Real Dad Talk with Therapist Brian Stokes

Bloodlines & Boundaries: Family Doesn't Mean Access

Setting boundaries with family isn’t easy — especially when you’re the one who’s “made it” or become the reliable one. In this week’s episode of Paternity Leave, Wes gets real about what it looks like to teach family boundaries — how fatherhood changed his relationships with his siblings, why saying no doesn’t mean you don’t care, and how protecting your peace is part of protecting your home. From funny moments about family expectations to honest reflections on growth and guilt, this episode is a reminder that you can love your people deeply and still set limits. Plus, Wes shares his Dad Wins & Fails of the weekPartner: Bump To Baby → — use code BUMP30 for 30 % off. Chicago Family Doulas [https://chicagofamilydoulas.com/bump-to-baby/]

Dad Thoughts at 2 AM

In this episode, I share the biggest takeaways from last weeks episode that hit me hardest — what they’ve made me rethink about being a husband, a father, and a man trying to do this right. I couldn’t stop thinking about everything we unpacked — from how marriage shifts after kids, to the pressure dads feel to provide, to the invisible work our partners carry at home. Plus, "What the F Are Kids On?" is back… and let’s just say my kids gave me plenty of new material this week. Grab your coffee (or your 2AM bottle), and let’s get into it.

Real Dad Talk with Therapist Brian Stokes

This week, we’re joined by Brian Stokes (@brianlamarstokes) — therapist, influencer, and father of three girls — for an honest, unfiltered conversation about what it really means to be a man, partner, and father today. Brian opens up about the emotional weight men carry, why so many avoid therapy, and how becoming a dad changed his marriage. We dive into the unspoken side of fatherhood, including postpartum struggles in men, rebuilding connection after kids, and how to show up better for yourself and your family.

The Guilt You Don’t Say Out Loud

Dad guilt is undefeated — whether it’s missing the big stuff, fumbling the small stuff, or just lying awake replaying all of it. Wes digs into why it hits so hard, what his own dad taught him about carrying it, and how to laugh your way through the mess.

I Didn't Bond at Birth, and That's Okay

In this episode, I’m sharing something really personal — my own experience of not feeling that instant bond with my baby. It wasn’t what I expected, and honestly, it left me feeling pretty lost at times. If you’re a dad (or know one) who’s felt a bit out of sync in those early days, you’re not alone. This is just a real, honest look at what it felt like for me, and how things slowly started to change.