life lessons gathered among the wilds of the Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail. As a father and doctor, Olen reveals how he's woven the fabric of his family's bond with threads of nature and nurture, challenging their children to push past perceived limits and partake in a once-in-a-lifetime type childhood. The anecdotes shared in this episode offer a glimpse into the laughter and learning that come from a life lived unconventionally. From homeschooling on the trails to fostering a spirit of teamwork within the family, the Nettebergs' story presents an alternative blueprint for education and growth that extends far beyond the classroom walls. Step off the beaten path with us and embrace the chaos of parenting as Olen imparts wisdom on integrating professional and personal passions. Whether you're a parent seeking inspiration or an adventurer at heart, this episode promises a fresh perspective on raising children who are as confident on the trails as they are traversing cultural divides. So lace up your boots and let the Netteberg family's odyssey inspire your next step, whether it leads to the mountains or simply a closer connection with those you call family. Resources: Olen's InstagramDenae's InstagramFamily Hiking BlogSupport the show The Athlete Dad Resources: www.theathletedad.com Ben's Instagram The Athlete Dad's Instagram The Athlete Dad YouTube

    1h 2m
  4. #11: Karl Egloff (Mountain Athlete) - Balancing family with racing up the world's tallest peaks

    02/06/2024

    #11: Karl Egloff (Mountain Athlete) - Balancing family with racing up the world's tallest peaks

    Karl Egloff (@karl.egloff) is a professional mountain guide and athlete, most well known for his world record speed ascents of some of the world's tallest peaks, including Makalu (27,838') and Denali (20,310'). In this episode, Karl discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing family life with his passion for mountain climbing. He shares how his early exposure to the mountains and his father's influence shaped his love for climbing. He emphasizes the importance of teaching his children discipline, independence, and the ability to take risks. He also discusses the need for efficiency and adaptability as a parent-athlete. Karl reflects on the impact of life's challenges on his strength and ambition, and how he manages risk while running up and down the tallest peaks on earth.  Chapters 01:09 Life Inside and Outside the Home 02:36 Balancing Family and Mountain Climbing 06:01 Early Exposure to Mountains and Climbing 07:48 The Influence of Father's Mentality 09:34 Teaching Kids to Take Risks and Push Themselves 10:59 Being Patient and Letting Kids Decide 12:41 Being Flexible and Efficient as a Parent-Athlete 18:04 Teaching Discipline and Balance 20:34 Managing Risk and Prioritizing Family 26:30 The Influence of Life's Challenges on Strength and Ambition 32:24 Managing Risk as a Parent-Athlete 41:30 Setting Goals and Balancing Family Life 46:40 Constant Pursuit of Balance 47:08 Finding Balance in Life 50:21 Prioritizing and Organizing 51:59 Balancing Training and Family Time 56:24 Running a Guiding Business 59:51Upcoming Goals and Changes 01:01:35 Parting Wisdom Resources: Cumbre Tours (Karl's trekking and mountain guide company)karlegloff.comSupport the show The Athlete Dad Resources: www.theathletedad.com Ben's Instagram The Athlete Dad's Instagram The Athlete Dad YouTube

    1h 10m
  5. #10: Chris Larsen (Competitive Cyclist and Entrepreneur) - Raising Athlete Kids and Approaching Fatherhood with Intention

    10/05/2023

    #10: Chris Larsen (Competitive Cyclist and Entrepreneur) - Raising Athlete Kids and Approaching Fatherhood with Intention

    Chris Larsen (@christopheralarsen) is a former competitive cyclist, entrepreneur, and father of two who joins us on a captivating exploration the unique challenges of being an athlete dad raising athlete kids. The exhilarating journey from his days as a competitive cyclist to a dedicated father provides a fresh perspective packed with practical tools and frameworks for how to approach parenting. In our conversation, we discuss everything from the ups and downs of nurturing children's passions, the importance of fostering resilience, tp the necessity for balance. Enjoy this insightful conversation that offers a fresh perspective on parenting, sports, and the pursuit of balance. As a free gift, you can get a free copy of Chris' book, "Next-Level Income" from their website here. More Resources: www.nextlevelincome.comAngela Duckworth's book GRITOutliers: The Story of Success: Gladwell, MalcolmDavid and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling GiantsJim Sheils' The Family Board MeetingDie With Zero By Bill PerkinsSupport the show The Athlete Dad Resources: www.theathletedad.com Ben's Instagram The Athlete Dad's Instagram The Athlete Dad YouTube

    59 min
  6. #9: Garrett McNamara (Big Wave Surfer) - Seeking Balance and Presence Amongst the Waves of Fatherhood

    09/05/2023

    #9: Garrett McNamara (Big Wave Surfer) - Seeking Balance and Presence Amongst the Waves of Fatherhood

    Brace yourselves as we ride untamed waves with  legendary surfer, Garrett McNamara, as we unravel the intricate bond between surfing and fatherhood.  Garrett is best known as one of the most prolific big wave surfers in the history of surfing, having surfed some of the largest waves on earth, including a 78-foot wave - a world record at the time.  Delving deeper into McNamara's life, we explore his spiritual connection to surfing, and how it's driven his life and career, helping him maintain his enthusiasm over decades of chasing the world's biggest waves. We discover how his approach to the sport evolved, and reflect on the importance of finding equilibrium between our passions and family responsibilities - a challenge we can all relate to. We discuss a wealth of topics, including McNamara's unique upbringing, the influence of his parents on his parenting style, his environmental advocacy initiatives, and his commitment towards sustainable living and making a difference beyond the waves. Through it all, McNamara's incredible journey from a childhood filled with uncertainty to becoming an eight-time world record holder and a passionate father, re-emphasizes the indomitable spirit of human resilience, love, and dedication. Tune in, whether you're a surfer, a father, or just someone seeking to grow as a human - this conversation promises to inspire and enlighten. More Resources: www.garrettmcnamara.comGarrett's Instagram"100 Foot Wave" HBO Series"100 Foot Wave" PodcastGarrett's World Record Wave"The Glacier Project" TrailerGarrett Surfing Peahi "Jaws"Garrett Surfing "Wipeout of a lifetime" at MavericksSupport the show The Athlete Dad Resources: www.theathletedad.com Ben's Instagram The Athlete Dad's Instagram The Athlete Dad YouTube

    51 min
  7. #8: Nolan Womack (Fitness Coach and Dad of Four) - Thoughtful Approach to Balancing Fitness Goals and Fatherhood

    08/22/2023

    #8: Nolan Womack (Fitness Coach and Dad of Four) - Thoughtful Approach to Balancing Fitness Goals and Fatherhood

    Ever wonder how a fitness coach balances grueling workouts and fatherhood? Meet Nolan Womack, a dedicated dad of four, husband, fitness coach, gym owner that's on a mission to become the fittest father of four without sacrificing time with his family. Nolan's journey is not just inspirational, it's a testament to training with maximum crossover benefit in the least amount of time. His personal insights into setting goals,  experimenting with adjustments, and working to achieve his goals are an eye-opener for anyone embarking on a fitness journey. Nolan has a knack for consistency and his approach to breaking up workouts into digestible pieces and making fitness sustainable is an innovative way to keep fitness goals in sight. His approach that curiosity drives his personal goals, is a refreshing take on fitness. Not just that, his methods for cultivating healthy habits in his children are insightful nuggets for anyone looking to combine family and fitness. However, it's not all about fitness. Nolan's story also delves into the delicate balancing act between achieving fitness goals while devoting quality time to family. His approach to customizing workouts, considering disciplines from CrossFit to gymnastics, and his unique perspective on the diminishing returns of time spent in the gym will have you rethinking your own fitness journey. Nolan's rich experiences and strategies will inspire you to push your boundaries and achieve your fitness goals, all while keeping family at the forefront. Tune in for an energizing conversation that will leave you motivated and better equipped to juggle fitness and family. Support the show The Athlete Dad Resources: www.theathletedad.com Ben's Instagram The Athlete Dad's Instagram The Athlete Dad YouTube

    1h 8m
  8. #7: Matthias Giraud "Superfrenchie" (Professional Ski-BASE Jumper) - Living an intentional life exploring passion, purpose, and pragmatism

    07/31/2023

    #7: Matthias Giraud "Superfrenchie" (Professional Ski-BASE Jumper) - Living an intentional life exploring passion, purpose, and pragmatism

    In this episode, we journey to the peak of adventure with Matthias Giraud, AKA "Superfrenchie" (@superfrenchieofficial) a globally renowned mountain athlete known for his daring feats in ski-BASE jumping. Matthias isn’t just known for his breath-taking pursuits, he’s also a dedicated father who’s made the pursuit of being an intentional and present Dad a part of his grand adventure. A pioneer in the world of extreme sports, he holds an array of impressive accomplishments, including being the first to ski-BASE jump off the Matterhorn. Matthias opens up about his philosophy on life, risks, and fatherhood. He shares his unique perspective on risk, not just as an extreme athlete but as a father, and how he's learned to balance the drive for adventure with the responsibilities of parenthood. We delve into how becoming a dad has influenced his outlook on his sport, the way he approaches challenges, and how he manages the inherent risks that come with his profession. He talks about instilling in his child a respect for the beauty and power of nature, and the importance of pursuing one's passions, despite the risks. Lastly, we journey into the heart of Matthias' purpose. He discusses the lessons he's learned from a life lived on the edge, the legacy he wishes to leave for his child, and how fatherhood has ultimately given his pursuits a new, deeper meaning. Gear up for an inspiring and thought-provoking ride as Matthias Giraud takes us through the slopes of his life, on and off the mountain, in this must-listen episode of The Athlete Dad Podcast. Prepare to be inspired by the gravity-defying tales of an athlete who has truly scaled the heights of fatherhood. More Resources: www.superfrenchie.comMatthias' Instagram"Adrenaline Sucks" TrailerFirst ski BASE jumping descent off the North face of the Aiguilles Blanches de PeutereyBen's InstagramThe Athlete Dad's Instagram Support the show The Athlete Dad Resources: www.theathletedad.com Ben's Instagram The Athlete Dad's Instagram The Athlete Dad YouTube

    1h 13m
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5
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

The Athlete Dad is hosted by Ben Gibson, an outdoor adventure athlete turned Dad who explores the intersection of physical pursuits and fatherhood. The show follows the stories of Athlete Dads as they attempt to pursue their athletic dreams while balancing their family responsibilities. We hear wide-ranging stories from modeling ambition to integrating families into passions, triumphs, failures, harrowing adventures, and how high-performing athlete Dads also win at home.

Information

  • Creator
    Ben Gibson
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2024
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Athlete Dad
  • Show Website
    The Athlete Dad