Episode 382: Capable Connections: Fathers and Sons

About this episode

Sissy Goff and David Thomas explore the unique relationship between fathers and sons, discussing the impact of fatherhood and offering practical advice for building healthy identities and emotional resilience in boys.

In episode 382, Sissy Goff and David Thomas continue their Capable Connections series by exploring the unique relationship between fathers and sons. They discuss how fatherhood shapes both men and children, while highlighting challenges boys face around performance, emotional expression, and isolation. Through research, personal stories, and practical advice, they encourage dads to help sons build healthy identities, strong relationships, and emotional resilience by modeling vulnerability, prioritizing connection, and reminding boys that their worth is not based on achievement. Resources mentioned: “Don't worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you.” - Robert Fulghum American Academy of Pediatrics research on youth sports burnout Capable by David Thomas and Sissy Goff . . . . . . Sign up to receive the⁠ bi-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠monthly newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Order our new book, Capable, here!! See our speaking dates, purchase books and check out our courses here.. . . . . . If you would like to partner with Raising Boys…

People in this episode

Hosts: Sissy Goff, David Thomas

Topics covered

• fatherhood
• father-son relationship
• emotional resilience
• identity
• parenting advice

Keywords

• fatherhood
• sons
• emotional expression
• performance
• parenting

Sponsors

QUINCE, BOLL & BRANCH

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: American Academy of Pediatrics

Books & works: Capable

More episodes of Raising Boys & Girls

• Episode 383: An Honest Conversation about Fathers and Sons with Scott and Randy Hearon · June 11, 2026 · 60 min
• Episode 381: Where Commitment Meets Capability with Shawn Johnson and Andrew East · June 4, 2026 · 55 min
• Episode 380: An Honest Conversation about Mothers and Daughters with Haven Weits and Lisa Whelchel · June 2, 2026 · 1h 10m
• Episode 379: Capable Connections: Mothers and Daughters with David and Sissy · May 28, 2026 · 27 min
• Episode 378: Learning to Fail, Trusting God and Trick Shots with Dude Perfect · May 26, 2026 · 42 min
• Episode 377: The Power of Family and Staying Connected Through Adulthood with Dr. Kathy Koch · May 21, 2026 · 37 min