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The 'Why, Dad?' Podcast

Redefining Fatherhood One Habit at a Time

About

Welcome to the 'Why, Dad?' podcast! Join us as we embark on a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to become the best man, husband, and father we can be. Fed by our unique perspectives of a young father and an aspiring one, we tackle essential questions with curiosity and honesty: How do we grow into the roles we aspire to? How do we love our children deeply and guide them toward true happiness, peace, success, and fulfillment?

We dive into the messy realities of parenting, navigating fraught emotions, unexpected curveballs, and seemingly insurmountable challenges. By uncovering the truths and principles behind parenting, we aim to share practical ways to lead our families with grace and resilience, offering insights and stories to inspire dads everywhere.

Latest Episodes

Why Crucial Conversations Matter in Parenting
Episode 23: Why Crucial Conversations Matter in Parenting

Takeaways

  • Crucial conversations are essential for personal growth and relationship building.
  • Avoiding tough conversations can lead to resentment and miscommunication.
  • The HEAR framework (Hedge, Empathize, Acknowledge, Reframe) is a useful tool for effective communication.
  • It's important to prepare for crucial conversations to ensure they are productive.
  • Emotions will always be present in tough conversations; managing them is key.
  • Children learn from their parents how to handle disagreements and tough topics.
  • Mutual understanding should be the goal of any crucial conversation.
  • Acknowledging shared values can help bridge differences in opinions.
  • Taking conversations personally can escalate conflicts; it's important to remain objective.
  • Practicing crucial conversations can strengthen relationships over time.
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Winning at Home First: Redefining Success with Cory Carlson
Episode 22: Winning at Home First: Redefining Success with Cory Carlson

Cory Carlson — Links & Resources

Website / About / Coaching & Books: Cory Carlson (corymcarlson.com) 

LinkedIn: Cory Carlson on LinkedIn LinkedIn

Books:
 • Win at Home First
 • Rise and Go

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Andrew’s Boisterous Laughs and Paul’s Dad Lessons
Episode 21: Andrew’s Boisterous Laughs and Paul’s Dad Lessons

In this episode of Why Dad?, Paul and Andrew slow things down and invite listeners into a casual conversation about what’s been going on in their lives.

Topics include:

🌽 Surviving the Minnesota “corn sweats”

👶 Paul’s first weeks of paternity leave with both kids at home

🍋 Evie’s lemonade stand and the surprise competition that taught Paul a lesson in letting kids live in the moment

🚗 Andrew’s 15-year father-son car restoration project and the patience it built

❤️ Why shared hobbies and genuine interest in your kids’ passions are some of the most powerful tools for connection

This one mixes humor, reflection, and storytelling. It’s a reminder that the small moments of dad life are where the biggest lessons often show up.

Resources and Mentions:

Good Energy by Dr. Casey Means (book Andrew is currently reading)

Spencer Collazos and the “Big Calendar” reference (from a previous episode)

Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this more laid-back style of episode, let us know! Share your own “dad nuggets” with us at babba35studios@gmail.com.

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David Schatzkamer and Why Play Is the Most Underrated Parenting Tool
Episode 20: David Schatzkamer and Why Play Is the Most Underrated Parenting Tool

Why play matters: Play is how kids communicate their inner world. It’s not just fun—it’s expressive, healing, and relational.

Responding vs. reacting: How slowing down and tuning in builds trust and emotional regulation.

Connection before correction: When children act out, it’s often a bid for connection—not defiance.

Scheduled unstructured time: Just 15–30 minutes of fully present, screen-free play each week can transform your parent-child relationship.

The bedtime battle decoded: Why your kid isn’t actually “hungry”—they just want you near.

Repetition as revelation: Repetitive play often reveals emotional needs or stressors.

Father-daughter bonds: Why a dad’s role in a daughter’s life is especially formative for her confidence and sense of worth.

Parent repair moments: It's not about being perfect—it’s about coming back later to reconnect and repair when you miss the mark.

Creating playful structure: Code words, rituals, and small gestures go a long way in strengthening bonds.

LINKS:

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Meet the Hosts

Paul Wandrey, co-host of The 'Why, Dad?' Podcast

Paul Wandrey

I married Sarah in 2019 and we are now blessed with two kids here on earth and two in heaven. Shortly after we lost our daughter, Isla, born at 22 weeks, I found myself lacking the energy, skills, and know-how to be the husband and dad my wife and daughter needed and deserved. On top of that, I wanted Isla to know that she has a kick-ass dad who loves her and, had she lived, one who would have supported her and set her up for the best life possible.

But how could I do this? By leveling up and starting to show up the way my family so desperately required. Easier said than done, but I was and am determined to figure this out. This podcast is a way for me to make this happen and if I can help anyone else along the way, all the better.

Andrew Stolpestad, co-host of The 'Why, Dad?' Podcast

Andrew Stolpestad

Hi I'm Andrew, only two people in the world get to call me Andy, and Paul isn't one of them.

I grew up in a very Catholic household, and even attended seminary for a while. I'm your typical Minnesota boy. Fishing, hunting and outdoors are my hobbies and passions.

Currently I am a PUNK (professional uncle no kids of my own) to two nieces and three nephews. I am on the market and dream of having my own family. So when Paul asked me about this podcast I was more than eager to join him. What better way to prepare myself for fatherhood and being a husband than to discuss the topics with a dad and close friend?

We would love to hear from you!

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