Focus on Fathers Podcast: Dads Supporting Dads
Focus on Fathers helps fathers, stepfathers and other male caregivers ages 18 years and older develop and maintain healthy relationships with their children. The program provides free parenting and co-parenting education classes, case management, job-seeking support and referrals to community resources.
At the core of our work is our belief in the value of men walking alongside and learning from their peers. Our podcast, Focus on Fathers: Dads Supporting Dads, is a space created by men, for men – a place for real stories and insights on fatherhood, relationships and personal growth. Together, we tackle topics such as child development, men's mental health, co-parenting, navigating custody and more.
A Space for Dads Supporting Dads
Watch our episodes below to learn more, or tune in on YouTube or Spotify.
Who is Focus on Fathers? Larry Woody, a longtime leader of the team, and Hakim Smith, our current Program Coordinator, dive into how Focus on Fathers has walked alongside Philadelphia dads over the last two decades, as well as the keys to the program’s lasting relevance. Why is it often hard for men to talk about mental health? Damali Austin, a licensed professional counselor with PHMC Health, joins us to share insights about men’s challenges with vulnerability, why ego can be a hindrance to our mental and emotional well-being, and more. Malachi Armstrong experienced homelessness, unemployment and other life challenges prior to becoming a father. Now an alumnus of Focus on Fathers and currently working in anti-gun violence and workforce development, he joins us to share how his experience with our community inspired him to raise the bar for himself as a man and father.
Your child’s traits result from both nature and nurture. Some characteristics are present at birth, but others come from how you raise your child. Discipline is about teaching our children. Punishment isn't the main focus – the goal is to guide our children in the right direction and help them become successful adults. Adjust discipline and expectations to your child’s age. Your child’s abilities and maturity depend on their stage of development. Set realistic goals for your child. Unrealistic expectations can lower your child’s self-worth when they don’t meet those goals. Practice what you preach! Children mirror what adults do, so show the traits and skills you want them to develop. Walk a mile in your co-parent’s shoes. Listen to their point of view, and approach them with empathy and an open mind. Your co-parent’s parenting style comes from their family history, just as does yours. Take the time to understand their perspective and remember that theirs is as valid as yours. Open communication is key to co-parenting successfully. Disagreement is natural. What’s important is showing your children how you resolve those differences. Be willing to compromise and have multiple conversations if you don't reach a solution quickly. Focus parenting conversations on your child. The ultimate goal of co-parenting is working as a team for your child’s well-being. Avoid bringing up past conflicts or unrelated issues.