Father Figures

In this season finale of Father Figures, Justin and Heath reflect on what makes change worthwhile as parents navigating the constant evolution of family life. From discovering new levels of exhaustion to learning when to hold on and when to let go, they explore the delicate balance between providing for our families and finding moments of peace for ourselves. The conversation meanders through chil...

In this special episode of Father Figures, Justin sits down with his sons Noah (19), Luca (17), Ari (12), and Quinn (9) for an honest conversation about growing up male. Using Steve Biddulph's "Raising Boys" framework as a starting point, they discuss the three key developmental stages boys go through and explore questions about male role models, emotional intelligence, and what it's really like b...

In this deeply personal episode, Justin sits down with Matthew Cheal-a management professional who's spent his career fixing broken organisations, but discovered that life's biggest challenges can't be solved with an org chart. From navigating the emotional rollercoaster of eleven rounds of IVF to rebuilding after divorce, Matt shares how he's learned that true strength isn't about having all the...

In this deeply honest conversation, musician and NDIS support worker Andrew Kitchen (Antiskeptic) sits down with host Justin to discuss his recent journey through chronic anxiety, the deconstruction of ego, and discovering what remains when achievement can no longer define you. Andrew opens up about canceling his band's tour in November 2024 due to a severe anxiety episode, the wisdom his wife Kat...

In this deeply moving episode of Father Figures, Justin sits down with counselor and pastor Dave Drummond for a raw conversation about overcoming childhood trauma and finding authentic purpose. Dave shares his journey from a broken home marked by abuse to becoming a father, minister, and healer who has literally died and come back to serve others. From their unlikely first meeting when Justin was...

In this episode of Father Figures , Justin sits down with Paul Bugg — long-time president of the Sharks Basketball Club, husband, dad, and proud “Pa Bugg” to his grandkids. Paul opens up about raising his son Andy, who has Down syndrome, and how advocating for him shaped both his family life and his leadership in the community. From coaching under-10s to creating opportunities fo...

Justin and Heath dive deep into the ever-changing world of parenting - from the chaos of newborn days and surprise birthing stories to the challenges of raising teens in a digital age. They share honest reflections on how kids reshape family life, what it means to navigate constant change, and the small anchor points that help dads (and kids) find stability. With plenty of laughs, real-life storie...

In this touching episode, hosts Justin & Heath share their own experience and key memories of previous Father's Days. Justin and Heath sit down with two inspiring dads. First, they chat with Phil Gaudion , who shares stories from his unique journey as a drummer and a football club chaplain. Phil opens up about what fatherhood truly means to him - laying down personal ambitions to make his fami...

In this powerful episode of Father Figures, Justin sits down with Australian rapper Matt 360 to explore a raw and redemptive story of family, addiction, and faith. Matt opens up about his journey from a middle-class Lutheran school kid in Croydon, Melbourne, to becoming a platinum-selling artist caught in the grip of prescription drug addiction, and ultimately finding healing through Christ. The c...

Indigenous Australian artist Mitch Tambo went from social worker to AGT sensation in a whirlwind journey that would test everything he thought he knew about himself. But behind the golden buzzers and stadium crowds was a man learning to heal childhood anxiety, navigate blended family life, and break generational patterns. In this raw conversation, Mitch shares how holding his 18-month-old daughter...

Welcome to Season 3 of Father Figures! Hosts Justin and Heath reunite to share what's changed in their lives over the past year - and what hasn't. Heath opens up about his intense hostile environment training course for his new role at World Vision, complete with mock hostage situations and cable-tie escape techniques. Meanwhile, Justin reflects on finally doing his graduation ceremony and the sur...

Join host Justin Michael for this heartwarming Mother's Day special episode of Father Figures. In a departure from the regular format, Justin welcomes women in his life to share their perspectives on motherhood, parenting challenges, and family bonds. The episode begins with an intimate conversation with Justin's wife Jodi, who opens up about her 19 years of motherhood experience, cherished memori...

Continue the conversation, with guest Ryan Moloney as Justin and Heath dive deep into life's accountability, hyperfocus, and authentic parenting. The guys get real about achieving goals, personal responsibility, and creating meaningful family connections. Today they discuss: How Ryan realised that you can achieve anything in life when you "work the plan" Heath's candid admission about how Rya...

Australian TV icon Ryan Moloney joins Heath and Justin for a refreshingly honest conversation that dives into his legendary almost 30-year run as "Toadfie" on Neighbours and so much more. In this revealing episode, Ryan opens up about the price of fame, how he manages hyper-attention, and the recent major changes in his career. With remarkable candor, Ryan discusses ADHD and shares practical strat...

Matthew Jacoby is a theologian, author, pastor, and musician best known as the lead singer of Sons of Korah and a lecturer in Christian Thought at Melbourne School of Theology. Matt opens up about the daily rhythms of family life, sharing his approach to helping his children with homework and studies. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Matt recounts his father's adventurous spirit—...

Former "Neighbours" star Andrew Bibby joins Justin and Heath for a refreshingly honest conversation about modern parenting in the digital age. Moving beyond the typical doom and gloom narrative, Andrew shares his innovative approach to helping his children understand and engage with social media. Dive into a candid discussion about: Transforming social media from a potential threat to a creative p...

In this episode of  Father Figures , host Justin sits down for a heartfelt and insightful conversation with one of his own sons. Together, they explore the challenges and joys of parenting in a world dominated by screens, social media, and constant connectivity. Justin shares real-life experiences, practical wisdom, and faith-based encouragement on how to navigate the digital age as a dad. Fr...

Justin and Heath dive deep into the critical balance between work, screen-time & family life. This is PART 2 of the previous episode with Noddy Sharma. The guys get real about how our priorities often don't match our values, today they discuss:  Why putting your family before your career is so important The startling realisation that those precious moments with your children are flying by...

Justin sits down with Noddy Sharma - a powerhouse voice in youth engagement and faith leadership - to unravel the complex world of modern parenting. What's Inside: The Digital Dilemma: Are smartphones friends or foes for our teens? Generational Shifts: Why today's youth dream differently The Ultimate Trust Test with Tech: When and how did Noddy let go of the no screen-time policy? Noddy brings raz...

In this holiday-themed episode, Justin and Heath continue to share their Christmas traditions. Heath reminisces about hilarious office gift exchanges, while Justin opens up about his exhausting but rewarding Carols by Candlelight performances. As a dad, Justin talks about pacing himself for the holidays and how he involves his kids in cooking, singing, and even toilet paper fights! You will also h...

In this festive episode of Father Figures, Heath, Justin & special guest...Don, chat about their fond moments during Christmas time. Heath shares his experience with the CFA and being their Santa during December, bringing holiday cheer to his local community. Special guest Don, Justin’s father, joins the conversation to reminisce about Christmas memories, including Justin’s first bike and Don’...

Justin and Heath explore celebrating milestones in your children’s lives. From children's achievements to small victories, they discuss why recognizing these moments matters and how it encourages kids to embrace new challenges.   Justin asks Heath about the balance of attending important events as a parent, particularly as a single dad, and how to handle the inevitable guilt or disappointment that...

In this deeply personal and reflective episode, Heath opens up about a recent health scare after discovering an easily treatable cancer spot on his head. In the first eight minutes, Heath and Justin discuss how this news has impacted Heath’s outlook on his future with his kids and what he chose to share with them. Heath reveals how the experience has reinforced his desire to stay happy, healthy, a...

In this inspiring episode of Father Figures, Justin and Heath continue the conversation and explore the role fathers play in nurturing their children's passions and abilities, encouraging dads to look for the signs of their kids' natural strengths and interests.  Justin shares stories about recognizing and supporting his children's budding talents, while Heath offers insights into empowering kids...

In this inspiring episode of Father Figures, Justin and Heath discuss the rewarding journey of helping children discover their unique gifts and talents. They explore the role fathers play in nurturing their children's passions and abilities, encouraging dads to look for the signs of their kids' natural strengths and interests. Justin shares stories about recognizing and supporting his children's b...