Gap to Gig – Working Dads' Guide to Fatherhood, Meaningful Work, & Finding Balance in Life

Michael Jacobs - Working Dads & Fatherhood Expert

Gap to Gig explores the life in between who we are, what we do, and the life we want to build as working dads. Through honest conversations with dads, experts, leaders, and people who have navigated their own twists and turns, host Michael Jacobs explores fatherhood, work-life balance, meaningful work, parenting, identity, ambition, relationships, and what actually matters most in modern life. Most of life's biggest decisions don't belong exclusively to work or family. They live somewhere in between, where the challenge isn't simply succeeding at work or showing up at home, but figuring out how all the pieces fit together. How do you build a meaningful career without losing yourself in it? How do you stay ambitious while remaining present for the people who matter most? How do you navigate career changes, setbacks, uncertainty, and new opportunities while still showing up for your family? How do you know if you're spending your time on the right things? This show is for working dads who feel pulled between responsibility and fulfillment, ambition and presence, work and the rest of life. The dads who don't want to wake up ten years from now wondering where the time went. Every conversation is designed to help you make more intentional choices about your work, your relationships, and the life you're building before the years have a chance to pass you by. Along the way, you'll find practical ideas, fresh perspective, and the confidence that comes from knowing you're not the only dad asking these questions.

  1. 3d ago

    Jacqui Myslinski on Simplifying Life for Busy Working Dads

    For many busy working dads, life doesn't feel overwhelming because of one big problem. It feels overwhelming because of dozens of small frustrations that quietly pile up every day. Jacqui Myslinski has spent her career helping businesses create better systems, but the same principles she uses to simplify operations at work have transformed the way she and her family approach life at home. From reducing daily stress to setting clearer expectations with kids, Jacqui believes the right systems create more freedom. Jacqui shares how to: Identify the recurring frustrations that create unnecessary stressBuild simple systems that reduce mental load at home and make busy weeks feel more manageableSet clear expectations with kids instead of assuming they'll "just know"Create routines that encourage independence without overwhelming your familyReplace constant reactions with intentional habitsMake work life balance feel more manageable through small, consistent improvementsJacqui offers a practical perspective for busy working dads navigating fatherhood, work life balance, parenting, meaningful work, and the everyday realities of balancing family, career, and home. Dig Deeper Notion Mario Kart Yes Day Domino’s Pizza 30 Minutes or Less Rugrats Spidey and His Amazing Friends Janis Joplin Piano Man Follow Jacqui On her website On TikTok On YouTube On LinkedIn Sign up for her masterclass Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

    Jacqui Myslinski on Simplifying Life for Busy Working Dads
  2. Sep 8

    Kurt Bush on Redefining Success as a Working Dad

    Many working dads spend years chasing the next promotion, milestone, or achievement, believing success will finally bring fulfillment, but when your definition of success comes from everyone else's expectations, it's easy to lose sight of the life you're actually trying to build. Kurt Bush has spent decades leading teams across manufacturing and nonprofit organizations before becoming a trauma-informed coach, certified Internal Family Systems practitioner, and co-founder of Brimstone Coaching Group. He's discovered that many high achievers aren't struggling because they lack ambition. They're exhausted because they're pursuing goals that no longer align with who they are. Kurt shares how to: Define success based on your own values instead of outside expectationsFocus on how you show up instead of outcomes you can't controlBuild a simple habit of reflection that creates lasting personal growthNavigate modern dad challenges with greater self-awarenessStrengthen your relationships by responding instead of reactingPursue meaningful work without losing yourself along the wayKurt offers a thoughtful perspective on fatherhood, work life balance, dad identity and ambition, and the importance of aligning your work, relationships, and decisions with what matters most to you. Dig Deeper Internal Family Systems Theory Whistler, BC Combined No-Hitters Phineas and Ferb Only Want To Be With You Follow Kurt On his website On his podcast, Live Fully. Lead Authentically. On Instagram On LinkedIn Read his book, Live Fully, Lead Authentically Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

    Kurt Bush on Redefining Success as a Working Dad
  3. Sep 1

    Mitesh Khatri on Becoming More Present as a Working Dad

    Many dads work hard to provide for their families, yet still feel like they're missing the moments that matter most. The challenge often isn't a lack of time. It's carrying the stress, distractions, and pressure of work into the people who need us most. Mitesh Khatri is a corporate strategist, author of Fight or Father: Using CALM to Stop Reacting and Start Connecting, and a father who discovered that being physically present isn't the same as being emotionally present. After his young son quietly pointed out, "You're always on your phone, Dad," Mitesh began exploring nervous system regulation, movement, and practical habits that helped him reconnect with his family and himself. Mitesh shares how to: Recognize the difference between providing for your family and being truly presentCreate stronger connections with your children through everyday momentsModel healthy behaviors your kids will carry into adulthoodPrioritize presence at home without sacrificing meaningful workMitesh offers practical insights for working dads navigating fatherhood, work life balance, and the daily pressure to succeed while staying connected to the people who matter most. We explore presence at home, fatherhood mental health, modern dad challenges, parenting, and the small shifts that can strengthen your relationships, your leadership, and the example you set for your children. Dig Deeper Gold Coast Marathon Beyond Blue Atomic Habits Gabor Maté Slip ’N Slide Tony Robbins Awaken the Giant Within Paw Patrol Billie Jean Follow Mitesh On his website Read his book, Fight or Father: Using CALM to Stop Reacting and Start Connecting (US 🇺🇸 / AUS 🇦🇺) Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

    Mitesh Khatri on Becoming More Present as a Working Dad
  4. Aug 25

    Rob Heller on the Lessons Every Working Dad Shouldn't Leave to School

    School plays an important role in preparing our kids for the future. But some of the lessons they'll rely on most aren't taught in a classroom. Rob Heller is an entrepreneur, author, youth development expert, and founder of Boost, a personal development program that helps teenagers build the people skills, character, and healthy mindset they need to thrive long after graduation. In this episode, you'll learn how to: Help kids develop people skills that shape lifelong relationshipsBuild character, confidence, and resilience through everyday experiencesPrepare teenagers for adulthood beyond grades and test scoresModel the behaviors your children are quietly learning from youNavigate technology without sacrificing real-world connectionEncourage a healthy mindset through struggle, growth, and accountabilityHelp kids set meaningful goals and overcome obstaclesReinforce the lessons that school alone can't teachWhether you're navigating fatherhood for the first time or simply trying to be more intentional as a working dad, this conversation is a reminder that some of the most important lessons children learn come from your example. From communication and character to resilience and presence at home, Rob shares practical insights to help parents prepare their kids for life beyond the classroom. Dig Deeper How to Win Friends & Influence People Think and Grow Rich Sesame Street Rapper’s Delight Follow Rob On his website On Instagram On Facebook On YouTube On TikTok On LinkedIn On his newsletter Read his book, The Missing Course for Today's Youth Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

    Rob Heller on the Lessons Every Working Dad Shouldn't Leave to School
  5. Aug 18

    Stephen Clifford on Raising Resilient Kids as a Working Dad

    Raising resilient kids isn’t about protecting them from every challenge. It’s about preparing them to face challenges with confidence, character, and resilience. Stephen Clifford is an author, youth coach, speaker, and creator of the Forgotten Wisdom children’s book series. Together with his wife, he’s intentionally raising his children to embrace accountability, gratitude, perseverance, and failure as part of growth, while recognizing that every child learns differently. Stephen shares how to: Raise resilient kids without trying to eliminate every obstacleHelp children build confidence by learning from failureAdapt your parenting style to fit each child’s unique personalityTeach accountability and gratitude through everyday momentsModel the values you hope your kids will carry into adulthoodBalance the demands of fatherhood, meaningful work, and being a working dadCreate family traditions that reinforce character over achievementThink beyond today’s parenting decisions to the legacy you’re building for future generationsStephen offers practical encouragement for working dads navigating fatherhood, modern dad challenges, and the responsibility of raising children with character in an increasingly comfortable world. Dig Deeper The Berenstain Bears Running of the Bulls - Pamplona Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Ninja Rap Zombie by The Cranberries Follow Stephen On his website On Amazon On Instagram On YouTube On LinkedIn Taylor’s Job Safari on Instagram Taylor’s Job Safari on YouTube Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

    Stephen Clifford on Raising Resilient Kids as a Working Dad
  6. Aug 11

    Natalie Holder on Why Working Dads Need a Personal Board of Directors

    Some career decisions are too important to make alone. Whether you’re considering a career transition, navigating a difficult workplace, or trying to find more meaningful work, Natalie Holder believes one of the smartest investments you can make is building your own personal board of directors. As an employment lawyer, executive coach, and former Chief Diversity Officer, Natalie has spent years helping professionals navigate career transitions, difficult workplaces, and high-stakes decisions. Her personal board of directors framework provides a practical way to gain perspective, challenge your assumptions, and make better career and life decisions. Natalie shares how to: Build a personal board of directors that helps you make better career and life decisionsRecognize when it’s time to pivot instead of pushing throughNavigate difficult managers and unhealthy workplace culturesSeparate temporary frustration from deeper career misalignmentIncrease your visibility so new opportunities can find youBuild relationships that support both your career and your personal growthDefine what meaningful work actually means for youMake career decisions with greater clarity and confidenceNatalie offers practical advice for working dads navigating career transitions, meaningful work, and the challenge of building a career without losing sight of what matters most at home. Sometimes the best next step isn’t having all the answers. It’s surrounding yourself with people who help you ask better questions. Dig Deeper Starwood Hotels Stanford's National Accelerator Laboratory American Bar Association National Speakers Association Sesame Street Losing My Religion Follow Natalie On her websites: https://www.questei.org and https://www.natalieholderspeaks.com On YouTube On LinkedIn Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

    Natalie Holder on Why Working Dads Need a Personal Board of Directors
  7. Aug 4

    Andrew Poles on Dad Identity, Ambition, and the Pressure to Succeed

    For many dads, ambition starts with a desire to provide. The pressure to succeed, prove yourself, and live up to expectations can quietly shape your identity, your relationships, and the way you experience fatherhood. Andrew Poles knows that tension firsthand. As a single dad, he started his first business at 23 while raising his daughter and trying to build a future for his family. Over the years, he built multiple businesses, coached thousands of entrepreneurs and leaders, and learned that achievement alone doesn’t answer the deeper questions about who you are and what truly matters. Andrew shares how to: Recognize when ambition is being driven by pressure instead of purposeSeparate your self-worth from your professional successIdentify the “shoulds” that are influencing your decisionsBuild a healthier relationship with achievement and validationCreate space for reflection instead of constant strivingNavigate modern dad challenges without losing yourself in workPursue meaningful work without tying your identity to outcomesAndrew offers a thoughtful perspective on dad identity, fatherhood mental health, parenting and ambition, and the pressure many men feel to prove themselves through achievement. This conversation is a reminder that success is most fulfilling when it’s connected to who you are, not who you think you’re supposed to be. Dig Deeper University of Texas at Austin Baby Shark Ted Lasso Jamie Tartt James Taylor Tim Curry as Dr. Frank-N-Furter Sephora Follow Andrew On his website On Instagram On Facebook On YouTube On LinkedIn Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player Sign up for the newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

    Andrew Poles on Dad Identity, Ambition, and the Pressure to Succeed
  8. Jul 28

    Carol Enneking on Why Work Life Balance Feels So Hard

    For many working dads, the challenge isn’t a lack of ambition. It’s the feeling that no matter how hard they work, there’s always another responsibility competing for their time, attention, and energy. After decades in leadership roles, including serving as a Global VP of Talent and Leadership, Carol Enneking noticed a pattern: many of the most successful people she worked with were also some of the most exhausted. Carol shares how to: Recognize the difference between a demanding season and a misaligned lifeCreate margin for the unexpected instead of operating at full capacityThink about sequencing goals instead of stacking everything at onceBuild stronger relationships through presence and attentionCarol offers practical wisdom for working dads trying to navigate fatherhood, meaningful work, and the tension between professional ambition and personal priorities. Dig Deeper Stephen Covey Sharpen the Saw Insperity The Brady Bunch Barney My Best Friend’s Girl Follow Carol On her website: https://carolenneking.com/ In her community: https://carolenneking.com/join-community/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolenneking On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carol.enneking On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CarolEnnekingSpeaker On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroltenneking/ Get her book, The Rebalancing Act: https://carolenneking.com/book/ Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram: instagram.com/gaptogig On TikTok: tiktok.com/@gaptogig On X: x.com/gaptogig On YouTube: youtube.com/@gaptogig On your podcast player of choice: https://rss.com/podcasts/gaptogig/ Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter: gaptogig.com Follow Michael On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themichaeljacobs/

    Carol Enneking on Why Work Life Balance Feels So Hard
4.9
out of 5
35 Ratings

About

Gap to Gig explores the life in between who we are, what we do, and the life we want to build as working dads. Through honest conversations with dads, experts, leaders, and people who have navigated their own twists and turns, host Michael Jacobs explores fatherhood, work-life balance, meaningful work, parenting, identity, ambition, relationships, and what actually matters most in modern life. Most of life's biggest decisions don't belong exclusively to work or family. They live somewhere in between, where the challenge isn't simply succeeding at work or showing up at home, but figuring out how all the pieces fit together. How do you build a meaningful career without losing yourself in it? How do you stay ambitious while remaining present for the people who matter most? How do you navigate career changes, setbacks, uncertainty, and new opportunities while still showing up for your family? How do you know if you're spending your time on the right things? This show is for working dads who feel pulled between responsibility and fulfillment, ambition and presence, work and the rest of life. The dads who don't want to wake up ten years from now wondering where the time went. Every conversation is designed to help you make more intentional choices about your work, your relationships, and the life you're building before the years have a chance to pass you by. Along the way, you'll find practical ideas, fresh perspective, and the confidence that comes from knowing you're not the only dad asking these questions.