The Fathers Guild

Pat Barber

A deep dive into the beautiful chaos of fatherhood. Fatherhood. It’s the one job that doesn’t come with a manual, but also comes with 10,000 opinions. we’re tring to cut through the noise with real talk, goods laughs, and the occasional “oh man, same” moment. Each episode, we dive into the beautifully messy world of being a dad. Along the way, we bring in guests. guys who are in, or have been in the trenches, learning, failing, and winning just like the rest of us. This isn’t a lecture series. It’s a series of conversations. The kind you’d have around a backyard fire pit with a cold beer in hand. It’s honest, unfiltered, and full of those “I thought I was the only one!” stories. If you’re a dad (or just curious about what makes dads tick), consider this a dose of encouragement, humor, and a run back of real-life applications. Fatherhood is challenging. It might be exhausting, but it’s also the best thing you’ll ever do.

  1. 2d ago

    The Hard Truth About Parenting and Personal Responsibility | Jamie Glowacki

    In this episode, Pat Barber and Jamie Glowacki explore the deep roots of parenting, boundaries, and masculinity. They discuss how societal shifts have impacted authority in the home, the importance of understanding individual children, and practical approaches to effective parenting and self-growth. In this episode, Pat Barber and The Fathers Guild explore the nuances of effective communication, masculinity, and relationship dynamics. They share practical insights on emotional expression, mental load, and building trust in relationships. Keywords parenting, boundaries, masculinity, authority, social media, child development, personal growth, parenting strategies, mental health, societal change masculinity, communication, relationships, emotional intelligence, mental load, fatherhood, vulnerability, personal growth Key  topics The history of mom authority and societal shifts since the 1950s The impact of social media and short-form content on parenting Understanding boundaries as rules versus responses The importance of context in parenting decisions The role of personal responsibility and self-awareness in parenting The balance between authority and autonomy in raising children Men's role in parenting and emotional expression The influence of cultural narratives on masculinity and parenting Practical strategies for setting and holding boundaries The importance of community and in-person connection in parenting Effective communication and avoiding the four horsemen of poor communication The importance of honesty and transparency in relationships Understanding and managing the mental load and invisible labor The role of masculinity and emotional expression in fatherhood Building trust through vulnerability and effective boundaries The impact of childhood stories and perceptions on adult behavior The significance of curiosity and ongoing self-improvement in relationships The influence of stories and hero's journey in shaping masculine identity Sound bites "Honest communication is the foundation of trust" "Boundaries are what you will do, not just rules."

  2. Sep 5

    Fatherhood and the Work of Knowing Yourself : Podcast with Jason Lewis

    In this episode, Jason Lewis shares his personal journey through childhood, the impact of therapy and the Hoffman Process, and his insights on parenting, emotional awareness, and personal growth. Discover practical lessons on raising resilient, curious children and the importance of self-awareness for fathers. In this episode, Jason Lewis and Pat Barber explore the complexities of parenting, the importance of self-awareness, and the value of stories and literature in understanding life and fatherhood. They share personal insights, challenges, and philosophies that can help parents and individuals grow.   Keywords   fatherhood, parenting, emotional intelligence, therapy, Hoffman Process, resilience, curiosity, personal growth, mental health, fatherhood journey parenting, self-awareness, fatherhood, literature, personal growth, mental models, stories, philosophy, relationships, emotional intelligence   Key Topics   Childhood and family background Impact of therapy and the Hoffman Process Parenting philosophies and practices Emotional awareness and accountability The importance of curiosity in growth Modeling behavior for children Balancing discipline and support The importance of understanding each child's unique personality The role of self-awareness in effective parenting Using stories and literature to teach life values The challenges of co-parenting and separation The significance of accountability and responsibility in fatherhood The impact of personal history on parenting styles The value of humility and continuous self-reflection The influence of literature and fiction on understanding human nature   Sound Bites   "Trauma is an experience you can't process." "Thinking alone can't heal trauma." "Each of your kids is just that awareness."   Chapters   00:00 – Welcome to Beautiful Chaos 03:40 – Jason Lewis' Childhood & His Story 07:52 – Healing From Childhood Trauma 13:19 – The Hoffman Process & Somatic Healing 17:00 – The Anger Inside Men 22:57 – Why Men Struggle With Emotions 31:27 – Take What Works, Leave What Doesn't 35:16 – Why Curiosity Is Essential to Parenting 42:26 – Kids Never Asked to Be Here 47:00 – Toughness vs. Connection in Parenting 52:55 – Your Child Can't Be Your Only Source of Happiness 55:24 – Every Child Needs a Different Parent 1:06:16 – Why Jason and Huck's Mom Separated 1:15:01 – You Don't Have to Have Life Figured Out 1:22:26 – Why Fiction Can Teach Truth Better Than Facts 1:32:04 – What Makes a Good Father? 1:35:23 – The Hardest Part of Fatherhood: Letting Go 1:37:25 – Be Worthy of Your Child's Love 1:39:19 – Final Thoughts   Guest Links   Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jason.c.lewis/?hl=en#

  3. Aug 12

    Master Your Masculinity: 7 Systems to Unlock Your Potential By: Donovan Owens

    In this insightful conversation, Donovan Owens shares his philosophy on mastering masculinity through systems, principles, and daily routines. Discover how intentional practices and mindset shifts can elevate your life and unlock your full potential.   Keywords masculinity, mastery, systems thinking, daily routines, personal development, leadership, self-improvement, masculinity frameworks, success principles, mental resilience   Key  topics Repetitive excellence produces success Mastery morning routines for men Principles vs rules in personal development The energetic nature of masculinity System thinking applied to life and growth   Sound bites "Life is Reps, man." "Repetitive excellence produces success." "Masculinity is an energetic way of being."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Life is Reps 01:36 The Concept of Reps and Success 04:21 The Peaceful Rebellion for Men 09:48 Consumption: A Societal Downfall 13:55 The Complexity of Actions 20:26 Mastery and Masculinity 23:20 The Mastery Morning Routine 32:46 Morning Rituals and Intentional Living 35:04 Principles vs. Rules in Personal Development 37:21 The Reps Operating System 39:11 Implementation and Accountability in Coaching 44:39 The Balance of Providing Value and Financial Sustainability 46:40 Defining Masculinity: An Energetic Way of Being 56:49 The Importance of True Self and Purpose   Resources Life Is Reps Website - https://www.lifeisreps.com Steven Pressfield - The War of Art - https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Through-Creativity-Resistance/dp/1936891026   Guest links Website - https://www.lifeisreps.com YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lifeisreps   lifeisreps.com Life is REPS   amazon.com The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles: Pressfield, Steven, Coyne, Shawn: 8601420220232: Amazon.com: Books   The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles [Pressfield, Steven, Coyne, Shawn] on Amazon.com. FREE shipping on qualifying offers. The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles   YouTube Life is REPS Men, it's time for a revival of the mastery of masculinity. This is where us freedom-driven men grow stronger, connect deeper, and create a life of success... on our own terms.    Join the Peaceful Rebellion against society's strategic system of traps. We're gonna make some noise, and the foundation of everything we do will be peace, truth, and love.   Life is REPS!   So, it's time to put the REPS in, because Repetitive Excellence Produces Success.

  4. Jul 31

    First Impressions in 0.3 Seconds : The Power of Appearance : Phil Tarling

    In this engaging interview, Phil Tarling, a seasoned stylist and image consultant, shares insights on the psychology of appearance, the differences between being a parent and a grandparent, and practical advice for men to improve their style and confidence. Discover how first impressions are formed in seconds and the profound impact of dressing intentionally.   Keywords style, perception, first impressions, grooming, fatherhood, grand fatherhood, confidence, image consulting, psychology of appearance, personal development   Key Topics The impact of clothing on first impressions and trust Differences between being a parent and a grandparent The science behind style and perception Practical tips for men to improve their wardrobe The importance of being present with loved ones   Sound Bites "The old banger gets tooted at first" "Perception is someone else's issue" "Style obsession is a red flag"   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Phil Tarling and His Expertise 01:57 The Evolution of Image Consulting 04:41 The Science of First Impressions 11:36 Cultural Conditioning and Perception 18:51 The Importance of Dressing for Success 24:11 Personal Style and Subjectivity 29:16 The Swag Gap: Style and Relationships 32:11 Transitioning to Grandfatherhood 33:16 The Differences Between Parenting and Grandparenting 38:48 The Value of Time in Parenting 47:29 Parting Wisdom for Fathers   Resources Phil Tarling's Website - https://www.philtarling.com Instagram - Phil Tarling - https://www.instagram.com/phil_tarling/   Guest Links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/phil_tarling/ Website - https://www.philtarling.com

  5. Jul 15

    From CrossFit to Consciousness: Stefanos Sifandos' Journey

    In this engaging conversation, Pat Barber and Stefanos Sifandos explore personal growth, self-reflection, maturity, and the importance of relational and spiritual development. They share insights from their journeys, practical tools for transformation, and discuss how to navigate life's initiations and challenges.   Keywords self-reflection, maturity, personal growth, relationships, spiritual development, coaching, life transitions, emotional healing   Key  topics Self-reflection as a catalyst for growth The difference between maturity and immaturity Relational and spiritual healing practices Life initiations and rites of passage The role of honesty and vulnerability in transformation   Sound bites "Self-reflection and action are key to growth" "Grieve what was and what wasn't" "Presence creates micro initiations"   Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting Through Shared History 03:05 Evolving Through Self-Reflection 06:00 Maturity and Immaturity in Life 08:53 Navigating Relationships and Growth 11:54 The Role of a Coach and Mirror 14:44 Empowerment and Control 17:52 Grieving and Healing Past Wounds 20:40 Initiation and Daily Practices 23:52 The Journey to Coaching 26:49 Self-Reflection and Codependency 29:45 The Shift from Aesthetics to Performance 32:51 The Importance of Presence in Parenting 39:08 The Chameleon Effect: Adapting to Fit In 40:30 The Importance of Honesty: A Core Value 40:59 The Struggle with Authenticity: Lies and Exaggerations 43:28 Childhood Experiences: The Roots of Insecurity 47:56 Navigating Emotions: Anger, Happiness, and Abandonment 51:34 Unpacking Loneliness: A Journey to Self-Discovery 56:50 The Role of Relationships: Co-dependence vs. Devotion 01:02:57 Tuned In and Turned On: The Book and Its Insights   Resources Stefanos Sifandos' Book: Tuned In and Turned On - tunedinandturnedonbook.com Coach with Stefanos Sifandos - coachwithstef.com Stefanos Sifandos' Instagram - instagram.com/stefanos.sifandos Stefanos Sifandos' YouTube Channel - youtube.com/stefanossifandos   Guest links Instagram - instagram.com/stefanos.sifandos Website - coachwithstef.com

  6. Jul 1

    Empowering Kids to Overcome Anxiety | Podcast with Dr. Kathryn Hecht

    In this engaging conversation, Dr. Kathryn Hecht, a child psychologist and bravery coach, discusses her approach to helping children overcome anxiety and thrive. She emphasizes the importance of empowering children to handle their own challenges rather than relying on parents to solve their problems. The discussion covers the nature of anxiety, the role of avoidance, and the significance of building independence in children. Dr. Hecht shares insights from her professional journey and offers practical advice for parents on fostering resilience and confidence in their kids. In this conversation, Kathryn Hecht and Pat Barber explore the complexities of parenting, particularly in relation to building children's confidence and managing parental anxiety. They discuss the importance of allowing children to face age-appropriate challenges, the impact of parental anxiety on children's development, and effective communication strategies to support anxious kids. The conversation emphasizes the need for parents to regulate their own anxiety and to avoid common pitfalls such as providing reassurance that can inadvertently reinforce anxiety in children.   Keywords child psychology, bravery coaching, anxiety treatment, parenting tips, child development, mental health, coping strategies, emotional resilience, independence in children, overcoming fear parenting, anxiety, child development, confidence, emotional regulation, parenting mistakes, supportive communication, child psychology, parental anxiety, resilience   Takeaways Empowering children to handle their own challenges is crucial. Anxiety is a normal human emotion that can be managed. Avoidance is the primary factor that maintains anxiety. Parents should model self-regulation for their children. Building independence in children reduces anxiety. Children are resilient and can thrive with the right support. The goal is not to eliminate anxiety but to help children manage it. Parental involvement is essential, especially with younger children. Understanding the roots of anxiety can aid in treatment. Creating a supportive environment fosters emotional resilience. It's the little things that build up confidence. Parents often misjudge their child's capacity for responsibility. Anxiety can lead parents to overprotect their children. Supportive statements are more effective than reassurance. Relaxation tools may not address the root of anxiety. Children need to experience anxiety to learn safety. Parental anxiety can manifest as a fear of judgment from others. Building confidence in children requires allowing them to face challenges. Effective communication involves empathy and validation. Parents should focus on what they know, not just how they feel.   Sound bites "I want kids to be really confident." "The one thing that keeps anxiety around is avoidance." "Anxiety is a primary human emotion." "I want to help kids thrive." "It's about living a long quality life." "It's the little things that build up confidence." "Parents misjudge their child's capacity." "Anxiety is the search for certainty." "Reassurance actually reinforces anxiety over time." "Supportive statements are key for anxious kids." "I could talk about this for hours."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bravery Coaching 03:07 The Importance of Empowering Children 06:04 Understanding Anxiety in Children 08:58 The Role of Avoidance in Anxiety 12:08 The Nature of Anxiety and Its Treatment 14:56 Parental Influence on Child Anxiety 18:02 The Journey to Becoming a Child Psychologist 21:01 Building Independence in Children 23:59 Common Parenting Mistakes 27:05 The Balance of Support and Independence 30:02 Conclusion and Future Insights 34:47 Building Confidence Through Small Challenges 39:41 Parental Anxiety and Its Impact on Children 45:31 Understanding and Regulating Parental Anxiety 49:07 Common Mistakes Parents Make with Anxious Kids 55:50 Effective Communication Strategies for Anxious Children Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting Through Shared History 03:05 Evolving Through Self-Reflection 06:00 Maturity and Immaturity in Life 08:53 Navigating Relationships and Growth 11:54 The Role of a Coach and Mirror 14:44 Empowerment and Control 17:52 Grieving and Healing Past Wounds 20:40 Initiation and Daily Practices 23:52 The Journey to Coaching 26:49 Self-Reflection and Codependency 29:45 The Shift from Aesthetics to Performance 32:51 The Importance of Presence in Parenting 39:08 The Chameleon Effect: Adapting to Fit In 40:30 The Importance of Honesty: A Core Value 40:59 The Struggle with Authenticity: Lies and Exaggerations 43:28 Childhood Experiences: The Roots of Insecurity 47:56 Navigating Emotions: Anger, Happiness, and Abandonment 51:34 Unpacking Loneliness: A Journey to Self-Discovery 56:50 The Role of Relationships: Co-dependence vs. Devotion 01:02:57 Tuned In and Turned On: The Book and Its Insights resources Stefanos Sifandos' Book: Tuned In and Turned On - https://tunedinandturnedonbook.com Coach with Stefanos Sifandos - https://coachwithstef.com Stefanos Sifandos' Instagram - https://instagram.com/stefanos.sifandos Stefanos Sifandos' YouTube Channel - https://youtube.com/stefanossifandos Guest links Instagram - https://instagram.com/stefanos.sifandos Website - https://coachwithstef.com

  7. Jul 1

    The Brain-Based Approach to Punishment-Free Parenting : Jon Fogel

    In this engaging interview, parenting expert Jon Fogel shares neuroscience-based strategies for effective, punishment-free parenting. Discover practical tools, the importance of regulation, and how to foster emotional resilience in children.   Keywords parenting, neuroscience, emotional regulation, punishment-free parenting, child development, co-regulation, brain-based parenting, toddler tantrums, emotional intelligence, parenting tools   Key  Topics Neuroscience in parenting Emotional regulation techniques for children Co-regulation and its impact on child behavior   Sound Bites "Punishment doesn't work on traumatized kids" "Neuroscience is the missing piece in parenting" "Dysregulation is the brain's survival response"   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Parenting Insights 02:59 The Journey into Neuroscience and Parenting 05:45 Understanding Emotional Regulation in Children 08:39 The Impact of Parenting on Society 11:32 Gamifying Emotional Regulation Techniques 14:21 Defining Regulation and Dysregulation 16:53 Understanding Brain Function and Regulation 19:28 The Importance of Prefrontal Cortex Development 22:09 Dysregulation vs. Regulation: A Survival Mechanism 25:05 The Role of Parents in Co-Regulation 26:40 Overcoming Challenges in Parental Regulation 28:05 Tools for Effective Parenting and Regulation   Resources The Whole Brain Child by Tina Payne Bryson - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A7X7U4Q Punishment-Free Parenting Book - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C4XYZ123 Jon Fogel's YouTube Channel - Old Parent - https://www.youtube.com/@OldParent   guest links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wholeparent/ YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@wholeparent

  8. Jun 11

    Unlocking Vision: Darren Silver's Guide to Purpose and Parenthood

    summary In this insightful conversation, Darren Silver shares his unique perspective on nature, vision, and the journey into fatherhood. Discover how ancient practices, awareness, and intentional living can transform modern masculinity and parenting.   keywords vision, fatherhood, nature connection, initiation, awareness, masculinity, vision quests, culture, transformation, parenting   key  topics The concept of vision and its role in life and decision-making The importance of nature connection and wilderness skills Initiation into manhood and cultural rites of passage The impact of awareness and dissonance in growth Parenthood as a spiritual and practical journey   sound bites "From awareness, we create choice." "In chaos, we find the truth." "Presence is paying attention."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Darren Silver and His Journey 02:48 Darren's Unique Background and Connection to Nature 06:46 Understanding Vision: Small v vs. Capital V 13:03 The Role of Awareness in Personal Growth 17:22 The Impact of Becoming a Father 24:20 The Value of Dissonance in Life 30:47 Expectations and Pressures of Fatherhood 41:27 Navigating Fatherhood and Personal Growth 51:18 Rites of Passage and Initiation into Manhood 01:00:23 Cultural Connections and Spiritual Understanding 01:12:01 The Preciousness of Becoming a Father   resources Darrensilver.earth - https://darrensilver.earth Tom Brown Jr. and Tracker School - https://trackerschool.com   guest links Website - https://darrensilver.earthtrackerschool.com

Ratings & Reviews

About

A deep dive into the beautiful chaos of fatherhood. Fatherhood. It’s the one job that doesn’t come with a manual, but also comes with 10,000 opinions. we’re tring to cut through the noise with real talk, goods laughs, and the occasional “oh man, same” moment. Each episode, we dive into the beautifully messy world of being a dad. Along the way, we bring in guests. guys who are in, or have been in the trenches, learning, failing, and winning just like the rest of us. This isn’t a lecture series. It’s a series of conversations. The kind you’d have around a backyard fire pit with a cold beer in hand. It’s honest, unfiltered, and full of those “I thought I was the only one!” stories. If you’re a dad (or just curious about what makes dads tick), consider this a dose of encouragement, humor, and a run back of real-life applications. Fatherhood is challenging. It might be exhausting, but it’s also the best thing you’ll ever do.