I Am Dad

From Iron Sharpens Iron to Promise Keepers: Brian Doyle on Fatherhood, Faith, and Leading with Purpose

Today on the I Am Dad Podcast, we are honored to welcome a true champion of fatherhood and men’s ministry, Brian Doyle. As the Founder and President of Iron Sharpens Iron, Brian has spent decades equipping men to be the spiritual leaders of their homes, churches, and communities. His leadership has impacted over 500,000 men through the Iron Sharpens Iron Conferences, which provide men with the tools to grow in faith, character, and leadership.
Brian’s journey has been shaped by his deep faith and a commitment to strengthening men’s ministries nationwide. From his time with The Navigators to serving as New England Area Manager for Promise Keepers, he has been at the forefront of inspiring men to step into their God-given roles as fathers and leaders. He is also a founding board member of the Fatherhood Commission and has dedicated his life to helping fathers navigate the challenges and blessings of raising children in faith.
A widower and devoted father of five, Brian’s personal journey of faith, fatherhood, and perseverance serves as a powerful testimony to the impact of strong, engaged fathers. Join us as we dive into his story, his work, and the wisdom he has gained through decades of ministry.

Breaking Barriers: Dr. Brianna Lemmons, Dr. Tasha Alston, and Dr. Latrice Rollins on Redefining Black Fatherhood

Today on the I Am Dad Podcast, we are honored to welcome three phenomenal scholars and thought leaders who have dedicated their careers to reshaping the narratives of fatherhood: Dr. Brianna P. Lemmons, Dr. Tasha Alston, and Dr. Latrice Rollins. Collectively, these trailblazing researchers have transformed the way we understand Black fatherhood, family dynamics, and father-inclusive policies.
Dr. Brianna P. Lemmons is an assistant professor at Baylor University and the Founder and President of the Black Female Fatherhood Scholars Network, where she uplifts Black fathers through research, education, and training. Her work explores the predictors of non-resident African American father involvement and the impact of fatherhood on child well-being.
Dr. Tasha Alston is an assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and a leading voice in fatherhood research. With expertise in social work and educational psychology, she has spent over 25 years uncovering how fathers influence child development, maternal health, and family well-being. She is the author of African American Fathers’ Involvement in Their Children’s Education and co-editor of Health, Parenting, and Community Perspectives on Black Fatherhood.
Dr. Latrice Rollins is an assistant professor at Morehouse School of Medicine and the director of the National African American Child and Family Research Center. A Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Culture of Health Leader, her work focuses on father engagement in health and human services. As the editor of Engaging and Working with African American Fathers and Health, Parenting, and Community Perspectives on Black Fatherhood, she is at the forefront of advocating for policies that strengthen father-inclusive practices.
These three powerhouse scholars are not only shifting research but also influencing policy and practice to ensure that Black fathers are recognized as vital contributors to their families and communities. In this conversation, we’ll explore their research, their personal insights, and how we can collectively work to challenge stereotypes and empower fathers everywhere.

Dr. Maretta McDonald: Fatherhood, the Criminal Justice System, and Rethinking Systemic Barriers

Today on the I Am Dad Podcast, we are honored to welcome Dr. Maretta McDonald, an award-winning teacher, sociologist, and one of the leading voices in the study of fatherhood and the criminal justice system. As an affiliate faculty member at Virginia Tech and adjunct assistant professor at St. John’s University, Dr. McDonald has created groundbreaking courses like Fatherhood and the Criminal Justice System, Sociology of the Family, and Anti-Blackness Across the Globe. She is also a member of the Black Female Fatherhood Scholars Network and has published extensively on the historical and contemporary challenges of fatherhood.
Before entering academia, Dr. McDonald worked as a child support enforcement officer and unit supervisor, giving her a rare and valuable perspective on how policies impact fathers and families firsthand. Most importantly, she is the proud mother of three fathers and a loving grandmother to nine grandchildren. Her deep knowledge, personal experience, and commitment to rethinking fatherhood make her an essential voice in today’s conversation. Join us as we dive into her research, her upcoming Fatherhood and the Criminal Justice System course, and the critical ways we can reshape narratives around fatherhood and justice.

Dr. Clinton Boyd, Jr.: Championing Black Fatherhood and Systemic Change

Today on the I Am Dad Podcast, we are honored to welcome Dr. Clinton Boyd, Jr., a visionary leader and powerful advocate for Black fathers and families. As the Executive Director of Fathers, Families, & Healthy Communities (FFHC) and a researcher at Chapin Hall, Dr. Boyd is at the forefront of shaping policies and programs that uplift Black fathers, strengthen families, and address systemic inequities. His groundbreaking work bridges research, advocacy, and community action, driving meaningful change in juvenile justice, early childhood development, and family resilience.
A Prevent Child Abuse America National Board Member, ZERO TO THREE Academy Fellow, and 2024 Aspen Institute Ascend Fellow, Dr. Boyd is recognized nationally for his transformative leadership. Beyond his accolades, he is a proud father of two, embodying the very principles he advocates for. Join us as we discuss his work, his journey, and his unwavering belief that Black fathers are essential assets to their families and communities.

Janice Robinson-Celeste: Empowering Black Families Through Successful Black Parenting Magazine

Today on the I Am Dad Podcast, we are honored to welcome the extraordinary Janice Robinson-Celeste—a powerhouse in early childhood education, media, and parenting advocacy. As the founder and publisher of Successful Black Parenting Magazine, the executive producer of Ethnic Animations, and the host of the syndicated podcast BACKTALK, Janice has dedicated her career to uplifting Black families and empowering parents with resources and support to help their children thrive.
With an impressive background as an educator, entrepreneur, and nonprofit leader, Janice brings a wealth of experience and insight to every conversation. Her work, from award-winning children’s books to groundbreaking initiatives like the National Black Parenting Conference, continues to leave a lasting impact on families and communities. Let’s dive into an inspiring discussion about her journey, her mission, and her vision for the future of Black parenting.

Acamea: Unraveling Family, Identity, and Reconciliation in Daddy’s Little Stranger

Today on the I Am Dad Podcast, we are honored to welcome Acamea, a gifted memoirist, essayist, and author of the deeply moving memoir Daddy’s Little Stranger. Through her work, Acamea masterfully explores the complex emotions of family, identity, and reconciliation, resonating with readers worldwide.
Her essays have appeared in esteemed publications like the Bellevue Literary Review, North American Review, and Beyond Words Literary Magazine, and she’s been featured by major media outlets such as the New York Post, Cosmopolitan, and Lit Hub. Acamea is also a TEDx speaker, offering profound insights on connection and personal growth. An Indiana native now residing in Nevada, Acamea holds an MFA from Randolph College, where she earned the distinction of being a Blackburn Fellow.
Join us as we dive into her creative journey, her reflections on fatherhood and family, and the stories that continue to inspire her work.

Dr. Azaliah B. Israel: Redefining Black Fatherhood and Supporting Fathers Through Family-Centered Care

Today on the I Am Dad Podcast, we are honored to welcome Dr. Azaliah B. Israel, a leading scholar and advocate in the field of Black fatherhood. Dr. Israel has dedicated her career to deconstructing and transforming narratives surrounding Black fathers through innovative narrative interventions. With a Doctorate in Public Policy from the University of Arkansas, post-doctoral experience as a Congressional Policy Fellow at Penn State University, and her current role with the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse, Dr. Israel is at the forefront of advancing family policy and fatherhood initiatives.
As a wife and mother of two sons, she brings a deeply personal perspective to her work. Join us as we explore her groundbreaking research, her thoughts on parenting, and how doulas and midwives can play a pivotal role in supporting fathers during the transformative journey of parenthood.

Calvin T. Mann: The National Encourager on Fatherhood, Mentorship, and Transforming Communities

Today on the I Am Dad Podcast, we are honored to welcome Calvin T. Mann, a true champion for fatherhood, mentorship, and community transformation. Known as the National Encourager, Calvin has dedicated his life to shaping the destinies of boys and men, guiding them toward purpose, fulfillment, and success. As a father of five, mentor, coach, podcast host, and community activist, he brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the conversation.
Through initiatives like EMIY (Encouraging Me, I’m Young) and his powerful interventions in schools, detention centers, and communities, Calvin is actively changing lives—one word of encouragement at a time. His work has earned him prestigious honors, including 'The Spirit of Detroit' award and the establishment of EMIY National Respect Day in Michigan. Today, we’ll explore his journey, his passion for fatherhood, and the lasting impact of his mission to uplift families and communities.

Authentic Disruption: Anashay Wright on Education and Empowering Change

Welcome to another impactful episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have Dr. Anashay Wright, a dynamic mother, wife, educator, speaker, and founder of Authentic Disruption and Disruptive Partners. For over two decades, Anashay has been a force for “good disruption,” partnering with leaders, policymakers, and communities to dismantle systemic inequities and empower people to create real change.
From her pioneering leadership development programs to her groundbreaking work disrupting the school-to-prison pipeline in her hometown of Dekalb County, Anashay’s passion for uplifting others is matched only by her commitment to authenticity and connection. Her accolades include national recognition from NPR, Good Day Atlanta, and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, among many others.
Today, we’ll explore Anashay’s inspiring journey, her groundbreaking work in education and equity, and her mission to help others harness their power to influence change. Please join me in welcoming the authentic and transformative Anashay Wright to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

David J. Pate Jr. on Reimagining Fatherhood: Policy, Equity, and Uplifting Black Families

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us Dr. David J. Pate Jr., a distinguished Associate Professor of Consumer Science and Human Development & Family Studies and the Dean’s Fathers and Fathering Faculty Fellow. With over 16 years as a practicing social worker and a rich academic career, David has dedicated his life to uplifting Black men and families, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for systemic change.
David’s groundbreaking research examines the intersection of race, class, and gender, focusing on how social welfare policies impact African American men and their families. Through qualitative methods, he amplifies the voices of marginalized fathers, exploring their relationships with their children, the child support system, and the challenges of reentry after incarceration.
Today, we’ll delve into David’s inspiring journey, his impactful work, and his vision for a more equitable future for families and communities. Please join me in welcoming the insightful and transformative David J. Pate Jr. to the "I Am Dad" podcast.