I Am Dad

Wrestling with Fatherhood: Titus O’Neil on Resilience, Legacy, and the Greatest Title of All—Dad

Thaddeus Bullard, known to millions as WWE Superstar Titus O’Neil, is not only a celebrated athlete and global entertainer but also a devoted father, philanthropist, and community advocate. From the football fields of the University of Florida to the bright lights of the WWE, Titus has carried a deep commitment to creating change and empowering others.
As a father to three children, a champion of charitable initiatives, and the author of Wrestling with Fatherhood: My Championship Journey to My Greatest Title: Dad, Titus O’Neil has embraced his role as a leader both in and out of the ring. His inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to a life of purpose and impact offers lessons on resilience, fatherhood, and the power of giving back. Today, we’re thrilled to explore his story and hear firsthand how he has turned his challenges into championship moments for himself and others.

Kenneth Braswell: Empowering Fathers, Transforming Families—Season 4 Premiere of I Am Dad Podcast

Welcome to the Season 4 premiere of the I Am Dad Podcast! I’m Kenneth Braswell, your host and the CEO of Fathers Incorporated. Over the years, this podcast has been a space for sharing powerful stories, insightful conversations, and practical tools to empower fathers and transform families. As we step into this new season, our theme—Empowering Fathers, Transforming Families—reminds us of the critical role fathers play in shaping the future. Today, I’m kicking off Season 4 with a heartfelt, one-on-one conversation about the challenges and triumphs of fatherhood, the journey of personal transformation, and what’s to come for this podcast and the broader fatherhood movement. Let’s begin this season with intention, purpose, and the drive to make a difference in the lives of our families and communities.

2024 Close-Out Podcast: Celebrating Fatherhood Milestones and Honoring Lawrence Wilbon’s Legacy

Join Kenneth Braswell, CEO of Fathers Incorporated, in this powerful Close-Out Podcast as he reflects on the milestones achieved from 2021-2023 and the groundbreaking accomplishments of 2024. Highlights include the launch of Poppa University, advancements in legitimation efforts, and transformative research led by the Moynihan Institute for Fatherhood Research and Policy. This special episode also features a heartfelt tribute to Lawrence Wilbon, a beloved friend, colleague, and cornerstone of the Fathers Incorporated family. Celebrate progress, honor legacy, and look ahead to 2025 in this emotional and inspiring podcast. Don’t miss this meaningful conclusion to an extraordinary year.

Kevin Shird on Trauma, Redemption, and the Power of Mental Health Advocacy

Welcome to another powerful episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we’re joined by Kevin Shird, a three-time published author, activist, and public speaker whose life story is a profound testament to resilience, redemption, and the power of transformation. Kevin’s latest book, A Life for a Life, delves into a gripping and deeply personal narrative that explores trauma, mental health, and the complexities of human behavior.
In A Life for a Life, Kevin recounts his time in federal prison, where he met Damion Neal, a fellow inmate whose life was marked by instability and struggle. While Kevin worked to heal his own trauma and guide Damion toward a better path, their journeys ultimately diverged in unexpected and tragic ways. Years later, Kevin would discover that Damion had been arrested for a heinous crime, leading him on a powerful quest to understand the factors that shaped his former cellmate’s fate.
Through this deeply moving story, Kevin not only confronts his own past but sheds light on the intersection of violence, mental health, and societal failure. Join us as we explore Kevin’s journey, his groundbreaking new book, and his enduring mission to inspire hope and change. Please welcome the remarkable Kevin Shird to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

Redefining Masculinity: Ludo Gabriele on Fatherhood, Gender Equity, and Building Inclusive Narratives

Welcome to a groundbreaking episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have Ludo Gabriele, a global authority on masculinity and gender equity, join us. As the founder of Humen Leaders and the mind behind the influential pre-#MeToo blog WokeDaddy.com, Ludo has dedicated over a decade to transforming how we understand masculinity and engage men in creating a more equitable world.
Through his work with leading initiatives like Men Advocating Real Change (MARC) and his advisory practice, Ludo has helped organizations worldwide bridge the empathy gap and redefine the relationship between men and diversity, equity, and inclusion. His insights have been featured on platforms such as Forbes, BBC, and Vice, making him a trusted voice on building healthier, more inclusive narratives for boys and men.
Today, we’ll explore Ludo’s journey, his work in promoting healthy masculinity, and the critical role of fathers in shaping the next generation. Please join me in welcoming the insightful and inspiring Ludo Gabriele to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

Empowering Fathers: Dwayne Meeks on Transforming Communities Through Fatherhood Advocacy

Welcome to another impactful episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we’re honored to have with us Dwayne E. Meeks, a transformative leader in fatherhood advocacy and community engagement. As the Manager of the Colorado Fatherhood Network and Founder of Urban Colors Arts and Mentoring, Dwayne has spent over 25 years empowering fathers, men, boys, and their families by bridging gaps and inspiring meaningful change.
Dwayne’s work has touched countless lives through his keynotes, workshops, and trainings, equipping organizations and communities with the tools to better engage and support fathers. He is also the co-author of Pieces Never Missing Required in A Child's Life, a powerful exploration of parenting, education, and fatherhood engagement. As a dedicated father of six and a father figure to many, Dwayne brings personal passion and professional expertise to his mission.
Today, we’ll dive into Dwayne’s journey, his innovative work with the Colorado Fatherhood Network, and his vision for a world where fathers are empowered to lead and thrive. Please join me in welcoming the inspiring Dwayne E. Meeks to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

Fatherhood Revolution: Jay Fagan & Glen Palm on Redefining Parenting and Engagement

Welcome to a very special episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have two pioneers in the field of fatherhood research and education joining us—Dr. Jay Fagan and Dr. Glen Palm. Together, these esteemed scholars have dedicated their careers to advancing our understanding of fatherhood and empowering fathers to play active, nurturing roles in their children’s lives.
Dr. Fagan, Professor Emeritus at Temple University and co-founder of the Fatherhood Research and Practice Network, has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles and co-authored multiple books, including the upcoming Fathers and Children Together: A Guide to Developing a Parenting Identity and Supporting your Child. His work has revolutionized how we approach father-child relationships, coparenting, and fatherhood programs, especially in low-income communities.
Dr. Palm, Professor Emeritus of Child and Family Studies at St. Cloud State University, has spent decades shaping the field of parent education and supporting fathers through programs like the Dads Project. He has co-authored landmark books, including Fathers and Early Childhood Programs and Parent Education: Working with Groups and Individuals, bringing invaluable insights to educators and families alike.
Together, they offer a wealth of knowledge and experience on fatherhood, parenting, and the critical role of fathers in early childhood development. Please join me in welcoming the incredible Dr. Jay Fagan and Dr. Glen Palm to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

Breaking Postpartum Taboos: Elisabeth Schellekens on Motherhood, Mental Health, and Fatherhood Engagement

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have Elisabeth (SCALE-LA-KINS) Schellekens, the visionary founder of Elle’s Corner, join us. Elisabeth is a passionate Motherhood and Mental Health Counselor dedicated to revolutionizing the way we approach postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and maternal mental health as a whole.
Drawing from her own personal journey with a difficult pregnancy and severe postpartum depression, Elisabeth has created a supportive community and powerful resources that help mothers build resilience and thrive. As an advocate for dismantling the taboos around mental health, she is leading the charge to make mental health care as accessible and routine as a dental checkup, starting as early as high school.
Today, we’ll explore Elisabeth’s journey, her groundbreaking work with Elle’s Corner, and her mission to ensure no mother feels alone in her postpartum experience. Please join me in welcoming the inspiring Elisabeth Schellekens to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

From Incarceration to Inspiration: Kwame Johnson on the Power of Mentorship and Redemption

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we have the honor of speaking with Kwame Johnson, a dynamic leader, passionate advocate, and award-winning author. As the President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, Kwame has transformed the organization into the largest and most impactful youth mentoring agency in Georgia. His journey from overcoming personal challenges as a youth to becoming a nationally recognized leader in mentorship and advocacy is nothing short of remarkable.
Kwame’s personal story, including his groundbreaking decision to take the SATs while incarcerated, fueled his mission to empower young people and create opportunities for others to break through barriers. He is also the author of The Hope Inside: Harnessing the Power of Mentorship in Life and Career, a powerful testament to the importance of mentorship in shaping lives and building communities.

Beyond the Helmet Catch: David Tyree on Faith, Fatherhood, and Finding Purpose After the NFL

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are excited to have with us a true sports legend and dedicated father, David Tyree. David is best known for his iconic "Helmet Catch" in Super Bowl XLII (42), a moment that forever changed the course of football history and secured a stunning victory for the New York Giants. Beyond the field, David is a purpose-driven leader, husband, and father of seven, who uses his platform to inspire others and champion faith, family, and resilience.
From overcoming personal challenges to achieving greatness in the NFL, David’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and belief. He now channels his experiences into his work as a speaker, mentor, and advocate, helping individuals "catch their moment" and unlock their own potential.
Today, we’re honored to dive into David’s journey as a father, his dedication to family, and the values that drive his work off the field. Please join me in welcoming the incredible David Tyree to the "I Am Dad" podcast.