Domestic Dad Cleaning Up The Mess | Sobriety, Parenting, Dad, Addiction, Recovery,

https://feed.podbean.com/domesticdad/feed.xml

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

Monday Jun 10, 2024

Personal Growth Journey - Gary Kroeger

Monday Jun 10, 2024

Join host Nick Barnett and special guest Gary Kroeger in a heartfelt episode of "Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up the Mess." They share personal stories and insights on fatherhood, mental health, and the importance of authentic communication. Gary reflects on transformative moments as a father and the need to redefine masculinity to embrace vulnerability and open dialogue.

Together, they emphasize the significance of seeking help for mental health struggles and creating supportive communities. This episode offers actionable advice for fathers and mental health advocates, highlighting the importance of genuine connections and overcoming life's challenges through emotional honesty. Tune in for a candid conversation that explores the complexities of parenting and offers a roadmap to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Summary

The conversation is a deep and heartfelt discussion between two individuals, Gary and Nick, focusing on the themes of fatherhood, mental health, and authentic communication. The dialogue touches on personal anecdotes, advice for struggling individuals, and the importance of emotional vulnerability.

Key Themes and Points:

Fatherhood and Communication:
- Gary emphasizes the importance of honest communication with his children, highlighting the joy he feels when they express their own ideas and thoughts.
- Both Gary and Nick discuss the challenges and rewards of being present and emotionally available for their children.
Mental Health:
- Gary and Nick share their personal struggles with mental health, including thoughts of suicide and the impact of addiction.
- They stress the importance of seeking help, whether through therapy, hotlines, or talking to trusted friends and family.
- Gary advises not to suppress dark thoughts but to bring them into the light by sharing and seeking support.
Redefining Masculinity:
- The conversation includes a discussion on redefining masculinity to include emotional vulnerability and openness.
- Both participants reflect on societal expectations for men to be tough and how breaking this stigma can lead to healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Personal Growth and Reflection:
- Gary reflects on his journey from struggling with dark thoughts to finding joy in everyday moments.
- Nick acknowledges the impact of community and support in overcoming personal challenges.
Advice and Hope:
- Gary provides practical advice for those struggling with mental health issues, emphasizing the importance of immediate action and seeking help.
- He shares an anecdote about finding joy in simple moments, reinforcing the idea that happiness can be found even in difficult times.

Actionable Advice:

Seek immediate help if experiencing dark thoughts or mental health struggles.
Engage in open and honest communication with family and friends.
Embrace vulnerability and emotional openness as strengths rather than weaknesses.
Recognize and celebrate small moments of joy and connection.