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This episode only happened thanks to the annual TechServe Conference, [https://www.linkedin.com/company/techserve-alliance/posts/?feedView=all] where I met BridgeView's [https://www.linkedin.com/company/bridgeview/posts/?feedView=all] Managing Partner, Tim Glennie. [https://www.linkedin.com/in/timglennie/]

In this vulnerable, wide-ranging conversation, Tim shares the intentional practices that have shaped his approach to fatherhood. From instituting daily gratitude exercises during school drop-offs to family dinner "highs and lows" discussions, he's created frameworks for meaningful connection with his three children. These seemingly simple rituals have transformed how his family communicates, especially during the challenging teenage years when one-word responses typically dominate.

When Tim notices his son offering to help plan family meals instead of complaining about mom's chicken dinners, he recognizes something profound: his parenting is working. Small moments like these reveal character development happening beneath the surface of daily family life.

Tim reflects thoughtfully on the contrast between his own latchkey childhood in 1970s New York and today's more protected parenting environment. He describes creative ways he's maintained his father's legacy of curiosity and hands-on learning while adapting these values for a new generation. His garage workshop has become a sacred space where his sons develop problem-solving skills and respect for tools—mirroring experiences from Tim's own childhood.

The conversation takes a powerful turn when Tim opens up about his journey to becoming alcohol-free at age 50. After struggling with anxiety since age 17 and recognizing patterns of alcoholism in his family history, Tim made a life-changing decision that has transformed his mental health, physical wellbeing, and family relationships. His willingness to share this struggle offers hope and perspective for listeners facing their own challenges.

Beyond the practical parenting strategies, Tim articulates what matters most: raising children with personal responsibility, realistic expectations about life's inevitable struggles, and confidence in their ability to handle whatever comes their way. His authentic approach reminds us that effective parenting isn't about perfection—it's about creating meaningful connections that prepare children for their own journeys ahead.

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Your children are watching everything you do, so make it count - Tim Glennie, Managing Partner - Bridgeview

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On this week's episode of the Quarterback Dadcast, Casey Jacox sits down with the talented Trent Cotton, the VP of Culture from Hatchworks AI. [https://www.linkedin.com/company/hatchworksai/]

Maintaining a meaningful connection with your child when physical distance separates you isn't just challenging—it can feel nearly impossible. Trent [https://www.linkedin.com/in/trentcotton/]knows this struggle intimately. After separating from his wife when their daughter was only two and a half years old, with three hours of distance between them, Trent had to build his relationship through phone calls with a toddler who sometimes wasn't interested in talking.

"There were numerous nights that I would cry myself to sleep just thinking I'm not going to have the relationship that I've always wanted to have with my child," Trent reveals. Yet today, he and his daughter speak almost daily, discussing everything from fashion choices to profound conversations about physics, politics, and faith. How did he transform those tearful nights into this thriving relationship?

The cornerstone of Trent's approach came from advice that changed everything: "Never say anything negative about your child's other parent in front of them." Through years of co-parenting challenges, he maintained this principle, refusing to let family members speak poorly of his ex-wife in his daughter's presence. This commitment created a foundation of safety and respect that allows his daughter to have relationships with both parents without feeling caught in the middle.

Trent's philosophy of "excellence always" has guided both his career and his parenting. "Do things when people aren't looking and do them well," he explains, "and I promise you, it'll become such a habit that the world will start to notice." This value has taken root in his daughter, who was recently accepted into a master's program in civil engineering—something Trent speaks about with unmistakable pride.

Perhaps most powerful is Trent's advice to "lead people to where they need to be, but don't judge them for where they are." This compassionate approach recognizes that our children are on their own journey, and our role isn't to criticize their current position but to guide them toward their best future self.

Want to transform your parenting approach? Listen now to discover how playing the "long game" in parenting can help you navigate even the most challenging circumstances while building unbreakable bonds with your children. Your parenting North Star is waiting.

Please don't forget to leave us a review [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-quarterback-dadcast/id1492347381] wherever you consume your podcasts! Please help us get more dads to listen weekly and become the ultimate leader of their homes!

Navigating Co-Parenting with Grace and Purpose

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Today, we welcome former MLB manager and four-time Gold Glove winner Mike Matheny, who takes us on a profound journey through fatherhood, coaching philosophy, and his remarkable life experiences that shaped both. Drawing from his 13-year playing career and years managing the Cardinals and Royals, Matheny shares wisdom that transcends the baseball diamond.

Not only did he publish the amazing "Matheny Manifesto," but he has a new book out called "The Dad Coach," published by Crown Publishing Group, A Division of Penguin Random House! [https://www.amazon.com/Dad-Coach-Succeed-Baseball-Field/dp/0593442873] I got a copy and read it before it was recently released, and it is a book I wish I had had earlier when coaching my son in baseball.  Please pick up a copy if you're a youth coach!

The conversation reveals Matheny's counterintuitive approach to youth sports: "The goal is not trying to get college scholarships. The goal is instilling character through sports to help kids become successful in anything they do." Remarkably, all five of his children earned college athletic opportunities despite this philosophy—or perhaps because of it. Matheny credits his own upbringing with parents who demonstrated consistent love and discipline while never pressuring him in sports, describing himself as having "won the lottery at birth."

Particularly moving is Matheny's account of surviving a subarachnoid hemorrhage in 2022—a condition with only a 1-in-6 survival rate. "I had a renewed sense of urgency," he explains. "What are we doing to make the most out of it and how are we going to make an impact with the days that we have?" This perspective infuses his new book "The Dad Coach," which provides practical guidance for parents coaching youth sports, complete with 75 QR codes linking to resources from former players and practical drills.

Beyond baseball strategy, Matheny offers transformative insights for parents navigating youth sports culture. His advice to let children drive their own athletic journeys while parents provide support without pressure resonates deeply in today's high-pressure youth sports environment. As we chase our own definition of success, Matheny reminds us that the most valuable trophy isn't made of metal—it's the character and resilience built through the journey.

Please don't forget to leave us a review [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-quarterback-dadcast/id1492347381] wherever you consume your podcasts! Please help us get more dads to listen weekly and become the ultimate leader of their homes!

From Major League Manager to Youth Sports Mentor: Mike Matheny's Parenting Journey

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What happens when an orthopedic surgeon raised by immigrant parents decides to redefine success on his own terms? Dr. Jessy Sekhon takes us on a remarkable journey from his father's humble beginnings in an Indian village without electricity to his own pivotal decision to restructure his thriving medical practice for the sake of his family.

Jessy's father studied under makeshift onion-string lights in cornfields, working tirelessly toward education as his only escape from poverty. This relentless work ethic carried through generations as Jesse's parents pushed academic excellence above all else. While this foundation propelled Jesse to Northwestern and UCLA and ultimately a successful surgical career, something was missing in his own approach to fatherhood.

The turning point came when Jesse's two-hour commute meant missing his son's baseball practice. When his wife offered to help warm up their son instead, the boy's response hit like a thunderbolt: "Sorry mom, it's just not the same." Those six words catalyzed a complete reassessment of priorities, leading Jessy to negotiate a new work arrangement that allowed him to be physically present for school drop-offs, pick-ups, and those irreplaceable moments of connection.

Through honest reflection, Jesse reveals his ongoing work to develop patience and acceptance as a father. He shares how he's learned to apologize to his children when he falls short, modeling accountability and emotional intelligence. His approach balances providing opportunities his immigrant parents couldn't afford him while ensuring his children remain grounded and grateful.

Whether you're balancing a demanding career with family life or wrestling with how your own upbringing shapes your parenting, Jessy's story demonstrates that fatherhood isn't defined by perfection but by presence. 

Join us for a conversation that bridges cultures, generations, and reminds us that sometimes our greatest success is simply being there when our children need us most.

Please don't forget to leave us a review [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-quarterback-dadcast/id1492347381] wherever you consume your podcasts! Please help us get more dads to listen weekly and become the ultimate leader of their homes!

An Eagles Fan, A Surgeon, and A Dad—Now Taking the Most Important Calls

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Casey Jacox welcomes Darren Mitchell, [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sales-leadership-coach/] Australian sales leadership expert and father of two daughters, for a profound conversation about fatherhood, loss, and creating meaningful family connections across continents.

• Darren introduces his two adult daughters—a 25-year-old medical doctor with athletic ambitions and a 21-year-old creative interior designer
• Both men reflect on their upbringings and how parental examples shaped their approaches to leadership and fatherhood
• Discussion of the heartbreaking experience of losing a child, as Darren shares the story of his stillborn daughter Courtney
• Powerful insights about responding to life's challenges by focusing on what we can control rather than dwelling on what we cannot
• The importance of giving children undivided attention and being fully present rather than just providing "quality time"
• Core values that guide effective parenting: love, connection, integrity, work ethic, and acceptance

The biggest gift you can give this podcast is to share it with another dad who might benefit from these conversations. Please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps other dads find this resource.




Please don't forget to leave us a review [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-quarterback-dadcast/id1492347381] wherever you consume your podcasts! Please help us get more dads to listen weekly and become the ultimate leader of their homes!

From Sales to Fatherhood: Darren Mitchell's Leadership Journey

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What does it truly mean to support your children unconditionally in their athletic journeys and life paths? Former Pittsburgh Pirate and UC Davis Hall of Famer Rich Watts opens up about his philosophy of fatherhood that has guided his two Division I athlete children through both triumphs and challenges.

Rich takes us deep into his family story, sharing how his own upbringing by a tough-as-nails former college football player father and dedicated mother created the blueprint for his parenting approach. The parallels between his childhood sports experiences and watching his own children navigate their athletic careers reveal timeless truths about resilience, support, and knowing when to step back. "You never quit anything," Rich recalls as a fundamental rule from his youth – a value that would later help him guide his son through the challenging transition from high school sports to a junior college path during COVID and eventually to a national championship.

The conversation explores the rapidly changing landscape of college athletics with transfer portals and NIL deals, offering both cautionary perspectives and nuanced insights from someone who has experienced these systems from multiple angles. Rich thoughtfully examines how these developments affect not just the business of college sports, but the fundamental character-building aspects these institutions have traditionally provided.

What truly sets this episode apart is Rich's vulnerable reflection on what matters most in the parent-child relationship. "If you have to push your kid, then your kid doesn't love it enough," he observes, challenging listeners to reconsider how they support their children's passions. His stories of catching footballs with his son echo his own father's dedication, creating a generational thread of showing up rather than merely telling.

Whether you're raising athletes or simply seeking to be more present in your children's lives, Rich's perspective offers both practical wisdom and emotional resonance that will transform how you think about your role as a parent, mentor, and guide.

Please don't forget to leave us a review [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-quarterback-dadcast/id1492347381] wherever you consume your podcasts! Please help us get more dads to listen weekly and become the ultimate leader of their homes!

The Unconditional Dad: Rich Watts on Family, Sports, and Supporting Your Kids' Dreams

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In this enlightening episode of the Quarterback Dadcast, Casey Jacox sits down with Kenny Claytor [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-claytor-2972618/], a devoted father and US Army veteran, to explore the depths of fatherhood.  Kenny and I met at the amazing company where he works, Tier 4 [https://www.linkedin.com/company/tier4group/posts/?feedView=all] Staffing and Consulting.

Kenny shares his journey as a father, discusses the values learned from his upbringing, and how those lessons guide him in parenting today. With heartfelt anecdotes, he emphasizes the significance of gratitude in the parent-child relationship and how open communication forms the foundation for resilience in his three children.

Throughout their conversation, Kenny reflects on a challenge his daughter faced with mental health, illustrating how sharing hardships can create strong bonds and inspire others. As they navigate the complexities of balancing work and family life, they highlight the evolving roles of parents in raising children with emotional intelligence and strong communication skills. His daughter, Kaci, would use this challenge to use her amazing singing talent, which is linked here. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBWarSloPd8]

The episode reminds us that vulnerability is a strength, encouraging fathers everywhere to share their experiences and learn from each other. It's a heartfelt dialogue between two dads, aiming to redefine what it means to lead a family and inspire listeners to become better versions of themselves. Join us as we delve deep into the essence of fatherhood, tackle important issues, and encourage dads to embrace their roles with authenticity. 

Additionally, we covered the following:

- Kenny’s background: from army veteran to family leader
- Discussing gratitude for family relationships
- Learning through struggles and parenting challenges
- Emphasizing the role of emotional intelligence in parenting
- Sharing his daughter’s inspirational journey through music
- The importance of open conversations about difficult topics
- Balancing traditional roles in parenting
- Encouraging fathers to be vulnerable and supportive
- A call to action for men to lead authentically and intentionally

If this episode resonates with you and your journey, be sure to share, subscribe, and leave a review!

Please don't forget to leave us a review [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-quarterback-dadcast/id1492347381] wherever you consume your podcasts! Please help us get more dads to listen weekly and become the ultimate leader of their homes!

US Army Veteran - Kenny Claytor -Vulnerability and Strength: A Dad’s Journey

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Ever wondered how to navigate the emotional journey from a bustling household to an empty nest? Join us on the Quarterback Dadcast as we welcome Gary Sanchez [https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-sanchez/], the ingenious mind behind the WHY Institute [https://whyinstitute.com/] and host of the Beyond Your Why podcast. Gary shares his heartfelt experiences of fatherhood, highlighting meaningful moments with his daughters and the poignant send-off as they embarked on their college adventures. Our conversation touches on the importance of maintaining strong family bonds and a positive outlook, even as life transitions challenge us to adapt and grow.

Understanding the diverse identities of our children can be a game-changer in guiding them toward informed decisions. Gary candidly reflects on his personal journey of self-discovery, contrasting it with his daughters’ unique paths—one marked by uncertainty and the other by confident purpose. We explore how these differing experiences have shaped their development and decision-making processes, emphasizing the critical role of nurturing individuality and curiosity. The insights offered in this discussion extend beyond fatherhood, offering valuable lessons for personal and professional relationships alike.

Gary’s transformative journey from dentistry to founding the WHY Institute is nothing short of inspiring. A life-threatening health scare became the catalyst for him to reassess his priorities and pursue his true passion. He shares how discovering his "why" revolutionized his career and impacted countless lives. With humor and introspection, we wrap up with a rapid-fire round, exchanging laughter and personal insights. This episode promises to leave you contemplating your own life's purpose and the legacy you wish to create.

Gary has graciously offered a discount code so you can find your WHY!  Please visit Whyinstitute.com [https://whyinstitute.com/] and enter code PODCAST50 for 50% off!

Please don't forget to leave us a review [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-quarterback-dadcast/id1492347381] wherever you consume your podcasts! Please help us get more dads to listen weekly and become the ultimate leader of their homes!

A near death experience & Discovering Your WHY as a DAD with Gary Sanchez

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What happens when you mix a creative executive, a former basketball player, and a dad who's redefining leadership at home? Thanks to a fantastic referral from my friend and former guest (Dale Favors [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dalefavors/]), we get the chance to learn from Eric Pryor. [https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-pryor-6688851a/]  In today's episode, Eric shares how his experiences in arts and education have shaped his role as the "quarterback" of his family. From the therapeutic art of gratitude journaling to the lessons learned from influential mentors, Eric offers a treasure trove of insights into staying grounded and mindful while embracing personal growth.

Join us as Eric opens up about the significant role family values and work ethic play in shaping our lives. You'll hear about the impact of empowering family members and how a simple idea from his wife led to a pivotal financial decision. Eric also takes us on a journey through his childhood, recounting life as the youngest of six in a bustling household, and how his father's entrepreneurial spirit in Detroit instilled a strong work ethic and discipline in him.

With a candid discussion on finding resilience and grace amidst adversity, Eric shares deeply personal stories of loss and the immense power of gratitude and spirituality. Hear how he navigates the complexities of self-awareness and self-improvement, all the while maintaining hope and a positive outlook. 

Ending on a lighter note, we chat about favorite books and dream vacations, welcoming listeners to embrace unscripted curiosity and the joy of shared experiences. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation that inspires with stories of resilience, growth, and the art of being present both in family life and beyond.

Please don't forget to leave us a review [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-quarterback-dadcast/id1492347381] wherever you consume your podcasts! Please help us get more dads to listen weekly and become the ultimate leader of their homes!

Redefining Leadership: Eric Pryor on Family, Resilience, and the Art of Gratitude

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For anyone who's ever felt a bit wary about stepping into fatherhood, Matt Ferguson's [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mdfcoaching/]story is one you won't want to miss. Despite being the eldest of four siblings, Matt confesses his initial hesitation towards becoming a dad. Yet, as he shares with us on the Quarterback Dadcast, the arrival of his own children brought a transformative shift in his perspective. We explore how he navigates this new chapter, balancing the demands of a successful sales career with the joys and challenges of parenting. His insights into maintaining strong family bonds through various stages of life will offer a refreshing take on modern communication.

As a successful sales coach and speaker, Matt's transition from the golf industry to a thriving sales career also unfolds, highlighting the unexpected opportunities and pivotal moments that have shaped his life path. We recount together the timeless reminder that the days are long and the years are short as fathers.

Throughout the episode, we celebrate the small wins that accumulate into life's big achievements. Drawing lessons from sports, family values, and even the profound impact of losing his brother Drew, our conversation will emphasize the importance of mindset, self-belief, and gratitude. Our lighter moments include a humorous exchange about celebrity lookalikes, ensuring listeners walk away with both insights and smiles. Join our community of dads, share your own experiences, and let’s continue to support each other on this incredible journey of fatherhood.

Please don't forget to leave us a review [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-quarterback-dadcast/id1492347381] wherever you consume your podcasts! Please help us get more dads to listen weekly and become the ultimate leader of their homes!

Embracing Fatherhood: Matt Ferguson's Journey from Hesitation to Joy

I’m Casey Jacox….the host of the Quarterback Dadcast.   I want to take a minute to tell you why I started this podcast.  I did it so that I can be a better father myself.  I did it because I wanted to learn from dads, just like you.  Together, we will explore how you were raised.  and discuss what your current family life looks like?   Additionally, we will find out what did you learn from your parents?  What did you not learn from your parents?  How did your parents help you?    With all of that information, how are you using all of that experience to become that ultimate leader or Quarterback of your household? You will laugh.  You might even cry.   You will learn.  And I will guarantee that in each episode, you will walk away with actionable tasks that you can apply to your life right now to become that ultimate Quarterback and leader of your household.  Together, we will learn from the successes and failures of dads who do their best daily.  So, sit back, relax and subscribe to receive each episode weekly on The Quarterback Dadcast.

The Quarterback DadCast