We’re back in action. Hope the Labor Day weekend treated you well. Last call for the Dad Day Fantasy Survivor League. Join us here.

📕 DAD WISDOM 

Lift Them Up

It’s easy to get caught up in correcting, critiquing, or pushing our kids to be better. But more often than not, what they really need is a parent who lifts them up.

That doesn’t mean ignoring mistakes. It means reminding them they’re capable, seen, and loved even in the messy moments.

Every encouraging word, every pat on the back, every “I’m proud of you” stacks up. And one day, they’ll carry that same voice with them into the world.

Be the kind of parent who builds, not just disciplines. Who lifts, not just instructs. Because those little boosts? They last a lifetime.

RAD DAD 

Steven Rinella

Photo via Reddit

Steven Rinella - outdoorsman, bestselling author, and host of Netflix’s MeatEater—isn’t just chasing elk and telling stories. He’s raising three kids with the same values he learned in the woods: resilience, curiosity, and the ability to figure things out for yourself.

Rinella grew up with a rugged dad and says each generation has the chance to refine the playbook:

“Each generation really makes less mistakes and it’s really about picking apart: here’s some of the good things I’m going to repeat, here are some of the bad things I’m going to stay the hell away from.”

For him, parenting is about presence and participation. Whether it’s camping, gardening, or just turning the backyard into an adventure zone, Rinella believes nature is the best classroom.

And he’s quick to remind dads that it’s not about perfection—it’s about building a family culture of exploration.

“The goal is to teach them enough, and then let them teach you something that excites them.”

Why he’s a RAD DAD: Because Rinella shows that fatherhood is less about bubble wrap and more about dirt under the fingernails—raising kids who are tough, curious, and ready for the real world. Follow him here.

DAD TOYS 

All-Terrain Wagon

Every dad needs a solid wagon. The Wren Ultimate Wagon hauls up to 176 lbs, rolls smooth with all-terrain wheels, and folds down small enough to actually fit in your trunk. Perfect for beach runs, tailgates, or lugging way too much kid gear.

Get it here.

DAD BOD 

Hot Tub > Cold Plunge?

Saunas and cold plunges get all the hype these days, but research shows hot baths might actually do a better job helping you recover explosive strength and cut down muscle soreness after tough workouts.

The key? Stay in long enough (about 15 minutes) for your body to relax and kick off the cellular repair process. You don’t need to make it a competition—just soak, breathe, and let your body do its thing.

Sometimes recovery is less about grit and more about giving yourself permission to chill.

» Run Club News
We officially launched a Phoenix run club last weekend—shoutout to Chris for getting it rolling. If you’re in the area, go check it out.

» Pittsburgh Crew
Next Sunday (9/14), we’re teaming up with Steel City for a 3ish mile run out of their Shadyside store at 8am. No pressure on pace—it's all about conversation. Bonus: 10% off Steel City gear for everyone who joins. Sign up here.

» Dad Meetups
We’re cooking up some IRL hangs outside of run clubs. Keep an eye out in the coming weeks.

» Fall Challenge
We’re pushing dads to commit to something this fall. It could be a 5k or your first half-marathon. We partnered with Runna to make it simple: get a free 2-week trial with code DADDAY. The app builds a custom plan, syncs to your watch, and keeps you honest. Already signed up? DM us at @daddayrunclub—we’d love to feature you.

JUNK DRAWER 

DAD HUMOR