Dear Son,

You Must Stay Ready | Ep 227 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Dear Son, Have You Been Shooting? | Readiness, Discipline, and Real Talk About Sex & Fatherhood On The Dear Son Show, hosts D Johns and Jey Blac discuss “Dear Son, Have You Been Shooting?” as both slang for unprotected sex and a metaphor for readiness when life puts you on the spot. They explore how trust in relationships can lead young people to drop protection, stressing that avoiding consequences matters beyond trust. D Johns shares how watching church camera operators stay prepared inspired the idea of always “shooting” so you’re ready when your moment comes, tying it to school, work, interviews, and character. Jey reflects on fatherhood lessons like patience and coaching instead of discouraging, using stories about his son navigating college without a car, finding ways to travel, and making decisions, plus concerns about safety and communication with their kids. 00:00 Cold Open Slang Setup 02:13 Show Intro And Check In 02:40 Voting And Fatherhood Lessons 04:05 Road Life And Graduation Countdown 05:24 College Comeback Story 07:57 Celebrate Milestones And Hard Lessons 09:05 Episode Topic Unprotected Sex 11:47 Trust And Dropping Barriers 14:25 Church Cameramen Metaphor 16:31 Stay Ready Preparation Mindset 18:07 Character When No One Watches 20:02 Mastery Over Worker Bee Mentality 21:24 Earning the Interview 21:58 Office Time Principle 23:25 Bring Solutions Not Problems 24:32 Who You Are Shows 25:24 Patience in Real Time 27:08 No New Car Lesson 29:24 Uber to the Wedding 33:28 Redirecting His Energy 35:19 Talking Money and Gambling 38:33 Daughter Borrowing the Truck 40:04 Road Rage and Awareness 41:32 Trust What You Taught 42:16 Avoid Creating Sneaks 44:53 Fathers Keep Shooting 46:39 Final Takeaways and Outro #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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Building My Dream with My Family | Fatherhood & Entrepreneurship | Ep 226 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Cord and the Kitchen on Fatherhood, Faith, and Building a Food Brand | Dear Son Show On the Dear Son, Show, host D Johns sits down with Dallas creator and cookbook author Cordarrius Green (Cord and the Kitchen) for a conversation about entrepreneurship, fatherhood, and identity. Cord shares how he learned to cook out of necessity in Mississippi summers, how a Food Network recipe sparked his passion, and how he turned cooking videos into a fast-growing business during the pandemic after working as a claims adjuster. He discusses meeting his wife before his platform took off, building as a team without ego, and the flexibility and mental load of being an entrepreneur-parent. Cord reflects on discipline, avoiding yelling, involving kids in chores and cooking, rebuilding a strained relationship with his father through therapy and hard conversations, and the importance of men expressing love. He also plugs his Kitchen Culture cookbooks and holiday orders. 00:00 Carrying Comparison 01:43 Show Welcome Intro 02:37 Meet Cord Kitchen 03:32 Holiday Content Hustle 04:04 Cookbooks Plug 05:05 Roots Dallas Mississippi 07:23 Growing Up With Dad 09:37 Learning To Cook 12:54 Vegetarian Upbringing 15:22 Gadgets QVC TikTok 16:17 Pandemic Creator Leap 18:16 Quitting Claims Job 19:35 Faith Delusion Plan 23:59 Business Growth Coach 25:11 Meeting Future Wife 28:35 Choosing Right Partner 29:47 Choosing the Right Partner 30:53 Ego and Teamwork 33:07 Provision and Identity 33:56 Fatherhood Mirror 35:23 Discipline Without Fear 39:48 Safety and Call Response 43:48 Being Present as Dad 48:39 Entrepreneur Dad Balance 55:35 Rebuilding with Father 59:55 Saying I Love You 01:03:48 Cooking as Creativity 01:06:29 Heavy Loads and Faith 01:09:40 Wrap Up and Where to Find #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow Cord: https://instagram.com/cordandthekitchen https://tiktok.com/cordandthekitchen https://youtube.com/cordandthekitchen https://cordandthekitchen.com Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Forgive to a Fault: When Grace Becomes a Trap | Ep 225 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Forgive to a Fault: When Grace Becomes a Trap | Dear Son Show On the Dear Son Show, hosts Jey Blac and D Johns discuss “the forgive to a fault fallout,” exploring whether anything is truly unforgivable, how forgiveness differs from reconciliation, and how expecting forgiveness can erode its value. They unpack how endless forgiveness and unspoken boundaries can create the illusion that harmful behavior is acceptable, leading to resentment, exhaustion, and eventual blowups. The conversation stresses the need to communicate clearly rather than relying on others to “read the room,” especially within family dynamics where children may be conditioned to undervalue themselves and tolerate neglect. They share examples about overextending, misinterpreting increased effort as forgiveness, and the consequences of reacting impulsively. The episode closes by encouraging self-awareness, taking time to process, and articulating issues even after calming down. 00:00 Unforgivable Questions 01:02 Show Intro and Hosts 01:32 Live Show Announcement 02:17 Life Updates and Gratitude 03:51 Forgive to a Fault 05:27 Is Anything Unforgivable 06:24 Forgiveness Versus Reconciliation 10:16 Communicating Boundaries 15:34 Family Dynamics and Assumptions 19:19 Fallouts of Overforgiving 21:34 Doing More Is Not Forgiving 25:16 Teamwork Through Communication 26:10 When Forgiveness Enables 28:25 Ambition Versus Family Time 29:59 The Chocolate Cake Wakeup 31:56 Conditioning Kids to Settle 35:21 Forgiveness Is a Choice 39:02 Know Yourself Before You Snap 40:41 Road Rage and Real Consequences 45:21 Healing Means Avoiding Triggers 46:53 Articulate and Process Conflict 49:30 Show Updates and Farewell #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

My Big Black Therapist: Triggers, Healing, and Intentional Fatherhood | Ep 224 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. My Big Black Therapist on Triggers, Healing, and Intentional Fatherhood | Dear Son Show On the Dear Son Show, host D. Johns talks with therapist Demani Anderson (“My Big Blac Therapist”) about what success in therapy really looks like: intrusive inner conversations and triggers may not disappear, but therapy builds tools to recognize, ground, and respond differently. Demani shares how losing his mother at 21, growing up as a large Black only child with identity pressures, and later reconnecting with his father shaped his path to therapy and his brand name, which challenges stereotypes. They discuss being intentional in marriage and parenting, validating children’s experiences (especially post-pandemic), separating intent from impact, asking for help, managing biases through real relationships, and the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation. 00:00 Therapy Success Defined 01:07 Show Intro and Guest 03:28 Family Wins This Week 05:42 Learning Intentionality 07:30 Path Into Therapy 07:43 Identity and Childhood 09:45 Loss and Breaking Point 11:17 Becoming Big Blac Therapist 13:05 Healing With Mom 14:43 Imposter Syndrome Talk 16:54 Therapy Tools Not Erase 18:19 Why Everyone Needs Therapy 19:37 Pandemic Impact on Kids 21:02 Stop Dismissing Children 23:53 Free Therapy Dallas County 25:13 Parents Guilt About Therapy 27:17 Generational Trauma Context 30:36 When to Push Through 31:51 Work Ethic Inherited 32:47 Beyond Survival Mode 34:21 Process Before You Crash 35:09 Therapist vs Husband Dad 36:30 Holding Space Across Differences 38:58 Naming Biases Intentionally 42:48 Capacity And Taking Off Cape 46:06 Asking For Help Personally 48:04 Owning The Brand 55:20 Choosing The Right Partner 01:00:22 Meeting Dad And Forgiveness 01:04:44 What I Wish He Said 01:07:29 Final Takeaways And Where To Find #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow Damani: https://instagram.com/mybigblacktherapist https://mybigblacktherapist.com Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Maybe It Is Harder for Our Kids | Don't Dismiss Their Struggles | Ep 223 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Dear Son… It Might Be Harder for You: COVID, Tech, and Not Dismissing Their Struggles In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, D Johns and Jey Blac discuss how modern pressures—technology, social media, shifting norms, and the lasting effects of COVID—may make life harder for today’s young men. Jey Blac shares concern after hearing an “off” tone in his son’s voice following missed calls and texts, prompting him to pivot from frustration to checking in and offering space to talk. They reflect on how parents can dismiss children’s difficulties by comparing them to their own experiences, and how isolation, lost milestones like graduation, and changing work culture have reshaped expectations. The conversation emphasizes reading the room, acknowledging impact even when it isn’t a loud cry for help, and approaching kids’ struggles with neutrality, support, and humility. 00:00 Worried Dad Call 02:04 Show Intro Setup 02:47 Life Updates Loss 03:37 Support And Growth 04:47 Harder For You 06:34 COVID Parenting Blindspots 09:33 Son Sounds Off 13:12 Isolation And Expectations 16:01 Workforce Waiting Season 18:07 Marriage Reading The Room 20:30 Not Always About You 21:21 Rethinking Toughness 22:10 Damani on Lost Milestones 23:39 COVID Norms and Business Shifts 27:45 Kids Need Space to Share 29:19 Common Core Patience Lesson 32:33 Work From Home and Kids Perception 34:41 Hard Is Relative for Generations 36:34 Grinding for Opportunity 41:27 Information Age Overload 44:14 Neutral Parenting Closing #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Autism Is A Superpower | Daycare Abuse to Autism Advocacy | Ep 222 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. From Daycare Abuse to Autism Advocacy: Will Adams on Fatherhood, Purpose & The Village Network In this episode of The Dear Son Show, host D Johns sits down with neighbor and nonprofit founder Will Adams, Sr. to discuss fatherhood, identity, and purpose through the lens of raising a son with autism. Will shares how his family discovered his youngest son’s needs after a daycare abuse case surfaced six months later through CPS, leading to a difficult diagnosis process and years of depression he largely masked while in corporate America. He explains the importance of early intervention, therapies, and ABA, and describes meaningful milestones like hearing his son say “Happy New Year” and progressing to full sentences. Will also talks about being laid off, ego and provision, building The Village Network to support fathers and families navigating autism, and challenging misconceptions while encouraging kindness and education about special needs. 00:00 Daycare Abuse Shock 01:21 Show Welcome Guest Intro 02:48 Life After Corporate Exit 04:00 Building The Village Network 06:42 Layoff Ego And Purpose 13:30 Kids Notice The Changes 16:20 How Autism Was Discovered 19:58 Diagnosis Depression And Masking 21:50 Early Intervention And ABA 25:08 Accepting A New Fatherhood 28:33 Learning Love And Communication 30:26 First Words Moment 32:19 Milestones Worth Celebrating 33:42 Family Shift and Legacy 35:52 Autism Misconceptions 38:28 Advocacy as a Black Dad 40:24 Dad Linkups Safe Space 42:28 Authenticity Over Clout 44:23 Called to the Work 51:33 Grace and Fear of Success 58:19 Fatherhood Without a Dad 01:01:03 Where to Find The Village 01:01:45 Final Message Be Kind #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow Will: https://instagram.com/thavillagepodcast https://instagram.com/bigsir_84 Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this episode, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Don't Let Anyone Disqualify You | Ep 221 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Dear Son: Don’t Get Your Qualifications Disqualified On The Dear Son Show, hosts Jey Blac and D Johns discuss how people can “disqualify” themselves despite being qualified—through pride, distractions, emotional reactions, or poor decisions. They reflect on fatherhood challenges like knowing when to let sons learn lessons the hard way, recognizing different expressions of focus, and helping children seek support such as tutors or therapy without making it about parental failure. The conversation covers owning outcomes and opportunity cost, finding mentors, staying consistent when consequences from the past surface, and not letting one negative comment outweigh broader impact. They also share workplace lessons about power, courtesy, and long-term cycles of authority, plus a personal story about wasting time over a $25 tire plug as a reminder to pause before acting on frustration. 00:00 Let Them Learn Lessons 01:10 Welcome to Dear Son 01:33 Fall Check In and Community 02:26 Making Space for Priorities 03:57 Qualifications Disqualified 05:49 Don’t Let Doubt In 09:36 Distractions After Graduation 13:44 Pushing Without Controlling 17:00 Asking for Help Matters 20:27 Own Your Outcome 21:55 Mentors for Young Men 24:14 When You Need New Tools 26:41 Learning Through Deficiency 28:04 Understanding Depression Together 28:56 Ego and Asking for Help 29:41 Stop Justifying Relapse 34:05 Consequences Lag Lesson 34:45 Money Habits and Lifestyle Creep 38:48 Gatekeepers and Compassion 43:09 Seize Teachable Moments 46:04 Power Leapfrog and Humility 48:53 Yesterday Today Tomorrow Balance 50:41 Tire Shop Value Lesson 54:45 Final Fatherhood Takeaways #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk #newtofatherhood Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this episode, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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I Asked My Dad the Toughest Questions | Ep 4 Remastered | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. A Father-Son Conversation on Legacy, Loss, and Breaking Cycles | Dear Son Network (Ep. 4 – 5-Year Anniversary) D Johns re-releases and remasters his first unscripted podcast conversation with his father, Leonard Johns, for the show’s five-year anniversary. Leonard reflects on growing up in a stable two-parent home, his father’s early death at 46, and how a largely nonverbal, hardworking dad shaped his own parenting style. They discuss fond memories of his father’s carpentry, the pain of returning from Vietnam to face family loss, guilt and unprocessed grief, and how those experiences influenced Leonard’s distance, discipline, and later self-reflection—especially after a prostate cancer diagnosis that refocused him on legacy and family. The two address misunderstandings from D.’s childhood, generational differences, marriage and affection models, and the purpose of the platform: clarifying, healing, and ending negative cycles. Subscribe and share, and comment which part of their conversation resonated most with you. 00:00 Welcome Back Episode Four 00:58 Introducing Dad Leonard 02:31 His Fatherhood Snapshot 04:01 Growing Up Without Feeling Poor 05:20 Losing His Father Young 06:29 Quiet Dad Big Impact 09:02 Expectations And Validation 12:52 Vietnam Hospice Goodbye 15:06 Tools Shipped From Vietnam 17:58 Grandfather Anchor And Legacy 19:18 Grief Guilt And Mentors 22:44 Becoming A Father Without Dad 24:09 Distance Overcorrecting And Discipline 28:03 Fear of Disappointing Dad 28:53 Running Away Memory 30:36 Dad Reflects on Parenting 31:19 Family Sayings Explained 36:57 Puberty Talk Regrets 38:50 Watching You Parent 44:00 Grandparents Go Softer 46:19 Losing Dad and Cancer 50:14 Legacy After Diagnosis 51:46 Saying What We Feel 55:21 Breaking Negative Cycles 57:25 Father to Father Advice 59:19 Closing and Call to Action #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk #oldschool Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Because of Alcohol | From DUI to DWI Dad With Influence | Ep 220 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. From DUIs to Redemption: Steve Anderson on Addiction, Prison, Fatherhood & Faith | Dear Son Show Steve Anderson joins D Johns on The Dear Son Show to share how alcohol-fueled choices led to multiple DUIs, fighting, a felony DUI with great bodily injury, and eventually a third DUI that sent him to prison for a year and a half. He describes a turning point through Christian rehab, his father’s unwavering support, and leading a growing Bible study in prison where dozens of men got saved. Steve discusses leaving corporate to become an entrepreneur, facing his 13-year-old daughter’s suicidal ideations, relapse risks, and the importance of community and accountability through The Good Dad Tribe. He reflects on divorce, co-parenting three kids, parenting with fun and structure, learning patience, and staying aligned with God while rebuilding his life. 00:00 Alcohol Fueled Downfall 01:46 Show Intro And Guest Welcome 03:38 What Im Good Really Means 05:40 Pastors Kid Pressure 08:33 Living A Double Life 10:39 Daughters Crisis And Relapse 15:39 Seeing Dad As Human 16:58 Felony DUI And Rehab 21:50 Marriage Stability Then Slip 23:56 Third DUI Prison Wake Up 26:29 Sin Is A Series 28:14 Counting the Cost 29:00 Dad’s Integrity Question 30:34 Time Served and Prison Ministry 32:55 Fresh Start in Texas 33:37 Scars and Accountability 34:49 Best Friends After Divorce 36:11 Forgiving Yourself 37:41 Parenting With Structure 39:05 Not Bleeding on Kids 40:19 Pride in the Children 41:42 Resilience and Staying Aligned 44:15 Love Later, Focus Now 45:06 Waiting Well and Patience 47:59 Entrepreneurship Storm Season 50:30 Dear Son Final Answer 52:19 Where to Find Steve 53:28 Changing the Narrative Together 54:56 Final Wrap and Blessing #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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Is It Racist or Just Wrong? Teaching Our Sons How to Respond Without Losing Control | 219 Dear Son,

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Is It Racist or Just Wrong? Teaching Our Sons How to Respond Without Losing Control | Dear Son Show On the Dear Son Show, hosts D Johns and Jey Blac discuss the theme “it’s not right, but it’s okay,” sparked by an incident where D. Johns’ son, working in customer service, was loudly accused by an older white customer of miscounting change despite doing the right thing. They use the moment to talk about reacting appropriately, de-escalating to achieve the best outcome, and how being right differs from facilitating the right outcome. The conversation expands to parenting Black sons in a tense 2026 climate, when and how to discuss racism and discrimination without projecting paranoia, and how past experiences shape the “lens” parents pass to children. They also address misinformation, social media groupthink, election-cycle polarization, and the long-term consequences of public reactions and opinions. 00:00 Is It Racist Or Wrong 02:03 Show Intro And Hosts 02:31 Football Banter 03:31 Housekeeping And Merch 05:12 Topic Not Right But Okay 06:12 Son’s Customer Incident 07:53 Reactions And Outcomes 11:31 Talking Race With Kids 14:15 Generational Lens And Bias 19:17 History Control And Records 21:14 Growing Up In Shreveport 24:23 Projecting Fear Onto Kids 27:21 Neighborhoods Change Over Time 28:20 Property Decline Cycle 28:58 Gentrification Versus Progress 30:06 Teaching Street Awareness 33:40 Workplace Bias Lessons 36:37 Raising Kids With Context 39:47 Humanity Over Status 43:06 Internet Groupthink Dangers 48:44 Think Before You Post 53:29 Closing Advice and Wrap #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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I Worked for this Smile | Protecting the Unprotected | Ep 218 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. John Lewis on Childhood Trauma, Identity in Christ, and Becoming the Father His Son Needs | Dear Son Show On the Dear Son Show, host D Johns talks with Jon Lewis about growing up in Pleasant Grove, his parents’ divorce around age 12, and being told he was “the man of the house,” which led to pressure to perform, resentment, and years of carrying responsibility for his mother and brother. John shares experiences of child abuse and being molested while protecting his brother from a neighbor, and how his father’s reaction left him feeling unprotected. He describes learning his worth beyond providing, seeking affirmation in relationships, pursuing therapy and coaching, and having difficult but healing conversations with his mother and later his father, who apologized and shared his own fatherlessness. John recounts years of nonstop crises, including a gun being pointed at him, a legal case, and a head injury causing cognitive deficits, and explains how faith and community helped him cope. He discusses how these lessons shape his relationship with his son and highlights his journal, “When God Calls You by Name,” about men’s identity in a biblical framework, available via @justjohnlewis. 00:00 Childhood Trauma Revealed 01:11 Welcome to Dear Son 01:44 Fighting for a Smile 02:04 Family Life Updates 03:40 Where You From Dallas 05:11 Parents Divorce Fallout 09:07 Man of the House Pressure 13:14 Resentment and Rejection 15:38 Healing Talk With Dad 17:43 Learning Self Worth 20:10 Therapy and Mom Talks 23:21 Molestation and No Protection 25:01 Protector Identity and Aggression 26:20 Living for Me After COVID 27:44 Love and Brain Cancer 28:59 Blended Family Commitment 30:33 Identity After Loss 32:22 Life Event After Event 33:15 Gunpoint Hotel Incident 36:11 Injury And Recovery 36:43 Community Over Isolation 41:00 Faith Becomes Real 45:03 Fatherhood With Honesty 48:58 What I Wish Dad Said 51:36 Book On Men's Identity 54:26 Where To Find The Book 54:48 Final Thanks And Outro #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk #childhoodtrauma #fatherwounds #motherwounds Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow Jon: https://instagram.com/justjonlewis Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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Just Because You Could Doesn't Mean You Should (AI and Fatherhood) | Ep 217 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Dear Son: Just Because You Could Doesn’t Mean You Should (AI, Discipline, and Fatherhood Lessons) Jey Blac and D Johns open The Dear Son, Show by introducing the theme “just because you could doesn’t mean you should,” reflecting on how freedom can lead to poor choices and how fathers decide when to intervene with kids versus letting consequences teach. They discuss students relying on AI to transcribe lectures and complete work, warning that it can reinforce laziness and produce graduates who can pass exams but can’t perform in real jobs, drawing on hiring-manager experience and entitlement seen in interviews. They also connect the idea to professionalism in business, where owners may abuse flexibility at the cost of customers’ trust. The hosts share parenting stories about checking on a college son’s grades and avoiding assumptions after misreading a situation at home. They promote the merch store, tease upcoming lives and a docuseries update, and encourage audience support via likes, subscriptions, memberships, and sponsorships. 00:00 Just Because You Can 01:40 Welcome to Dear Son 02:26 Catching Up and Wins 03:44 Merch and Hoodies 04:53 Topic Setup and Parenting Lens 06:32 AI in the Classroom 10:09 What Grades Measure 12:47 Real Skills vs Credentials 14:29 Workplace Reality Check 16:56 Professionalism and Entitlement 21:01 Convenience Without Earning 22:13 Leaving Life to Chance 23:23 Grave Secrets Debate 23:53 Baton Rouge Trip Canceled 24:51 Parenting With Prompts 26:56 Dad Assumptions Lesson 30:52 Default Parent Reality 32:01 Q4 Plans And Lives 33:58 Could Versus Should 35:49 Let People Support 39:03 Finish Year Strong 39:26 Final Sign Off #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk #AIandparenting #parentinggenz Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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What I Found While Looking for Love | w/ Beleaf in Fatherhood | Ep 216 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Beleaf on Fatherhood, Identity, and Healing: From Baltimore Trauma to Building a Family Legacy In this episode of The Dear Son Show, the host talks with Glen “Beleaf” Henry, creator of Beleaf in Fatherhood, about growing up in Baltimore with a single mother, a distant but present father, and how trauma shaped his views on love, Black identity, sex, and family. Glen shares suicidal thoughts from childhood, the pivotal call to his father that led him to move to California, and how exposure to other families, mentors, hip-hop, Upward Bound, and an HBCU helped restore pride in Blackness and expand his vision of manhood. They discuss marriage, serving a spouse, pressures of leadership and entrepreneurship, boundaries around family and public life, and how Glen’s book "Father Yourself First" pushed him toward therapy conversations with his mother. Subscribe for more meaningful fatherhood conversations, and comment with the moment that hit you the hardest. 00:00 Searching For Love 01:55 Dear Son Show Intro 03:41 Roots And Home Base 04:55 Baltimore Survival Lessons 05:57 Learning Black Is Beautiful 08:40 Complicated Father Bond 12:18 Suicidal Crisis And Reset 16:39 Moms Trauma And Abuse 20:16 Sex And Seeking Validation 28:04 Mentors And Better Models 33:00 Reclaiming Black Identity 35:48 Upward Bound Awakening 39:17 College Culture And Hotep Era 41:21 Faith Shift In California 42:54 GPA Confessions And Distractions 44:23 Leaving College Hungry 44:53 Meeting His Future Wife 45:59 Myspace to Marriage 47:23 A Pastor Models Family 49:48 Learning Leadership at Home 53:23 Serving Through Pregnancy 55:59 Strength Misread as No Help 01:00:05 Entrepreneurship Pressure 01:01:02 Obedience Over Comfort 01:10:47 Losing Deals Going Offline 01:16:28 Writing the Book Therapy 01:21:41 Marriage Is a Future Bet 01:23:11 Talking to Kids Honestly 01:26:08 Gratitude for Three Generations 01:33:19 Wrap Up and Where to Buy #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow Beleaf: https://instagram.com/beleafmel https://shop.beleafinfatherhood.com "Father Yourself First": https://www.amazon.com/dp/1400254035?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I've Had Enough | Dads Are Tired | Ep 215 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Stop Being Everyone’s Fixer: Protect Your Health, Family & Purpose | Dear Son Show In this episode of The Dear Son Show, hosts D Johns and Jey Blac open up about feeling spread too thin, frustration from a lack of reciprocity, and how being dependable can lead others to exploit your time and energy. They discuss setting firm boundaries, prioritizing health, family, and the platform, and learning to be “selfish” for self-preservation without becoming a selfish person. D. Johns shares lessons from his corporate past about overextending, how unaddressed stress can spill into other relationships, and why communicating needs matters before resentment builds. The conversation also touches on letting people fall off if they don’t fit your priorities, and the value of trusted friends who genuinely ask how you’re doing. 00:00 Setting New Priorities 00:58 Show Intro and Catch Up 01:53 Feeling Spread Too Thin 05:52 Consideration and Reciprocity 12:17 Breaking Point and Cutting Ties 14:42 Health First and Letting People Fall Off 16:34 Hard Lessons Build Grit 19:05 Red Flags and Emotional Suppression 22:38 Frustration Spilling Over 24:23 Selfishness For Survival 25:40 Speak Up Before You Snap 27:10 Career Goals And Boundaries 28:00 Marriage Needs Clarity 29:12 Corporate Burnout Story 31:51 Birthday Email Blowup 36:15 Dependability Gets Exploited 39:40 Stop Spoiling People 41:02 Real Friends Check In 42:55 Trust And Proximity 45:23 Signs And Confirmation 46:26 Episode Wrap Up #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Father Wounds: I Just Wanted to Make Him Proud | Ep 214 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Billy Grubbs on Healing Father Wounds, Trust, and Becoming the Father He Needed | Dear Son Show On the Dear Son Show, host D Johns talks with Billy Grubbs about how maturity changes a man’s readiness for fatherhood, reflecting on how a younger, cockier version of himself lacked accountability compared to who he is now. Billy shares growing up as an Army brat across the U.S. and abroad, the instability of a broken home, attachment and trust issues, and how those patterns fueled relationship struggles, including infidelity and fear of being alone. He describes reconciling long-held animosity toward his late father after a personal development training led to a powerful phone call where his father admitted he didn’t always know what he was doing but called Billy and his brother his greatest accomplishment. They discuss vulnerability, friendship accountability, fatherhood standards, and Billy’s desire to build a healthy, authentic family legacy. 00:00 Maturity Before Fatherhood 01:18 Welcome to Dear Son 01:51 Timing and Loss 03:10 Where Billy Is From 04:12 Life as a Military Brat 08:39 Searching for Stability 10:36 Parents Divorce and Secrets 14:20 Loner Years and Gangs 18:04 Identity and Trophy Kids 19:17 Healing Talk With Dad 23:14 Vulnerability and Fatherhood 29:42 Generational Standards 30:59 Granddad Standards 31:47 Dad Hidden Struggles 32:35 Becoming Like Dad 33:40 Machismo And Vulnerability 34:58 Being The Friend 36:47 Preparing For Fatherhood 39:53 Trust And Triggers 42:28 Masks Off Authenticity 46:25 Girl Dad Perspective 54:17 What I Wish He Said 59:19 Contracting Side Talk 01:01:27 Where To Find Billy 01:01:57 Final Thanks And Outro #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow Billy: https://instagram.com/bgoat04 Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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I Waited For My Dad to Die | A Father's Fight with Diabetes | Ep 213 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Rob Weaver on Caretaking, Co-Parenting, and the Words Our Sons Need to Hear | Dear Son Show On the Dear Son Show, host D Johns talks with Rob Weaver (known in Dallas as “Chi-Town Rob”) about how his upbringing shaped his identity and fatherhood. Rob shares being born in St. Louis, becoming a man in Chicago, and becoming a dad in Dallas, emphasizing the importance of village and family support. He describes his mother’s resilience—working multiple jobs and becoming a dialysis technician without a diploma—and his father Big Bill’s decline from diabetes, including Rob caring for him as a child while living with long-term anxiety about losing him. Rob reflects on missing levity in youth, learning that “real men change,” and how he now balances high expectations with letting his children be kids. He discusses co-parenting since 2018, communicating decisions to his son, teaching perseverance through basketball, and ensuring his son never has to interpret love—he says “I love you” directly. 00:00 Waiting For Dad To Die 01:33 Dear Son Show Intro 03:16 Rob Weaver Origins 04:09 Confidence And Identity 06:51 Faking It Social Capital 10:47 Parents And Upbringing 12:43 Mom Resilience And Work 15:39 Big Bill And Decline 16:45 Child Caregiver Anxiety 20:34 Late Night Porch Talks 23:18 Generational Fatherhood Lens 26:06 Fatherhood Under Pressure 27:59 Papa Versus Dad 29:22 Dad Adapts to Disability 30:24 Uncle Ralph as Mentor 31:27 Rushing Fatherhood Dreams 33:08 Missing Youthful Levity 36:32 Perfectionism and Anxiety 38:39 Co-Parenting and Kids 41:35 Basketball Life Lessons 45:49 What I Wish Dad Said 52:31 Saying I Love You 55:04 Rat Pack Reflections 01:00:03 Closing and Recurring Guest #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow Rob: https://instagram.com/weaver_robert https://instagram.com/thedooddadtribe Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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That's Not Really You | Adjusting for Acceptance | Ep 212 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Dear Son: Why Can’t People Safely Dislike Anymore? | Boundaries, Groupthink & Raising Kids to Think Hosts Jey Blac and D Johns open with D’s birthday and a recap of Eden’s first night cheering at a football doubleheader, then shift into a discussion sparked by social media about why disagreeing or disliking something is increasingly labeled as “hate.” They explore how public platforms amplify conflict, how kids absorb “if you’re not with me you’re against me,” and why parents must teach independent thinking, respectful disagreement, and boundaries. They debate whether you must “defend” a dislike, emphasizing that “no” is a complete sentence while acknowledging times when explaining helps collaboration. They connect this to trends, relationships, modeling healthy communication, avoiding stagnation disguised as preference, and distinguishing dislike from disrespect, support from respect, and personal preference from groupthink. 00:00 Sports Fans and Hate 01:21 Welcome and Birthday Talk 02:04 Cheer Game Schedule Chaos 04:05 Celebrate Life and Loss 04:50 Why Dislike Feels Unsafe 08:00 Teaching Independent Thinking 11:37 Do You Need to Explain 15:12 Boundaries and Relationship Safety 21:24 Parenting Guardrails and Timelines 25:36 Personal Preference in Public 28:16 Trend Parenting Reflection 29:00 Guacamole Bias Check 30:39 False Ceilings and Avoidance 32:18 Why Dont You Like It 34:17 Preference Without Hate 38:11 Respect Versus Support 40:45 Peace Comfort Compliance 45:42 Groupthink and Music Takes 49:44 Final Thoughts and Updates #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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My Son Chose Money Over the NFL | Fatherhood and Finances | Ep 211 | The Dear Son, Show

From Jordans to $580K: Teaching Kids Ownership with Wall Street With Wallace On the Dear Son Show, host Jey Blac welcomes financial analyst and chief market strategist Wallace Fisher (“Wall Street With Wallace”), a husband, father in a blended family of seven, and Christ follower, to discuss fatherhood through financial literacy. Fisher shares how his investing journey began with Home Depot’s employee stock plan and 401(k), how a spiritual advisor inspired him to give assets instead of big Christmas gifts, and how consistently buying his son stocks in companies he used helped build a portfolio that reached $580,000—leading the son to quit football due to CTE concerns and pursue portfolio management. They discuss starting early with kids, routines for learning the market, the dangers of internet “tips,” the value of mentorship and accountability, and beginner approaches like disciplined saving, ETFs, and researching fundamentals. Follow the channel, subscribe, and leave a review. 00:00 Gifts Into Stocks 01:29 Show Intro And Guest 03:03 Meet Wallace Fisher 05:20 Family And Athletes 07:50 Finance Origin Story 10:00 Home Depot To 200K 12:35 Christmas As Assets 16:00 Quitting Football Shock 19:48 Parenting Evolves Over Time 24:21 Kids Learn By Watching 26:32 Internet Investing Warnings 29:17 Routine First Steps 31:30 Daily Reading Habit 33:59 Mentorship Over Ego 39:07 Class Structure Accountability 43:27 Starting With Small Money 48:50 Portfolio Basics ETFs 51:55 Research Beats Cheap Stocks 55:10 Contact Info Wrap Up #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk #5starathlete #texasfootball #fridaynightlights Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Connect with Wallace: https://wswinvestors.com Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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TELL HIM NOW | Tomorrow Isn't Promised | Ep 210 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. Dear Son: Tomorrow Isn’t Promised — Condensing the Lessons, Health Wake-Ups & Dating vs. Marriage Energy Hosts D Johns and Jey Blac open the Dear Son Show by reflecting on health wake-up calls, accountability, and support Jey has received while chronicling his fitness and recovery journey. They emphasize that tomorrow isn’t promised and urge parents to “condense” key conversations with their kids rather than delaying important lessons. They discuss how children can misread a parent’s communication, reinforce that love and frustration can coexist, and argue that correction shows belief in a child. The conversation shifts to relationships: distinguishing lust, love, sex, and long-term consequences, warning against applying “marriage energy” in dating, and advising sons to understand value, phases, and self-awareness. They also defend having practical talks about protection without “letting the streets” educate kids, encouraging listeners to stop leaving critical conversations to chance. 00:00 Cold Open Banter 00:51 Welcome to Dear Son 01:31 Health Scare Update 02:58 Fitness Accountability Plan 04:37 Tomorrow Isn’t Promised 07:43 Condense the Lessons 10:58 Love Not Performance 15:54 Correction Means Belief 19:25 Dating vs Marriage Energy 24:19 Commitment Clocks 26:20 Environment Shapes Love 27:38 Fixer Fantasy Trap 29:26 Value Over Hope 33:16 Sex Love Decoupling 35:32 Real Talk Protection 38:33 Talk Before Streets 42:55 Conversations Cost 44:51 Final Thanks Goodbye #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

From Juvenile Delinquent to Juvenile Justice Leader | Ep 209 | The Dear Son, Show

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood. From Gangs to Purpose: Louie McClain II on Fatherhood, Identity, and Building Pathways On The Dear Son Show, host (D Johns) converses with Louie McClain II from Arlington, Texas, who recounts getting involved in gangs, hiding violence and drug activity from his Liberian immigrant mother, and a pivotal school incident caught on camera that devastated her. Louie explains how seeking protection, acceptance, clout, and a father figure drew him deeper into that life amid a diverse, volatile environment, while his biological father was largely absent after moving to Delaware and later kicked him out. After college in Pensacola studying criminal justice, he found purpose helping at-risk young men and worked in juvenile justice for seven years. Now a father of two, he discusses being unprepared for parenting, challenges of having hard conversations with kids, and building a clear vision through entrepreneurship, including Melanin Origins, The Meditative Coach, and leading the nonprofit Building Pathways to connect disadvantaged people to high-paying construction careers. 00:00 Caught on Camera 00:22 Purpose From Pain 00:57 Welcome to Dear Son 01:53 Optimism and Enthusiasm 02:48 Leaving Home and College 03:48 Arlington and Gang Life 04:47 Why Criminal Justice 06:35 Drawn to the Streets 08:55 Home Life and Hiding It 11:32 School Fight Intervention 13:25 Acceptance and Father Figures 16:32 Identity as African American 17:38 Biological Father Story 23:15 What a Father Absence Costs 25:26 Needing Dad at Any Age 26:54 Custody And Ages 27:29 Unprepared Fatherhood 29:01 Choosing To Be Present 30:24 Learning A New Blueprint 32:13 What To Tell The Kids 34:45 Timing Hard Conversations 38:20 Work Versus Family 41:30 Becoming This Version 44:01 Building Melanin Origins 45:05 Vision And Identity Shift 50:38 Building Pathways Mission 55:20 Where To Find Him 56:00 Closing Thoughts #fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk #DearSon #Fatherhood #JuvenileJustice #SecondChances #Mentorship #FatherSon #YouthMentoring #Redemption Channel Focus Areas: “What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons” “How to Be a Better Father” “Father Son Relationship Advice” “Mistakes Fathers Make” “Lessons Every Man Should Learn” Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonshop.store Follow Louie: https://instagram.com/meditativecoach https://buildingpathway.org Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to: 1. subscribe to the channel, 2. turn on the notifications, 3. like this video, 4. leave a comment, and 5. share this content with someone who needs it. The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: Love Kisha J Studios: https://houseoflkj.com Let’s connect socially: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community 1. Reveal trauma 2. Heal from trauma 3. Help through telling stories of it all “Better Man. Better Father.” The Dear Son, Network ® Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy