Get on their level
PLUS – game-changing 15-minute dinners
December 05, 2025 | Read Online
Happy Friday, gents. Hope the week treated you well. Friendly reminder: Christmas is just 21 days out. Handle your gifting now, and future-you will thank present-you. Have a great weekend. See ya Monday.
PS: If you’re new here, we mix it up on Fridays with a quick recap from the week and a few extra gems to head into the weekend right.
“Whenever you do a thing, act as if all the world were watching.”
-Thomas Jefferson 
THE DIGEST
-
Most Clicked: Who Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals
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Best Community Reply: Let your kids struggle a little. It’s how confidence is born.
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Wisdom of the Week: One day, someone’s going to tell your kids, “You’re just like your dad.” And whatever that means… you’re building it right now. Not pressure, but opportunity.
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Product of the Week: Seahorse 56 EDC Dry Box
📕 Read: The Explorer’s Gene: Alex Hutchinson
🎧 Listen: Armchair Expert With Morgan Freeman
📺 Watch: This Old School Stretch Transforms The Human Physique
🍔 Eat/Drink: These 15 Minute Dinners Will Change Your Life
🩳 Style: Horizon Series CPO Jacket by Faherty Brand
FROM THE TRENCHES
Topic: Get On Their Level
One dad opened up about a tough week with his nine-year-old—lots of attitude, boundary-pushing, and a meltdown that ended with his son spiraling into shame.
Right before a consequence was coming, the kid broke down saying:
“I’m the worst… I’m a bad person… I can’t do anything right.”
Instead of doubling down, the dad knelt, hugged him, and said what every kid needs to hear sometimes:
“Our love isn’t based on how good or bad you are. Nobody’s perfect. We love you because you’re ours. We’re here no matter what.”
He admitted the days have felt tough, but that moment reminded him: sometimes the win isn’t perfect behavior…it’s showing up, steady and present, when your kid needs grounding more than correcting.
Want more conversations like this? Join our Slack. Just a bunch of dads figuring it out together.
GARAGE
Send us what you’re working on…
Redwood Outdoors dry sauna setup from Stan. Looks awesome. Thanks for sharing.
We want to see your house projects. Send ‘em our way! Just reply to this email.
WEEKEND BURNER
18 minutes As Many Rounds As Possible:
• 200m run
• 10 Dumbbell Thrusters
• 15 Pushups
• 10 Dumbbell Step Ups
Make sure you warm up.
What’s Going On This Weekend?
-
Annapolis, MD: Casual Saturday morning run. Meet at the Market House/Rise up at 7am. Todd is the dad leading the charge.
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Phoenix, AZ: Chris Reed is mixing things up with a free spin class at the Sweatshop. Don’t knock it til you try it. 8:45 am MST. RSVP here.
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Charleston, SC: Keep an eye out for some upcoming events.
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Logging miles this weekend? Join our Strava group. See where you stack up.
Click for Spotify Playlist
dad shower thoughts: You don’t measure time in hours anymore, you measure it in bedtime routines.
You’re just like your dad…
Plus – handling kiddo meltdowns
December 03, 2025 | Read Online
📕 DAD WISDOM
You’re Just Like Your Dad
Here’s a gut-check worth sitting with for a minute:
One day, someone’s going to tell your kids, “You’re just like your dad.”
And whatever that means… you’re building it right now. Not pressure, but opportunity.
Because the things they’ll remember aren’t the big, cinematic moments.
It’s the steady stuff: how you show up, how you treat people, how you keep going even on the days you’d rather tap out.
Kids pick up our quirks, our humor, our grit, our way of moving through the world. Not perfectly. Not all at once. Just little echoes of who we are.
So the question isn’t “Am I doing enough?” It’s simply: What part of me do I hope they carry forward?
And if you lean into that part, even a little, consider it a win.
No guilt. Just a reminder: they’re watching the good in you, too.
RAD DAD
Zack Telander
Zack Telander is a musician, content creator, and lifter out of Austin who’s now deep in his favorite role yet: dad.
He and his wife welcomed their daughter, Charlie, a few months ago, and fatherhood has already shifted his pace and priorities.
The hardest part so far? Slowing down. Zack’s used to chasing goals at full speed, but parenting demanded presence. The surprising part is that it also became the best part. His dream moment is simple: a morning walk with his wife, daughter, and dog. “It’s the only thing I ever want for the rest of my life.”
Fatherhood has balanced him in ways he didn’t expect, grounding both the highs and the stress of everyday life.
His guiding principle is one every dad needs to hear:
“Your kids are watching everything you do. So do right.”
When he’s not on dad duty, you’ll find Zack practicing guitar, hitting the gym, or kicking back with Guinness, wings, and YouTube.
Follow him at @zack_telander and check out our full Q&A here.
DAD TOYS
The Small Box That Thinks It’s a Tank
Meet the Seahorse 56 EDC Dry Box: rustproof, dustproof, watertight, and it floats.
A pocket-size fortress for your essentials with a 3-step lock that says, “Yeah, only Dad gets in here.”
Big adventure energy. Tiny footprint. Perfect.
🛒 WHAT ELSE WE’RE EYING UP
» Solo Stove Pizza Oven (25% off)
» Read: Who, Not How
» Natural Fire Starters
DAD BOD
Handling the Holiday Stress
Holiday season is basically joy wrapped in chaos; fun, loud, sugary, and just a little overwhelming for dads running point on everything.
When the tension starts creeping up, these tiny resets keep you from going full Grinch:
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One or two early bedtimes (crash with the kids).
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Go for a run with no phone.
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Say “yes” to kiddo playtime.
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Volunteer. Do some good.
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Text a buddy: “Surviving?”
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Watch a Christmas classic with your partner.
Small moves, big sanity. Read more here.
COMMUNITY
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A Dad Lab you don’t wanna miss: 5 Quick Ways to Survive Holiday Meltdowns With Kids. On Dec 11 at 12pm ET, Kirk Martin (Celebrate Calm) is dropping a fast, no-BS, 30-minute playbook for keeping your cool with the kiddos this season. Live Google Meet. Totally free. Grab your spot here.
-
Runners of Dad Day, assemble: Join our virtual Strava crew here.
Shoutout to last week’s top three: Brooks, Matt, and Kaenan. Nice work. PS: We got some fresh Dad Day Run Club hats if you need a new running hat! -
Guys Being Dads: We’re kicking off some IRL dad meetups. If you’re down to spark something in your city, hit us up. It only takes a few dads to start something awesome.
JUNK DRAWER
» What Risks Build Men
» Creamy Garlic Steak Ramen Recipe
» How Your Phone Affects the Brain & Motivation
DAD HUMOR
Turkey, chaos, and gratitude
Plus – what’s the standard?
November 24, 2025 | Read Online
Hey gents. Hope you had a solid weekend. Quick one today.
The in-laws roll in tomorrow, so we’re tapping out for the rest of the week. No Black Friday nonsense coming. Just one humble Dad Hat plug below to keep Dad Day humming.
Have an awesome Thanksgiving. Enjoy the feast and the chaos.
📕 DAD WISDOM
The Chaos They’ll Remember
The holidays can feel like a full-contact sport: travel, dishes, germs, awkward conversations, cousins wrestling in the living room, someone overcooking the turkey. Easy to get wound up.
But your kids see it totally differently. To them, this is the magic. The noise. The mess. The weird traditions. The ones you keep. The ones you accidentally start.
So embrace the chaos.
Let the memories happen. These are the moments they’ll remember, not because they were flawless, but because you were all in them together.
RAD DAD
Mike Libecki
Mike Libecki, National Geographic Adventurer of the Year and world-class expedition climber, spends his life chasing wild, remote summits. But his favorite adventure partner? His daughter, Lilliana.
Libecki brings Lilli on real expeditions around the world to teach resilience, curiosity, and his signature philosophy:
“Why ration passion? The time is now.”
He’s all about creating an environment where kids learn by doing:
“I want to inspire my daughter to pursue her passion—whatever it is.”
Their trips become father-daughter masterclasses in teamwork and confidence. He beams watching her push through tough moments:
“Seeing Lilli proud of herself was the best moment of my life.”
And he never forgets the support behind it all:
“Her mom is my hero… I want to be the best dad I can be.”
Quotes via REI and Instagram
DAD TOYS
The ‘Dad’ Hat by Dad Day
Sometimes you gotta hype your own gear. Especially when the dads already did it for you.
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“Seriously, love the hat… looks cool.”
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“I’m on my third color, keep ‘em coming.”
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“People love it and I get compliments on it often.”
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“I have a weird head and it still looks cool.”
4 colors on the site. Navy, Natural, Camo, and Stone Grey. No gimmicks. No slogans.
Free shipping this week with code: DADSHIP. Thanks for the support!
🛒 WHAT ELSE WE’RE EYING UP
» Roark Passenger 27L 2.0 Bag
» Vice Pro Golf Balls (23% Off)
» History Has Its Eyes On You Pennant
DAD BOD
How to Tackle Thanksgiving Without Feeling Like Hot Garbage
Thanksgiving isn’t a meal, it’s an endurance event. Here’s the short, dad-approved game plan:
1. Eat breakfast.
Don’t “save room.” That just leads to hanger at 4 p.m.
2. Drink water.
A couple big glasses before the meal. Hydration leads to better decisions.
3. First plate = grown-up plate.
Protein + veggies. Second plate = the fun stuff. Third plate = shame (optional). No judgement here.
4. Mandatory 20 to 30-minute walk after eating.
Gotta move things around. Your body will thank you.
That’s it.
Eat well. Walk it off. Avoid the annual Thanksgiving Food Hangover of Doom.
THE MOVE
Stay calm and carry on.
This week’s focus: Take a deep breath, lean into the chaos. They’re only young once.
JUNK DRAWER
» Surviving the Holidays With the In-Laws
» 📺 Dress Better Without Trying Harder
» Teaching Your Kids The Power Of ‘Not Yet’
DAD HUMOR
Give yourself a pound
PLUS – the power of storytelling
November 21, 2025 | Read Online
Happy Friday, fellas. The in-laws roll in next week, so I’ll be spending the weekend getting the house dialed in. Have a good one. See ya Monday.
PS: If you’re new here, we mix it up on Fridays with a quick recap from the week and a few extra gems to head into the weekend right.
“The power of a dad in a child’s life is unmatched.”
-Justin Ricklefs
THE DIGEST
-
Most Clicked: The Best Christmas Movies to Watch With Kids
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Best Community Reply: Tell your kids you’re proud of the person they are, not just what they’ve done.
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Wisdom of the Week: Kids don’t want the efficiency version of life; they want the full thing: the slow, hands-on version of life. The version where you’re right there with them. So, don’t rush the finish line. The process is the point.
-
Product of the Week: Solo Stove Propane Fire Kit
📕 Read: Storyworthy – The Power of Storytelling
🎧 Listen: #1 Sleep Expert on How to Dial In Your Sleep via Diary of a CEO
📺 Watch: 42 Things Everyone Should Learn How To Do
🍔 Eat/Drink: Every Thanksgiving Side, Better
🩳 Style: Timex Deepwater 38mm Navy Watch
FROM THE TRENCHES
Topic: Celebrate the Wins
One dad tossed out a question this week that was worthy of a nod “Anyone else fist pump themselves or celebrate after surviving a full-blown kid meltdown?”
He had both kids solo, both spiraling over a denied second lollipop, both in full freak-out mode. Instead of losing it, he somehow kept his cool, talked them down, got them buckled in, closed the door… and quietly hit himself with an “F** yeah”*
Someone else shared a fresh win: two tiny kids accidentally broke their special Christmas ornaments, tears everywhere, and he and his wife stayed calm, helped them navigate the feelings, and walked away thinking, “We actually did that right.”
Sometimes the victories are small. Sometimes they’re invisible. But those quiet car-door fist pumps? That’s dad life gold. Keep celebrating the moments no one else sees.
Join the conversation on Slack here.
GARAGE
Send us what you’re working on…
Outdoor shower build from Adam in Charleston, SC. Hot water and all. Send us what you’re working on so I don’t have to share mine 😉
We want to see your house projects. Send ‘em our way! Just reply to this email.
WEEKEND BURNER
3 Rounds:
• 400m run
• 12 goblet squats
• 10 dumbbell push presses
• 12 reverse lunges (each leg)
• 8 burpees
Dropped Guys Being Dads last week; just a fun way to get some community hangs going. Had quite a few responses.
We’re a small team here, so if you’re a dude who wants to rally a few dads in your city and let it grow from there, we’ll back you up.
Hit reply, and we’ll hop on a quick chat to get something rolling. We got stickers too, so you know it’s legit. Might get crazy and print some shirts.
What’s Going On This Weekend?
-
Annapolis, MD: Casual Saturday morning run. Meet at the Market House/Rise up at 7am. Todd is the dad leading the charge.
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Phoenix, AZ: Chris Reed is hosting a Garage Gym workout. All levels welcome. 8:30 AM-10 AM. RSVP here.
Click for Spotify Playlist
dad shower thoughts: Fatherhood is 10% knowing what to do and 90% acting like you do.
Groundhog Day?
Plus – tiny fish, big benefits
November 19, 2025 | Read Online
📕 DAD WISDOM
Meaning in the Mundane
Some weeks hit you with that Bill Murray energy; same alarm, same cereal bowls, same commute, same little shoes that somehow never make it to the shoe bin. It’s life on loop.
And honestly? That’s been me the last couple of weeks. Not falling apart. Just… running the program.
Wake up. Get kids out the door. Work. Dinner. Bedtime. Reload.
Sometimes it can feel a little flat.
No big epiphany here, just a small shift: I’m trying to notice the tiny stuff.
The half-asleep hug. The breakfast joke that lands for no reason. The “Dad, watch this!” that interrupts an email I shouldn’t care about anyway.
Nothing flashy. But when I pay attention, those little moments can carry the whole day.
If you’re stuck in the loop too, here’s the only move I’ve got: Catch one small moment today. Let it mean something.
RAD DAD
Alex Honnold
Alex Honnold is one of the greatest climbers on earth, the guy who scaled El Cap without ropes. If you haven’t seen Free Solo, give it a watch.
Just like on the wall, he brings calm, presence, and a surprising amount of wisdom to the climb of fatherhood, raising two daughters.
He’s honest about how parenting has rewired him. As he put it, “Parenting feels like a microcosm of climbing. You’re always worried for your child in different ways. Everything is OK right up until it isn’t.”
Becoming a dad hasn’t slowed him down, but it has changed his “why.” He’s more thoughtful about risk, safety, and what each trip means now that little humans are watching his every move.
And on what really matters?
“It’s pretty hard to be a ‘bad climber dad’ because if you’re there, you’re engaged… Actual presence, and making the effort, matters more than anything.”
Quotes via Men’s Journal & Podcast Interviews
DAD TOYS
Timex Weekender
A tough-as-nails diver that doesn’t scream “I tried too hard.”
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200m water resistance
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Super-Luminova glow
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Stainless steel case
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Quick-release rubber strap
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Sapphire crystal
Clean, durable, dad-proof. The perfect “wear it every day and don’t worry about it” watch.
🛒 WHAT ELSE WE’RE EYING UP
» 75ft Outdoor String Lights
» Fine Point Pens (great pen, can confirm)
» Essential Popover Hoodie
DAD BOD
Tiny Fish, Big Benefits
New(ish) research (80,000 people, 9 years) shows this wild stat:
Eating small whole fish like sardines and anchovies just 1–3 times a month is linked to a 32% lower mortality risk.
Why? When you eat the whole fish, you get the good stuff: calcium, vitamin D, essential nutrients, and omega-3s that keep your heart and brain firing on all cylinders.
Tiny fish. Big upside. Throw a tin in your pantry and live a little longer, dad.
Hat tip to Arnold’s Pump Club for the gem.
JUNK DRAWER
» Best Christmas Movies to Watch With Kids
» 30 Things To Know Before You Turn 30
» Air Fryer Cheat Codes
DAD HUMOR
Don’t let AI take this away
Plus – what’s the standard?
November 17, 2025 | Read Online
📕 DAD WISDOM
Trust the Process
Arthur Brooks and Simon Sinek recently chatted about how AI is stripping away “the process.” Not the output. Not the result. The work. The part that actually makes us who we are.
That landed hard as a dad.
Because kids aren’t keen on shortcuts yet. They don’t want the efficiency version of life. They want the full thing: the slow, hands-on version of life. The version where you’re right there with them.
It’s wild how kids drag us back into the process. They make you read the bedtime book instead of queuing the audiobook. They ask questions that force you to explain, not gloss over. They watch how you handle the tiny stuff and model every move.
Sometimes it really does feel like an annoyance. But wow… talk about the work and the process. That’s it. That’s where the reps are. That’s where patience grows. That’s where the dad you want to be actually gets built.
So don’t rush the finish line. Lean into the little steps they need to see you take. The process is the point. Let’s not lose it.
RAD DAD
Jack Johnson
Via Instagram 📸 Kizzy O’Neal
Jack Johnson: musician, surfer, filmmaker, and all-around mellow human brings the same calm, grounded energy to fatherhood that he brings to his music.
He and his wife Kim, his college sweetheart, are raising three kids on the North Shore of Oahu, where family time, surfing, and simple living set the tone.
His parenting philosophy is rooted in the example his own dad set: “Lead by example… be kind, do the right thing. That’s what I’m trying to do for my kids.”
And whether he’s referencing family in his lyrics or talking about time outdoors, the heartbeat is always the same: love, presence, and balance. “Every time I get a chance to be out in the ocean, it’s like hitting a reset button… perfect balance.”
Jack Johnson reminds us that the good stuff is simple: be present, be kind, and enjoy the moments in between.
Quotes via YouTube, Communikait, and Goodreads
DAD TOYS
Solo Stove Propane Fire Pit
The new Solo Stove Infinity Flame is the fire pit for campfire vibes without smelling like a burnt marshmallow.
Propane, zero smoke, twist-and-go ignition, aka backyard luxury. The integrated tabletop makes it a hangout magnet for 5–8 people.
Bottom line: all flame, no fuss.
🛒 WHAT ELSE WE’RE EYING UP
» Go Ruck Basic Rucker
» Cowboy Campfire Bandana
» loog Piano For Beginners
DAD BOD
What’s the Deal With Red Light?
You’ve probably seen red light trending somewhere lately. Panels, masks, influencers glowing like a rotisserie chicken… so what’s the deal?
Red light therapy is basically cell-charging for humans. Low-level red light hits your skin, nudges your mitochondria to wake up, and (in theory) boosts energy production while lowering inflammation.
Why people use it:
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Calmer nerves + reduced inflammation
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Better-looking skin
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Faster recovery when something feels tweaked
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Possible boosts in sleep and mood
It’s not magic. But as a recovery tool? Think of it like sunlight’s nerdy cousin.
THE MOVE
Give them a job that matters.
This week’s focus: Let your kid help with something real: cooking, yard work, fixing stuff. Let ‘em feel proud.
JUNK DRAWER
» A Dad Ditching Tradtional Health Insurance
» Testing Old vs New Camping Gear
» Mellow Mix For Work This Week
DAD HUMOR
The best thing you’ll ever do
PLUS – smoked turkey anyone?
November 14, 2025 | Read Online
Happy Friday, gents. Hard to believe Thanksgiving’s less than two weeks out. Get out there and make this weekend count.
PS: If you’re new here, we mix it up on Fridays with a quick recap from the week and a few extra gems to head into the weekend right.
“One of the greatest lessons I learned from my dad was to make sure your children know that you love them.”
-Al Roker
THE DIGEST
-
Most Clicked: The 12-Minute (old school) Gut Check Every Dad Should Take
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Best Community Reply: Every day is a new chance to shape the memory of childhood.
-
Wisdom of the Week: The faster we go, the less we notice. And the things worth noticing, like our kid’s laugh, our partner’s story, the hobby that used to clear our head, end up living on leftovers. Maybe the point isn’t to move faster. Maybe it’s just to look up before it’s all a blur.
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Product of the Week: The Getaway Bag by No Reception Club
📕 Read: The Creative Act: A Way of Being
🎧 Listen: Your Instincts Know What You Want – Simon Sinek and Arthur Brooks
📺 Watch: DIRT – Adventure Travel Through Maine
🍔 Eat/Drink: Awesome Smoked Turkey Recipe for Beginners
🩳 Style: LL Bean Cotton Textured Sweater
FROM THE TRENCHES
Topic: Wisdom for First-Time Dad
One dad in our Slack dropped a question that got a ton of great responses: “If you could boil it down, what should I focus on before becoming a dad?” The crew showed dropped some knowledge.
The advice ranged from practical to profound:
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Change every diaper. It’s humbling, bonding, and your partner will never forget it.
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Sleep is a skill. You can actually train for it — and a night doula might be the best money you ever spend.
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Keep your head in the game. Communicate, stay patient, and remember: you and your partner are a team.
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Enjoy the chaos. Take pictures, laugh often, and accept that you’ll figure things out as you go.
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And maybe the best line of all: “You’re entering the phase of giving your life away — and it’s the best thing you’ll ever do.”
The general consensus? You’ll never be fully ready, but that’s kind of the point.
Join the conversation on Slack here.
GARAGE
Send us what you’re working on » 
“Not a finished basement, but it works for us with 3 kids destroying the basement instead of the living room!” Casey S.
Thanks for sharing, Casey. So much space for activities!
We want to see your house projects. Send ‘em our way! Just reply to this email.
WEEKEND BURNER
Turkey Trot Tuneup:
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Warm-up: 2-minute easy jog
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Main Set:
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30 seconds fast
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30 seconds slow
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Repeat 20 times
-
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Cool Down: 2–3 minutes easy jog/walk
Hit this twice a week and you’ll roll into the neighborhood Turkey Trot looking dangerously competitive.
We’ve been kicking the tires on what community could look like beyond run clubs, and we landed on something simple: Guys Being Dads.
Real-life hangs for dads. Runs, brews, skiing, workouts, park chaos with the kiddos, whatever works where you live.
We’re a scrappy crew and big believers that the best communities are built by the actual community. If you’re a dude who wants to rally a few dads in your city and let it grow from there, we’ll back you up.
Hit reply, and we’ll hop on a quick chat to get something rolling.
Speaking of hangs…our guy Chris is hosting a hike in Phoenix this weekend. If you’re in the area, join him for the Piestawa Peak hike. RSVP here.
Click for Spotify Playlist
dad shower thoughts: You never realize how much your parents winged it… until you’re the one holding the baby.
The most underrated flex
Plus – a 12-minute gut check
November 12, 2025 | Read Online
📕 DAD WISDOM
The Speed Trap
I saw a quote that said, “We’re so busy watching out for what’s just ahead of us that we don’t take time to enjoy where we are.”
Hard to read that and not nod.
Everything feels like it’s moving at double-speed right now: new tech, new apps, new reasons to feel behind before breakfast. It’s like there’s this invisible pressure to keep up, to scroll faster, to optimize every minute.
And as dads, we’re always chasing. The next raise, the next milestone, the next quiet moment we swear we’ll enjoy when things “slow down.” But they never really do.
Here’s the problem: the faster we go, the less we notice. And the things worth noticing, like our kid’s laugh, our partner’s story, the hobby that used to clear our head, end up living on leftovers.
Maybe the point isn’t to move faster. Maybe it’s just to look up before it’s all a blur.
RAD DAD
Jon DeVore
Captain of the Red Bull Air Force. Skydiver. Stuntman. Dad of 2. Jon DeVore lives where risk, adventure, and parenting collide.
He’s spent his career pushing limits in the air, but fatherhood brought a new kind of gravity.
“The biggest thing I’m trying to pass on to my kids is that I’ve found a way to turn my passion into my profession, and I’ve watched 98 percent of the world not do that.”
DeVore doesn’t keep his world separate. He takes his kids to wind tunnels so they can safely feel the thrill of flight and see the discipline behind it.
“I want them to see the effort, the teamwork, the preparation… to understand that adventure is about discipline as much as thrill.”
For him, being a dad hasn’t meant slowing down. It means passing on passion. Follow Jon here.
Quotes via Fatherly
DAD TOYS
The Getaway Bag by No Reception Club
Third kid on the way, which means my wife and I are back in baby gear mode. The boys are 7 and 4, and we gave away everything; classic rookie move.
I recently found No Reception Club; gear made by parents who actually get it.
Their Getaway Bag feels more like a legit travel pack than a diaper bag. Smart layout, easy access, and a pocket for when things inevitably go sideways.
Finally, a diaper bag that doesn’t look like one.
🛒 WHAT ELSE WE’RE EYING UP
» Flint & Tinder Waxed Parka
» Color Changing Outdoor Spotlights
» Seager Flapjacket Hat
DAD BOD
Grip Strength: The Most Underrated Flex
The quiet king of real-world strength is your grip. Lifting, carrying, wrestling the kids. Strong hands = strong dad.
It’s also linked to longevity and overall health. Wild, right?
Easy ways to build it:
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Farmer’s carries: heavy weights, slow walk.
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Dead hangs: 30–60 seconds from a pull-up bar.
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Towel pull-ups: brutal but effective.
Grip strength is like respect; you don’t notice how much it matters until it’s gone.
Dad Lab is our free series where experts and fellow dads share practical skills to help us level up: fitness, mindset, parenting, all the good stuff.
On December 11th at 12pm ET, join us on Google Meet as Kirk Martin, founder of Celebrate Calm, walks us through 5 Quick Ways to Survive Holiday Meltdowns With Kids.
A quick, 30-minute no-BS session to help you head into the holidays with a little more calm.
Wanna join us on December 11th?
✅ Heck yeah, send me the invite
🤔 Not sure yet
👋 Can’t make this one
JUNK DRAWER
» Your Kids Are Going To Be Who They Are
» The 12-Minute Gut Check Every Dad Should Take
» How to Get the Stench Out of Your Workout Gear
DAD HUMOR
Not dishwasher safe
Plus – what’s the standard?
November 10, 2025 | Read Online
Happy Monday, guys. Hope your weekend went better than my Steelers’ performance last night.
Quick stat for you: Thanksgiving’s in 17 days. Christmas in 45. Clock’s ticking. Let’s get into it.
📕 DAD WISDOM
The Good Stress of Socializing
I was listening to a recent Art of Manliness podcast over the weekend, all about how socializing is a good kind of stress. It mentioned that dads are spending more time than ever with their kids (awesome), but less time with their friends (not so awesome).
After kiddo bedtime, a lot of us default to “just be alone.” It feels earned, peace after the storm.
But do it night after night, and that recovery mode turns into isolation. We think we’re recharging… but we’re actually disconnecting.
And yet, every time you do show up: grab a beer, go for a run, catch up with a buddy, it’s good for the soul. You laugh. You vent. You remember you’re more than just Dad. It fills your tank in a way that solo time doesn’t.
Our kids see that too. They learn what adult friendship looks like from us. When they see Dad showing up for his people, they learn connection isn’t optional, it’s part of being well.
So yeah, reach out to a buddy this week. Shoot ’em a text. Try to get together.
RAD DAD
Noah Ohlsen
Noah Ohlsen has spent the last decade competing at the highest level of CrossFit, earning multiple top finishes at the Games and a reputation as one of the sport’s most consistent athletes.
Now, the Miami native is facing a whole new kind of challenge: fatherhood.
After a tough delivery and a week in the NICU, Noah and his wife are settling into life with their 3-month-old son, Oliver. The nights are long, but the smiles make it worth it.
“Seeing my wife and son laugh together melts my heart,” he says. “I want to make sure I’m smiling as often as I can so that’s in his nature too.”
For Noah, training isn’t just a career, it’s therapy.
“Getting in a workout keeps me mentally and physically healthy,” he says. “But disconnecting from my phone and spending real, quality time with mama and baby, that’s the reset I need most.”
That balance between effort and ease, hustle and heart, defines this next chapter.
Follow his journey → @nohlsen and read our Q&A with Noah here.
DAD TOYS
Board: The Tabletop Console Built for Family Time
If a board game and a video game had a baby, it’d be Board: a 24” digital tabletop that blends screen magic with old-school, face-to-face play.
Twelve exclusive games. Real pieces that the console recognizes. Perfect for Christmas – the kind of thing that keeps everyone at the table a little longer.
🛒 WHAT ELSE WE’RE EYING UP
» Book: Deep Work in a Distracted World
» Nespresso Maker for the Afternoon Slump (30% off)
» 7-Pack of Essential Tees for $100 bucks
DAD BOD
Stretching for People Who Hate Stretching
A lot of us skip stretching because it feels pointless: no sweat, no burn, no payoff.
But here’s the thing: it’s the easiest way to feel younger. A quick stretch routine keeps your back loose, posture solid, and mornings way less creaky.
The trick? Tie it to something you already do.
Two minutes while the coffee brews or the kids brush their teeth. No mat, no timer, just a quick stretch.
THE MOVE
Reach out for real. Text a buddy this week. Ask how he’s doing. No agenda. Just check in.
JUNK DRAWER
» Seven Years In: What Fatherhood Has Really Taught Me
» Aaron Paul on Ditching the Phone When He’s With His Kid
» Background Music: NYC Soul HipHop Mix
DAD HUMOR
It seems like everyone and their grandmother talks about beer like they’re an expert — just because they drink it.
But most true beer experts are shocked by the stupidity of comments they overhear. Some chime in to correct you, and others just text their girlfriend about it.
Don’t let that be you. Here’s a guide to talk about beer.
Bookmark this and read this before bed until you’ve locked this down.
How Beer is Made
The hard and fast: Malt + yeast + hops = beer.
- Malt contains sugars.
- Yeast eat sugars and fart out alcohol.
- Hops add bitterness, and additional flavors (depending on hop variety), and keep the product from going bad.
You’ve probably heard the story of India Pale Ale. Beers hopped to the heavens (for the time) to last the journey from England to India.
It can get a lot more complicated, but start here.
There Are Only Two Types of Beer
From the high-level, there are only two primary beer “types” defined by the yeast in primary fermentation: Ale and Lager.
In the beginning, however, there was only one: Ale Yeast.
Beer’s history stretches thousands of years. Back then, they thought it was magic that a bucket of malt water turned into a fermented elixir. What was really happening was spontaneous yeast drifted through the air and grappled onto that bucket of water to consume the sugars.
Over time, they began to understand that like fresh produce, yes, beer could go bad. To combat this they began storing their beer in cold caverns, cellars, and caves.
Then Came Lager Yeast
Like any resilient micro-organism, the ale yeast in cold conditions adapted and formed a new, complete strain: Lager yeast.
Ale vs Yeast
Ale
- Is top fermenting (in the tank of beer)
- Can ferment at warmer temperatures
- Turns around faster
- Produces fruit-like flavors during fermentation, which is why they’re obviously perfect for Pale Ales
Lager
- Is bottom fermenting
- Has to ferment at lower temperatures
- Takes more time to work
- Produces cleaner flavor notes, which is why lagers are “clean”
Not All Beers are Clearly Identified
Based on historic origins, sometimes the labeled beer style can be a little misleading.
Here are some curve balls and ones to keep in mind:
- Baltic Porter: Lager
- Malt liquor: technically Lager
- Anything with the word “Bock:” Lager
- Kölsch: Ale
- Hefeweizen: Ale
- Saison: Ale
- Porter (not Baltic Porter): Ale
- Stout: Ale
- Gose: Ale
See a longer style reference guide at the bottom.
How to Talk About the Beer
Packaging
Believe it or not, the best package to get beer in is: cans.
Bottles can be fine under certain circumstances, but generally they let in more air (bad) and can get light struck.
Those famous light green bottles let in a lot of UV light which makes the beer “taste skunky.”
Dark bottles are better, but still can be susceptible to skunkyness from light pollution – especially if stored exposed on fluorescent light stores.
Storage
Unless you’re cellar aging a beer, beer should be kept cold in a dark place.
That means don’t keep it in the trunk of your classic Camaro for a few months in the Carolina sun.
Appearance
Don’t be the dweeb who calls everything “amber” colored.
In beer, color is defined by a term called Standard Reference Method (SRM).
What dictates color? In most cases, the actual color of the malt used in brewing.
When there are other additives — like fruit — it will change the color and augment it beyond the standards below.
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SRM 2 — Pale Straw
-
SRM 3 — Straw
-
SRM 4 — Pale Gold
-
SRM 6 — Deep Gold
-
SRM 8 — Light Amber
-
SRM 10 — Amber
-
SRM 13 — Deep Amber
-
SRM 16 — Copper
-
SRM 20 — Light Brown
-
SRM 24 — Brown
-
SRM 30 — Dark Brown
-
SRM 35 — Very Dark Brown
-
SRM 40 — Black
Flavor
“Beer” flavored only works for describing light lagers.
The human palate is complex and different for everyone based on unique lived experiences. Sometimes you’re a natural, and sometimes it just takes drinking beer with vocabulary in mind to make the connections.
For me personally, it was a labor of fun love to pick beers. Drink them. And really ponder what I was getting.
- Don’t say “Tastes like beer” → Say “Clean malt backbone with light hop bitterness”
- Don’t say “Strong” → Say “High-ABV with warming alcohol character”
- Don’t say “Bitter” → Say “Assertive hop bitterness with notes of pine and resin”
- Don’t say “Sweet” → Say “Malty sweetness with hints of caramel and toffee”
- Don’t say “Fruity” → Say “Tropical esters of mango and passionfruit”
- Don’t say “Citrusy” → Say “Bright grapefruit zest and orange peel from late-hop additions”
- Don’t say “Spicy” → Say “Peppery phenolics from Belgian yeast”
- Don’t say “Smoky” → Say “Delicate beechwood smoke with bacon undertones”
- Don’t say “Flat” → Say “Low carbonation, soft mouthfeel”
- Don’t say “Watery” → Say “Light body with crisp, clean finish”
- Don’t say “Weird aftertaste” → Say “Lingering phenolic note reminiscent of clove or bubblegum”
- Don’t say “Chocolatey” → Say “Dark malt character with cocoa and roasted coffee notes”
- Don’t say “Bready” → Say “Freshly baked bread crust and biscuit malt aroma”
- Don’t say “Sour” → Say “Tart acidity with lemon and green apple brightness”
- Don’t say “Funky” → Say “Barnyard Brett character with earthy complexity”
- Don’t say “Burnt” → Say “Roasted barley bitterness with espresso intensity”
- Don’t say “Tastes like juice” → Say “Hazy New England IPA bursting with tropical fruit aromatics”
- Don’t say “Heavy” → Say “Full-bodied with chewy malt texture”
- Don’t say “Light” → Say “Sessionable with a crisp, dry finish”
- Don’t say “Good” → Say “Balanced profile with pleasant hop-to-malt ratio”
Off Flavors
This can get complicated, so let’s keep it simple.
Here are flavors that you don’t want:
- Buttered popcorn → bad. Means the yeast was stressed.
- Green apple (unless it’s literally in the beer) → bad. Means the yeast was stressed.
- Skunk → bad. As discussed caused by green bottles and light.
- Printer paper → bad. Means the beer is oxidized from poor temperature control, age, or both.
- Bandaid → very bad. Means the beer is infected, stop drinking and throw it away.
Longer Style Reference Guide
This by no means covers everything, but it’s a good start.
Lagers
- Pilsner
- Pils
- Baltic Porter
- Rauchbier
- Malt Liquor
- Helles
- Dunkel
- Bock
- Doppelbock
- Eisbock
- Schwarzbier
- Maibock
- Märzen
- Zwickelbier (Kellerbier)
Ales
- Altbier
- Any sour (unless specifically noted as lager fermentation)
- Lambic
- Berliner Weisse
- Barleywine
- California Common / Steam Beer
- Cream Ale
- ESB / English Bitter
- Grisette
- Gose
- Hefeweizen
- IPA / DIPA /TIPA
- Irish Red Ale
- Kölsch
- Mild Ale
- Old Ale
- Porter
- Roggenbier
- Saison / Farmhouse
- Scottish Ale / Wee Heavy
- Stout
- TIPA
- Belgian Strong: Tripel / Dubbel / Quad
- Witbier (Belgian Wheat)
That’s a lot to start with. Be sure to follow along for the next post in our series where we’ll go even deeper.
And as always, enjoy responsibly.