I Am Dad

Empowering Black Men: Brandon Frame on Transforming Narratives and Inspiring Change

Welcome to another uplifting episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have with us a visionary leader and social innovator who has made a profound impact on the lives of Black men and boys—Brandon Frame.
Brandon is the Chief Visionary Officer of TheBlackManCan FOUNDATION., an award-winning and internationally recognized non-profit and digital media platform dedicated to celebrating, educating, and inspiring boys and men of color. Through TheBlackManCan, Brandon has worked tirelessly to challenge stereotypes and amplify the authentic stories of Black men, creating a powerful shift in perception and empowering individuals to redefine their narratives.
In addition to his work with TheBlackManCan, Brandon serves as the Deputy Director of Social-Emotional Learning at The Urban Assembly, where he helps integrate crucial life skills into education for young people. He is also the co-founder of the award-winning Twitter chat #hiphoped, and the author of Define Yourself, Redefine the World: A Guided Journal for Boys and Men of Color and the children’s book My First Tie.
Brandon’s dedication to uplifting his community has earned him numerous accolades, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award and the title of Change Maker of the Year. Despite these achievements, what stands out most is his humility and commitment to servant leadership, always striving to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Breaking the Silence: Dr. Robin L. Smith on Empowering Black Men and Addressing Mental Health

Welcome to another impactful episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us a truly remarkable guest, Dr. Robin L. Smith—a #1 bestselling author, sought-after speaker, experienced media personality, and ordained minister who has touched countless lives with her fearless truth-telling and healing wisdom.
Many of you may recognize Dr. Robin from her years as the on-air therapist for The Oprah Winfrey Show, where she captivated audiences around the world with her insightful and compassionate approach to life’s challenges. Today, she continues to make a profound impact through her work with major corporations, non-profit organizations, and high-profile individuals, helping them overcome adversity and achieve personal and professional breakthroughs.
Dr. Robin is the author of the New York Times #1 bestseller Lies at the Altar: The Truth About Great Marriages, as well as her soulful memoir Hungry: The Truth About Being Full and Inspirational Vitamins: A Guide to Personal Empowerment. Her latest book, The Invisible Ache: Black Men Identifying Their Pain and Reclaiming Their Power, co-written with the talented Courtney B. Vance, was published in November 2023 and has already sparked vital conversations about mental health and empowerment within the Black community.
With a PhD in counseling psychology from Temple University and a master’s degree from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Dr. Robin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. But beyond her impressive credentials, it is her genuine compassion, wisdom, and commitment to truth that make her such a powerful and inspiring voice.

Transforming Child Support: Erin Frisch on Equity, Inclusion, and Empowering Families

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have a truly inspiring guest, Erin Frisch (she/they), who has been a transformative leader in the field of child support and family services.
Erin has been serving as the Director of the Office of Child Support at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) since 2012. Erin’s dedication to improving the lives of families through equitable and inclusive child support services has made a significant impact across Michigan and beyond. Erin’s leadership extends to the national stage, where they serve as president of the National Child Support Engagement Association and have previously led the National Council of Child Support Directors.
Throughout her illustrious career, Erin has been a champion for integrating public assistance programs to reduce poverty and enhance community well-being. Their efforts in co-leading the MDHHS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council have successfully advocated for the establishment of an office of Race, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, further demonstrating Erin’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all.
With a background in IT management consulting and a deep passion for public service, Erin brings a unique perspective to child support policy and practice. They have also been a driving force behind pioneering evidence-based programs that support fathers and families, ensuring that child support services meet the evolving needs of today’s society.
Erin’s commitment to her work is matched by her dedication to her family, as a proud parent of two teenagers who keep her on her toes.
Today, we are thrilled to delve into Erin’s insights on fatherhood, child support, and the importance of equity and inclusion in family services. Please join me in welcoming the remarkable Erin Frisch to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

Rebuilding Fathers: Marvin Charles on Transforming Lives Through Divine Alternatives for Dads Services

Welcome to another heartfelt episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have a truly inspirational guest, Marvin Charles, the co-founder and CEO of Divine Alternatives for Dads Services (DADS). For over 25 years, Marvin has dedicated his life to helping men reclaim their roles as loving, responsible fathers and to building stronger, healthier families.
Marvin's own journey is one of incredible resilience and transformation. Growing up in foster care and facing numerous challenges, including incarceration, Marvin has used his personal experiences to fuel his passion for fatherhood and community service. Alongside his wife Jeanett, he founded DADS, a faith-guided organization based in Seattle and Tacoma, Washington, which has positively impacted the lives of countless fathers and their children.
Through programs like the 13-week parenting class, DADS provides crucial support to men coming out of addiction, incarceration, and other difficult circumstances. Marvin’s work has not only helped fathers rebuild their lives but has also created a ripple effect of positive change within their families and communities.
Marvin is also an accomplished author and speaker. His book, "Becoming Dads," chronicles his life and the beginnings of DADS, and he continues to share his story and insights across the country. Together with Jeanett, he hosts the "Color Him Dads" podcast, further extending his reach and impact.

Transforming Fatherhood: John Badalament on Modern Dads, Gender Traps, and Family Health

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we have the honor of hosting a truly remarkable guest, John Badalament, Ed.M. John is a proud father of two young adults and a renowned speaker, author, educator, coach, consultant, and documentary filmmaker.
John is the author of the acclaimed book "The Modern Dad’s Dilemma: How To Stay Connected With Your Kids In A Rapidly Changing World" and the director/producer of impactful documentaries such as "All Men Are Sons: Exploring The Legacy of Fatherhood" and "Gender Traps: How Marriage Problems Start In Kindergarten."
For over three decades, John has been a guiding light in the field of fatherhood, speaking and consulting internationally across schools, government agencies, and organizations. As the Director of Programs at The Fatherhood Project at Massachusetts General Hospital for the past 11 years, John has pioneered groundbreaking programs and studies, including the Dads/Moms In Recovery curriculum and the largest study on fathers' prenatal experiences.
John’s work has been featured in prominent media outlets such as ABC News, CBS Sunday Morning, and National Public Radio, and he has been recognized by esteemed organizations for his dedication to ending violence against women and children. His commitment to fostering healthier family dynamics and his contributions to men's health have even earned him invitations to the White House under President Obama’s administration.
Today, we are excited to delve into John’s vast experiences, insights on fatherhood, and his ongoing efforts to support and empower dads everywhere. Please join me in welcoming the inspirational John Badalament to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

Empowering Black Boys: Ron Walker on Fatherhood and Educational Leadership

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us a distinguished guest, Ron Walker, a pioneer in the field of education with over 45 years of experience. Ron is the Executive Director and a founding member of the Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color (COSEBOC), an organization dedicated to the social, emotional, and academic development of boys and young men of color.
 
Under Ron’s visionary leadership, COSEBOC has positively impacted over 600 schools and more than 300,000 students across the nation, changing the narrative around boys and young men of color by highlighting their gifts, talents, and potential. His work has garnered recognition from prestigious institutions such as the U.S. Department of Education, Harvard University, and the American Public Health Association, among many others.
 
In addition to his professional achievements, Ron is a devoted father and grandfather who credits his success to his faith, the lessons from his parents, and the support of his family. His unwavering commitment to high-quality education and his passion for uplifting underserved populations make him a true beacon of hope and inspiration.

Championing Fatherhood: David Pizarro's Insights on Dads' Rights and Custody Battles

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have a very special guest, David Pizarro, the CEO of Dads Law School. With over 24 years of experience, David has been a guiding light for thousands of fathers navigating the complexities of family court, helping them fight for their rights and maintain meaningful relationships with their children.
David is not only an expert in father’s rights and children’s rights but also a prolific multimedia content creator. His engaging TikTok videos have garnered over 48,000 followers, while his "Men's Family Law" podcast on iTunes, with over 70 episodes, has been a beacon of support for dads everywhere. On YouTube, his DADs Law School channel is filled with informative videos addressing the concerns of fathers going through the child custody process.
In addition to his digital presence, David is the author of the "A Man's Guide..." series, covering essential topics like child custody, divorce, and domestic violence. His expertise and dedication have seen him featured on numerous podcasts, in movies, on television, and as an international speaker.
David's work is fueled by a deep commitment to advocating for children’s rights, father's rights, and the importance of integrating new relationships into family dynamics. His practical advice and heartfelt insights make him an invaluable resource for fathers seeking to navigate their legal and emotional journeys.

From Harlem to Global Influence: Tim Gittens on Basketball, Mentorship, and Fatherhood

Welcome to another episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have with us an extraordinary guest, Tim Gittens. Growing up in Harlem, Tim faced significant hardships, but he defied the odds and used basketball as a vehicle to rise above and achieve greatness.
Tim has become one of the most influential figures in basketball over the last 20 years. He has had an impressive professional career, playing in the NBA and internationally, including with the Harlem Globetrotters and as a founding member of the renowned And 1 Streetball Team. His talents have taken him around the globe, and he’s left an indelible mark on the world of streetball.
Beyond his accomplishments on the court, Tim has dedicated his life to giving back. He created the Headache 13 Foundation to improve the lives of inner-city youth through education, social, and cultural enrichment. As a teacher, coach, and mentor, Tim instills values of hard work, dedication, and making good choices in everyone he meets.
Tim is also a proud husband and father, proving what the fight for success looks like. He’s earned two college degrees, starred in films and television, and become an influential voice in the community.

Empowering Tribal Families: Sandy Cloer on Developing Child Support Programs for Cherokee Indians and Beyond

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast, where we explore the dynamic world of fatherhood, parenting, and family well-being. I’m your host, Kenneth Braswell, and today we have an extraordinary guest who has dedicated her career to supporting families and fostering strong communities.
Joining us is Sandy Cloer, the Division Director for The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) Tribal Child Support, TANF, and Representative Payee Programs. Sandy’s remarkable journey began with a degree in Business from Winsalm College, which paved the way for her 18-year tenure in Child Support with The State of North Carolina. In 2009, she brought her extensive experience and deep understanding of the EBCI community to her role with the EBCI, helping to develop their child support program and subsequently launching their Tribal TANF Program in 2012 and the Representative Payee Program in 2015.
Sandy’s leadership extends beyond her immediate responsibilities. She oversees a dedicated team of 17 employees, including a process server and court clerk to the Cherokee Tribal Court. Her contributions to the field are widely recognized, serving six years on the Board of Directors for the NC Child Support Council, acting as Secretary for the National Tribal Child Support Directors Association, and currently presiding as President of the National Tribal Child Support Association.
Beyond her professional achievements, Sandy is also a proud mother of two children, Michelle and James. Her commitment to family and community is truly inspiring, and we are thrilled to have her share her insights and experiences with us today.

Blending Lives: Navigating the Heart of Coparenting and Blended Families with Tammy and Jay Daughtry

Welcome to the "I Am Dad" podcast, the haven for exploring the depths and breadths of fatherhood in all its forms. Today's episode is a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, love, and wisdom, as we sit down with Tammy and Jay S. Daughtry.
From the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, Tammy and Jay step into our space bringing with them the lived experience of marriage and family therapists, and more intimately, as individuals who have navigated the turbulent waters of divorce and the tranquil harbors of remarriage. Their journey is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the clarity born of complexity, and the unyielding commitment to fostering healthy family dynamics.
Join us as we unfold the chapters of their story — from the solitary paths of single parenthood to the united front of a blended family. Through their work with Co-Parenting International and The Center for Modern Family Dynamics, they've illuminated paths for countless families wrestling with the realities of divided homes. With Tammy's coparenting journey and Jay's recovery from loss, they stand as beacons of hope and exemplars of perseverance.
As we delve into their insights and anecdotes, prepare to be moved, educated, and inspired. This is not just a conversation; it's a shared experience with the power to change the narrative of coparenting and blended family life. So, wherever you are, settle in and let's welcome the voices of Tammy and Jay S. Daughtry to "I Am Dad."