Andrew, an aspiring dad, and Paul, a dad of two, dig deep to find out what it means to be/become the best dad possible, why it matters, and how to do so.
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Paul Wandrey Podcasts
Bringing Education Home is the podcast for parents who know something isn’t working — and are ready to take the lead. Hosted by Herb and Kristina Heagh-Avritt of Vibrant Family Education, each episode dives deep into the heart of family life and learning, offering real talk, real tools, and real connection. Whether you’re overwhelmed by traditional schooling, exploring homeschooling, or simply craving a better rhythm for your family, we bring you grounded insight and fresh perspectives from ...
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Matt Edmundson: Fridge Rights, Kebab Vans, and Raising Great Kids
50:35
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50:35🔗 Connect with Matt Edmundson Website & Full Bio mattedmundson.com LinkedIn Accessible via his site, but confirmed: linkedin.com/in/mattedmundson Instagram @mattedmundson The eCommerce Podcast (hosted by Matt) Also widely available on Spotify and other platformsBy Paul Wandrey, Andrew Stolpestad
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S2EP30-The Bryant Family-Meet the Bryant Family: A Homeschooling Adventure Awaits!
44:37
44:37
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44:37Get ready for a family affair like no other! The Bryant family joins us to chat about their unique homeschooling journey, which is as colorful as it is enlightening. They kick things off by introducing their book, "Trusting Timothy," which artfully tackles the subject of cheating through a lens of faith and family values. Each family member shares …
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S2EP29-Mykal Olson-Hope on the Horizon: Michael's Mission to Save Families from Addiction
51:43
51:43
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51:43Mykal Olson: Guiding Fathers to Conquer Addiction and Save Their Families "I want to stop destroying my life and family, but I just don't know how." This haunting question remained unanswered for Mykal until it was too late. Yet, he transformed his darkest hours into a mission of hope and change for other families. Mykal didn't just recover; he tra…
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Gentle Parenting: Spineless or Stronger Than You Think?
57:19
57:19
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57:19🧠 Topics Covered: What gentle parenting actually means The difference between permissive and respectful Why “being the adult” doesn’t mean being the boss Handling triggers without shame How we model emotional regulation Where we’ve gotten it wrong—and what we’ve learned Why connection gives your discipline more power 🎯 This episode is for: Dads try…
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S2EP28-Penelope Jane Smith-The Secrets of Financial Freedom for Families
45:59
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45:59In this episode, we sit down with Penelope Jane Smith, a vibrant financial freedom mentor who's taken the entrepreneurial world by storm with her unique approach to finances. Imagine turning a small investment into millions, only to face a heartbreaking crash that could make anyone lose hope. Penelope's story is one of resilience: after losing ever…
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S2EP27-Jen Dyer-Brain Talk & Body Talk: Fun Ways to Connect with Your Neurodivergent Child!
48:17
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48:17Jen Dryer, our guest for today, brings a treasure trove of knowledge and experience to the table. With more than 20 years in the educational sector, she's not just a consultant or a coach; she's a fellow parent who truly gets it. Jen shares her own experiences raising two boys, one of whom is on the autism spectrum, and how those experiences led he…
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Parenting on Empty: Why Showing Up Still Matters
1:07:56
1:07:56
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1:07:56🔑 What We Talk About: Why “being there” isn’t always easy, but it always matters How dads carry pressure to fix things instead of just be there The pilot-in-turbulence metaphor that redefined Nick’s parenting mindset Learning to shift from resentment to gratitude in daily chaos Accepting failure and showing your kids that love is consistent, not pe…
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S2EP26-Paul & Sarah Wandrey-The Why Dad Podcast: Unpacking Parenting with the Wandrey Duo
1:02:01
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1:02:01Paul and Sarah Wandrey, married for 6 years, live in Minnesota with their two children under 5. They are both passionate about family and share interests in hiking, travelling, lake days, and spending quality time together as a family. Paul's Website Paul's Facebook page @thewhydadpodcast on Instagram Paul: Software developer by day, by night I pur…
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S2EP25-Kathryne Imabayashi-Raising Boys: The Untold Secrets to Future Gentlemen!
51:47
51:47
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51:47Kathryne Imabayashi is a whirlwind of wisdom and experience! With over 40 years in education across five continents, she’s not just a teacher; she’s a parenting coach, speaker, and author on a mission to help parents raise emotionally healthy boys. So, what’s the scoop? We dive deep into her journey, exploring the pivotal moment that sparked her pa…
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How Do You Give What You Don't Have? Taking Care of Yourself to Take Care of Your Kids
49:34
49:34
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49:34What We Talk About: 🧠 Why mental health maintenance (not just crisis response) is essential 🥦 How nutrition, sleep, and blood sugar affect emotional regulation 🏋️ The connection between movement, play, and showing up well as a dad 🧃 Why your discipline slips when your energy does 💬 Modeling emotional health for your kids by doing your own inner wor…
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S2EP24-Barry Garapedian-The 7 Pillars of Family Success: Insights from Barry Garapedian
50:23
50:23
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50:23Barry Garapedian Guest Bio: Barry Garapedian is the President and CEO of MAG 7 Consulting, a boutique coaching, mentoring, and advisory firm that caters to high-school and college-aged students. The MAG 7 program has distilled and codified key principles of achievement and paths to success which propel young people to meet their highest potentials …
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S2EP23-Howard Freedman-Don't Panic! Your College Funding Questions Answered
45:51
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45:51Get ready to dive into the world of financial aid with the amazing Howard Freeman! Today, we’re chatting about how navigating college expenses doesn't have to be as terrifying as a rollercoaster ride, especially when you have a guide like Howard, who's been helping families score affordable college options for over two decades. He’s got the inside …
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🔑 What We Talk About: 👴 Parenting for 40, not just for 18 ⚖️ Punishment vs. consequences — and why they're not the same 🧠 Why the best parenting moments happen after the meltdown 🎯 How to raise kids who love learning and trust their own reasoning 📚 What we get wrong about grades, homework, and school 🤐 Why discipline in the moment usually fails 💬 H…
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S2EP22-Amanda & Aaron Johnson-Telling Tales: How to Use Storytelling as a Parenting Superpower!
54:05
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54:05Get ready to dive into a world where storytelling meets parenting magic! We’re chatting with the dynamic duo, Amanda and Aaron Johnson, who are all about transforming life's narrative into something spectacular. Amanda's got 25 years of experience turning personal backstories into epic tales through her projects like the Story Oracle, while Aaron b…
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EP82(Revisit)-Helen Panos-Fail to Succeed: The Importance of Resilience in Education!
36:28
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36:28Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of personalized education with our special guest, Helen Panos, a rockstar educator with over 25 years under her belt! We kick things off by tackling the elephant in the room: the crazy emphasis on standardized testing and how it often leaves kids stranded in the educational Bermuda Triangle. Helen shar…
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In this episode, Paul and Andrew dig into one of the most powerful (and often under-discussed) parenting skills: teaching our kids how to think. From silly moments like mistaking cows for horses to deeper reflections on autonomy and identity, they explore how critical thinking shows up in everyday parenting—and how easy it is to accidentally shut i…
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EP75(Revisit)-Anthony Delauney-Financial Literacy for the Fam: Fun Ways to Teach Your Kids!
46:50
46:50
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46:50Money matters, and today we’re diving headfirst into the fun world of financial literacy for kids with our fantastic guest, Anthony Delany! He’s not just your average financial advisor; he’s the mastermind behind Owning the Dash, where he’s on a mission to teach children the ins and outs of money through delightful picture books. We’re talking abou…
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S2EP21-Kathi Sohn-Rewriting Childhood Narratives: The Power of Body Memory
52:39
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52:39In 2020, Kathi Sohn retired from her first career of 36 years with the U.S. Defense Department. Widowed in 2019, Kathi decided to devote her life to sharing the powerful work her beloved husband created – the Body Memory Process for discovering and releasing childhood trauma and beliefs. Kathi wrote a bestselling book on the Body Memory Process, Yo…
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Putting the Gratitude in Attitude: the Power of a Gratitude Mindset
47:21
47:21
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47:21Disclaimer: Please don't close your eyes as instructed if you are driving or doing anything else dangerous. In this episode of the Why, Dad? Podcast, we explore the transformative power of gratitude and how it shapes us as fathers. "Putting the Gratitude in Attitude: The Power of a Gratitude Mindset" dives into the essential role gratitude plays in…
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S2EP20-Robert Melillo-Why Your Kid's Brain Might Be Playing Hide and Seek!
44:30
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44:30Robert Melillo Guest Bio - Dr. Robert Melillo is a leading expert in developmental neurological conditions such as ADHD, autism, OCD, tics, dyslexia, anxiety, and depression in both children and adults. With extensive knowledge of brain function, he has perfected a noninvasive, multi-modal method to significantly improve and correct many neurologic…
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Disclaimer: expect some minor audio issues due to one of our hosts calling in from a remote location. In this episode, Paul and Andrew dive into a thought-provoking clip from a popular parenting influencer, where the idea that parents shouldn’t teach their kids "what" to learn, but instead create an environment where they can discover "what they wa…
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S2EP19-Kevin R. Strauss-Why Love and Connection Matter More Than Ever in Parenting!
47:19
47:19
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47:19Kevin R. Strauss, M.E. is an innovator, emotional health & wellness expert, and CEO of Uchi, a social app dedicated to strengthening relationships and improving behaviors. As a trained biomedical engineer with more than 75 patents, a book titled Innovate The 1%, and numerous peer-reviewed publications in spine, psychology, and human behavior, Kevin…
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S2EP18-Daniela Dohnert-Empowering Teens: A Super Parent's Guide to Open Conversations!
36:52
36:52
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36:52Daniela Dohnert is a Visual Artist, Life Coach, and Mother from Venezuela with a deep passion for empowering teenagers. Through her education, she discovered the transformative power of perspective in communication and self-esteem. Having experienced firsthand the benefits of these perspective shifts in her own relationships with her teenage childr…
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The Aspiring Dad: Preparing for Fatherhood
39:07
39:07
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39:07What does it mean to prepare for fatherhood before it even begins? In this episode, Paul and Andrew explore the journey of an aspiring dad—Andrew's personal reflections on his desire to become a father, the challenges of preparing for that role, and the intentional steps he's taking to become the best version of himself.From discussing the influenc…
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S2EP17-Dr. Ynge Ljung-Secrets to Allergy-Free Living!
45:07
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45:07Dr. Ynge Ljung is an, Acupuncture Physician, and Naturopath with 30 years of experience. A Certified Body Code™ Practitioner and author of *Finding Your Lost Child*, she also created The Allergy Kit, a simple, DIY family allergy solution. Her diverse background includes chemical engineering, artisan work, and raising a family internationally. Dr. L…
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S2EP16-Rich "Trigger" Bontrager-Raising Fearless Kids: Lessons from a Stuttering Superstar
47:16
47:16
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47:16Rich "Trigger" Bontrager is an internationally acclaimed media personality widely recognized as a “Master of Microphone." Trigger is an Executive Performance Consultant, international public speaker, talk show host, producer, and media brand expert. With a career spanning over 35 years, Trigger leverages his vast experience to consult and coach asp…
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In this behind the scenes episode of 'Why, Dad?', Paul and Andrew dive into one of the biggest milestones in parenthood—welcoming a new child into the family. Paul opens up about the birth of his son, Liam, and reflects on the emotions, challenges, and joys of transitioning from a family of three to four. They discuss the mix of relief and exciteme…
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S2EP15-Alicia Mazari-Andersen-Food, Fun, & ADHD: How to Make Veggies Your Kids' Best Buds! 🥦💚
48:56
48:56
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48:56Imagine unlocking the genetic secrets behind ADHD, armed with a PhD in Botany and 30 years of teaching higher education. That's the foundation Alicia stands on. As a holistic nutritionist deeply attuned to the biology of DNA, together with my business partner, we have written a book and created online programs, both English and Spanish, which illum…
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S2EP14-Hannah Bailey-Family First: How Homeschooling Transformed Our Lives
50:44
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50:44Hannah Bailey, a small town rural homesteader who homeschools her 9yo and 5yo children alongside raising 1yo twins. Hannah and her husband Micah took a leap of faith and both are home full-time with Hannah working remotely and Micah also a full-time student himself. She is going to share how freeing homeschooling can be, but emphasize the importanc…
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The Power of Habits: Designing Your Life One Brick at a Time
1:23:40
1:23:40
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1:23:40Habits shape who we are, whether we realize it or not. In this episode, Paul and Andrew break down the science of habits, why they matter, and how to leverage them to take control of your life. From battling the 'whack-a-mole' cycle of self-improvement to stacking small wins for big success, they share practical tips for building better habits and …
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S2EP13-Christine Jackson-Snack Attack: How to Keep Your Kids Healthy Without Losing Your Mind!
46:36
46:36
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46:36Christine Jackson Christine is a certified nutrition coach dedicated to helping busy millennial moms lose weight sustainably, boost energy, and feel confident in their bodies—without restrictive diets or unrealistic plans. She knows that as a mom, you want to feel good in your skin and set a healthy example for your kids, and she’s here to make tha…
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S2EP12-Dr.Roz-Debt-Free Dreams: How to Send Your Kids to College Without Student Loans!
43:13
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43:13Elizabeth Rosner As the Founder and Chief Educational Officer of DebtFreeDegree with DrRoz, Elizabeth Rosner, affectionately known as DrRoz, is a visionary leader dedicated to empowering students to achieve their academic dreams without the burden of student loan debt. With a personal educational journey marked by exceptional academic achievement a…
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What separates those who thrive from those who are stuck drifting aimlessly or in an unending loop of failed habits? One word: Grit. In this episode, Paul and Andrew peel back the onion of resilience—what it is, why it matters, and how we can develop it in ourselves and our kids. Learn practical ways to help push through challenges, embrace failure…
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S2EP11-Timothy Stuetz-The Power of Play: Blending Fun with Mindful Practices for Families
55:17
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55:17Timothy's Facebook page Timothy Stuetz Timothy's Website @timothystuetz on Instagram Timothy on YouTube Guest Bio - Timothy, The Magical & Mystical Fairy Tale Wizard & Poet: Educating, Enchanting, Empowering Everyone, has empowered tens of thousands over 44 years to use their infinite soul powers to conquer life’s challenges, achieving their full p…
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S2EP10-Susan Janzen-Empowering Parents: Navigating Life with Adaptive Needs
48:49
48:49
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48:49Susan Janzen Susan's Facebook page Susan on YouTube Guest Bio: Susan Janzen, B.Ed., is a multifaceted professional who combines her passions as a resilience coach, podcast host, and licensed REALTOR® specializing in accessible homes. A survivor of the foster care system, and being a single mom for 6 years Susan’s journey has fueled her commitment t…
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In this introspective and relatable episode of Why, Dad?, Paul and Andrew dive into a question that many of us have asked ourselves: What are you doing with your life? Through candid conversation and lighthearted banter, they explore what it means to find purpose, align your actions with your values, and navigate the chaos of life with intention. W…
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S2EP9-From Reluctant Homeschooler to Advocate: Jennifer Edlund's Inspiring Journey
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52:09Jennifer had stubbornly rejected homeschooling as an option. She thought it was child abuse, so when public and private schools did not create the environment she wanted for her kids along with many other life circumstances she swallowed her pride, humbled herself and tried out the homeschool option. Terrified and worried about getting it right, sh…
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S2 EP8: Breaking the Norm: Why Dena Farash Chose Homeschooling and Beyond
51:24
51:24
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51:24Dena Farash Dena Farash shares sameness and sanity so that Moms can feel cool, calm, and confident without guilt or shame. Dena is a Positive Discipline Parent Educator, a public speaker, author and successful online entrepreneur who has found her unique way of sharing how to thrive in Motherhood while still creating personal fulfillment, accomplis…
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S2EP7-Stephanie Eige-Empowering Families: The Joy of Education at Home
49:44
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49:44Stephanie Eige Stephanie's Website I mentor families pursuing a path of non-traditional education and help them find peace, joy, and true connection through respectful parenting, educational freedom and empowerment. I have been with my husband for more than 30 years and we have a 17-year-old son and 16-year-old daughter. We have been homeschooling …
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Bonus 13-Lynne Roe-Twice Gifted: The Challenges and Triumphs of Educating a Unique Learner
16:39
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16:39Bonus 13-Lynne Roe-Twice Gifted: The Challenges and Triumphs of Educating a Unique Learner Guest Bio - Lynne Roe Lynne works with entrepreneurs and small business owners to develop a strong foundation to lead their business. She guides business owners in developing strategic action plans and sound decision-making that leads to dynamic business grow…
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Beyond Responsibility: The Power of Accountability
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1:25:06Get ready to dive deep into the powerful concept of responsibility with Andrew and Paul on this episode of the "Why Dad?" podcast! Forget the boring old definitions – they're tackling responsibility as a game-changer for both personal growth and raising awesome kids.By Andrew Stolpestad, Paul Wandrey
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S2EP6-Blanka Falk- The Transformative Power of Motherhood
54:18
54:18
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54:18Blanka Falk Blanka's Website Blanka's Facebook page @renewmotherhood on Instagram @Momsmentalcoach on X Blanka on YouTube Guest Bio: Blanka Falk is an inspiring author, podcaster, and the mental coach for mothers – and a proud mother of four herself. Her personal transformation from a career-focused woman to a full-time mother has opened her eyes t…
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Bonus 12-Amy Todisco-Unlocking the Secrets of Toxin-Free Living
31:43
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31:43Bonus 12-Amy Todisco-Unlocking the Secrets of Toxin-Free Living Guest Bio: For over 30 years, Amy has empowered people to create toxin-free, sustainable homes, adopt clean diets, and embrace natural health practices that genuinely support well-being. Every recommendation she shares is rooted in personal research and hands-on experience—from healthy…
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Fatherhood as a Legacy and Responsibility
1:33:36
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1:33:36This episode of the Why Dad Podcast dives deep into the profound idea of fatherhood as both a legacy and a responsibility. Hosts Paul and Andrew explore what it truly means to build something that endures, not just for your children, but for their children's children and beyond. Whether you're a seasoned dad, considering fatherhood, or simply striv…
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S2EP5-Jan Talen-Calm Parenting: Steps to Reconnect and Thrive as a Family
45:25
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45:25Jan Talen Jan's Website Jan has been a Marriage and Family Therapist for over 35 years. She has had leadership positions in her professional organizations and church spaces on many levels, for many years and enjoyed 8 years of teaching college freshmen. She is the producer of Family Crazy to Family Calm: The DNA Way to Communicate. An online marria…
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Bonus EP11-Dinalynn Rosenbush-Transforming Parent-Child Connections Through Communication
23:17
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23:17Bonus EP11-Dinalynn Rosenbush-Transforming Parent-Child Connections Through Communication Guest Bio - Dinalynn Rosenbush Dinalynn Rosenbush is a Consultant and Parenting Coach, Speaker, 30-year public school Speech Language Pathologist, international best-selling Author, and Creator/Host of the Top 2% podcast: The Language of Play. Dinalynn helps p…
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Bonus EP10-Maison Collawn-Fostering Connection: Using Media to Engage Children with Autism
23:18
23:18
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23:18Maison Collawn joins us to share how media can play a pivotal role in helping children, especially those with autism, explore their identities and foster communication skills. With a background in mass communications and personal experiences with autism, Mason emphasizes the importance of structured media consumption and interactive learning. He ex…
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S2EP4-Jena Ponti Jauchius-Connecting with Nature: The Secret to Thriving Families
44:40
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44:40Jena Ponti Jauchius Jena's Website Jena is an internationally-recognized landscape architect, nature play expert, and the Founder of N is for Nature Play. Jena has spent her 24+ year career designing sensory-rich, nature-filled play, learning, and therapeutic environments for kids of all ages and abilities. She specializes in designing supportive e…
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Bonus EP9-Randy Rolfe-Homeschooling and Healthy Eating: Parenting Wisdom
25:25
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25:25Bonus EP9-Randy Rolfe-Homeschooling and Healthy Eating: Parenting Wisdom Guest Bio: Randy Rolfe Randy Rolfe is a veteran speaker on nutrition, parenting, and life skills. She is author of nine acclaimed books, most recently The Single Ingredient Diet: Transform Your Relationship to Food in Just 21 Days. She has appeared on over 50 TV network talk s…
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S2EP3-Embrace Imperfection: Raja Vaidya on Building Resilience in Children
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35:27Raja Vaidya Raja's Website Raja on YouTube Guest Bio: The DEI Black Belt and Singing Scientist - Raja Vaidya is the world's authority on “Invisible Disabilities. “ He is an International Inspirational Keynote Speaker, Peak Performance Consultant, and Triple Talent - Science for the Mind, Karate for the Body, and Music for the Soul. Over the past 5 …
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