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At the end of the COVID tunnel, the thought of light is very appealing — 2020 was a whopper. The pandemic has affected us all differently. We’ve developed our own ways of navigating hurdles and managing emotional stress. Middle and high school kids faced unique challenges as they missed iconic milestones and were robbed of social lives. While drugs and alcohol have always been a concern for parents, 2020 saw a rise in addiction among adolescents looking for a coping mechanism. Author Richard Capriola brings decades of experience to the conversation and shares ideas on how parents can best support their kids. His book, “The Addicted Child,” lays out the warning signs and offers seasoned advice to help turn this trend around. Episode 43 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief catch-up on Marc’s solo-dadding weekend and a realization that the release of this episode falls on the Friday of Mother’s Day weekend. The guys quickly formulate a plan to let their wives take over the next episode and mom it up for half an hour!The guys discuss their (quite different) experiences with their second doses of the Pfizer vaccine, which leads into a conversation about the pandemic, the light at the end, and the impacts that the past year has had on people of all ages. The guys discuss the differences between younger children and high school aged adolescents and coping mechanisms for stress, depression, and trauma—including drugs and alcohol. Marc brings up a recent episode of NHPR’s The Exchange, covering a similar topic with guest Jessica Lahey, before playing back a recent conversation with author Richard Capriola.Richard is a father one grown son who has spent much of his career counseling young people with alcohol and substance abuse issues, and recently published the book The Addicted Child, A Parent’s Guide to Adolescent Substance Abuse. Rick joins to promote his book, and we discuss topics including:•  Raising his son as a widower•  The importance of writing a simple and clear guide for parents•  The harm in labeling someone an "addict"•  When is the right time to discuss substance misuse with your kids?•  The neuroscience of adolescent substance use•  What has changed from the "Just Say No" era to now?•  Warning signs to watch out for in our kids•  The importance of listening to words and the feelings behind them•  What assessments are, and why they're important•  The impact of the pandemic on young people The episode culminates with a no-explanation-needed installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud? in which Adam finds himself doing... some dirty work.Stay tuned for Episode 44, when our wives will take over the podcast—and do whatever the heck they want with the time![Episode Transcript] Links:Richard Capriola [website]The Addicted Child [Amazon]DrugFree.orgRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer AlbeeStuffed Animal [Marc's musical project]

Does being a parent to twins simply mean two of everything? There are certainly twice as many diapers to change, two bladders to potty train, and double the tears during teething. But to twin parents, the emotional impact and physical toll often feels more than double… it feels exponential. In this episode, Adam and Marc welcome Shaw Flick, a fellow dad of twins, to examine the unique challenges that twin parents endure. Also, Marc and his wife try not to bust a gut when their three-year-old son puts them in their place, in an installment of So That’s a Thing Now. Adam and Marc open the show by catching up on Marc’s new Disney+ subscription, and Marc shares an update to one of his recent Confessions regarding a bouncy ball from hell which made a brief comeback recently, before being permanently banned from the Checket household.The guys welcome creative copywriter and father of twin daughters, Shaw Flick, into the conversation. Shaw is a co-worker of Marc’s, though living in Portland, Oregon, they have only meet and collaborated virtually. As fathers of three-year-old twins, Marc and Shaw have plenty of twin-dad experiences to compare and contrast. Topics of the conversation include:•  The annoying things that people call out when they see twins•  Shaw’s history as the front man of the band Ra Ra Riot•  The unique set of challenges that twin parents are faced with•  The chaos of newborn multiples•   Encouraging individuality•  How to address when one twin takes on an alpha role•   Twin parent camaraderie•   And morePost-interview, Marc shares a So That’s a Thing Now which finds him getting scolded by one of his boys (and trying not to laugh when it happens). [Episode transcript] Links:Shaw Flick (LinkedIn)Shaw Flick (Instagram)Ra Ra RiotRed Vault AudioStuffed Animal (Marc's musical project)Caspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. lives with a mental illness. If anything, that statistic tells us that those who are struggling are not alone in their struggle. Still, reaching out for help can sometimes feel insurmountable. In this episode, guest Brian Manor, a dad to two, shares his personal story and talks openly about his challenges with clinical depression, social anxiety disorder, and seasonal affective disorder. Stick around to the end for another round of the infamous recurring segment, Confessions.  Episode 41 opens with hosts Adam and Marc briefly recounting their experiences getting their first doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, coincidentally scheduled on the same day. The guys transition to a discussion of mental illness; specifically the ways in which society addresses mental health, and how the conversation has shifted over the past 30 years. The guys welcome Brian Manor to the conversation. Brian is a husband and a father of two. He lives in Wisconsin, works for a blood donation organization, and writes for his fatherhood-themed Fatterhood: A Humorous New Dad's Blog. Brian shares openly, (both in his blog and during our conversation), about his history with mental illness and how it has affected his life, his job, and his role as a father. The conversation covers many topics including:•  Why Brian is not ashamed of his mental health•  The difficulty in diagnosing mental health conditions in children•  Overlapping symptoms of clinical depression and anxiety disorders•  The importance of SEEKING HELP!•  The importance of checking on your friends if you’re concerned about them•  The rise of discussing mental illness publicly and without shame•  How educating his support system is helpful•  How finding the right provider led to significant improvement•  Being aware of potential signs in your children•  Shop around for the right provider if you are able to•  "It's not your fault, but it's your responsibility."The episode culminates with  arguably one of the strongest Confessions sessions to date.On a personal note from Adam and Marc, in each episode, we invite our listeners to reach out to us by e-mail. If you can relate to Brian's experience or you connect with this episode for any reason, you are more than welcome to reach out to us. While we are not experts on mental illness, fatherhood, or much of anything, really—we are good listeners. And we are here for you.We've included links below that pertain to our conversation with Brian, as well as some additional resources that we'd encourage you to explore. But as a reminder, there is no shame in seeking help. And, despite how it may feel, you are NOT alone. We love you and appreciate you![Episode Transcript]Links:Fatterhood: A Humorous New Dad's BlogChris Gethard "Career Suicide"Hannah Gatsby "Nanette" (Netflix)Marcus Parks / The Last Podcast on the LeftJordan Raskopoulos "Living With High Functioning Anxiety" TEDxSydney5 Minute Guide to Men's Mental HealthBeThe1ToNational Suicide Prevention LifelineAnxiety & Depression Association of AmericaRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

Sometimes, two people fall in love and choose to get married, one or both of those people have young children from a previous relationship, and a wonderful new blended family is formed. But it’s not always so clear cut. Enter Sean Carrillo, a media maker, technical director, writer, former-famous-coffee-shop-owner, and family man. Sean also happens to be the stepfather of accomplished musician Beck and artistic polymath Channing Hansen. Sean joins the Modern Dadhood conversation to discuss his family of artists, and how his parenting experience has felt a lot like hanging out with a group of friends. Also, find out why Marc’s wife is less than thrilled with her doctors! Episode 40 is a very special and personal one for Adam, and he wastes no time sharing about it. The episode is a continuation of Modern Dadhood’s exploration on what it means to be a stepfather. In a sharp contrast to Episode 39’s guest Rafael Torres, the guys welcome Sean Carrillo into the conversation. At 60 years old, Sean’s career has taken him from the performing arts to commercial and film production, directing, and editorial, to curating live events... and that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Sean has been a stepfather for almost 40 years, and his family dynamic is far from typical. His wife Bibbe Hansen is a performance artist and actress, a protégé of Andy Warhol when she was young. Bibbe’s late father is Al Hansen, the renowned Fluxus artist. And his stepchildren are artist Channing Hansen, and musician Beck—a longtime favorite of Adam’s.Sean shares about growing up in Los Angeles in the 60s and 70s, meeting Bibbe while a member of the performance art group ASCO, and marrying her in the early 1980s when Beck and Channing were 12 and 10 years old, respectively. In a particularly unique step-parenting situation, Sean found that hanging with Bibbe and the boys, along with Rain Whittaker, a family friend who they took under their wing, felt more like hanging out with a group of peers than a  traditional parents/kids dynamic. Topics include:•  The idea of marrying someone with kids close to you in age•  Beck and Channing’s biological father David Campbell•  Los Angeles’ Troy Cafe, owned by Sean and Bibbe•  Did being a stepfather change when Beck and Channing began seeing commercial success?•  Beck and Channing as fathers•  And more To close out an epic episode, in a spinoff of the hit segment Did I Just Say That Out Loud?, Marc shares a story about his wife, his twin boys, a surgery, and some less than desirable operating conditions. [Episode Transcript] LINKS:Sean CarrilloBibbe HansenBeckChanning HansenBeck and Al Hansen: Playing With MatchesTroy CafeRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

Parenthood is a challenging adventure. And in a blended family, step parenting comes with its own set of unique obstacles. From custody arrangements to personal conflicts to social stigma, step-fatherhood, in particular, has developed a curious reputation over the decades. Rafael Torres, a father to two young daughters, (one biological and one step), shares perspective and advice that all dads could benefit from hearing—and why he prefers the term “Bonus Dad" to step dad all day long. Stick around to the end for the special subsegment of "So That’s A Thing Now:" So Those Are Things Now.Modern Dadhood Episode 39 opens with a quick catch-up between hosts Marc and Adam in which Marc shares about his twin boys’ recent third birthday celebration. They briefly discuss Adam’s uncharacteristic (and moderately unbecoming) mustache, and a miraculous and unlikely victory by Modern Dadhood on TheOnlyPodcastAwardThatActuallyMatters.com... before transitioning to the episode’s ACTUAL topic: step parenting.Neither Adam nor Marc have step parents or step children, so the perspective discussed prior to guest Rafael Torres joining, are solely based on observations of their friends, and cultural interpretations and stigmas. They quickly welcome Rafael, a father to one biological daughter and stepdad a second daughter, into the conversation. Rafael is a structural steel designer and drafter, as well as the moderator of the Bonus Parents Facebook group. Through a candid discussion about Rafael’s own experience as a stepfather (which he proudly refers to as a “Bonus Dad,”) as well as his observations from moderating a group of fellow bonus parents, Rafael sheds light on the best parts, and the most challenging parts, of a blended family. Topics include: • Witnessing your partner as a parent from the beginning of your relationship• ALL the parenting acronyms!• References and support for step parents• Custody and other common blended family issues• Navigating relationships with biological parents• Overcoming misconceptions and stigmas around step parenting• Learning to decode your stepchild’s languageMarc shares a So That’s A Thing Now involving one of his three-year-olds and a new recurring question before closing out the episode. [Episode Transcript] Links:Bonus Parents (Facebook)Co-Parenting SubRedditBlended Family FrappeNational Stepfamily Resource CenterThe StepfatherThe Only Podcast Award That Actually MattersRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

How do we maintain a positive dialogue with our kids when examples of adversity seem ever-present in daily life? Journalist and Parenting Editor at Fatherly, Patrick Coleman, joins Adam and Marc to discuss how a set of family values can provide a foundation for engaging in challenging conversations. And how complex, real-world examples, if framed the right way, can be valuable in helping our kids become resilient. Also, the guys each take a deep breath and leap into another installment of the fan-favorite segment, Confessions.  [This is part one of a two-part interview.]Episode 38 is Part 2 of a two-part episode featuring guest Patrick Coleman, a father of two and journalist who serves as the Parenting Editor for Fatherly.The episode opens with a comedy of errors as hosts Adam and Marc struggle to nail their timing. They briefly discuss some key takeaways from the first previous episode in which Patrick recounts watching (and discussing) the January 6th, 2021 insurrection at the US Capitol building with his family. Patrick offers some wonderful (and applicable) insight into how to approach conversations about tragedies such as the insurrection with young people, and encouraging questions and dialogue as they process what they are learning or seeing.Part 2 of the conversation takes a step back and looks at how we as parents can help our kids understand and process larger overarching problems such as racial injustice, terrorism, or climate change. Topics include:•  What is "Ecophobia?"•  Approaching and navigating tragic topics with your kids•  How to build a set of family values•  Passing our opinions and biases onto our kids•  Being comfortable with not having all the answers•  How to raise curious kids The episode wraps up with the hosts releasing some deep, dark dad Confessions. [Episode transcript] LINKS:FatherlyPatrick Coleman (Twitter)How To Watch A Coup Attempt With Your KidsPatrick Coleman’s articlesResearcher David Sobel on TragedyAsk The GoodfatherRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

Our world is full of big, heavy topics: War, politics, racial injustice, poverty... The list goes on. What’s the best way for dads and moms to approach these topics with our kids? Do we let them come to us? Avoid them at all costs? Hope that through some combination of teachers, YouTubers, and headlines, our kids will draw their own conclusion? Adam and Marc sit down with Patrick Coleman, father of two and Parenting Editor at Fatherly, to discuss his work exploring big topics, and sometimes big feelings, with our children. Plus, Adam’s kids learn a new phrase and get introduced to a classic 90's cartoon.[This is part one of a two-part interview.] Modern Dadhood’s 37th episode opens with a brief reflection on the trying year of 2020 and a chat about broaching major current events with children. Marc and Adam discuss the Oklahoma City bombing of 1995. At 12 or 13 years old, both hosts share their experiences of learning about it via the news, and how as young teenagers they processed the tragedy.The conversation shifts to the rage-fueled insurrection at the US Capitol building on January 6th, 2021, and the guys tee up part one of their recent conversation with journalist Patrick Coleman, a father of two boys and the Parenting Editor for Fatherly. Patrick’s recent article How to Watch a Coup Attempt With Your Kids provides some powerful and applicable strategies for contextualizing heavy current events for our children in a way that promotes discussion… and doesn’t scare the shit out of them. Other topics include:•  Being a “buffer” for your partner, and leaning on them as your own buffer.•  Processing your own feelings and emotions first•  Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory•  Explaining current events in real time•  The value of Inviting your kids to ask questions•  When the heavy news doesn’t have a happy endingTo round out the episode, Adam recalls a recent moment of craziness which involves Ren, Stimpy, and the phrase “skinny dipping,” which is a new addition to his children’s lexicon. Episode 38 will feature the second part of our conversation with journalist Patrick Coleman. [Episode Transcript] LINKS:FatherlyPatrick Coleman (Twitter)How To Watch A Coup Attempt With Your KidsPatrick Coleman’s articlesAsk The GoodfatherSocial Learning TheoryOklahoma City Bombing 1995US Capitol Insurrection 2021Resource: Explaining The News To Our KidsResource: How To Explain Scary News To  KidsResource: How To Talk To Your Child About The NewsRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

At a rare moment of peak polarization in American history, John Dorlean, a hospitalized father of three, receives an anonymous, crucial donation of convalescent plasma to combat his intensifying case of COVID-19. An article shared thousands of times over 24 hours, along with a bit of good timing, just may have saved John’s life. Episode 36 opens with an examination of "viral" content and some of the key factors that result in content being shared widely. The guys declare that beyond inimitable fail videos captured by accident, outrageous unicorns pooping rainbow sherbet, or tug-at-the-heartstrings branded content, there is a category of viral content that is underrepresented: the call for help from one’s community.Adam chats with John Dorlean, a personal friend and a father of three from Maine. In December, despite willfully adhering to safety precautions, John and his wife both contracted COVID-19. Wanda didn’t have an easy go of it; intense flu-like symptoms knocked her out of commission. And while she was suffering and John was caring for her and their three children, his own symptoms started presenting. With two sick parents and three kids under the age of 13, now just days before Christmas, the Dorleans’ world was upside down. As Wanda improved, John’s condition worsened, rendering him increasingly short of breath and feverish, eventually landing him in Intensive Care.Unaware of how tenuous his situation really was, John was told that he required a transfusion of convalescent plasma… (whatever that meant…) but his rare AB Negative blood type meant that the plasma was not immediately available.While the hospital desperately searched their network, Wanda and a family friend got to work and ultimately got John’s story picked up by regional news networks and by Seacoast Online in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, their regional news outlet. And then the magic started to happen.The article was shared thousands of times, and within 24 hours, there were multiple leads and interested parties, and a donation of AB Negative convalescent plasma was delivered to the hospital specifically for John the next day. The transfusion saved his life.Now at home recuperating with lingering symptoms, John shares his incredible story and lends some words of advice to other parents about how to protect their families, and how to continue spreading kindness and generosity, just as it was shown to him.Also, in an installment of So That’s A Thing Now, we learn that Marc’s kids suddenly love dancing naked! [Episode Transcript] Links:Article: Kittery Dad Fighting COVID-19 Needs Emergency Plasma DonationArticle: Kittery Man Battling COVID-19 Gets Overnight Plasma DonationWife of Kittery Man Fighting COVID-19 'Blown Away' by SupportAmerican Red CrossPlasma Donation InformationHalf Court Basketball ShotBalloon Boy HoaxDove "Real Beauty Sketches"Squatty Potty CommercialHarmon Brothers“Wonky Donkey” by Craig Smith“Funky Dunky” by Harry Connick, Jr.Red Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

Back in Episode 25, we spoke with Social Emotion Learning specialist Scotty Iseri. In addition to Scotty's important work with Committee For Children, he invented (and stars in) a wonderful and impactful podcast for kids called The Imagine Neighborhood. In a previously unreleased portion of our conversation, Scotty shares about the show's philosophy, goals, and storytelling mechanisms which help children navigate their "big feelings."Scotty shares tips and insights into how we can help our children navigate their feelings, and what The Imagine Neighborhood is doing to support that effort.Links:The Imagine NeighborhoodThe Imagine Neighborhood (on Apple)Committee For ChildrenScotty Iseri (Twitter)Scotty Iseri (YouTube)Red Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

A Day-Glo orange splatter of paint. A geyser of green slime. A seductive forearm tattoo named Petunia. If this doesn't conjure up some serious nostalgia, you either weren't a kid in the 90s, or your mom banned you from watching Nickelodeon. We invited Nick veteran and new dad Danny Tamberelli to the podcast to chat about growing up in the spotlight and how fatherhood is treating him 19 months into his journey. Tune in to find out whether Danny and Adam have actually been cosmically linked ever since one fateful day in 1997 at Universal Studios. Also, Marc exclaims profanities as he is doused with bodily fluids. Episode 35 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief conversation about milk, and speculation on why Adam's daughters both decided that they no longer care for it. The guys briefly address their guest selection process before introducing Danny Tamberelli into the conversation. Danny is best known for playing little Pete on Nickelodeon's The Adventures of Pete and Pete in the 90s, though he continued with the network for over a decade, appearing in seasons of All That and the game show Figure It Out. Additionally, Danny appeared in films such as Igby Goes Down and The Mighty Ducks, acting alongside former Nickelodeon pal Kenan Thompson, and has voiced many animated characters for television and video games. Danny discusses the events that led to him landing prominent acting roles as a child, as well as his own experience as a new dad to 19 month old Alfie. Topics include:•  The joy of being the fun uncle•  An examination of Sandra Boynton's catalog•  Old fashioned names coming back into style•  Being a child actor•  Weezer's Blue album•  How creativity can evolve when you become a fatherThe episode culminates with a rather "shitty" installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud? [Episode Transcript] LINKS:Danny Tamberelli (official website)Tuesdays With Alfie (Instagram)The Adventures of Danny and MikeJounceNostalgia PersonifiedMan Boobs ComedyThe Undone SweatersThe Adventures of Pete And Pete (YouTube)Sandra Boynton BooksRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

Let me guess: You thought it was SOOO unlikely that 2020 would serve up not one, but TWO hilarious fatherhood-themed podcasts... didn’t you, you Doubting Thomas, you? If 2020 has demonstrated nothing else, it’s that anything is possible. In Modern Dadhood's first anniversary episode, we welcome comedian and fellow podcaster Rory Scovel of Dads: The Podcast. We laugh, we laugh, and we wax philosophical on the role of the dad and why this fatherhood conversation is important. Also, our final Confessions of the year!Episode 34 marks the one year anniversary of Modern Dadhood with a shamelessly self-indulgent conversation about the significance of discussing fatherhood with fellow dads from all walks of life. The guys catch up briefly on Christmas, and recount their early ideation sessions for the podcast, before welcoming comedian Rory Scovel into the conversation. Rory is a comedy writer, actor, performer and fellow podcaster who co-hosts the outstanding Dads: The Podcast on TeamCoco. The three reflect on their inspirations for starting dad-themed podcasts, and the wisdom they've gleaned through rich conversations with their guests. Topics include:•  The identity shift when you become a dad•  The dad "club"•  How our parents shape our identity and we in turn shape our children•  Rory's episodic show Robbie and parallels to his real life•  Ways in which the role of the dad has evolved over timeThe guys bid farewell to Rory and transition to the final Confessions of 2020, which largely revolve around food.Thank YOU for making Modern Dadhood's first year so exciting and fulfilling! Your involvement and support means the world to us. We wish all of our listeners (dads or otherwise) a healthy 2021. [Episode Transcript]Links:Rory Scovel (Official Website)Dads: The PodcastRobbie on Comedy CentralRory Scovel Tries Stand-Up For The First Time (Netflix)Pen Pals With Daniel and RoryRory on InstagramTeam Coco PodcastsRory @ Fatherly's 100 Coolest Dads, 2018Modern Dadhood StoreRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

Do you ponder your own death? Is it something you worry about? Wonder when it will happen? Did your perspective on death change when you became a father? Death is inevitable, and it can be uncomfortable, even stressful to talk about, especially when children are in the picture. For Robert Bailey, this is a familiar conversation. Robert has stage 4 cancer which started in his bladder and has taken over his body in just over two years’ time, leaving him no option but to prepare for the inevitable much sooner than anyone should. Robert joins us to share about his fatherhood joys, his impossibly hard journey, and how he is using his remaining time to build a legacy for his two-year-old son to remember him by.Episode 33, the final episode of Modern Dadhood to release in 2020, opens with a disclaimer from Adam and Marc: Frequent listeners will know that Modern Dadhood is generally quite light-hearted, and though we don't avoid heavy or sensitive topics, today's theme is uncomfortable. We are examining mortality, particularly as it relates to fatherhood.Before getting into the discussion, Adam shares a short recording of a recent meet up with past guest (and brand new dad) Chad Richardson. Chad and his wife Katie recently gave birth to their son, and despite the current state of the world, their hospital experience was positive, and their newborn son is healthy and thriving.Marc poses the question "When was the first time you remember fully understanding what death was?" This prompt leads to a discussion on first experiences with relatives passing away, and transitions to the ways that we ponder and consider our own death, and whether that changed upon becoming a father.The guys share some context about guest Robert Bailey, who began experiencing symptoms of bladder cancer over two years ago. By the time it was diagnosed, the cancer had spread, and after multiple treatments by different providers, Robert was told that his tumor was inoperable. They welcome Robert into the conversation, and Robert shares his heartbreaking and maddening story of failed diagnoses, constant pain, and coming to terms with the fact that his two-year-old son Parker will have limited (if any) memory of him. Robert has dedicated the remainder of his life to creating a legacy (by way of writing letters, cards, music, and even a book) that will show parker who his dad was, and how much he loved his son. Topics covered in the conversation include:•  The emotional swings of receiving hopeful and dreadful news from providers•  Appreciating what you have and not letting small things bother you•  How easily everything can be taken away from you•  What it means to create a "legacy"•  "Living" versus "just living"•  Emotional vulnerability and menAdam rounds out the episode on an entertaining note, sharing a "So Thats A Thing Now" regarding his younger daughter and a dirty prank.[Episode Transcript] Links:Robert Bailey GoFundMeMedium article by Robert 11/2019Robert Bailey "Legacy" on SpotifyBladder Cancer Advocacy NetworkRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee 

Real talk: What’s more remarkable than being an astronaut? Being an astronaut dad, that’s what. Adam and Marc are joined by former astronaut Winston E. Scott, who shares stories of his NASA space missions, his tenure as a US Navy Captain, the crucial importance of STEM education, and his own unique perspective on raising children to be bold, confident adults. Also, learn the answer to the burning question on everyone’s minds… what the hell is Adam’s middle name? Modern Dadhood episode 32 opens with Marc and Adam playing a halfhearted game of “guess each others’ middle names” before alluding to an early episode of the podcast where Adam recalls his brief childhood desire to be an astronaut when he grew up... and realization that he wasn't cut out for it!The conversation pivots to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and its vital importance in school curriculum starting at a young age. As technology evolves at a rapid pace, many current jobs will be replaced by AI, while other new career opportunities arise. Critical thinking, a component (or perhaps a valuable byproduct) of STEM education, will be essential to solving future world problems.The guys tee up a recent conversation with a major proponent of STEM: Winston E. Scott. Winston is a former US Navy Captain, a former Astronaut, and yes, a father of two. Winston shares about his acclaimed career, his experience raising two children while continuously relocating around the country for his Navy career, how his family prepared for his departures to outer space, and how his personal philosophies on confidence and fear have influenced his kids’ interests and career paths. Topics of the conversation include: •  The nomadic lifestyle of a Navy pilot•  Aeronautical Engineering•  Instilling a sense of excitement and opportunity in our children (over fear)•  A new perspective that only comes from looking at Earth from outer space•  Winston's family's reaction when he was selected by NASA•  Spacewalking and Extra Vehicular Activity•  Space flight is a team effort that requires specialists across many fields•  What "critical thinking" means•  How can we, as parents, encourage our kids to explore STEM? [Episode Transcript] Links:Winston E. Scott (Wikipedia)Winston @ TheHistoryMakersReflections From Earth OrbitNASARed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

Single parenthood is a common phenomenon and it occurs for a number of reasons, the most common of which is divorce. In the United States alone, an estimated 2.4 million divorces take place each year, many of them involving children. Seth Romano, a Los Angeles-based musician and single father of one joins the Modern Dadhood conversation to share his personal story of realization that he wasn't happy as a married person, and how he and his daughter's mother, and their families have worked together to create a positive situation where their seven-year-old can thrive. Also, Adam and Marc own up to another batch of "Confessions!" Episode 31 of Modern Dadhood opens with a story of frustration, confusion, and resolution in the Checket household. Before long, Adam and Marc transition to a conversation about the amount of time parents are able to spend with their children as they grow up. Prior to Covid, many of us found ourselves in a very structured routine which awarded us little time with our kids during the week. The guys discuss feelings of guilt and a fear of missing out on important milestones in the lives of their young children.Adam and Marc welcome Seth Romano into the conversation. Seth is a professional musician and a single father of one seven-year-old daughter. Seth shares his story of moving to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music, falling in love and getting married, being amazed by the miracle of the birth of his first daughter, and realizing that being in a marriage wasn't right for him. He explains that despite the difficult and hurtful situation they found themselves in, they have landed on their feet in a situation that works. With the support of their families, their daughter Sydney is growing up in loving and nurturing environments with parents who respect and care for each other. Other topics of conversation include:•  The idea that marriage is something you're "supposed to do."•  There is no single definition of "family"•  The experience of seeing your first child being born•  How having a child changes your perspective on life•  Managing your time as a single father[Episode Transcript] Links:Seth Romano Livestream ConcertsThe Trip90s Rock Show"Gonna Save You" on YouTubeSeth Romano on InstagramSeth @ Rockstars of Tomorrow Musicians AcademyRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

Remember life before kids? We did things a certain way, we went places, we stayed up late, had hobbies, and some of us were even thrill seekers. Did that change when kids came into the picture? Or were you able to strike a balance between caring for kids and doing things for you? Peter Shankman, a best-selling author, entrepreneur, Ironman triathlete, and single dad, joins the show to talk about his experiences with balancing things in his “Faster Than Normal” life. Plus, in a new installment of So That’s a Thing Now we learn about the latest questionable thing Marc has inadvertently taught his kids to say. (Or perhaps it wasn’t so inadvertent after all.) Stick around until the tail end of this one for a special treat. Episode 30 of Modern Dadhood debuts just shy of a week after Halloween, which for most of us, looked very different in 2020 than any Halloween we’ve experienced in the past. Marc and Adam begin by discussing their socially distanced fright nights and Adam’s pathetic, insatiable sugar addiction. Adam poses to Marc: “Growing up, did your parents have hobbies or habits that, even as a kid, you recognized were dangerous?” Marc goes on to share about his father’s woodworking hobby, and the machinery sounds which haunted a young Marc as he tried to fall asleep. When the discussion turns to risky or dangerous hobbies that we ourselves enjoy, Adam shares about his love for skydiving, a daredevil activity which he has abstained from since becoming a father. The guys welcome Peter Shankman to the Modern Dadhood conversation. Peter is a father to a seven-year-old daughter in addition to being a social media expert, a keynote speaker, an author, a podcaster, and yes, a fellow skydiver. Peter shares his technique for balancing work, play, and fatherhood, while remaining clear-headed and productive all the while. Other topics include:•  Making time for what’s important to you•  Making ADHD work to your advantage•  Skydiving and dopamine•  Coming back from the dead to haunt people•  The danger of complacency (in all aspects of your life)•  Eliminating choice•  Finding effective routines Post-interview, Marc shares a proud dad moment in a mad-as-a-hatter installment of “So That’s A Thing Now.” You might stick around until the tail end of the episode to hear the theme song that accompanies Marc’s groin-themed story. [Episode Transcript] Links:Peter Shankman [website]Peter on FacebookPeter on TwitterPeter on InstagramPeter on YouTubeShankmindsFaster Than Normal [website]Faster Than Normal [book]FTN InstagramCaspar BabypantsRed Vault AudioSpencer Albee

We all have them: Those kids’ books we were gifted or we picked up on a whim because the title was intriguing or the characters were familiar. But then we crack them open, and BAM— total schlock. With the sheer amount of content for children out there, it's increasingly difficult to find the good stuff; the content that inspires wonder. The types of shows, movies, and books we remember loving as kids. Jon Klassen, father of two and celebrated author and illustrator of I Want My Hat Back, joins us to talk about his thoughts on creating books that kids and parents love. Stick around for the end, where Marc, Adam, and their kids fire off some personal book endorsements and condemnations. The guys open the episode with a conversation about television shows and movies that are made for kids. In an age where the amount of content seems to grow exponentially, it becomes equally difficult to parse through it all to find the really good stuff. The hidden gems seem to be few and far between. Sometimes it’s the tried and true movies or books that stand the test of time and still fill our kids with excitement and wonder, but frequently the best recommendations come to us through people we trust. The guys philosophize a bit as they discuss a couple of their kids’ current favorites, before they introduce Jon Klassen into the conversation. Jon is a father of two sons, and an artist and author who gained worldwide notoriety in 2011 with his picture book “I Want My Hat Back,” the success of which spawned two more books in what would become the “Hat Trilogy.” Jon continues to write and illustrate children’s books in addition to frequent collaborations with authors such as Mac Barnett, Sara Pennypacker, and Lemony Snicket. The guys discuss Jon’s inspirations, his thought process and artistic process for creating books that can be enjoyed by kids of any age, and how his approach to his work has changed since he became a father. Other conversation topics include:•  Creating work that sticks out in the age of self-publishing•  How his work in animation influences his art•  Finding your inner third-grader•   The value of simplicity and minimalism•   Reading alone vs. being read to•   “Quintessential” children’s books•   The importance of independent bookstoresBefore closing out the episode, Adam and Marc take turns swapping some rapid-fire book recommendations and… unrecommendations?[Episode Transcript] LINKSJon Klassen TwitterJon Klassen InstagramMac BarnettGo! Go! Cory CarsonBlueyChrri & ChirraSylvester and the Magic Pebble by William SteigFrog and ToadHere We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth, by Oliver JeffersOne Morning in Maine by Robert McCloskeyToot by Leslie PatricelliA Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip and Erin SteadBob the Artist by Marion DeucharsKaty Hudson, Too Many CarrotsPowell's Books, Portland, ORRiverRun Books, Portsmouth, NHWater Street Books, Exeter, NHLongfellow Books, Portland, ME26 Independent BookstoresRed Vault AudioSpencer AlbeeCaspar Babypants

The Dad Bod: Is it a myth? A legend? A joke? Does it happen to all dads? How can we avoid it? Or better yet, how can we effectively combat if we choose to? Modern Dadhood welcomes its first female guest, Courtney Wyckoff, to the conversation. Courtney’s success as a Certified Personal Trainer and the creator of MommaStrong/PappaStrong gives her unique insight into some of the real underlying issues that spawn postpartum changes in dads’ bodies. Spoiler alert: it’s more than just having a “beer gut.” Plus, we survey our favorite fatherhood Facebook group to hear first hand what factors led to their dad bods. Episode 28 of Modern Dadhood wastes no time getting into the theme of the conversation: the common shift in male physique that occurs in the months or years after becoming a father—a phenomenon widely known as the “dad bod.” Adam and Marc explore definitions of the slang phrase while swapping stories of their own challenges making health a priority upon becoming fathers. Adam welcomes the first woman (and mom) to the podcast; the phenomenal Courtney Wyckoff, creator of the MammaStrong and PappaStrong exercise programs, mom of three, and total badass. Courtney challenges the idea that the “dad bod” is just about allowing ourselves to eat too much junk or drink too much beer, but rather that there are physical, mental, and emotional stressors that come with fatherhood which can manifest physically—and that returning to exercise, even in 15 minute-per-day increments, can help facilitate a return to strength and health. Other conversation topics include:•  Body image in men vs. women•  Redefining what it means to be “strong”•  Common structural issues in men• Anchor points of the body•  Do men have a “pelvic floor?”•  The secret to habit building•  Finding the motivation to start•  Ignoring the “bully voice” in your head The guys check in with their favorite fatherhood-themed Facebook group to take a poll on the driving factors of their change in physique. Unsurprisingly, the most cited reasons centered around time management and food consumption. (Surprisingly, there were many other unexpected answers as well!)[Episode Transcript] LINKSPappaStrongMammaStrongRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

Every parent hopes to cruise through potty training so they can be rewarded with the sweet liberty of a diaper-free lifestyle. But sometimes the toilet training journey is less of a cruise and more of a crawl… or worse yet, a series of fits and starts. Marc and his wife Jamie know this journey all too well as they’re currently navigating the harsh (and sometimes messy) terrain with their twin boys. Guest Evan Ozimek-Maier, along with his wife and two-year-old daughter, on the other hand, are just buckling in. Will they discover the perfect technique? Will they encounter regression road blocks? Or will they careen down a YouTube rabbit hole? Evan joins the Modern Dadhood conversation to share his perspective, and to get down and dirty on the journey of potty training. Episode 27 of Modern Dadhood begins with an acknowledgement that the past two episodes have been heavy. “Heavy topics for heavy times,” as noted appropriately by Marc. The guys have decided to lighten things up with a topic that every parent goes through: Potty training. As it turns out, the Checkets are currently fully immersed in the potty training adventure with their twin boy toddlers, so Marc, in particular, has plenty in common with guest Evan Ozimek-Maier. Evan is the Associate Director of Creative Services at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, and is a father of a two-year-old daughter Louis.Evan shares about his family’s journey training Louis (who he and his wife Alyssa affectionally call Lulu) to ditch the diapers and commit to using the toilet. The guys discuss various techniques that they’ve read about, heard about, and tried themselves, and they share what has been most successful in their own experiences. Other topics include: •  The value of including your child in the conversation•  Letting your kid take the initiative vs. encouraging it based on age•  Associating feelings of negativity with the toilet/peeing or pooping without a diaper•  Parents’ reactions to their child successfully using the toilet•  Incentivizing potty use•  Being influenced by peers who are potty trained•  Embarrassment/shame around pooping•  Regression•  The Respectful Parenting Method•  The "Oh Crap!" method•  Potty training books/videos/resources[Episode Transcript]LINKS:Evan Ozimek-MaierOh Crap! Potty TrainingRIE / Respectful Parenting MethodCaspar BabypantsRed Vault AudioSpencer Albee

Social-emotional learning, mindfulness, soft skills, emotional intelligence— call it what you want. Learning how to understand and deal with emotions plays a significant role in our ability to handle all varieties of problems we face throughout our lives. In this episode, we get into the nitty-gritty with Scotty Iseri, father of a 7-year-old son and fellow podcaster, on the true value of social-emotional learning (SEL) in school and at home. Also, we test out a new drinking game and encounter a commode-themed mystery in the Flaherty household. Episode 26 of Modern Dadhood opens with a conversation about the emotional effects of quarantine on our kids. Adam shares about his daughters spent their Summer, and how their experience likely differs from that of an only child. Despite kids, generally speaking, being resilient little beings, the current state of the world is different than anything they (or we) have ever experienced, so it shouldn't be a surprise that there could be some behavioral side effects.The guys welcome to the conversation Scotty Iseri, a father of one 7-year-old son. Scotty works at Committee for Children, and hosts a podcast called The Imagine Neighborhood, among many other unique talents and experiences. And he also deeply understands the importance of social-emotional learning. Scotty teaches us that the social-emotional conversation impacts everyone regardless of age, sex, or whether they're a child or parent. Topics of conversation include:•  It's just as important for us as fathers as it is for our kids, to understand and manage our emotions•  Learning how to redirect our energy• Teaching ourselves to be okay with big emotions•  Social-emotional growth and strengthening isn't inherent - it takes work•  How schools are starting to place importance on these skills•  Tips for dads when these conversations don't come naturally•  The rise of kindness and empathy Adam shares a So That's a Thing Now concerning his daughters' deuces before the episode comes to close. [Episode Transcript] LINKS:Scotty Iseri (YouTube)The Imagine NeighborhoodThe Imagine Neighborhood (Apple Podcasts)The Imagine Neighborhood (Instagram)Committee For ChildrenSocial-Emotional LearningRed Vault AudioCaspar BabypantsSpencer Albee

Entering into a new school year is anxiety-inducing as it is. This year, for many parents it feels like teetering on a precipice— each way down lined with more questions than answers. We sit down with Jon L’Ecuyer, a high school Government teacher and dad to a second grade daughter, to discuss the choices that his family is contemplating. We talk navigating hybrid learning models, juggling homeschooling with working from home, getting creative with hands-on assignments, and the myriad other back to school considerations. Also, find out whether Marc’s kids share his preferred method of eating an ice cream cone. Episode 25 dives with reckless abandon into a discussion on the concerns,  contemplation, and contention around the fast-approaching school year. Adam and Marc discuss their own arrangements before welcoming guest Jon L'Ecuyer, a father of one 7-year-old daughter and a freshman Government teacher at a school of 3,300 students in New Hampshire.Jon candidly shares his his personal opinions regarding the return to school for both younger and older students, as well as his district's plans for a safe return. The conversation touches on topics including: •  The challenges of being a two-teacher family•  Being forthright with our kids about the dangers of the virus•  The moment the news came in about remote learning in March 2020•  Expectations for the remainder of the 2020 school year•  Expectations for the future of learning•  Why remote learning is often harder for teachers•  The importance of socialization for high school students•  What most classrooms look like now Marc shares a recent unusual exclamation in an installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud?  before closing out the episode.We would like to sincerely wish all parents and students a smooth and safe transition back to learning, whatever that may look like. [Episode Transcript]LINKS:Caspar BabypantsRed Vault AudioSpencer Albee