Episode 185 - Kindness, Strength, and Presence - What Father’s Day Means in 2025

Father’s Day 2025 marks a special milestone-the third anniversary of the Dad Space Podcast. As dads everywhere celebrate this year, it’s a perfect moment to share uplifting sentiments that honor the journey of fatherhood. Fatherhood isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up with love, patience, and presence every day. Whether you’re reading bedtime stories, offering guidance, or simply being a steady presence, your consistent care shapes your children’s world in profound ways.

This Father’s Day, take pride in the quiet strength you bring to your family. Your kindness, wisdom, and willingness to grow make you a role model-not just for your kids, but for the community around you. Remember, the small moments-the smiles, the hugs, the everyday acts of support-are the foundation of a loving legacy that lasts a lifetime.

To all dads, stepdads, grandfathers, and father figures: thank you for your dedication, your sacrifices, and the joy you bring into your families’ lives. You are appreciated more than words can say. Celebrate this day knowing you are exactly the father your children need, perfectly imperfect and deeply loved.

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 184 - Theo Von - I Wish Someone Told Me to Have More Pride in My Family When I Was Younger

A recent of Theo Von's podcast made me think about the relationship between Dad's and Kids and Kids with their Dad's - check out the full clip here:

https://youtu.be/p-pqzPeAwvs

In a deeply personal reflection, comedian and podcaster Theo Von opens up about his relationship with his father, revealing the complex emotions and regrets he’s been working through as a son. The conversation is raw, honest, and ultimately hopeful—a journey from shame and judgment to understanding and healing.

Main Themes and Points:

Relating Through Shared Experience:

• Theo finds comfort in knowing others can relate to his story about having an older father. This shared experience creates a sense of connection and helps him feel less alone in his struggles.

Regret and Missed Opportunities:

• Looking back, Theo realizes he could have been a better son if he hadn’t judged his father so harshly. He acknowledges that circumstances weren’t ideal, but he now sees how his own judgments and lack of pride in his family shaped their relationship.

Shame and Self-Protection:

• As a child, Theo was embarrassed by his father and even joined others in making fun of his family situation. He reflects that this shame may have been a way to protect himself from the pain of getting close, knowing his father’s old age meant their time together was limited.

The Power of Self-Examination:

• Through writing about his resentments and anger, Theo uncovers deeper feelings—realizing he was angry at his father because he never truly knew him. This process of self-examination brings clarity and allows him to see his own role in the relationship.

Judgment as a Barrier:

• Theo recognizes that his judgment of his father, and of others, has kept him at a distance from real connection. He describes how judgment can become a habit that isolates us, tricking us into thinking we’re protecting ourselves when we’re actually missing out on love and closeness.

Taking Ownership and Finding Healing:

• Rather than blaming his father or circumstances, Theo chooses to take ownership of his part in the relationship. This shift gives him control, allowing him to forgive, apologize (even if only at his father’s grave), and rebuild memories with more compassion and less anger.

The Transformative Power of Reflection:

• As Theo works through his feelings, he notices that his memories of his father soften. The sharp edges of resentment give way to a gentler, more loving perspective. He emphasizes that healing comes from looking inward, understanding our own emotions, and being willing to let go of judgment.

Theo Von’s candid exploration of his relationship with his father is a reminder that regret and shame are universal, but so is the possibility of healing. By facing our judgments, taking responsibility for our actions, and choosing compassion over resentment, we can transform even the most difficult relationships—finding connection, understanding, and ultimately, love.

https://www.theovon.com/podcast

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 183 - Andrew Goldsmith - Lessons from US Army Infantry and Army Ranger School Applied To Being a Dad

Andrew Goldsmith grew up in Los Angeles, California. In 2004, he joined the US Army infantry where he served as a machine gunner, team leader, and squad leader during nearly five years of service. Andrew deployed to Iraq twice, in 2006 and 2008, and graduated US Army Ranger School in 2008.

After leaving the Army in 2009, Andrew studied philosophy at the University of Hawaii. In 2011, he self-published his war-time memoirs, Zarqawi’s Ice Cream: Tales of Mediocre Infantrymen. Later, he would go onto to earn his law degree from the Pepperdine School of Law and passed the California Bar Exam in 2016.

Andrew has studied abroad in Spain and Uganda and adventured in many parts of the world including Iraq, Qatar, China, Mexico, and Western and Central Europe. He has spent time in almost every state in the United States, including touring the country by van, twice, and skateboarding down the entire coast of California in 2013.

Presently, Andrew is a practicing attorney, small businessman, and author. He enjoys skateboarding long distances, spending time with his family, and has a black belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu.

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270