Dear Son,

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. From Premature Birth to Full Custody: Ace Jackson on Fatherhood, Faith, and Rebuilding On the Dear Son Show, the host and guest Ace Jackson discuss gratitude and perspective through personal stories, including surviving serious car accidents and seeing hardships as decision points for faith and growth. Ace shares his Dallas upbringing, watching his parents sacrifice, start a family bakery, and maintain respect and unity through job loss and injury. He opens up about becoming a father at 20 when his son was born extremely premature and spent 77 days in the NICU, navigating abandonment, court battles, and eventually gaining full custody when his son was about two. Ace reflects on single parenthood, trust and abandonment issues, his son asking for therapy, and lessons about carrying yourself with character. He also describes his work in a family bakery, owning a car restoration/body shop, and using cars as a metaphor for stripping down to rebuild. 00:00 Welcome to Dear Son 00:31 What Blessed Means 01:17 Car Crash Perspective 03:54 Gratitude Decision Points 05:29 Roots in Dallas 08:21 Family Struggle and Sacrifice 13:43 Legacy Beyond Money 16:47 Discipline and Consequences 21:40 Hustler Kid Mindset 23:52 Dad on the Road 27:43 Becoming a Young Father 30:13 Grinding Two Jobs 31:04 Suit And Tie Interview 32:24 Dyslexia And Support 33:56 Preemie Birth Crisis 36:52 Nicu Alone And Betrayal 40:44 Court And Father Rights 44:43 Winning Full Custody 45:08 Raising A Son 48:25 Feeling Like A Failure 50:23 Grandfather Pride 53:34 Fatherhood Lessons 57:44 Business And Purpose 01:00:38 Seen Beyond The Smile 01:01:06 Where To Find Him 01:01:56 Final Reflections #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1 My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son Show: Byron Bailey on Fatherhood, Faith, and Fighting Insurance Companies On the Dear Son Show, the host welcomes Dallas personal injury attorney and father Byron Bailey for a wide-ranging conversation about life through the lens of fatherhood. Byron shares his upbringing in a single-parent home, the influence of his disciplined grandfather and church, and the complicated presence of his Jamaican immigrant father. He explains how an early law-firm internship led him to law school, his path from working for the VA to insurance defense, and why he switched to representing injured people against insurers. The discussion covers misconceptions about handling car-accident claims without a lawyer, long-term medical impacts, and the importance of treatment and compensation. Byron also reflects on balancing heavy responsibilities with intentional parenting of his six-year-old, defining success, cutting distractions, and learning to be proud of himself and communicate that to his son. 00:00 Welcome to Dear Son 01:00 Meet Byron Bailey 02:04 Growing Up in Dallas 03:39 Becoming a Lawyer 06:49 Insurance Defense to Purpose 08:57 Car Wreck Reality Check 12:32 Why You Need Counsel 14:15 Lawyer Dad Balance 17:21 Sports and Coaching Mindset 18:02 Absent Father Story 20:34 Grandfather No Excuses 23:01 Faith as Foundation 24:03 Fatherhood Challenges Today 25:03 Grace Over Perfection 25:58 Trusting the Process 26:15 Corporate Ladder Lessons 28:19 Family First Warning 29:18 Defining Practice Success 29:36 Goals Not Pass Fail 31:04 Cutting Distractions 33:05 Busy Boundaries Systems 36:04 Success in Fatherhood 37:21 Raising Him Different 39:10 Adjusting Expectations 41:54 Math Tablet Balance 42:53 Explaining Your Busy 46:17 Raising Communicators 49:14 Proud of Yourself 51:27 Closing Advice Outro #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1 My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. What Makes or Breaks a Man: Perspective, Growth, and Vulnerability | Better Together The hosts of Better Together—Joe T, Reggie George, J Black, and D Johns—discuss what can make or break a man, focusing on perspective, personal development, and honest communication. Joe T reflects on how lust and mismanaging money once seemed like “badges” but were actually breaking him, and he shares how learning business basics like forming an LLC and applying for a loan reshaped his mindset. The group explores how environment can miseducate people into survival tactics, why relationships often resist growth more than other areas of life, and how fear, willful ignorance, and attachment to what’s familiar create dysfunction. They emphasize vulnerability as a strength, the importance of regular check-ins, accountability without weaponizing feedback, avoiding comparison, practicing surrender, and not “dying” in someone else’s lack of development. 00:00 Nineties Haircut Memories 01:39 Show Intro and Check In 03:18 What Makes or Breaks Men 03:54 Lust Money and Unlearning 07:53 Reeducation and Strongholds 09:30 Perspective Changes Everything 12:20 Vulnerability as Strength 15:06 Marriage Growth and Deflection 24:46 Complacency and Silent Ruts 26:54 Why Relationships Resist Change 30:55 Phone Analogy and Human Growth 33:55 Early Marriage Blind Spots 35:13 Cracked Screen Relationships 37:59 Familiarity Versus Growth 41:05 Check Ins Without Weapons 42:39 Change Versus Development 44:09 Dont Die In Prison 48:11 Make Or Break Mindset 53:05 Update Your Data 55:14 Accountability Filters 59:55 Surrender And Priorities 01:06:34 Speak Up In Safe Spaces 01:08:52 Better Together Closing #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital Shop Father Figure: https://www.f2apparel.store/ Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Follow Joe T: https://instagram.com/bakeriii Follow Reggie: https://instagram.com/fatherfigureapparel Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1 My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Counting the Cost: Crime, Faith, Parenting, and the Price of Not Surrendering In this episode of Better Together, the hosts discuss “counting the cost” across crime, spirituality, parenting, work, and relationships. Joe T explains that before prison, crime felt “lawful” and consequence-free because of his environment, but prison revealed how it was costing him everything. They contrast religious ritual with genuine spiritual formation, emphasizing exposure, accountability, and surrender, including how faith is tested during tragedy like a child’s medical crisis. The conversation also covers the danger of being convinced of yourself, how permissive parenting can stem from resenting structure, and the need to teach consequences. They share personal examples of counting the cost: moving family from the East Coast to Dubai, entrepreneurial risks versus corporate regret, success through content creation, and relationship decisions, ending with a call for viewers to reflect on what something is costing them and what it will cost. 00:00 Counting Crime Costs 00:49 Car Lesson on Value 02:06 Prison Reality Check 02:25 Ritual vs Relationship 05:36 Learning Surrender 09:43 God Knows My Heart 10:15 Echo Chambers and Pride 12:57 Parenting and Boundaries 16:46 Paying the Cost Daily 19:21 Marriage Covenant Costs 21:44 When Commitment Becomes Harm 24:26 Mortgage Analogy for Growth 26:21 Faith Tested by Loss 27:54 Moving Away for Family 31:48 Entrepreneurship vs Corporate 34:10 Time Wealth and Presence 36:07 TikTok Leap of Faith 37:50 Calling Off Engagement Regret 40:22 Community Challenge Wrap Up #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital Shop Father Figure: https://www.f2apparel.store/ Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Follow Joe T: https://instagram.com/bakeriii Follow Reggie: https://instagram.com/fatherfigureapparel Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1 My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Breaking the Cycle: Fatherhood, Rejection, Lust, and Healing (ft. Trey Tucker | Rugged Counseling) In this episode of The Dear Son Show, host Derek talks with therapist Trey Tucker from the Chattanooga, Tennessee area about fatherhood, the impact of absent or limited fathering, and how “gaps” in guidance shape men. Trey shares his path from the corporate world to education and counseling, his struggles with rejection and a decade-long hookup cycle, and how those experiences affect attachment, identity, and healing. Derek connects these themes to his own story—leaving home young, self-medicating through sex and alcohol, and creating the podcast as accountability to have meaningful conversations with his sons. They discuss grief, losing parents, why environment matters for young men, and Trey’s book Tough Enough aimed at men in their 20s. Subscribe and comment your biggest takeaway. 00:00 Show Welcome 00:31 Tennessee Connection 01:34 Therapist Journey 02:49 Leaving Corporate Life 05:45 Podcast Origin Story 07:42 Roots and Relocation 08:59 Fatherhood Gaps 14:56 Rejection and Validation 19:02 Book for Twenties 21:51 Hookup Cycle Fallout 24:17 Environment Shapes Choices 25:24 Talking Teens and Alcohol 28:15 School Years That Matter 30:30 Marriage and Fatherhood Hopes 32:27 Mentoring With Accountability 34:00 Training Toughness With Care 35:33 Losing Dad and Learning Grief 39:54 Grief Ritual and Healing 44:18 Parents Marriage Model 45:19 Platform Dating and Time 47:21 What I Wish Dad Said 49:32 Measuring Tough Enough Impact 52:13 Closing Reflections and Outro #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Follow Trey: https://instagram.com/ruggedcounseling Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1 My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sara Connor on Fatherhood, Trauma, Faith, and Encouraging Today’s Sons | Dear Son Show On the Dear Son Show during Women’s History Month, host Derek welcomes Sara Connor, a Jamaican-born minister and advisor, who shares her upbringing in a prominent Rastafarian and entrepreneurial family, the trauma of an absent musician father and a crack-addicted mother who was later murdered, and years of sexual abuse that shaped her identity and relationships. Sara describes finding Christian faith after running away at 13, learning self-worth through unconditional love, experiencing miracles, and later using therapy and practical tools to manage grief and triggers. She credits her father’s generosity and respect for creating unity across a blended family and discusses how conditioning led her to overextend for men’s dreams and struggle with boundaries. She explains how she parents her son to preserve kindness, ask for what he wants, and stand up for himself, and closes with encouragement to men facing embarrassment, pressure, and purpose. 00:00 Message to Men 00:45 Show Intro Guest Welcome 01:38 Jamaica Roots Family 03:04 Trauma and Loss 04:49 Blended Family Harmony 07:33 Father Character Generosity 09:38 Abuse and Conditioning 13:53 Faith and Self Worth 19:29 Rastafari and Education 25:04 Healing Support Systems 29:39 Managing Trauma Triggers 33:36 Talking with Dad 35:19 Why No Blame 37:10 Absent Parents Survival 38:12 Trauma Triggers Today 40:40 Seeking Approval In Men 42:46 Faith Culture And Boundaries 47:19 Divorce And Self Rediscovery 50:45 Parenting Kindness And Dreams 58:09 Father’s Pivotal Advice 01:04:52 Healing Family Rifts 01:08:05 Men’s Shame And Purpose 01:17:11 Closing Encouragement #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Follow Sara: https://instagram.com/iamsaraco Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

David Mann Jr. on Fatherhood, Legacy, and Redefining Success On The Dear Son Show, the host welcomes David Mann Jr. for a candid conversation about fatherhood, marriage, faith, and legacy. They discuss being hands-on dads during spring break, how parenting choices (sheltering a sickly child vs. letting another take risks) shape kids differently, and how work ambition can create absence at home—driving guilt, marriage strain, and family conflict. David shares growing up in a highly visible gospel/entertainment family, resenting expectations, and later choosing to flow with his path while pursuing DJing, production, and a meaningful business. Both reflect on repairing father-son relationships, defining success beyond money, making time the real currency, and wanting children to feel loved and proud at the end. Follow the channel and leave a review to support more honest conversations like this. 00:00 Show Intro and Welcome 01:01 Catching Up as Dads 01:53 Kids Driving and Sheltering 04:34 Sick Child and Marriage Strain 06:46 Work Guilt and Forgiveness 09:45 Redefining Success and Time 11:56 Sharing Parents With the World 15:25 Repairing Father Son Bond 18:09 Lessons on Work and Teamwork 20:18 Growing Up Around Fame 23:07 Family Business and Identity 24:02 Finding His Own Lane 24:57 Tour With Parents 25:15 Marriage Time Flies 26:56 Lessons From Marriage 27:54 Dad Identity And Pride 28:47 Raising Daughters Today 34:03 Hands On Parenting Shift 35:12 Finding Your Own Dream 38:34 Faith And Expectations 42:01 Legacy Impact Goals 44:37 Fatherhood Reflections 46:25 Family And Sisters 47:22 Where To Find Him 48:07 Closing And Thanks #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Follow David: https://instagram.com/davidmannjr Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this Better Together conversation, D Johns, Joe T, Reggie G, and Jey Blac unpack what it means to “put away foolish things,” framing it as an ongoing, seasonal process tied to maturity, self-awareness, and obedience to God. They discuss how distractions, instant gratification, pride, learned behaviors, and unexamined expectations can derail relationships, work, finances, and spiritual growth—especially when people confuse what they expect with what they actually deserve. The group debates marriage, divorce, discernment, premarital counseling, and the pressure of timelines, sharing personal examples about staying too long in jobs or relationships, lacking wise counsel, and mistaking grace for wisdom. They close by challenging listeners to identify their current “foolish thing,” release what’s harming them “at what cost,” and stop celebrating being “the coolest fool in the room.” Follow the channel, watch the long-form episode on YouTube, and leave a review. 00:00 Welcome Back Intro 00:35 Weather And AC Bills 01:41 Show Updates And Subscribe 02:16 Putting Away Foolishness 05:30 Instant Gratification Trap 06:32 Wordsmithing And Avoidance 07:08 Jobs Marriage And Covenant 12:17 God Says Stop Go Time 17:42 Maturity Obedience And Self 23:37 Chasing the Honeymoon 24:04 Grace Without Excuses 25:15 Imperfect Models of Marriage 26:26 Abraham and Ishmael Lessons 28:45 Premarital Counseling Reality Check 31:04 Pride and Entitlement Traps 39:21 Expectations Versus Deserving 42:57 Self Assessment and Hard Talks 46:39 Know When to Let Go 48:18 Final Challenges and Farewell #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

When God Says Go: Jasmine Jones on Obedience, Fatherhood, and Walking Away On the Dear Son, Show, host Chris welcomes Jasmine Jones as the first in-studio guest for a Women’s series during March, discussing life through fatherhood. Jasmine shares how her book, “When God Says Go,” about leaving Chicago for Dallas, led to speaking opportunities and ultimately her own women’s conference, which exceeded her expectations. She reflects on growing up with married parents, a supportive father who served his community, and a later period of distance rooted in anger and trauma. Jasmine describes her relationships, including a marriage where she says a “mask” fell off and emotional abuse affected her and her children, prompting her to leave through prayer and faith. She explains her platform “Her Plus God,” its growth from a clothing brand to a faith community, and closes with encouragement to appreciate and forgive fathers. Follow the channel and leave a review. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 00:42 Family Visits and Big Kids 01:42 Conference Wins Recap 02:34 Book and Calling to Go 03:54 Worthy of the Blessing 06:01 Childhood Obedience and Home 08:54 Growing Up in Chicago 10:05 Parents Values and Dad Example 13:50 Rebellion and Dad Distance 17:45 Reconnecting Through Sons Sports 19:56 Choosing Partners and Trauma 24:52 Marriage and Seeing Dad 25:24 Moving In Fast 26:18 Ignoring Red Flags 27:47 Engagement Pregnancy Shift 28:52 How He Learned Her 30:39 Keeping Abuse Private 32:05 PlayStation Breaking Point 35:45 When A Woman Is Done 37:10 Faith Journey Deepens 39:46 Kids And Changing Dynamics 41:16 Healing Trauma And Parenting 44:34 Not Dating This Season 45:53 Dad Relationship Today 48:57 What I Wish He Said 52:53 Her Plus God Mission 55:45 Final Fatherhood Message Follow Jasmine: https://instagram.com/herplusgod_ Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1 My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Dear Son Network creates honest conversations about fatherhood, masculinity, and the life lessons many men never hear growing up. Dear Son: Are You Shackled to Your Past? Fatherhood, Forgiveness & Breaking Cycles In this live, unscripted episode of The Dear Son Show, hosts D Johns and Jey Blac lead a candid conversation on the topic “Dear Son, you will always be shackled to your past,” exploring how past mistakes and family history shape identity, parenting, and relationships. They discuss using the past as a navigation tool rather than a prison, the duty of demonstrating change, and whether others get to decide when they’re “over” what you did. Audience members share stories about parenting older vs. younger kids, childhood trauma passed down from parents, rebuilding after incarceration, and how unforgiveness can keep people bound. The hosts emphasize accountability without labeling someone by their mistakes, encourage setting boundaries and having hard conversations, and challenge listeners to release people they’ve been holding hostage to the past. 00:00 Unscripted Show Setup 00:29 Welcome and Live Energy 01:57 Tonight’s Topic Past Shackles 03:30 Past Shaping Fatherhood 05:57 Absentee Dad Two Paths 09:22 Remorse With Older Kids 10:45 Audience Advice Parenting Never Stops 14:16 Shackled vs In Touch 15:30 Who Sets The Timeframe 17:00 Breaking Generational Shackles 20:32 Unforgiveness and Self Forgiveness 23:13 Who Benefits From Shackles 27:09 Tank vs Healing Sensitivity 29:44 Life As A Retakeable Test 30:04 Release Your Errors 30:28 Learn From Everyone 31:28 Unshackling Dad 36:17 Mistakes Aren't Identity 37:55 Parenting Without Trauma 45:34 Know Each Kid 47:14 Conversations Break Cycles 49:07 Humor Anger and Growth 52:58 Release and Reconnect 53:47 Disrupt to Break Cycles 57:54 Final Thanks and Outro #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1 My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Dear Son Network creates honest conversations about fatherhood, masculinity, and the life lessons many men never hear growing up. Dear Son: You Asked for This — Preparing for Purpose, Growth, and Relationships Hosts D Johns and Jey Blac open The Dear Son Show by describing the mission of having honest conversations about life through fatherhood for those with fathers and the fatherless. They recap a Mardi Gras trip and discuss an upcoming live show on 2/24/26 at 7:00 PM, encouraging viewers to subscribe and get tickets. The main discussion centers on the realization that when you pray for growth and expanded territory, you must accept the full load that comes with it—time demands, visibility, responsibility, and the unseen work behind results—summed up as “you asked for this,” and reframed as purpose rather than simply being “busy.” They talk about the need to be prepared and to steward what you ask for, using analogies like the real upkeep of owning a yacht and the extensive setup required for producing episodes. The hosts also address accountability and showing respect for the platform, including the importance of effort, preparation, and feedback for growth. They connect these ideas to marriage and parenting: supporting a spouse’s vision without becoming a ‘dream killer,’ balancing consequences with repeated guidance for children, and not letting a child’s history prevent offering grace and wisdom. They share examples of their sons’ maturing communication and learning from real-world consequences, and close by urging sons to acknowledge when their fathers were right and encouraging consistent investment in relationships so they don’t wither. 00:00 Welcome to the Dear Son Show (What This Space Is About) 00:33 Catching Up: Mardi Gras, Kids in Crowds & Weekend Check-In 01:18 Housekeeping: Subscribe + Live Show Tickets (2/24/26) 01:51 Topic Drop: 'Dear Son, You Asked for This' (Stop Complaining) 03:21 Busy vs Purpose: Choosing Better Words for a Full Life 05:14 A Day in the Life: Packed Schedule, Family Runs & Showing Up 06:33 Praying for Expansion… Then Handling Visibility & Responsibility 07:22 The Hidden Cost of What You Ask For (Time, Upkeep & Lifestyle Shifts) 12:39 Accountability on the Platform: Taking the Work Seriously 19:34 Growth Through Feedback: Drafts, Principles & Applying Lessons to Fatherhood 23:11 Consequences vs. Conversation: Fixing the Approach in Parenting & Marriage 24:27 The “Duck Through the Door” Metaphor: Coaching People Toward You 25:38 Teaching Kids Systems (Not Shame): When “One More Time” Becomes 20 26:34 Not Erasing Consequences: Responding When Growth Requires More 27:53 Supporting Your Partner’s Vision: Avoiding ‘Dream Killer’ Mode 33:56 History vs. Grace with Adult Kids: Respecting Who They’re Becoming 35:47 Seeing the Change: Communication, Adversity, and New Maturity 43:23 Let Lessons Land: Application, Parenting Environment, and Patience 44:58 Final Charge: Don’t Let Relationships Wither—Keep Pouring In #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1 My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Better Together - Episode 2 | Exploring Growth, Challenges, and Purpose In this engaging episode of Better Together, our hosts dive deep into their personal and professional journeys. They discuss their thoughts and experiences on collaboration, the importance of purpose, handling adversity, and navigating new spaces. From entrepreneurial challenges to maintaining relationships, this episode encapsulates the essence of growing and thriving together. Join us for insightful conversations, practical advice, and a celebration of unity and individual contributions. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel and leave a comment on your favorite part of the episode! 00:00 Introduction and Initial Setup 00:25 Discussing Shooting Schedules 00:56 Momentum and New Beginnings 02:09 The Importance of Activity and Engagement 03:03 Navigating Transitions and Challenges 06:43 Personal Growth and Maturity 12:42 Balancing Relationships and Responsibilities 15:53 Communication and Partnership 28:11 Asking for Help and Collaboration 31:03 Overcoming the Victim Mentality 31:15 The Power of Reaching Out 33:17 Assessing Capacity in Entrepreneurship 36:14 Delegation and Team Building 41:22 Balancing Joy and Growth 43:44 Staying Aligned with Purpose 47:39 Navigating Life's Forks in the Road 54:01 The Importance of Being Present 56:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts #Raisingboysandgirls #FamilyTalk #singleparents #adultchildren #Parenting #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital Shop Father Figure: https://www.f2apparel.store/ Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Follow Joe T: https://instagram.com/bakeriii Follow Reggie: https://instagram.com/fatherfigureapparel Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1 My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy