The Practical Dad

EP 28 | Leaving Peru, Building a Family | Guest: Christian Santos

This is another episode in THE DAD EXPERIENCE series where Christian Santos shares his journey from growing up in Peru to raising four daughters, discussing fatherhood, faith, family leadership, and the lessons that shaped his life.

EP 27 | 4 Reminders That Made Me a Better Dad | Reflections From "How To Lead Your Family" by Joel Beeke

Joshua shares what he learned through four powerful reminders that are shaping the way he shows up as a father. We are all growing and will continue to grow as a dad. This episode is a reflection on 4 items from Joel Beeke's book, and how these lessons can influence the way we lead our families. Use this episode to further your journey as a father and become more intentional in the role you’ve been given.

EP 26 | Work Ethic, Vulnerability, & Leading | Guest: C.J. Frazier

In this episode of The Practical Dad, host Joshua Fitchett sits down with his friend and fellow pastor, CJ Frazier, for a candid conversation about the "dad experience". CJ shares the profound impact of his father, a hard-working man born in 1936 who passed away when CJ was just 11 years old.CJ reflects on his father’s "old school" work ethic and how losing a parent at a young age shaped his perspective on mortality and his own role as a father to four children. Key topics in this episode include: The Legacy of a Working Father: CJ discusses the character qualities his father instilled in him, including his pain tolerance, resilience, and unwavering belief in his children. The "Messiah Complex": Why dads should stop trying to be the perfect savior of their homes and instead focus on being an illustration of Christ. Intentionality and Consistency: Practical advice for shepherding your family through the "as you go" moments of life rather than strictly following a rigid liturgy. Vulnerability in Parenting: The power of asking your children for forgiveness and showing them that "Dad needs Jesus, too". The Two Shepherds Podcast: A quick look into Joshua and CJ’s other project, focusing on biblical brainstorms between local pastors. Whether you are a new father or have grown children, this episode serves as a reminder that your life is short and your influence is monumental. As CJ notes, your primary goal is to leave a legacy that shows you loved Christ above all things. Follow the Journey: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to check out the Two Shepherds podcast for more discussions on theology and culture.

EP 25 | Raising Boys That Actually Want To Grow Up | Boys Adrift by Leonard Sax, MD, PhD

Why are so many young men today struggling to find motivation, failing to launch, and feeling disconnected from adulthood? In this episode, Joshua dives deep into the groundbreaking research of Leonard Sax, MD, PhD, and his book Boys Adrift. He explores the five factors driving the growing epidemic of unmotivated boys and underachieving young men—and more importantly, what we as parents can do to fix it. In this episode, Joshua discusses: The "Failure to Launch" Phenomenon: Why the transition to adulthood is getting harder for the modern male. The 5 Factors: A breakdown of how changes in education, video games, medications, environmental toxins, and the lack of male role models are impacting our sons. Reclaiming Masculinity: How to foster a sense of purpose, responsibility, and drive in boys. Practical Parenting Tips: Actionable steps you can take today to help your son build the resilience he needs to thrive. If you’ve noticed your son spending more time in virtual worlds than the real one, or if you're worried about his lack of ambition, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about how to raise boys who are excited to become men. Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction: The Crisis Facing Boys 04:15 - Factor 1: Changes in Schooling & Education 10:30 - Factor 2: The Impact of Video Games 16:45 - Factor 3: ADHD Medications & Over-prescription 22:10 - Factor 4: Environmental Toxins 28:30 - Factor 5: The Loss of Positive Male Mentorship 34:00 - Solutions: How to Help Your Son Find Purpose 38:15 - Closing Thoughts Resources Mentioned: Boys Adrift by Leonard Sax, MD, PhD Join the Conversation: What is the biggest challenge you’re facing while raising your son? Let me know in the comments below! Subscribe to The Practical Dad for more deep dives into parenting, leadership, and raising the next generation.

EP 24 | Stop Performing, Start Showing Up — A Dad’s Take on Real Fatherhood | Guest: Ben Wilson

This episode features “The Dad Experience,” with host Joshua Fitchett sitting down with Ben Wilson to discuss how the Christian gospel shapes the everyday work of fatherhood. Drawing from his personal journey as a husband, father, and pastor, Ben reflects on the importance of intentional presence, humility, and spiritual leadership in the home.The conversation explores how fathers can model grace, practice transparency with their children, and break unhealthy generational patterns by pointing their families toward Christ rather than toward a false image of perfection.Key Themes:• Fatherhood as a reflection of the gospel• Presence over proximity• Vulnerability and honesty in parenting• Breaking generational cycles• Spiritual leadership in the home