Dad to Dad Podcast
Fathers mentoring fathers of kids with special needs - presented by the Special Fathers Network. Host David Hirsch interviews some amazing fathers of kids with special needs.
Episodes
SFN Dad To Dad 437 - Damian Buchman of Wauwatosa, WI, Disability Advocate, Cancer Survivor, Father of Three - Part 1
Our guest this week is Damian Buchman of Wauwatosa, WI, disability advocate, cancer survivor and father of three adopted children. At age 12, Damian was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer, in his right leg. Seven months later and after undergoing chemotherapy, limb-salvage surgery, and remission, he was also diagnosed with osteosarcoma in his left leg. His physicians
SFN Dad To Dad 436 - Jamie Bark of New Richmond, WI A Widower And Proud Father Of Two Daughters Including One With SMA.
Our guest this week is Jamie Bark, of New Ricchmond, WI, a fire fighter, former owner of Value Auto Glass, a widower and father of two daughters, including one with Spinal Muscular Atrophy.Jamie and his wife, Jackie, were married for 30 years, before she very sadly passed away in January of 2025 after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis. He is also the proud father of two daughters: Maddie (21)
SFN Dad To Dad 435 - Rob Reider of Falmouth, ME Father of Two, Co-Founder & Executive Director Of The Sad Dads Club
Our guest this week is Rob Reider of Falmouth, ME a father of two and co-founder and executive director of the Sad Dads Club.Rob and his wife, Tehilah, have been married for 12 years and are the proud parents of two children: Dallas (6) who is autistic and Lila, who very sadly passed away in 2017 as the result of a still birth.Rob along with Chris Piasecki and Jay Tansey who also lost children to
SFN Dad To Dad 434 - Brad Sund of Fort Mill, SC Father of Three and Board Member of Defend The Fatherless
Our guest this week is Brad Sund of Fort Mill, SC a long-time employee at Advanced Drainage System, father of three and board member of Defend the Fatherless,Brad and his wife, Caitlin, have been married for 22 years and are the proud parents of three children: Kyrie (18), Brooks (16) and Olivia (14) who was adopted from China, who has ADHD and microtia, a rare deformation of the ear. Caitlin i
SFN Dad To Dad 433 - Jason Lopez of Bear, DE, Father of Three Including One With Regressive Down Syndrome Disorder (RDSD)
Our guest this week is Jason Lopez of Bear, DE who is the Associate Director of Manufacturing in Delaware at SDIX, a bio-technology research firm and father of three including a daughter with Down Syndrome Regressive Disorder (DSRD). Jason and his wife, Lisa, have been married for 23 years and are the proud parents of three children: Kayleigh (29), Jason (20) and middle child Rebecca (22) who has
SFN Dad To Dad 432 - Hubie Jones of Boston, MA A 92 Year Old Father of Eight & Iconic Civil Rights and Disability Advocate
Our guest this week is Hubert Eugene 'Hubie' Jones, of Boston, MA. who has shaped and defined the civic and social landscape of Boston for more than forty-five years. He played a leadership role in the formation, building and rebuilding of at least thirty community organizations within Boston’s Black community and across all neighborhoods in the city.Hubie and his wife, Kathy, have been married fo
SFN Dad To Dad 431 - Mike Durso of Philadelphia, PA SVP at Ping Identity, Father of Three Including One With a Rare Disease
Our guest this week is Mike Durso of Philadelphia, PA who is a senior vice president at Ping Identity, a cyber security firm. Mike is the father of three children including one with a very rare disease who is also involved with martial arts. Mike and his wife, Mary, have been married for 21 years and are the proud parents of three children: daughters: Giuliana (19) and Mia (9) and son Dominic (17
SFN Dad To Dad 430 - Nathan Simpson of Colorado Springs, CO Father of Nine, Including One With Tuberous Sclerosis
Our guest this week is Nathan Simpson of Colorado Springs, CO an aircraft mission planner for the U.S. Air Force and father of nine children including one with tuberous sclerosis. Nathan and his wife, Stefanie, have been married for 19 years and are the proud parents of nine children ranging in age from 3 months to 17 years, including six year old Tevia, who has tuberous sclerosis. The family li
SFN Dad To Dad 429 - Mike Schugt of Orlando, FL A Former Hospitality Exec, Founder of INNclusivity and Father of Two Daughters
Our guest this week is Mike Schugt of Orlando, FL, a former hotel and hospitality executive, founder of INNclusivity and fahter of two daughters. Mike and his x-wife are the proud parents of two young adult daughters. After a successful career in the hospitality industry including senior roles at: Hyatt Regency, Hilton Hotels and Teneo Group, Mike has founded INNclusivity, a non-profit whose miss
SFN Dad To Dad 428 - Jeff Zaugg of Flagler Beach, FL Father of Four, Founder of Fathers for the Fatherless, Podcast Host & Now Author
Our guest this week is Jeff Zaugg of Flagler Beach, FL father of four, former youth pastor, founder of Fathers for the Fatherless, host of the Dad Awesome Podcast and now author of Dad Awesome: Dad Discoveries To Activate Awesomness. Jeff is a returning podcast guest. Jeff and his wife, Michelle, have been married for 20 years and are the proud parents of four daughters: Kiva (12), Ruthie (9), R
SFN Dad To Dad 427 - Andrew Ginsburg of Southport, CT Loving Father of Three, Author, Trainer & Stand-Up Comedian
Our guest this week is Andrew Ginsburg of Southport, CT who is a stand-up comedian, author of three books and perhaps most importantly, father of three young children.Andrew and his wife, Rachel Gerber, have been married for 10 years and are the proud parents of three young children: Ben (8), Leo (6) and Remi (4).Professionally Andrew has been a fitness trainer and an accomplished stand-up comedia
SFN Dad To Dad 426 - Murray Jones of Brisbane, Australia, Owner of Big Ideas, Father of Three Including One With Autism & Podcast Host
Our guest this week is Murray Jones of Brisbane. Australia who is the owner of Big Ideas, a creative communications company, a director of Brisbane Investment and Property Management, the father of three including one with autism and host of the A Few Good Men Podcast.Murray and his wife, Pamela, have been married for 30 years and are the proud parents of three: Hayley (20), Bridget (26) and Fred
SFN Dad To Dad 425 - Jon Gustin of Nashville, TN A Writer, Content Creator, Father Of Two & Author Of The Upcoming Book: The Tired Dad
Our guest this week is Jon Gustin of Nashville, TN who is a writer, content creator, father of two young children and author of the upcoming book: The Tired Dad.Jon and his wife, Jessica, have been married for 12 years and are the proud parents of two children: Dakota (9) and Asher (6).Jon has over two million followers across four platforms including; YouTube, Instagram and his Tired Dad & Ti
SFN Dad To Dad 424 - Pat Wire of Crystal Lake, IL High School Teacher, Varsity Baseball Coach & Father of 4, Including One With Autism
Our guest this week is Pat Wire, of Crystal Lake, IL a social studies teacher at Barrington High School, long-time head coach of the Barrington Broncos High School varsity baseball team and father of four, including a son with autism.Pat and his wife, Leane, are the proud parents of four children: Gabrielle (19), Bobbi (17), Shaelyn (12) and Preston (11) who is autistic and non-verbal.Pat has been
SFN Dad To Dad 423 - Matt Might of Birmingham, AL Director Of Precision Medicine at UAB, Author, Father of Three, One With NGLY1 Deficiency
Our guest this week is Matt Might of Birmingham, AL who is the director of the Hugh Kaul Precision Medicine Institute at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, a researcher, author, TEDx presenter and perhaps most importantly, father of three, including a son with NGLY1 Deficiency.Matt and his x-wife, Cristina, are the proud parents of three children: Winston (10), Victoria (14) and Bertrand who
SFN Dad To Dad 422 - Justin DeVault of Algonquin, IL a Data Analyst, Father of Three Including One With Autism & Loss Of One At 15 Years Old
Our guest this week is Justin DeVault of Algonquin, IL a data analyst and father of three including one with Autism and the loss of their oldest at 15 years of age two years ago. This is a follow up interview to the interview Justin did in June of 2022. Justin and his wife, Margaret, have been married for 21 years and are the proud parents of three; Hazel (7), Alice (9) and Henry, who would be 1
SFN Dad To Dad 421 - Dan Roth of San Diego, CA A Human Resource Consultant, Professional Speaker & Father of Autistic Twins
Our guest this week is Dan Roth of San Diego, CA who is a seasoned human resource consultant, professional speaker and perhaps most importantly, father of twin girls, who are both autistic. Dan and his wife, Jennifer, have been married for 8 years and are the proud parents of 6 ½ year old twin daughters Haley & Brooklyn, who are autistic.In addition to being the parent to young autistic twins
SFN Dad To Dad 420 - Rob Floyd of Franklin, TN A High Profile Mixologist, TV Personality & Father Of Five, Including One Moyamoya
Our guest this week is Rob Floyd of Franklin, TN a master mixologist, TV host, author and father of five including a daughter who has Moyamoya.Rob and his wife, Megan, have married for 20 years and are the proud parents of five children: Joseph (29), Robbie (28), Ella (14), Indego (11) and Anges (5). Indego is the one with Moyamoya, a rare progressive brain disease. The older two are from Rob's
SFN Dad to Dad 419 - Matt Shepherd of Emporia, KS, Owner of Midwest Evaluation & Research, Father Of Twins, One With Developmental Delays
Our guest this week is Matt Shepherd of Emporia, KS who is President and CEO of Midwest Evaluation & Research and father of two adopted children including one with developmental delays. Matt and his wife, Brenda, have been married for 35 years and are the proud parents of two adopted children; Jeremy (26) and Bonnie (25) who has high emotional intelligence as well as development delays.Profess
SFN Dad To Dad 418 - Mike Griffiths of San Francisco, CA Exec. VP at CBRE & Father Of Two Including A Son With KCNB1 A Rare Genetic Disorder
Order your copy of the new 21CD book: Dads Raising Chidlren With Special Needs & Disabilities: A Guide For 21st Century Dads on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4tdvjcvOur guest this week is Mike Griffiths of San Francisco, CA an Executive Vice-President at CBRE, a real estate management firm and father of two children including one with KCNB1, a very rare genetic disorder.Mike and his wife, Julia, hav
SFN Dad To Dad 417 - Patton Dodd of San Antonio, TX, Executive Director of the H.E. Butt Foundation, Author & Father of Three.
Order your copy of the new 21CD book: Dads Raising Chidlren With Special Needs & Disabilities: A Guide For 21st Century Dads on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4tdvjcvOur guest this week is Patton Dodd, of San Antonio,TX who is the Executive Director of the H.E. Butt Foundation, author and father of three. Patton and his wife, Michaela, have married for 26 years and are the proud parents of three chil
SFN Dad To Dad 416 - Christian Pache of Thousand Oaks, CA An IT Manager, Father Of 2 Including One With Angelman Syndrome & ASF Board Member
Our guest this week is Christian Pache of Thousand Oaks, CA who is a seasoned financial service IT manager, Angelman Syndrome Foundation board member and father of two including one with Angelman Syndrome & Autism.Christian and his wife, Anna, have been married for 24 years and are the proud parents of twenty-year old twins: Chloe and Aidan, who has Angelman Syndrome and Autism.Born, raised an
SFN Dad To Dad 415 - Brad Meshell of Nashville, TN A Wealth Advisor, ED of Jacob’s Audible & Father Of Three Including An Autistic Son
Our guest this week is Brad Meshell, a wealth advisor, executive director of Jacob's Audible and father of three, including an autistic son. Brad and his wife, Jaime, have been married for seven years and are the proud parents of three children: Jailyn (18), Jackson (4) and Jacob (7) who is Autistic. Brad is also the founder and executive director of Jabob's Audible, a non-profit founded in 2022,
SFN Dad To Dad 414 - Hugh Hempel of Denver, CO, Rare Disease Entrepreneur, Father Of Identical Twin Girls With Niemann Pick Type C - Pt. 2
Our guest this week is Hugh Hempel, a technology industry veteran turned health care entrepreneur and father of identical twin daughters with Niemann Pick Type C.Hugh and his wife Chris, have been married for 25 years and are the proud parents of identical twin daughters Addison & Cassidy. The girls were born in January 2004 and were both diagnosed with Niemann Pick Type C, a type of childhoo
SFN Dad To Dad 413 - Hugh Hempel of Denver, CO, Rare Disease Entrepreneur , Father Of Identical Twin Girls With Niemann Pick Type C - Pt. 1
Our guest this week Hugh Hempel of Denver, CO, a technology industry veteran turned health care entrepreneur and father of identical twin daughters with Niemann Pick Type C.Hugh and his wife Chris, have been married for 25 years and are the proud parents of identical twin daughters Addison & Cassidy. The girls were born in January 2004 and were both diagnosed with Niemann Pick Type C, a type
SFN Dad To Dad 412 - Mike Kinner of Colorado Springs, CO, Founder of Air-O-Sport & Father of Three Including A Son With Microcephaly
Our guest this week is Mike Kinner of Colorado Springs, CO who is the founder of Air-O-Sport and father of three including a son with microcephaly.Mike and his wife, Stephanie, have been married for 12 years and are the proud parents of three children: daughters; Elieyanah (1) and McKenzie (9) as well as son, Samuel (6) who has microcephaly, which is linked to several disorders, including; epileps
SFN Dad To Dad 411 - John O'Leary of St. Louis, MO, A Motivational Speaker, Best-Selling Author, Podcast Host & Father of Four - Part 2
Our guest this week is John O’Leary of St. Louis MO who is a motivational speaker, bestselling author, host of the Live Inspired Podcast, the subject of the recently released major motion picture SOUL ON FIRE and perhaps most importantly, the father of four children.John and his wife, Beth, have married for 22 years and are the proud parents of four children ages 14 to 20.At age nine, John was bad
SFN Dad To Dad 410 - John O'Leary of St. Louis, MO, A Motivational Speaker, Best-Selling Author, Podcast Host & Father of Four - Part 1
Our guest this week is John O’Leary of St. Louis MO who is a motivational speaker, bestselling author, host of the Live Inspired Podcast, the subject of the recently released major motion picture SOUL ON FIRE and perhaps most importantly, the father of four children.John and his wife, Beth, have married for 22 years and are the proud parents of four children ages 14 to 20.At age nine, John was bad
SFN Dad To Dad 409 - Nick Massie of Los Angeles, CA, A Film Industry Veteran & Father To Son, Cole, An Actor With Cerebral Palsy
Our guest this week is Nick Massie of Los Angeles, CA, a film industry veteran and father of an adult son who is an actor with Cerebral Palsy. Nick and his wife, Michelle, have been married for 29 years and are the proud parents of Cole (28), an actor and member of the Screen Actors Guild, who also has cerebral palsy. Cole was featured in the highly acclaimed movie The Paper Bag Plan, which debute
SFN Dad To Dad 408 - Eric Freund of San Diego, CA A HS Teacher, Founder of Hope On The Hard Road, Podcast Host & Father Of Two With ASD
Our guest this week is Eric Freund of San Diego, CA who is a high school teacher, coach, co-founder of Hope On The Hard Road and father of two children who are both Autistic.Eric and his wife, Christen, have married for 27 years and are the proud parents of two: Abby (21) and Caleb (23), both who are on the Autism spectrum. Christen & Eric are co-founders of Hope On The Hard Road, a non-profit
SFN Dad To Dad 407 - Jeff Wallis of Valparaiso, IN A Veterinarian & Father Of A Son Who Had HADDTS Before Passing Away At 18
Our guest this week is Jeff Wallis, of Valparaiso, IN who is a veterinarian and father of who had a son with Hypotonia, Ataxia, Developmental Delay, and Tooth-Enamel Defects Syndrome (HADDTS) an extremely rare but serious genetic condition caused by a mutation in the CTBP1 gene.Jeff and his wife, Mindy, have married for 22 years and are the proud parents of Charles 18, who very sadly past away in
SFN Dad To Dad 406 - Dave Tolmie With Tumsifu Munuo of Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, Director of Faraja School & Father Of A Child With Autism
Our guests this week are Dave Tolmie of Lake Forest IL and Tumsifu Munuo, of Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.In 1999, Dave Tomlie's parents, John and Joann, raised $250,000 and with the help of the Lutheran Church built Faraja School, a boarding school for one hundred K-7 youth with physical disabilities, where Tumsifu serves as director. In addiiton to the Faraja School, the Tolmie family created the Fara
SFN Dad To Dad 405 - JP Klop of Alberta, Canada, A Draftsman & Father Of Two Including One With Schwachman Diamond Syndrome
Our guest this week is John Peter (JP) Klop of Alberta, Canada who is a draftsman with JPR Industries and father of two young children including a son with Schwachman Diamond Syndrome.JP and his wife, Lianna, have married for three years and are the proud parents of two young children: Anna (1) and Isaac (2), who has Schwachman Diamond Syndrome, which is characterized by: inability to digest food
SFN Dad To Dad 404 - Tom Chibucos of Chicago, A Manager of Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology Services, Father Of Two Including One w ASD
Our guest this week is Tom Chibucos of Chicago, IL, who is a Related Service Provider Manager of Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology services at Chicago Public Schools and father of two including one who is on the Autism spectrum. Tom and his wife, Michelle, have been married for 20 years and are the proud parents of two children; Sylvie (10) and Vincent (9), who is non-verbal and on the Au
SFN Dad To Dad 403 - Swapna Sasidharan Of Schaumburg, IL Mother of 2 Including One With POGZ & Founder Of The Cure POGZ Disorders Foundation
Our guest this week is Swapna Sasidharan, of Schaumburg, IL, a Vice President of Technology at APCO Holdings, mother of two children, including one with POGZ, and founder of the Cure POGZ Disorders Foundation. Swapna and her husband, Sandeep, have been married for 17 years and are the proud parents of two children: daughter Sloka (12) and son Ved (10) who has POGZ, a rare genetic disorder characte
SFN Dad To Dad 402 - David Apple of San Francisco, CA, Founder & CEO Of Shark Tooth Bio & Father Of Two Including One With CMT1A
Our guest this week is David Apple of San Francisco, CA, a serial entrepreneur, founder and CEO of Shark Tooth Bio, and father of two, including a son with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease. David and his wife, Cristina, have married for seven years and are the proud parents of two young children: Zoe (3) and Ari (5) who was diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease, AKA CMT1A, a rare mono genetic dise
SFN Dad To Dad 401 - Greg Corey of Highland Park, IL, A Wealth Manager & Father Of Three Including A Son With Down Syndrome
Our guest this week is Greg Corey of Highland Park, IL a wealth manager at Ameriprise Financial Services and father of three children including a son with Down Syndrome.Greg and his wife, Carly, have been married for 10 years and are the proud parents of three children: Ashton (4), Frankie (6) and Presley (8), who has Mosaic Down syndrome, which was not detected or diagnosed until he was three yea
SFN Dad To Dad 400 - David Hirsch, Founder Of 21st Century Dads Foundation & Podcast Host Reflects On The Past Nine Years
To celebrate the 400th episode of the SFN Dad To Dad Podcast, David Hirsch, founder of 21st Century Dads Foundation and host of the SFN Dad To Dad Podcast offers his heartfelt thanks to all those who have been involved with and supported 21CD & SFN. He reflects on:addressing the issue of father absence in society,his journey as a fatherhood advocate,starting the Illinois Fatherhood Initiative
SFN Dad To Dad 399 - Casey Stubbs of Burlington, NC, Trading Strategist, Author, Podcast Host, Army Veteran & Father To Nine
Our guest this week is Casey Stubbs of Burlington, NC a trading specialist, author, podcast host and father to nine children. Casey and his wife, Deanna, have been married for 20 years and are the proud parents of nine children: twins Andrea & Courtney (26), Casey Jr (19), Caleb (17), Abbey (16), Ellie (15), Austin (14), Danielle (12) and Ethan (12). Ellie and Danielle were adopted at age 2/1
SFN Dad To Dad 398 - Luba Patlakh of Bucks County, PA Mother of Three & Founder Of Kidology Inc. Pediatric Therapy Center
Our guest this week Luba Patlakh of Bucks County, PA a mother of three children and founder of Kidology Inc., a pediatric practice specializing in speech, occupational, physical therapy, and ABA services.Luba and her husband, Boris, have married for 10 years and are the proud parents of three children ages 4 to 9 years old. Founded in 2014, Kidology, Inc. a top-rated family friendly pediatric ther
SFN Dad To Dad 397 - Daryl Potter of Toronto, CA A TD Merchants Exec, A Prolific Author & Father of 2 Including A Daughter with CFC Syndrome
Our guest this week is Daryl Potter of Toronto, Canada who is an executive at TD Merchants, a prolific author and father of two including a daughter with profound disabilities. Daryl and his wife, Carolyn, have been married for 28 years and are the proud parents of two children, Jackson (21) and McKenzie (24) who was diagnosed with Cardio Facio Cutaneous (CFC) syndrome. Some of the challenges inc
SFN Dad To Dad 396 - Olivier Cortambert, London, Head Of Solutions Architecture at Yospace & Father Of A Son With A Rare Undiagnosed Disease
Our guest this week is Olivier Cortambert of London, UK who is head of solutions architecture at Yospace and father of a son with a rare undiagnosed disease.Olivier and his wife, Feng, have been married for seven years and are the proud parents of Antoine (3) who has a genetically tested undiagnosed disease, which presents with; low muscle tone, hearing loss, non-verbal as well as difficulty swall
SFN Dad To Dad 395 - Mark Reinfeld of Boulder, CO A Chef, Author, Founder of Vegan Fusion Culinary Academy & Father Of A Son With Angelman
Our guest this week is Mark Reinfeld of Boulder, CO who is an award-winning chef, best-selling author and authority on plant-based cuisine. He is also the father of two young boys, including one with Angelman SyndromeMark and his wife, Ashley Boudet, have been married for 10 years and are the proud parents of two boys: River (7) and Sage (9) who has Angelman Syndrome. With more than two decades of
SFN Dad To Dad 394 - Jelani Memory of Portland, OR Father Of Six, Entrepreneur, Author & Founder Of A Kids Company
Our guest this week is Jelani Memory of Portland, OR is the father of six, an entrepreneur, author, and the visionary founder of A Kids Co.Jelani and his wife, Brandy, have married for 9 years and are the proud parents of six children including (his) four stepchildren: Rowan (21), Grace (19), Jay (16), Sebastian (15), Titus (14) and Solomon (7). Two have ADHD, one has scoliosis, and some other un
SFN Dad To Dad 393 - Mike Rinaldi of Fairfield, CT A Senior Director at Ankura, Father Of Two Including One With Autism
Our guest this week is Mike Rinaldi of Fairfield, CT, who is a senior director at Ankura, a litigations and investigations company, and father of two young children, including one with Autism. Mike and his wife, Tracey, have married for 9 years and are the proud parents of Vienna (8) and Harrison (5) who is on the Autism spectrum. Mike talks openly about the relationship with his father and the ch
SFN Dad To Dad 392 -Dion Chavis of Raleigh, NC Founder & President of The Glad Dad LLC And Father of Two Including A Son With ASD
Our guest this week is Dion Chavis of Raleigh, NC, a former radio personality, founder and president of the Glad Dad LLC, and father of two children, including one with Autism. Dion and his wife, Aisha, have married for 9 years and are the proud parents of Maceo (7) who is on the Autism spectrum. Dion is also the father to daughter Nyla (21) from a previous marriage. For decades, Dion has been a
SFN Dad To Dad 391 - Chris Losacco of Evergreen, CO A Knife Maker & Father Of Two Including One With A Rare Genetic Disorder
Our guest this week is Chris Losacco of Evergreen, CO who is owner of Elemental Forge, a blacksmith & knife maker as well as the father of two young children, including a son with a very rare genetic disorder. Chris and his wife, Evan, have married for nearly 10 years and are the proud parents of two young children: daughter Elliot (4) and son Wilder (3), who has a rare genetic disorder known
SFN Dad To Dad 390 - Tom Sander of Charlotte, NC Father of Three Including a Daughter With Charcot-Marie-Tooth Syndrome A Rare From Of MD
Our guest this week is Tom Sander of Charlotte, NC a territory account manager at Liquidia Corporation, a rare disease bio pharma company, and father of three including a daughter with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Syndrome, a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy. Tom and his wife, Julie, have married for 22 years and are the proud parents of three children: Will (22), and twins: Jack (18) and Lily (18) who has
SFN Dad To Dad 389 - Dr. Robert Naseef of Philadelphia, PA, Psychologist, Author, Father Of Four Including One With Autism
Our guest this week is Dr. Robert Naseef, of Philadelphia, PA, a clinical psychologist, keynote speaker, author and father of four including a son who is autistic. Robert and his wife, Cindy Ariel, have been married for 34 years. He and Cindy have two daughters: Zoe (32) and Kara (33). Robert is also a father to Antonette (43) and Tariq (45), who is autistic.Robert has written two books:Special
SFN Dad To Dad 388 - Randy Pierce of Concord, NH An Author, Avid Outdoorsman, Mountain Climber, CEO and Who Is Blind - Part Two
Our guest this week is Randy Pierce of Concord, NH who is an author, avid outdoorsman, mountain climber, keynote speaker, president & CEO of Future In Sight New Hampshire, and who himself if blind. Randy and his wife, Tracy, have been married for 15 years. When Randy was in his early 20s he suddenly went blind in one eye and then over a number of years would lose sight in the other eye. If th
SFN Dad To Dad 387 - Randy Pierce of Concord, NH An Author, Avid Outdoorsman, Mountain Climber, CEO and Who Is Blind - Part One
Our guest this week is Randy Pierce of Concord, NH who is an author, avid outdoorsman, mountain climber, keynote speaker, president & CEO of Future In Sight New Hampshire, and who himself if blind. Randy and his wife, Tracy, have been married for 15 years. When Randy was in his early 20s he suddenly went blind in one eye and then over a number of years would lose sight in the other eye. If th
SFN Dad To Dad 386 - Dr. Paul Collins of Portland, OR A Professor at PSU, Prolific Author & Father Of Two Including An Autistic Son
Our guest this week is Dr. Paul Collins, of Portland, OR a professor at Portland State University, a prolific author, and father of two boys including one with Autism.Paul and his wife, Jennifer Elder, have married for 28 years and are the proud parents of two boys: Bramwell (21) and older brother Morgan (26) who is Autistic. Paul is a professor of English in the college of Liberal Arts & Scie
SFN Dad To Dad 385 - Steve Harris of Lanesboro, MN A Freelance Writer, Author, Widower, Husband & Father of 2 Sons With Disabilities Part 2
Our guest this week is Steve Harris of Lanesboro, MN a free-lance writer, widower, author and father of two sons with disabilities. Part 2. Steve and his wife, Susan, have married for 17 years. Steve and his first wife, Pam, were together for 30 years, before she passed away in 2012 due to a rare neurological disorder. Steve and Pam had two boys: Matthew who was born in 1980 with Spina bifida a
SFN Dad To Dad 384 - Steve Harris of Lanesboro, MN A Freelance Writer, Author, Widower, Husband & Father of 2 Sons With Disabilities Part 1
Our guest this week is Steve Harris of Lanesboro, MN a free-lance writer, widower, author and father of two sons with disabilities. Part 1.Steve and his wife, Susan, have married for 17 years. Steve and his first wife, Pam, were together for 30 years, before she passed away in 2012 due to a rare neurological disorder. Steve and Pam had two boys: Matthew who was born in 1980 with Spina bifida an
SFN Dad To Dad 383 - Peter Gerhardt of Rich Hill Park, NJ ED at Epic Schools, Author, Autism Expert & Disability Advocate - Part 2
Our guest this week is Peter Gerhardt of Rich Hill Park, NJ who is executive director at EPIC Schools located in Paramus, NJ, author of dozens of publications and books, an internationally recognized Autism expert and outspoken advocate for the disability community.Peter has three degrees from Rutgers University: a BA in Psychology, an EdM in Special Education, and a PhD in Education Psychology an
SFN Dad To Dad 382 - Peter Gerhardt of Rich Hill Park, NJ ED at Epic Schools, Author, Autism Expert & Disability Advocate
Our guest this week is Peter Gerhardt of Rich Hill Park, NJ who is executive director at EPIC Schools located in Paramus, NJ, author of dozens of publications and books, an internationally recognized Autism expert and outspoken advocate for the disability community.Peter has three degrees from Rutgers University: a BA in Psychology, an EdM in Special Education, and a PhD in Education Psychology an
SFN Dad To Dad 381 Rick Bolle of Naperville, IL - Founding Pastor of Front Porch Church Serving Those With Disabilities & Their Families
Our guest this week is Rick Bolle of Naperville, IL founding pastor of the newly formed Front Porch Church, father of two and retired businessman. Rick and his wife, Alinda, have been married for 32 years and are the proud parents of two adult children. Shortly after retiring from Thermo Fisher Scientific in 2022, where he was a Senior Safety Specialist, Rick felt a calling to start or plant Fron
SFN Dad to Dad 380 - Spencer Doman Of Philadelphia, PA CEO & 3rd Generation Leader of the Doman International Institute
Our guest this week is Spencer Doman of Philadelphia, PA, who is president and CEO of the Doman International Institute, where they empower parents with knowledge and tools to help their children with special needs thrive and teach parents how to create a loving, stimulating and healthy home so that their child can reach their fullest potential.Spencer and his wife, Melissa, have been married for
SFN Dad To Dad 379 - Rebekah Taussig of Shawnee, KS - Mother, Author, Podcast Host & Disability Advocate
Our guest this week is Rebekah Taussig of Shawnee, KS who is a mother, wife, author, podcast host, outspoken advocate for those with disability and who, herself is a paraplegic. Rebekah and her husband, Micah have been married for seven years and are the proud parents of Otto, who is typical five year old. Rebekah was diagnosed with spine cancer at age one and due to multiple surgeries lost her a
SFN Dad To Dad 378 - Leon Logothetis of Los Angeles, CA, 'The Kindness Guy,' Author, Speaker & Producer
Our guest this week is Leon Logothetis of Los Angeles, a British-born adventurer, author, and television host renowned for promoting global kindness. Formerly a London-based broker, he left finance to explore human connection through travel. Leon created and starred in the docuseries Amazing Adventures of a Nobody (2006–2008), journeying across the U.S., U.K., and Europe on minimal daily budgets.
SFN Dad To Dad 377 - Jim Littlefield-Dalmares of Louisville, KY Father Of A Child with CP, Author, Podcast Host & Founder of Seeing Ability
Our guest this week is Jim Littlefield-Dalmares of Louisville, KY who is Director of Market Development at BNI Middle Tennessee, author, podcast host, founder of Seeing Ability and perhaps most importantly, father of two including a child with Cerebral Palsy. Jim and his wife, LeAnn, have been married for 27 years and are the proud parents of two: Peter (21) and Sophia (25) who was born very prema
SFN Dad To Dad 376 - Patrick Schwarz of Highland Park, IL CEO of Creative Culture Consulting, Author & Advocate For Inclusive Education
Our guest this week is Dr. Patrick Schwarz, of Highland Park, IL who is CEO of Creative Culture Consulting, a public speaker, author of numerous books and an outspoken advocate for inclusive education for people of all abilities.Dr. Schwarz earned his BS, MS and PhD in special education from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Dr. Schwarz is a dynamic professor, author, and motivational speake
SFN Dad To Dad 375 - Jamiel Owens of Hatfield, PA Volunteer Firefighter, Disability Advocate & Father Of a Child Who Is Autistic
Our guest this week is Jamiel Owens, of Hatfield, PA who is a volunteer firefighter, advocate for those with disability, founder of Ausomeness Inc. and a father of two, including a son who is autistic.Jamiel and his wife, Marta Santa, have been married for 5 years and you are the proud father of two children: Alejandro (3) and Shane (16), who is Autistic.With little more than a GED, Jamiel has bec
SFN Dad To Dad 374 - Eli Pierce of Aurora, CO The Father of Four Including One Who Is a Spastic Quadriplegic With Cerebral Palsy & Epilepsy
Our guest this week is Eli Pierce of Aurora, CO who is a customer service representative at Silk Trade, a UK based software company. Eli is the father of four children, including one who is a spastic quadriplegic with cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Eli, and his wife, Cassidy, have been married for 5 years and he is the proud father of four children: Evelyn (14), Elias (11), adopted daughter Annabe
SFN Dad To Dad 373 - Michael Pereira of Miami, FL Father of Two Including One With Autism & Founder Of The Autism Voyage
Michael our guest this week is Michael Pereira of Miami, FL who a financial representative, the father of two and founder of the The Autism Voyage. Michael and his wife, Elizeth, have been married for 9 years and you are the proud parents of two children: Amanda Sophia (3) and Christian Omar (7) who is Autistic. Michael is also the founder of Autism Voyage, offering financial planning assistance
SFN Dad To Dad 372 - Jason Bechtold of Cary, IL An IT Director & Executive Coach At Bain & Father Of Three
Our guest this week is Jason Bechtold of Cary, IL. a director of IT services and an executive coach at Bain as well as the father of three who have a variety of neurological, psychological and intellectual challenges.Jason and his wife, Lori Hermann, have been married for 8 years and he is the proud father of three children: Jordyn (24), Tyler (20), and Jessica (18), who between them have experien
SFN Dad to Dad 371 - Jen Lumanian of Berkeley, CA Researcher, Parenting Coach, Author, Host: Your Parenting Mojo Podcast
Our guest this week is Jen Lumanlan of Berkeley, CA wife, mother, researcher, parenting coach, author, curator of the Your Parenting Mojo website and host of the Your Parenting Mojo Podcast. Jen and her husband, Alvin, have been married for 15 years and are the proud parents of daughter, Carys, who is 10 years old.Jen was born and raised in England. She has a bachelors degree: English & Fore
SFN Dad To Dad 370 - Rady Johnson of Westport, CT, Retired Senior Exec. at Pfizer, Father Of 3 Including One With Intellectual Disabilities
Our guest this week is Rady Johnson of Westport, CT, a recently retired senior executive at Pfizer and a father of three including one with intellectual disabilities.Rady and his wife, Diane, have been married for 38 years and are the proud parents of three children: Katherine (36), Bridget (30) and Michael (34) who was adopted from Romania as a one year old and who has intellectual disabilities.D
SFN Dad To Dad 369 - Kirby Rabalais of Glenview, IL Founder of 4TITUDE.com & Father Of Two Including One With Pitt Hopkins Syndrome
Our guest this week is Kirby Rabalais of Glenview, IL the Director of Strategic Growth at Truce Software, father of two including one with Pitt Hopkins Syndrome and more recently the founder of 4TITUDE an online community created to support dads raising children with special healthcare needs. Kirby and his wife, Chelsea, have been married for 8 years and are the proud parents of two boys: Porte
SFN Dad To Dad 368 - Tim Kane of Ridgewood, NJ Former Sr. Director of Broadcasting at the NBA, Father of Three Including An Autistic Son
Our guest this week is Tim Kane of Ridgewood, NJ a former Senior Director of Broadcasting for the NBA, board member at the Epic School Foundation and father of three children including an autistic son. Tim and his wife, Laurie, have been married for 28 years and are the proud parents of three children: Katie (27), Caroline (21) and Jack (24) who is Autistic. Tim reflects on his storied career that
SFN Dad To Dad 367 - Sebastien Pelletier of Montreal, Father of 4, 3 with Retinitis Pigmentosa & Featured In the NatGeo Documentary BLINK
Our guest this week is Sebastien Pelletier of Montreal, Canada a financial professional and father of four, three of whom were diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa. The Pelletier family was also featured in the National Geographic documentary BLINK.Sebastien and his wife, Edith Lemay, have been married for 14 years and are the proud parents of four children: Mia (13), Leo (11), Colin (9) and Laure
SFN Dad to Dad 366 - James Burch Of Grand Cayman, A Lawyer & Single Father of Three Boys, Including One With Global Developmental Delays
Our guest this week is James Burch, of Georgetown, Grand Cayman, who is a corporate law partner at Walkers, amateur boxer and single father of three young boys, including one with global developmental delays.James was born and raised in Chelton, England. After obtaining his education and becoming a lawyer he has worked overseas in Hong Kong and Grand Cayman. James and his x-wife, Gemma, were marr
SFN Dad To Dad 365 - Isaac Jean-Paul of Los Angeles, CA A Father & Author Who Is A Legally Blind U.S. Paralympic Medalist
Our guest this week is Isaac Jean Paul of Los Angeles, CA. who is a father and U.S. Paralympic track and field champion who just happens to be legally blind.Isaac and his significant other, Myra Harris, are the proud parents of two year old daughter Shylah. Isaac was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago. In high school he was a track & field star. As he began to lose his sight he didn't
SFN Dad To Dad 364 - Alfred Niwagaba of Uganda, School Administrator & Father Of Four Including One With Down Syndrome
Our guest this week is Alfred Niwagaba, of Kampala, Uganda who is the director of the Little Angels School in Wakiso and father of four children including a son with Down Syndrome. Alfred and his wife, Rosemary Nambooze, have been married for 16 years and are the proud parents of four children: Benjamin (5), Beroil (9), Abigale (15) and Abryl (14), who has Down Syndrome and has some hearing defic
SFN Dad to Dad 363 - Jason Tuttle of Atlanta, GA Father Of Two, A Grief Counselor, Author and Blogger Who Very Sadly Lost Son Zachary at 15
Our guest this week is Jason Tuttle of Atlanta, GA, a former physical education and special education teacher, a stay at home parent and father to two children with multiple physical and cognitive disabilities.Jason and his wife, Jennifer, have been married for 21 years and are the proud parents of two children: Samantha (16) who is non-verbal, epileptic, wheelchair bound and has severe neuro deve
SFN Dad To Dad 362 - Michael McManus of Barrington, IL Insurance Exec, Father of Two, One With Autism & Co-Proprietor Of Jigsaw Farms
Our guest this week is Michael McManus of Barrington, IL, Vice President of Captive Resources, co-proprietor of Jigsaw Farms and father of two adult sons, including one with Autism. Michael and his wife Stacie have been married for 33 years and are the proud parents of two boys: Matt (30) and Jake (29) who is Autistic. Jake has benefited from a host of programs, including: Cure Autism Now (CAN)
SFN Dad To Dad 361 - Scott MacGregor of Fishers, IN ED of Content & Storytelling at Eli Lilly, Father of 3 Including One With Down Syndrome
Our guest this week is Scott MacGregor of Fishers, IN who is Executive Director of Content and Storytelling at Eli Lilly and Company and father of three including one with Down Syndrome.Scott and his wife, Sara, have been married for 23 years and are the proud parents of three living children: Ainsley (16), Jack (18) and Abby (21) who has Down Syndrome. Very sadly, their son Owen who had Trisomy
SFN Dad To Dad 360 - Jessica Ronne of Holland, MI Mother of Eight, Author, Podcast Host & Founder of The Lucas Project,
Our guest this week is Jessica Ronne of Holland, MI, author, speaker, podcast host, founder & executive director of the Lucas Project and perhaps most importantly, wife and the mother of eight, including one with special needs.Jess and her second husband, Ryan, have been married for 14 years and between them are the proud parents of eight children: four from her first marriage: Caleb, Lucas, M
SFN Dad To Dad 359 - A Look Back On 2024
Episode #359 – A Look Back on 2024 Hi I’m David Hirsch, founder of the 21st Century Dads Foundation and Special Fathers Network as well as host of the Special Fathers Network Dad To Dad Podcast. Happy New Year and welcome to the first episode of 2025. Tom Couch, the editor and producer of the SFN Dad To Dad Podcast, and I, thought we would do something special and provide a Look Back on 2024.
SFN Dad to Dad 358 - Emma Livingstone, of London, England, Mother of Three, Self Advocate & Founder of UP The Adult Cerebral Palsy Movement
Our guest this week is Emma Livingstone of London, England who is the mother of three typical kids, a self-advocate with Cerebral Palsy and founder & CEO of UP - The Adult Cerebral Palsy Movement. Emma and her husband, Derrick, have been married for 17 years and are the proud parents of three typical children ages 11-16. She is the one who has cerebral palsy, which has propelled her to become
