Are you looking for inspiration to start your journey into sobriety and become a better Dad? Has that hard wired feeling of “suck it up and deal with it”, gotten to a point where you had to sedate the weight of it with something else? Me too! Im Nick Barnett, Founder of the domestic dad project, A brand that strives to create a community that breaks the stigma around dads reaching out for help to get their lives back on track and become better Fathers. Welcome to The Domestic Dad Podcast, your go-to destination for candid discussions on journeys into sobriety, parenting, and personal growth. Ive been a dad since I was 18 years old. Im also a trauma survivor, alcoholic, divorced, happily re-married, proud, hard working, humbled by life domestic Dad. I remember realizing I was in the pit of addiction when I couldn’t leave the house without planning a stop to grab a few shooters at the gas station before I got home. Or Making up reasons to go to the grocery store just to make a un-necessary food purchase to bury a bottle of booze or wine in my cart and Stashing “back up bottles” around the house.. Only to wake up in the middle of the night, parched with a glass filled with vodka disguised as water on my night stand to quench my thirst so I could get through the next few hours without getting sick… Just to get hit with another devastating hangover that left me with debilitating heart burn, bloating, vomiting and shaking so bad that I couldn’t write an email, send a text or complete sentence without stammering over words… all while coming up with reasons in my head that every person in the world was against me and I was the “victim” Looking back at the way addiction stained my days and nights, stole time from me, my wife, and my kids left me embarrassed and ashamed. Because of this, I struggled with the pit of mental health issues in some of the darkest ways imaginable. But I fought my way out. With the help of community resources, life changing coaches, mentors, pastors and raw will power. Since then, I’ve embarked on an unbreakable journey into sobriety and life that has changed in some the greatest ways imaginable. There is not one goal I have set for myself that I haven’t had the confidence to go after, most which I’ve achieved. Today I feel great when I wake up in the morning, I’m productive with my work, my 40 year old body feels great, I’m present with my family and friends, I sleep through the night, I don’t have the fear of dying from my disease, I no longer doubt my value to my family and I know I have a meaningful future! My mission here is to share the resources that worked for me, with you! In the form of candid interviews and conversations around journeys into sobriety. But that’s not all – we also tackle the sheer delight and trials of parenting, sharing practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and expert advice to help you navigate the wonderful adventure of raising children and being the glue that not only allows your family to survive but more importantly THRIVE! Because you’re worth it, you have value in this world, there is a bright future for you here, and there is a son or daughter that needs and wants a meaningful relationship with you. My hope is that you will subscribe to this podcast and that it inspires you to join our growing community! So grab a mop and let’s start cleaning up the mess! Website: www.domesticdadproject.com YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOMESTICDADPROJECT Insta: https://www.instagram.com/the_domestic_dad_project
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
Would You Get Healthy for Your Kids?
That’s the question we’re diving into on this powerful episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess—and it’s one every father needs to hear.
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Nick Kuhle, a former high school teacher who faced a health crisis in his mid-20s that became the turning point of his life. Struggling with low testosterone, chronic inflammation, fatigue, and emotional burnout, Nick was told by doctors that hormone replacement therapy was his only option. But instead of settling for a quick fix, he chose the path of holistic healing.
Through functional medicine, nutritional therapy, and mindset coaching, Nick not only restored his health—he found his purpose: helping other men break free from the cycles of addiction, poor health, shame, and emotional suppression. He’s now a full-time health coach, helping fathers get their energy back, reclaim their identity, and build the kind of legacy their children will be proud of.
We cover a ton of ground in this episode:
•What happens when men in recovery trade alcohol for sugar or other compulsions
•How trauma and shame manifest in your health, energy, and parenting
•The emotional root of food cravings and how to address the why behind them
•Why most men are dehydrated, inflamed, under-slept, and overstressed—and how to fix it
•The truth about processed foods, pasta, and why “healthy” doesn’t always mean real
•How your language and internal dialogue shape your identity and behavior
• Why sleep, water, movement, and real food are still the best medicine
•The power of becoming your own best doctor
•And how shifting from “I struggle with” to “I experience” changes everything
But this episode goes beyond fitness and food.
It’s about fatherhood, faith, and facing your mess—head-on.
You’ll hear Nick’s take on why men must take responsibility for their physical and emotional health—not just for themselves, but for the next generation. We also talk about addiction recovery, marriage, mindset, and how our darkest moments can become defining ones if we let them.
You’ll also hear a deeply personal story from me—about my own battle with addiction, a near-suicidal moment that changed my life, and how my journey through sobriety, faith, and fatherhood led me to where I am today. And yes—how God answered our prayers after years of infertility, in a way only He could.
If you’re a man who wants to live with more energy, more intention, and more purpose—this episode is for you.
If you’re a dad who wants to stop surviving and start showing up—this episode is for you.
If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to live for your kids—this episode is for you.
Nick Kuhle's Website: www.kuhlefit.com
Nick Kuhle: https://www.facebook.com/KuhleFit/
Website: www.domesticdadproject.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOMESTICDADPROJECT
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Monday Mar 10, 2025
From Outlaw to Redemption: Ron Gruber’s Journey of Faith, Forgiveness, and Freedom
In this gripping and unfiltered episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Ron Gruber, a man whose story is nothing short of miraculous. From an abusive childhood and the violent world of outlaw motorcycle gangs to decades spent in prison, Ron’s past is a haunting testament to the darkness that can consume a life. But his journey doesn’t end there—through a divine encounter in the woods, Ron found himself at the feet of God, discovering a path to forgiveness, faith, and a life transformed.
For years, Ron was trapped in a cycle of rage, revenge, and regret, serving time for murder and racketeering in some of the toughest prisons in America. It was there, in a solitary cell, that he began to understand the true cost of his choices and the possibility of redemption through Christ. Today, Ron is a man on a mission—sharing his story of radical change to show that no one is too far gone for God’s grace.
This episode delves into powerful themes of forgiveness, surrender, and the battle to overcome shame. Nick and Ron discuss the struggle to reconcile with a violent past, the challenge of self-forgiveness, and the relentless love of God that reaches even into the darkest places. If you’ve ever wondered if God can truly rewrite your story, Ron’s testimony is living proof that He can.
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Key Topics & Timeline:
00:00 — Introduction and Greetings
01:22 — Ron Gruber’s Childhood: Abuse, Trauma, and Survival
05:23 — Life with a Motorcycle Gang: Brotherhood or Bondage?
07:26 — First Imprisonment and Gang Life: The Brutal Reality
16:00 — Turning Point and Finding Faith: A Night in the Woods
23:32 — Struggles and Redemption: The Battle for the Soul
33:42 — Obedience and Faith in Adversity: Staying True to God
35:34 — Reconnecting with Family: Healing Broken Relationships
37:00 — Impact of Testimonies: Changing Lives with the Word
38:01 — Struggles with Sin and Redemption: Fighting the Old Self
40:32 — Living in the Word: The Daily Fight for Faith
41:38 — Cleaning Up Life’s Messes: Owning Your Story
47:45 — Advice for the Broken: Hope for Those on the Edge
54:09 — Staying Connected to the Spirit: The Power of Prayer
58:05 — Final Reflections and Encouragement: The Road Ahead
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Why You Should Listen to This Episode:
✔️ Unfiltered honesty about violence, guilt, and the power of redemption.
✔️ A firsthand testimony of God’s ability to transform even the darkest lives.
✔️ Practical advice for those battling shame, regret, and feelings of unworthiness.
✔️ A reminder that no past is too dark for God’s light to break through.
✔️ Inspiring insights on the power of forgiveness, both receiving and giving.
If you’re struggling to believe that God has a plan for you, or if you’re fighting to forgive yourself for what’s been done or what you’ve done—this episode is for you. Ron’s story proves that even in the darkest nights, God’s grace shines brightest.
🎧 Listen now and let this story remind you that your past doesn’t have to define your future—God does.
#DomesticDad #FaithAndRedemption #OvercomingShame #Testimony #SecondChances #TransformationStory #Forgiveness #BreakingTheCycle
Website: www.domesticdadproject.com
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOMESTICDADPROJECT
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
From the Fire to Freedom: Joe Bondy’s Journey of Redemption, Faith, and Fatherhood
In this raw and deeply moving episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Joe Bondy, a man who has lived through the depths of addiction, violence, and self-destruction—only to emerge stronger through the grace of God. Joe’s story is one of unimaginable hardship, but also powerful transformation, healing, and redemption.
For over 30 years, Joe was caught in the cycle of addiction, incarceration, and broken relationships. He grew up in a world where violence and substance abuse were the norm, leading him down a dark path that nearly cost him everything—his family, his freedom, and even his life. But in his lowest moments, God reached out, and Joe’s journey took a turn toward hope, faith, and renewal. Now, he’s a leader in his community, mentoring men who are fighting their own battles with addiction and rebuilding their lives.
This episode explores powerful themes of fatherhood, faith, accountability, and breaking generational cycles. Nick and Joe discuss the struggles of addiction recovery, the deep wounds of childhood trauma, the reality of relapse, and the incredible healing that comes when you surrender to God’s plan. If you’ve ever questioned whether change is possible, Joe’s story is living proof that no one is beyond redemption.
Key Topics & Timeline:
00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Joe Bondy
00:30 Joe's Childhood: Love and Torment
02:19 Early Encounters with Racism
05:19 Struggles with Abuse and Early Drug Use
12:14 School Challenges and Dropping Out
16:03 Moving to Iowa and Escaping Gang Life
19:04 Finding Faith and Overcoming Addiction
22:59 Embracing a New Life in Christ
38:21 The Journey to Transformation
39:00 Struggles and Regrets
40:07 A Father's Guilt and Redemption
40:59 The Impact on Family
43:27 Seeking Forgiveness and Change
46:38 The Power of Faith and Community
49:30 Leading by Example
53:20 The Rise Up Program
01:03:28 A New Beginning
01:13:27 Pain Management and Medical Marijuana
01:14:40 Struggles with Addiction and Faith
01:16:02 Recovery and Relapse
01:21:13 Family and Personal Transformation
01:28:03 Community and Support Systems
01:48:28 Final Reflections and Advice
Why You Should Listen to This Episode:
✔️ Raw, unfiltered honesty about addiction, fatherhood, and faith.
✔️ A firsthand testimony of God’s power to redeem even the most broken lives.
✔️ Real-life strategies for men struggling with addiction and seeking transformation.
✔️ Encouragement and hope for those who feel like they’ve gone too far to be saved.
✔️ Insights on faith-based recovery, breaking generational cycles, and leading by example.
If you’re struggling with addiction, guilt, or wondering if change is really possible, this episode is a must-listen. Joe Bondy’s story proves that no matter how far you’ve fallen, God’s grace can pull you back up.
🎧 Listen now and let this conversation be a reminder that your past doesn’t define you—your next choice does.
#DomesticDad #FaithAndRedemption #BreakingTheCycle #OvercomingAddiction #Fatherhood #RecoveryJourney #Testimony #SecondChances #TransformationStory
Website: www.domesticdadproject.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOMESTICDADPROJECT
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
In this powerful episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Pastor Chip Uhrmacher from Prairie Lakes Church in Cedar Falls Iowa for an eye-opening conversation about marriage, faith, and overcoming life’s greatest challenges.
Pastor Chip shares deeply personal moments—from his own spiritual transformation to the devastating loss of his sister to violence—illustrating the profound impact of faith and resilience. They explore the four postures of marriage, the struggles that addiction and emotional wounds bring into relationships, and the transformative power of forgiveness.
Nick and Pastor Chip dive into real, raw conversations about:
✅ How past wounds shape our marriages and how to heal from them
✅ The four postures of marriage—where are you and how do you shift?
✅ The impact of addiction on relationships and how to rebuild trust
✅ Overcoming resentment and learning to communicate with love
✅ Why praying for your spouse is one of the most powerful things you can do
✅ How faith can restore broken relationships and bring families closer
If you’ve ever struggled with distance in your marriage, felt lost in your faith, or wondered how to repair broken trust, this episode will give you the tools and real-life wisdom to make a change.
🔹 Episode Highlights:
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📺 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject
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Monday Jan 13, 2025
Monday Jan 13, 2025
The Battle Within: Joe’s Journey from Addiction to Purpose
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett welcomes Joe for a no-holds-barred conversation about his journey through addiction, despair, and his incredible transformation into a beacon of hope in the recovery community. Joe’s story is one of resilience, redemption, and the profound impact of finding purpose.
From a childhood marked by feelings of isolation and self-doubt to years of struggling with addiction, incarceration, and self-destruction, Joe recounts his path with raw honesty. He shares how his substance use spiraled into chaos, pushing him to the brink of suicide before a critical turning point—a realization that recovery was possible and his life still had meaning.
Nick and Joe discuss the pivotal moments that shaped his transformation, including his early recovery journey, the importance of accountability, and the life-changing support of his wife and granddaughter. Joe reveals how finding community, leaning into faith, and embracing vulnerability gave him the tools to rebuild his life. Today, Joe is a leader in the recovery field, creating programs and offering support to those seeking to escape the grips of addiction.
This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance, the value of service, and the life-changing rewards of sobriety. Joe’s inspiring journey offers hope for anyone searching for redemption and proof that no mess is too big to clean up.
Episode Highlights:
•00:00 Introduction: From Chaos to Purpose
•02:00 Guest Introduction: Joe’s Journey of Struggle and Redemption
•06:00 Childhood and the Roots of Isolation
•14:00 Addiction Unleashed: Substance Use and the Cycle of Shame
•25:00 Rock Bottom: Incarceration, Loss, and Near-Death Experiences
•32:00 The Turning Point: Recovery Begins with Faith and Community
•38:00 Finding Purpose: Joe’s Work in the Recovery Community
•46:00 Building Connection: The Role of Accountability and Service
•58:00 Fatherhood and Legacy: Lessons for Future Generations
•1:10:00 Advice for the Struggling: “How Bad Do You Want It?”
•1:16:00 Final Thoughts: Life After Addiction
Key Themes:
•The roots of addiction and the courage to face one’s truth
•The importance of accountability, community, and faith in recovery
•Overcoming shame and building self-worth
•Fatherhood, resilience, and creating a legacy of hope
•The ongoing journey of sobriety and the joy of serving others
Joe’s story will resonate with anyone battling addiction or searching for a path to redemption. His unwavering commitment to helping others is a reminder that every step forward can inspire change and healing in the lives of countless others.
#RecoveryJourney #BreakingAddiction #FaithAndPurpose #DomesticDadPodcast #ResilienceInRecovery #FatherhoodLegacy #SobrietySuccess #OvercomingShame #CommunityHealing #StrengthInService
Website: www.domesticdadproject.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject
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Elevate: https://elevateccbhc.org/
Joe Trumbley Social: https://www.facebook.com/joe.trumbley.7
Monday Dec 30, 2024
Monday Dec 30, 2024
In this powerful episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett welcomes Quovadis Marshall, affectionately known as Pastor Q, the Pastor of Hope City Church in Waterloo, Iowa, and the author of the life-changing book Fighting for Love: Fighting for Life, Love, and All That Matters. https://www.fightingforlove.us
This conversation delves deep into Pastor Q’s remarkable story—a journey from brokenness to redemption. Raised in a home marked by poverty, chaos, and broken relationships, Pastor Q sought belonging in all the wrong places. From gang life to a robbery at age 19 that led to over seven years in prison, his journey is a testament to the transformative power of God’s grace and intentionality.
Pastor Q shares how a single moment changed his life forever—the day God knocked on his door—literally—and set him on a path toward healing, restoration, and a renewed purpose. Through candid storytelling, he opens up about his “BC days” (before Christ): a time defined by anger, selfishness, and dysfunction, especially in his marriage. With vulnerability and wisdom, Pastor Q and Nick unpack the lessons that helped him rebuild trust, embrace his role as a leader, and fight for what truly matters—his family, his faith, and his legacy.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
• Building Strong Marriages: Insights from Fighting for Love on how to fight for your spouse, not against them, and how conflict can serve as a tool for intimacy and growth.
• Breaking Generational Cycles: Replacing unhealthy family patterns with love, trust, and a purpose rooted in faith.
• Fatherhood and Leadership: Why embracing vulnerability and accountability is essential for leading your family with integrity.
• Faith as the Foundation: The life-changing power of God’s grace in rewriting even the most broken stories.
This episode offers more than inspiration—it’s packed with practical advice and biblical wisdom for anyone looking to strengthen their relationships, lead their families, and build a legacy rooted in love and faith.
Nick and Pastor Q challenge listeners to step into their calling, drop the pride, and begin actively fighting for love in their marriages, families, and personal growth. Whether you’re seeking encouragement, wisdom, or a fresh perspective on what it means to fight for what matters most, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped.
Fighting For Love Book: https://www.fightingforlove.us
Fighting For Love on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0zSMkzR
Website: https://www.domesticdadproject.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOMESTICDADPROJECT
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Tuesday Dec 24, 2024
Tuesday Dec 24, 2024
The holiday season is here, and while it’s a time for joy, family, and celebration, it can also be a minefield for those navigating sobriety. In this episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up the Mess, Nick Barnett reflects on his personal journey of transforming holiday chaos into a season of hope and connection through sobriety. Packed with insights, practical advice, and heartfelt stories, this episode is your guide to staying sober, present, and purposeful during the holidays.
Nick breaks down six actionable tips to help you not only survive but thrive during the holiday season. From preparing for social gatherings to creating meaningful sober traditions, you’ll walk away with tools to stay strong in your recovery. Whether you’re newly sober or years into your journey, this episode will resonate deeply.
Key Takeaways with Timestamps:
•[00:01:00] Opening Reflection: Nick paints a vivid picture of how his holidays once revolved around heavy drinking and the impact it had on his family.
•[00:04:00] The Dangerous Illusion of Control: A candid discussion about how addiction tricks us into thinking we’re in charge, while it silently steals joy and connection.
•[00:07:00] Tip 1 - Plan Your Gatherings with Sobriety in Mind: Learn why preparation is your best ally and how to create a fail-proof plan for navigating parties and family events.
•[00:09:00] Tip 2 - Practice Saying No: Nick shares how to confidently decline offers of alcohol and manage social pressures with grace.
•[00:11:00] Tip 3 - Create Sober Traditions: Discover creative ways to replace old drinking habits with meaningful holiday rituals that bring joy and connection.
•[00:13:00] Tip 4 - Backup Plans for Triggering Situations: From managing family dynamics to finding quiet spaces, Nick outlines strategies to stay grounded during stressful moments.
•[00:16:00] Tip 5 - Prioritize Self-Care: Explore why rest, reflection, and personal downtime are critical for staying sober during the holiday hustle.
•[00:18:00] Tip 6 - Focus on the True Meaning of the Holidays: A call to shift your energy toward gratitude, faith, family, and connection to make the holidays truly special.
•[00:21:00] Closing Thoughts: Nick reflects on his third sober Christmas and offers hope and encouragement for listeners navigating similar paths.
Keywords:
Sobriety during the holidays, tips for staying sober, holiday sobriety strategies, managing family triggers, sober traditions for Christmas, coping with holiday stress in recovery, staying present while sober, creating sober holiday memories, overcoming addiction, sobriety podcast, Domestic Dad podcast, sobriety tips for parents, staying alcohol-free at Christmas, recovery during the holidays.
Why You Should Listen:
Whether you’re dealing with addiction, in early recovery, or looking for ways to support a loved one, this episode offers relatable stories and practical advice to make this holiday season a meaningful and sober celebration. Tune in now to gain the confidence and clarity you need to thrive during this festive time of year!
Website: www.domesticdadproject.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject
Monday Dec 16, 2024
Monday Dec 16, 2024
Overcoming Trauma and Finding Purpose | Marcus “Smooth” Norris Shares His Powerful Story
In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Marcus “Smooth” Norris for an inspiring conversation about overcoming unimaginable trauma, finding purpose, and using his experiences to uplift others.
Marcus shares his journey from a childhood marked by violence, tragedy, and adversity to becoming a beacon of hope for his community. Shot in the head at just seven years old, Marcus faced a life-altering injury that left him with physical and emotional scars. Despite the odds, he refused to be defined by his circumstances. From enduring multiple losses, including the death of his father and mother, to finding solace and strength in fatherhood, Marcus reveals the battles he fought to heal and grow.
This episode dives deep into the creation of Marcus’s inspirational brand, Reality Check Movement, which combines motivational apparel and community engagement to spark change and inspire others to chase their dreams. Nick and Marcus discuss the healing power of vulnerability, the importance of creating safe spaces for young people, and the strength that comes from leaning into your purpose—even when life feels insurmountable.
Through candid stories of faith, fatherhood, and resilience, Marcus demonstrates how the darkest moments can plant seeds for the brightest futures. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of healing, community, and staying true to one’s values.
Topics Covered in This Episode:
✔️ How Marcus overcame childhood trauma and loss
✔️ The creation of Reality Check Movement and its impact
✔️ Lessons from fatherhood and co-parenting with compassion
✔️ Mental health, resilience, and personal growth
✔️ Empowering kids to dream big and find their purpose
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction: Turning Trauma into Triumph
2:00 Marcus’s Early Life: Violence, Adversity, and Survival
12:00 Building Resilience: Coping with Loss and Finding Strength
22:30 Creating Reality Check Movement: Turning Pain into Purpose
35:00 The Role of Fatherhood: Lessons Learned from a 4-Year-Old Son
43:00 Co-Parenting with Compassion: Communicating for Your Child’s Growth
52:00 Helping Kids Dream Big: Empowering Youth Through Creativity
1:00:00 Final Words: Finding Grace, Healing, and Community
Why You Should Watch This Episode:
Marcus’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith and resilience. Whether you’re navigating challenges in your own life, seeking inspiration, or looking for actionable advice on personal growth, this episode offers powerful insights that will resonate with you.
💡 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories and practical advice on fatherhood, healing, and personal growth!
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#OvercomingTrauma #ResilienceInAction #RealityCheckMovement #DomesticDadPodcast #FatherhoodJourney #HealingAndFaith #MentalHealthMatters #InspiringStories #PersonalGrowth #MotivationalPodcast
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