Ambitious Dads

In this episode, "Raising Kids with Brain Science & Heart," we explore Dr. Robert Melillo's unique journey as a neuroscientist and father. Discover how his personal experiences with his children's ADHD and other neurodevelopmental challenges transformed his professional career and parenting philosophy.

Dr. Melillo shares valuable insights on:
  • Balancing professional ambition with personal growth as a father.
  • The critical role fathers play in early brain development.
  • How to address neurodevelopmental imbalances and nurture potential.
  • Embracing the whimsical, messy moments of fatherhood that offer profound learning opportunities.
Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone interested in the intricacies of brain science, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable advice to help you support the mental and emotional well-being of your children.

Tune in to hear Dr. Melillo's inspiring anecdotes and expert insights on nurturing a child's development with both brain science and heart.

Connect with Jeff Hittner: https://jeffhittner.com

Tune in every week for a new episode of the Ambitious Dads Podcast. Subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform and never miss an episode!

What is Ambitious Dads?

Fatherhood cracked me open in ways I never expected — and showed me how unprepared most of us are for the emotional work it demands. After learning I couldn’t be a biological father, I wrestled early with the fear that I might screw up my kids before they even existed — a feeling every dad, in one way or another, eventually comes to know. The Ambitious Dads Podcast is where we stop winging it and start talking — about balancing endless competing priorities like work, kids, partners (sex — yeah, right!), self-care, and finances; about the emotions that hit daily — guilt, stress, fear, fatigue, love — and about the quiet doubts that keep us up at night. We’ll get vulnerable. We’ll get honest. And yes, we’ll end every episode with a ridiculous poop story, because if fatherhood teaches you anything, it’s how to laugh while cleaning up disasters.

Hosted by Jeff Hittner. Email Jeff with ideas for future episodes: jwhittner@gmail.com