Developing Dads Podcast

In Episode 122 of the Developing Dads podcast, hosts Gordon and Neil reflect on the highs and lows of 2025. They discuss personal milestones, family dynamics, and the challenges of balancing work and life. From memorable trips to Paris to navigating health scares and financial planning, this episode offers a candid look at the year that was. Tune in for insights, laughter, and a glimpse into the lives of two dads navigating the complexities of modern family life.

In this episode of the Developing Dad's Podcast, Neil and Gordon engage in a candid conversation about their recent experiences, family life, and the challenges of parenting. They discuss the costs associated with holiday activities, the pressures of modern living, and the joys of family gatherings. The conversation also delves into the complexities of home ownership, financial planning, and the importance of maintaining relationships amidst the chaos of family life. With humour and honesty, they reflect on the ups and downs of being a parent and the decisions that come with it.

We discuss how hard it can be as a dad to make friends and how to fix that.

The hosts, Neil and Gordon, engage in a candid discussion about the realities of fatherhood, sharing personal anecdotes and insights. They explore the challenges of balancing time between work and family, the emotional and physical demands of parenting, and the impact on personal relationships. The conversation touches on the lack of support for fathers, the importance of maintaining friendships, and the humorous yet trying moments of raising children. Throughout, they emphasize the need for intentional time management and the importance of self-care amidst the chaos of parenting.

**The Journey Back to Podcasting** After a year-long hiatus, Gordon and Neil reunite to kick off a new chapter in their podcasting journey. Gordon humorously highlights how much has changed since they last recorded, including his son's birth, marking a significant event in their lives. The two dads reflect on their initial momentum in podcasting and how life’s responsibilities can shift priorities. **Life's Increased Busyness** Neil shares the challenges of managing life with three children, noting how their bedtimes have shifted later as they engage in more activities. His twin boys and daughter are involved in various extracurriculars, leading to a packed schedule. Neil notes, "I feel like there's less free time now as the kids are getting older." This sentiment resonates with many parents who struggle to balance their time effectively. **The Importance of Quality Time** Despite the busyness, Neil emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with his family. He mentions a family rule to keep weekends free from classes or commitments, allowing for genuine family interactions. This approach highlights the need for intentional family time amidst a hectic lifestyle. **Identifying Productive Activities** Gordon raises a critical question about productivity in their busy lives, asking how they can ensure that their activities are genuinely fulfilling. Neil admits to the temptation of saying yes to everything but reflects on the importance of prioritizing happiness. He mentions how having dual incomes has allowed their family to explore new activities, underscoring the balance between financial freedom and time commitment. **Strategies for Maintaining Balance** Both hosts discuss their strategies for managing their commitments. Gordon stresses the importance of constraints, suggesting that committing to specific times for activities, like podcasting, can help maintain focus. Neil shares his experience of adjusting the podcast format to fit their busy lives, showing flexibility and adaptability. **Reflection on Personal Growth** As they wrap up their updates, Gordon reflects on his business successes and the importance of viewing progress over the long term rather than month-to-month fluctuations. He shares insights on productizing his business, paralleling the need to streamline their family activities to create more meaningful experiences. Conclusion: The conversation between Gordon and Neil serves as a reminder of the challenges modern dads face in balancing family, work, and personal fulfillment. By sharing their experiences, they highlight the importance of intentionality in parenting and the need to prioritize what brings joy and satisfaction in life. Key takeaways include the value of quality family time, the significance of reflection on personal happiness, and the importance of adapting to life's changes while maintaining commitments.