Father On Purpose Podcast

When it comes to your identity, do you ever feel the pull to let culture, career, or even past mistakes define who you are? The stakes are high, and not just for you, but for your kids too. This episode will begin a three-part series on Identity, and for today, we’ll start with the foundations we look to on our journey to find out what our identity truly is. Together we’ll walk through six guiding principles, things like why the Bible must be our source, why God (not those around us or even ourselves) decides who we are, and how our words shape the way our children see themselves. You’ll be reminded that your identity is fixed, your character is (or at least should be!) growing, and your influence as a dad is more powerful than you may realize. This isn’t just theory. It’s biblical, it’s practical, and it’s the kind of conversation that can change the way you parent this week. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Range Leather:Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ Fatherhood Guardhttps://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon State Of Biblical Fatherhoodhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

"My greatest lesson in my entire life was that I'm not in control." Wise words from our wonderful guest today, Scott MacLellan. Do you ever feel the pressure to try and be your kids' savior? Like you're responsible for all of their choices, no matter how good or bad they might be? Scott learned the hard way that there's only one person that can fill that role, and it's not you and me. It's only Jesus. Today, Scott shows us what it means to let go of the reins and hand them over to Christ, without being passive or ditching your responsibility to lead your family. Scott MacLellan has been a CEO for the last 25 years, leading multi-billion-dollar businesses and tens of thousands of employees. He’s written nine books, is the executive producer of an upcoming streaming series in development and has even worked as a celebrity bodyguard. His greatest story is tied to being a follower of Jesus Christ, married for over 40 years, a father of two daughters, and grandfather to three boys. You do not want to miss this episode. Let's dive in to a story of tragedy, fear, hopelessness, but ultimately, one of redemption. -Preorder Scott's upcoming revised version of "An Acre Of Fools" on amazon: https://a.co/d/bbTJAOy -Check out Scott's upcoming non-profit to provide support for addiction recovery: https://www.riversoul.org ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Range Leather:Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ Fatherhood Guardhttps://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon State Of Biblical Fatherhoodhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

"You want your kids to see you as a safe space." That's just one of the gold nuggets you'll get from today's guest, Dr. Kim Kimberling. Dr. Kim is a treasure trove of wisdom, and we have the chance to soak some of that up in today's episode. Ever wondered how to parent kids in a culture ruled by social media and cancel culture, what it means to be intentional as a dad, or how to practically cultivate grace in your home? We get into that and much more. Dive in to our conversation with Dr. Kim and be encouraged, challenged, and inspired. Download the latest Awesome Marriage monthly resource "Raising Faithful Kids in a Cancel Culture" for any donation amount and support our friend Dr. Kim: https://awesomemarriage.com/raising-faithful-kids-in-a-cancel-culture-printable ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Range Leather:Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ Fatherhood Guardhttps://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon State Of Biblical Fatherhoodhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

If you knew the answer to every question you ever asked, would you still ask them? Probably not. However, we can learn from the model of Jesus who had at least some of (if not all) the answers to every question he ever asked...and yet he still asked them. Why? We believe that at least part of that answer is because Scripture teaches that the heart of the wise is a curious heart (Proverbs 18:15, 20:5). Asking questions does more than reveal information. It keeps you humble. You have more influence asking good questions than making a bunch of statements. In today's episode, we take a lesson from one of Kent's friends named Blake, who models this lifestyle of asking great questions. Our challenge to you? This week, choose the path of curiosity. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Range Leather:Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ Fatherhood Guardhttps://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon State Of Biblical Fatherhoodhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

What does it really mean to be a biblical father? Not just a moral, modern, or “cool” dad, but one who shapes his kids’ hearts for the Lord. In this episode, we break fatherhood down into three essential ingredients—straight from Scripture—so you can parent with purpose. Whether you’re a brand-new dad or a seasoned veteran, you’ll find biblical encouragement, practical wisdom, and even some laughter along the way. Think of this episode as a distillation of who we are at our core here at Father On Purpose. If you've been along for the ride with us for the last 4 years or so, we owe you our gratitude. We’ve also got a special challenge for you. If you're a dad who's just joining us, welcome aboard. We hope God uses us to "spur you on toward love and good deeds" (Heb 10:24) and that you would fully embrace becoming a Father On Purpose. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Range Leather:Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ Fatherhood Guardhttps://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon State Of Biblical Fatherhoodhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

Dad, have you paused lately to think about who has helped you become the father, husband, and man you are today? Chances are, you didn't get here alone. We're all products of past generosity. This episode is all about recognizing and appreciating those who've supported us behind the scenes. We want to celebrate the people who rarely get the spotlight but who play essential roles in our lives and stories. Namely, today we want to honor Lawson Brown. He's co-host extraordinaire, a friend that sticks closer than a brother, and one of the reasons you're able to listen to this show today. Thank you Lawson. In today's episode, Kent dives into some fascinating examples from history—like the unseen heroes behind the translation of the Bible or the creation of "Amazing Grace"—and shares stories from his own life and ministry. Listen in, be encouraged, and then take the challenge: thank someone who's made a difference in your journey, and help your kids see the value of gratitude in action. Generosity fuels the kingdom, and you probably have a lot more to give than you think. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Range Leather:Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ Fatherhood Guardhttps://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon State Of Biblical Fatherhoodhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

If you're anything like us, your answer to the title question might sound something like "well it depends...in what area?" What if we're asking the wrong question altogether? Our culture constantly pushes us to measure success in terms of work accomplishments, financial milestones, or social recognition. It's tempting to think of our life as an aggregate GPA, where we might be failing in one area, but hey, at least we're doing okay over here! It can be easy to hope our financial wins give us extra husband points, or our promotion at work makes up for all those missed ballgames. This week, we dive into powerful conversations exploring why success might be the wrong goal—and why faithfulness is the true target. We get into some of our favorite definitions of success, such as, "when those who know you best respect you the most" (thanks Mark!) or "being in the process of achieving a God-honoring goal." We'll also examine some biblical wisdom from Joshua, Psalms, Proverbs, and elsewhere to redefine our idea of prospering and effectiveness. Forget compartmentalizing life into separate scorecards. This episode is your invitation to embrace contentment, pursue incremental progress, and anchor your plans firmly in faithfulness to God. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazonhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

Do you ever feel like everything depends on you? Providing for the family. Holding it all together. Making sure the house doesn’t fall apart—figuratively and literally. This mindset can feel noble, but it often leads to stress, anxiety, or pride. In this episode, we unpack Psalm 127 and Hebrews 3 to remind ourselves what it means to let God take the lead. He is the true Builder, and when we try to take that role from Him, we end up carrying a load we were never designed to bear. Through personal stories, biblical reflection, and some real talk around identity and control, we invite you to consider a better way. One marked by prayer, dependence, and freedom that comes from trusting God with both your work and your home. Let the peace of handing over the reigns wash over you this week. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazonhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

Ever feel like your past is holding you back as a dad? You’re not alone—and you’re not disqualified. This week, we sit down with a very special guest and new friend of the show, Sammy Perez. He's a husband, father of four, and national voice for second chances through his work at Prison Fellowship. Sammy’s story is raw and real. From time behind bars to meeting Jesus in a prison cell and even finding his own father figure, his testimony will move you, but what God has done in his life since then and the work that has been done in his family is where the real story begins. We talk about: Whether you grew up with the wrong role models—or none at all—this episode is a hope-filled reminder that it’s never too late to begin again. Whenever you feel like life is running you over and it seems impossible that God could use you any more, soak in this reminder from Sammy: "I was created for more than this." This one is for the dad who feels disqualified. God’s not done with you, even if there are times you might feel like you're done with him. Check out more of Sammy's story here Learn about Sammy's work with Prison Fellowship here ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazonhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

today's episode, we have the pleasure of talking with pastor Aaron Harvie. Aaron is the senior pastor at Highview Baptist Church in Louisville, KY. Prior to his role there, he served as a Church Planting Mobilizer with the North American Mission Board and taught at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has an extensive background in pastoring and planting churches in Kentucky and Philadelphia. Aaron and Allison have 5 children: John, Grace, Luke, Porter, and Claire. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Ouachita Baptist University in 1995 and a Master of Divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1998. Needless to say, Aaron's a sharp dude. Not only that, he's a gold mine for dads who want to better disciple their kids. We get into some of his personal testimony, the importance of a close relationship with God's word, what it really means to "measure up" as a dad, and much more. You don't want to miss this one. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazonhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

It started as a simple family phrase: "Look for the overlooked." However, Lawson's daughter Olivia flipped this on its head, encouraging her students to ask if maybe one of the people you're overlooking is yourself—or even a version of yourself you've neglected for too long. In this episode, we unpack what it means to notice the unseen, and not just in the people around us, but in the parts of ourselves we’ve pushed aside. What have we neglected in the name of productivity? What’s been quietly waiting for us to slow down, breathe, and listen? Turns out, Jesus was in the business of seeing the overlooked—from the woman at the well to the leper no one would touch. And if we want to follow His lead as dads, it might mean noticing the quiet parts of our own soul that need care, rest, and reconnection with the Father. This one’s part biblical reflection, part personal confession, and part reminder that even (especially?) the busiest dad needs to hit pause and pay attention to the ones that no one else will. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazonhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

Faithful. Gentle. Loving. Godly. Patient. These are the kinds of words we hope our kids would use to describe us. But if they were being totally honest, what’s the one word they'd actually write down? Would it be something we’re proud of—or something that hits a little too close to home, like angry, stressed, or even absent? In this episode, Kent and Lawson walk through a simple but eye-opening exercise that reveals how our day-to-day choices as dads shape how our kids experience us. The good news? Whatever word they might choose today, it’s doesn't have to be the final word. With time, intentionality, and God’s help, we can grow into the kind of fathers who reflect the heart of Christ in our homes. There’s no guilt trip here—just a real opportunity to reflect, reset, and grow. So whether you walk away from this conversation feeling encouraged or convicted, lean in. You are not a father on accident. So go be a father on purpose. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazonhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to QuitLawson Brown

Happy Father's Day! To celebrate with you, we decided to compile a "best of" podcast episode from this past year. This will give you something to do on this special day, since you definitely don't have anything better to do...right? It's like an annual recap. Take a trip down memory lane with us to some of our favorite highlights from our past year of podcasting. Thank you for being along for the ride. As always, remember: you are not a father on accident. So go be a father on purpose! Links below to the episodes in order of clips used, go back and give them a listen! https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/fathers-day-2024/https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/the-forge-movie-with-alex-and-stephen-kendrick/https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/ep-165-walking-through-adversity-with-darren-walter/https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/what-jeff-zaugg-learned-about-awesome-dads/https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/jim-ramos-helps-men-get-dialed-in/https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/orv-kimbrough-and-the-keys-to-freedom/https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/dont-bench-yourself/https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/josh-kubler-on-gospel-centered-parenting/https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/cameron-arnett-on-playing-the-part-of-jesus/https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/becoming-a-curious-father-with-mark-batterson/https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/mac-powell-on-being-a-present-parent/ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/ https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ Don't Bench Yourself on Amazonhttp://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts: Kent EvansWise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around YouDon't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to Quit Lawson Brown

In today's episode, we have the privilege of sharing our conversation with pastor and author Mark Batterson. Mark Batterson serves as lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, DC. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Regent University and is the author of 24 books including the New York Times bestselling The Circle Maker as well as In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, and, most recently, A Million Little Miracles. As Mark likes to say, "There's only 2 ways to live your life - as if nothing is a miracle, or as if everything is." His advice to dads is pretty straightforward: love your family as God has loved you. While this is simple, that doesn't mean it's easy. We get into some practical ways to love our kids as our Father has loved us. "How are your kids going to learn to say sorry if they don't hear it from you?" "We have to help our kids cultivate holy, non-anxious curiosity." "You can't force feed your kids Scripture...but you can live it." "We create the world our kids live in through our words." These are just some of the nuggets of wisdom from today's episode with Mark. We hope this conversation is encouraging, enlightening, and inspires you to go forth as a dad with refreshed love and kindness towards your kids. Check out Mark's latest book: https://www.markbatterson.com/books/a-million-little-miracles/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/Don't BenchYourselfDon't Bench Yourself on Amazon http://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts:

Today's episode is a little different than normal. We need your help. As many of us know, the world is suffering from a fatherlessness crisis. Homes without dads abound, and with that reality comes many consequences. We want to stop that. However, the first step towards winning a battle is always realizing that you're in one. That's why we're releasing the State Of Biblical Fatherhood report. With over 6,000 survey responses, this report will help shed some light on what it looks like when homes are left without Christian dads to lead them. This isn't just doom and gloom though. We want to light a fire under you. Your family needs you, now more than ever. Go read the report and share it with your friends, your family, and your pastor. Just click the links below. We also want to extend the opportunity for you to join the Fatherhood Guard. The Fatherhood Guard is our group of monthly supporters who make it possible for us to do things like creating this report and all the other work we do. Your support is making a difference in homes and families worldwide. For any monthly donation, you get to be one of our core supporters, and maybe even get a cool hat...but of course we know you wouldn't do it just for that...would you? But truly, the greatest gift you get is the chance to pay it forward. As of 2025, we have reached over 2 million dads with some piece of content. Help us reach the next 2 million. You have the ability to get this show in the hands (the ears?) of more and more dads by supporting our work. Consider joining the Fatherhood Guard today by going to https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/. We always say it, but we never want to forget it: you are not a father on accident, so go be a father on purpose. http://manhoodjourney.org/sobfhttps://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/Don't BenchYourselfDon't Bench Yourself on Amazon https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts:

Ever tried to warn your kids about something and had them roll their eyes so hard it echoed? As dads, we’ve been down some rough roads—and part of our job is helping our kids avoid the same potholes. But how we offer that wisdom can make all the difference. Come on too strong and we sound like a lecture. Stay too quiet and we miss a chance to guide them. If you want to be heard and influential with your kids, this one's for you. In today's episode, Kent and Lawson dive into how to offer wise counsel that connects, using Solomon’s masterclass in Proverbs 7 as a guide. They tackle questions like: At the end of the day, our kids don’t need a fortune-teller. They need a father who’s humble, present, and willing to step in, without being a know-it-all. Let's dive in. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/Don't BenchYourselfDon't Bench Yourself on Amazon https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------- About our hosts:

Ever heard the phrase, "you are what you eat?" What if we told you this: you are what you think. Not quite as catchy, but perhaps even more true. The reality is, for better or worse, we become what we behold. Our thought patterns are among the most important aspects of how we view ourselves, the world around us, our relationship to God, and everything else we go through or interact with on a daily basis. Thankfully, Scripture has a lot to say about where we should "set our minds" (Colossians 3, Romans 8, and Philippians 4, to name a few examples). Just like the dial on an FM radio, we can choose where to tune our minds, and like it or not, whatever you “tune into” most consistently becomes the soundtrack of your life, and ultimately, the shape of your character. Let's dive into what God's Word says about our thoughts, and explore some of the obvious (and sometimes not-so-obvious) ways we can honor God with where we fix our minds. Shop Range LeatherMJ15https://rangecoffee.com/Don't BenchYourselfDon't Bench Yourself on Amazon https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/

Struggling to connect and communicate well with your kids? You’re not the only one. In this episode, Kent and Lawson explore why meaningful communication isn’t just about saying the right words. It’s about aligning your heart, ears, and mouth. Drawing from Luke 6:45, they unpack how what's stored in your heart inevitably spills out in your speech—for better or worse. Today's episode will help you learn how to shift from correction to connection with your kids. If you want your words to build trust instead of barriers, this one's for you. Become a member of the fatherhood guard: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/ Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

This week, we’re helping dads everywhere not blow it on Mother’s Day. Whether you’re honoring your amazing wife and mother of your children, or your own mom (and don't forget your mother-in-law!), we’ve got tactical moves and biblical wisdom to help you show up like a pro. From handwritten notes to surprise chores and kid-powered tributes, this episode will give you some tools to make sure the moms in your life feel truly seen. We’ll also look at how Jesus honored His mother—even while saving the world. Because let’s be honest...“I forgot” is not a spiritual gift. Happy Mother's Day to all you mom heroes out there! Become a member of the fatherhood guard: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/ Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Ever feel like fatherhood is just an endless loop of laundry, lunch-packing, and late-night Lego injuries? You’re not alone—and you are making a difference. In this episode, we talk about the quiet strength it takes to do the “mundane” work of being a dad, and why that work might be more meaningful than it seems. From holding down a job that might not spark fireworks to praying for your family when you're running on fumes, we highlight five things godly dads don’t get tired of doing. As Colossians 3:23 reminds us, the most ordinary things become sacred when done for the Lord...even remembering to grab your quarter from the Aldi cart for the hundredth time. So if you're worn out, hang in there. You’re building something eternal, one routine at a time. Become a member of the fatherhood guard: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/ Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15