In this raw and redemptive episode, Jerrad sits down with Sammy Perez, a man who grew up without a dad, entered the system at age 8, and spent much of his early life in prison. But that’s not where the story ends. Through a prison cellmate, an unexpected visitation, and the unlikely love of a spiritual father, Sammy’s life was completely turned around.
Together, they talk about father wounds, the ache for belonging, how prison both broke and saved him, and the long road to healing as a man and dad. Sammy shares the tear-filled moment he gave his life to Jesus behind bars, the first time he saw his son through glass, and how God turned his pain into purpose.
This is one of the most powerful stories we’ve ever told.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why boys without dads often become men without direction
- How shame disconnects us from our story and how healing reconnects us
- The surprising moment Sammy met his son for the first time
- What it looks like to father when you were never fathered
- How a consistent man named Terry changed everything
- Why God’s love can rewire even the hardest hearts
- The full-circle moment that brought Sammy back into prisons… this time with purpose
Mentioned in This Episode:
- Prison Fellowship’s Angel Tree Program
- Sammy’s work helping former prisoners reintegrate into society
- The story of Clarence; the cellmate who wouldn’t stop asking Sammy if he wanted to know Jesus
- Jerrad’s teaching on 2 Kings 6 and the power of new perspective
What is Dad Tired?
You’re tired.
Not just physically; though yeah, that too.
You’re tired in your bones. In your soul.
Trying to be a steady husband, an intentional dad, a man of God… but deep down, you feel like you’re falling short. Like you’re carrying more than you know how to hold.
Dad Tired is a podcast for men who are ready to stop pretending and start healing.
Not with self-help tips or religious platitudes, but by anchoring their lives in something (and Someone) stronger.
Hosted by Jerrad Lopes, a husband, dad of four, and fellow struggler, this show is a weekly invitation to find rest for your soul, clarity for your calling, and the courage to lead your family well.
Through honest stories, biblical truth, and deep conversations you’ll be reminded:
You’re not alone. You’re not too far gone. And the man you want to be is only found in Jesus.
This isn’t about trying harder.
It’s about coming home.