In this episode of the Ambitious Dads podcast, host Jeff Hittner engages in a thought-provoking conversation with
Michael Grose, a prominent Australian parenting educator and author of twelve books on parenting. With a background as a former teacher, Michael shares his journey into parenting education, which began unexpectedly while pursuing a master's degree in education. He discusses how his experiences as a teacher and a father to three adult children have shaped his insights into parenting.
The episode delves into the evolving landscape of parenting, highlighting the shift from traditional discipline and behavior management to a focus on resilience, emotional regulation, and the challenges posed by the digital age. Michael emphasizes the importance of parents being aware of their own mental health and wellness, as it directly impacts their children. He advocates for the necessity of self-care and the establishment of personal time for parents, encouraging dads to prioritize their own needs alongside their parenting responsibilities.
Michael and Jeff explore the differences in parenting styles between mothers and fathers, noting that mothers often provide nurturing and emotional support, while fathers tend to encourage independence and problem-solving. This dynamic is crucial for children's development, as it allows them to learn from both parental figures. Michael also addresses the common fears fathers have regarding their children's adolescence, offering insights on how to maintain connections during this challenging phase.
Throughout the episode, Michael shares practical strategies for effective discipline, emphasizing the importance of teaching children about choices and consequences. He highlights the value of positive reinforcement and consistent communication, suggesting that parents should catch their children doing the right thing and guide them in resolving conflicts.
As the conversation unfolds, Michael reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on children's mental health and development, noting the long-term effects of isolation and the need for parents to adapt their approaches to parenting in a post-pandemic world. The episode concludes with a call for fathers to embrace their unique roles and responsibilities, fostering a supportive environment for their children while also taking care of their own well-being.
Connect with Jeff Hittner: https://jeffhittner.com
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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