Fatherhood Field Notes

Few books change how you see yourself.Even fewer change how you see every relationship in your life.In this conversation, psychologist, speaker, and bestselling author Dr. Kelly Flanagan returns to Fatherhood Field Notes to unpack the central ideas from his newest book, The Road Less Triggered—a practical roadmap for transforming the moments that usually create conflict into opportunities for deeper connection.Ned begins with an honest confession. Minutes before recording, Kelly was a few minutes late logging into the call. Almost instantly, Ned noticed an old story awaken inside him—the familiar fear that he wasn’t important enough, that someone else mattered more. Instead of brushing it aside, they use that real-time moment to explore one of the biggest challenges every husband, father, and leader faces: being triggered.Together they explore why our nervous systems react before our minds do, why our hearts instinctively close to protect us, and why emotional triggers are not signs of weakness—but invitations for growth. Kelly explains that our past isn’t behind us; it’s carried within us, and understanding that reality changes the way we approach marriage, parenting, friendship, leadership, and even our relationship with God.The conversation moves into practical territory as they discuss the hidden ways men try to control relationships, why boundaries are often misunderstood, and how true strength isn’t found in managing people but in cultivating an open heart that remains present even when life feels unsafe.For fathers, this episode becomes a masterclass in emotional leadership. Kelly explains why the best father to your twelve-year-old is the healed twelve-year-old within yourself, why children don’t need perfect parents, and why a father’s greatest influence isn’t found in having the right answers but in the quality of his presence.This isn’t simply a conversation about psychology.It’s a conversation about discipleship.About marriage.About parenting.About becoming the kind of man whose calm presence creates safety for everyone around him.If you’ve ever wondered why you react the way you do—or how to stop repeating the same conflicts with your spouse, children, or coworkers—this may become one of the most transformative episodes you’ve ever heard.🔎 Top Questions This Episode AnswersWhy do I get emotionally triggered by small things that shouldn’t bother me?How can I stop reacting defensively in my marriage?What’s the difference between healthy boundaries and emotional walls?How can fathers become emotionally safe leaders for their families?Why does my childhood still affect my relationships today, and what do I do about it?---------Check Out Dr. Kelly Flanagan at: Substack: https://substack.com/@drkellyflanaganYoutube: @DrKellyFlanagan The Road Less Triggered on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4eGR91rPodcasts episodes about The Road Less Triggered: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marriage-on-the-daily/id1869106202?i=1000758409682https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-road-less-triggered-turning-conflict-into/id1344850656?i=1000754658658---------Check Out the Program Talked About: Genesis by Rise Up KingsThis episode is sponsored by Genesis - a Rite of Passage by Rise Up KingsOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?www.adventureoffatherhood.comwww.rebelandcreate.comEach week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: www.facebook.com/rebelandcreateMentioned in this episode:Rise Up Kings Genesis

Ned sits down with Dave Ronning, faithful Christian and Kona real estate professional, to talk about how to incorporate playfulness into your parenting style. They uncover 5 actionable ideas that will help you connect with your kids and create lasting memories.Did you know that playfulness is not just for kids, that it’s vital for parents too? Engaging in playful activities can rejuvenate our spirit and strengthen our connections with our children (and even with God). According to Dave, play allows us to tap into our inner self, reminding us of who we are beyond our responsibilities.Dave and Ned talk about how play:Strengthens Bonds: Playful interactions create lasting memories and deepen relationships.Encourages Openness: It fosters an environment where children feel safe to express themselves.Promotes Emotional Well-being: Play can reduce stress for both kids and parents, making family time enjoyable.Dave also shares some powerful personal stories from his own life where he became aware of and connected to the "little David" inside himself. He also shares about a particular traumatic event for his son that resulted in some impactful growth and vision for them both.Want to dive deeper into the topic of playfulness in parenting? Check out our full conversation with Dave Ronning for more insights.---------This episode is sponsored by Genesis - a Rite of Passage by Rise Up KingsOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?www.adventureoffatherhood.comwww.rebelandcreate.comEach week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: www.facebook.com/rebelandcreateMentioned in this episode:Rise Up Kings Genesis - a rite of passage for young men & dadsRise Up Kings Genesis