Fatherhood Field Notes

Mondoe Davis, former NFL player, speaker, author, coach, pastor, and entrepreneur, discusses changing the traditional role of dads from providers to stewards. Mondoe talks about his journey as a father of 11, and the importance of training children for life, helping them find their purpose, and guiding them through the stages of growth. He goes into his experiences like an emergency childbirth in...

Ned challenges dads to take ownership of their role in guiding their families, particularly when it comes to spiritual leadership. He shares advice on how to incorporate family devotions into everyday life, and the importance of setting standards and routines at home. By reflecting on his own experiences and the struggles many dads face, Ned talks about how to lead with confidence, even when it fe...

Bryan Kelley pushes back against the idea that a dad’s primary role is to provide financially. Instead, he talks about the importance of being truly present and engaged in the lives of your kiddos. Bryan and Ned also discuss the significance of showing genuine care, understanding, and being a source of emotional support. They’re urging dads to shift their focus from simply providing to building de...

Ned explores the profound impact of fatherhood by sharing insights from historical figures like Jonathan Edwards, who left an enduring multi-generational legacy. Drawing parallels to modern fatherhood, Ned discusses the significance of establishing meaningful morning and evening routines, highlighting how these practices can set positive standards and rhythms within the family. Through personal an...

In this episode, Ned sits down with Ben Briggs and Jordan Adent of "Good Dude Good Dad" to discuss the challenges and rewards of fatherhood. They share personal stories about the importance of being present, setting priorities, and maintaining integrity. The conversation touches on how to balance the demands of work and family life, the role of vulnerability and strength in parenting, and the impa...

Ned is challenging all you dads out there to reset family standards as the new school year approaches. He discusses creating a balanced home environment, and the importance of setting consistent routines without becoming overbearing. Ned provides strategies for fathers to take an active role in daily family life, from morning routines to family dinners. Ned explains there is a delicate balance bet...

Ned talks about the lessons learned from 20 years of marriage, and shares 20 key thoughts that have shaped a strong and enduring relationship. Ned discusses the importance of preserving memories through photos and journals, the danger of comparing oneself to others, and the necessity of accountability in a healthy marriage. He expresses the value of laughter, investing in your relationship, and th...

Ned shares transformative insights on the powerful connection between physical fitness, disciplined eating, and personal identity. Drawing from his own fatherhood journey, Ned explores the profound impact of training your body and mastering your diet on mental and spiritual well-being. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's inherent power and capability as a father and a man. Through re...

Ned reflects on 20 years of marriage, offering 10 impactful thoughts on what makes a marriage thrive. Ned zeroes in on empathy, spontaneity, faith, and the role of a husband in nurturing a loving and supportive relationship. Plus the importance of seeing marriage as an opportunity for growth and connection. He urges men to consider how they can create a peaceful and joyful home environment, becaus...

Ned is addressing the topic of health and fitness for fathers, pushing back against the unrealistic standards set by social media. He shares his perspective of what it truly means to be a fit and healthy dad, and the importance of being prepared for any situation to support and protect your family. Ned focuses on realistic and achievable fitness goals for dads and encourages them to rethink their...

In this episode, Ned welcomes Sean Post to discuss the intersection of physical fitness and spiritual well-being for fathers. Sean shares his journey from struggling with physical pain to embracing a healthier lifestyle, and how this transformation has deepened his capacity to serve his family and community. They tackle the tough question of how fit a father needs to be and explore the impact of f...

Ned discusses the critical connection between fitness and fatherhood. He talks about his personal fitness journey and how maintaining a healthy body directly impacts a father's ability to engage fully with his children. He shares tips on nutrition, stressing the importance of eating according to one’s activity level and choosing whole foods. Ned also reflects on the long-term benefits of health, n...

Ned welcomes George Dadas Jr. and he shares his experience of creating a trusting relationship with his children, the importance of cultivating a close-knit family, and the timeless truth that it's never too late to become the father you aspire to be. He also talks about the significance of being present in the small moments and the role of faith in guiding his parenting. Tune in to hear the chall...

Ned talks about how important being active and fit is for dads because it has a great impact on family life. Ned explains how being active sets an example for children and makes bonds with your kids much stronger. He challenges all you dads to shift your mindset from motivation to discipline and ultimately to identity. He also gives you a lot of options for things you can do outside with your kids...

Kenji Sanders joins Ned to discuss the impact of fatherhood on both individual families and society at large. Kenji opens up about the challenges and rewards of being an involved dad, sharing how he’s kept open communication with children and the importance of being a present, loving figure. He addresses the often-overlooked role of empathy in parenting and relationships, and how it can lead to st...

Ned talks about how dads have the ability to set the tone in their homes, especially during life's inevitable storms. He discusses how important it is to choose joy over fleeting happiness and the impact this choice has on your family. Ned is challenging all you dads to become the dependable, joyful leaders your families need, capable of bringing life and stability, even in the most challenging ti...

Former NFL player Otis Amey is here to share his journey from professional sports to a fulfilling life centered around faith, family, and personal growth. Otis dives into the importance of setting intentions for fatherhood, the life-changing power of faith, and the lessons learned from his own upbringing and career. This conversation will give you a look into the challenges and triumphs of balanci...

Ned Schaut dives into the importance of curiosity in fatherhood, emphasizing how staying curious about yourself, your spouse, and your children can deeply enrich family life. He shares personal stories and reflections on how trying new things and maintaining a curious mindset can lead to personal growth and stronger relationships. This episode challenges fathers to break free from routines, engage...

Ned welcomes Bryan Crow, a father who has undergone a remarkable journey of personal transformation. Bryan shares his powerful story of losing 100 pounds, overcoming alcoholism, and finding a new sense of purpose through fitness and faith. He discusses the importance of discipline, the impact of community support, and the challenges of balancing family life with personal goals. Bryan's reflections...

Ned discusses the crucial role of community in fatherhood. He talks about the concept of the "tribal father," explaining the importance of not going through the parenting journey alone. He stresses how important it is to have a supportive network, not only for personal growth but also for the benefit of children. ---------- Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness:  RUK Fitness This epi...

Ned sits down with Coach Mike Harvey to discuss the vital role fathers play in both their kids’ lives and sports development. They talk about the importance of character-building through athletics, the impact of effective coaching, and the challenges of balancing being a dad and coaching duties. Mike offers advice on leadership, resilience, and why it’s important to let kids experience success AND...

Ned is digging deep into the heart of what it means to be a father filled with grace. He shares his personal stories and insights on how dads can show their kids understanding and empathy without letting go of discipline and standards. Let’s tackle the common misconception that anger is necessary for effective parenting and explore how grace and accountability can go hand-in-hand. Tune in to hear...

For this episode we welcome Cynthia Monteleone, a world champion athlete and advocate for fairness in women's sports. Ned and Cynthia discuss the complex issues surrounding transgender athletes' participation in female sports categories. The conversation highlights Cynthia's personal experiences and the broader implications for female athletes, emphasizing the need for open dialogue and policy cla...

Ned discusses the difference between empowering children and exerting control over them. Telling stories about his own experiences, he encourages fathers to really think about their parenting approach, focusing on teaching and guiding with love rather than authority. Ned talks about the delicate balance between giving children the tools to succeed and allowing them the space to learn from their ow...

Ned welcomes Matthew Toole to discuss how fathers can be a huge influence, for better or worse, in their sons' lives. Matthew shares his approach to parenting, focusing on the importance of resilience, work ethic, and thoughtful conversations about future partners. Ned and Matthew also explore balancing business and family, and the important role faith and commitment play in fatherhood. Tune in fo...