In this slow, soulful conversation, Jerrad sits down with Jake Weidmann—a master penman (yes, that’s a real thing) and artist whose life and work are marked by discipline, creativity, and deep intentionality. From carving sacred art to raising four kids, Jake shares how slowing down has reshaped not just his craft—but his soul.
They talk about the connection between beauty and time, why being creative has nothing to do with being “artsy,” and how discipline and delight can co-exist in the life of a godly man. Jake opens up about the doubts that haunted his early career, what it means to “exult in monotony,” and the emotional moment he hoisted an Amish barn beam onto his shoulder—realizing he was quite literally taking up his cross.
This episode is a breath of fresh air in a world that worships speed.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why slowing down might be the most spiritual thing you do today
- How discipline, doubt, and beauty all shape a man’s soul
- The lost art of doing one thing well over a long time
- What it means to create as a reflection of the Creator
- How parenting and craftsmanship have more in common than you think
- Why creativity isn’t just for artists—it’s for every man made in God’s image
- The surprising story behind Jake’s “Old Rugged Cross” artwork
Mentioned in This Episode:
- Jake’s book and artwork: https://jakeweidmann.com
- G.K. Chesterton’s Orthodoxy
- The story of the “pen wizard” and the golden age of handwriting
- Benedictine wisdom: To work is to pray
- Jerrad’s mantra: “Decades over days”
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.