I Am Dad

Fatherhood is not a role a man steps into when it is easy. It is a calling that demands clarity, responsibility, and presence. In this episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell welcomes Jesse Anderson, a fatherhood coach, court-appointed monitor, and ministry leader whose work focuses on helping men lead their families with strength, faith, and emotional integrity. Jesse shares his deeply personal daddy story, growing up without a biological father and learning how to become a dad through mentors, faith, and lived experience. The conversation explores why many fathers disengage after separation or divorce, how leadership breaks down inside families, and why vulnerability, forgiveness, and consistency are essential to raising healthy children. Together, Braswell and Anderson examine the role of faith in shaping masculine leadership, the difference between being present and being accountable, and how fathers influence both sons and daughters through modeling, structure, and love. From courtrooms to kitchens, the discussion centers on one core truth: children thrive when fathers rise. This episode is a grounded, faith-centered conversation for fathers, mentors, and anyone committed to breaking generational cycles and building purpose-driven families.

This episode of the I Am Dad Podcast is a masterclass in perspective, memory, and meaning. Host Kenneth Braswell welcomes longtime friend and respected fatherhood practitioner Scott Leach for an expansive conversation rooted in New York City’s five boroughs and shaped by decades of work with fathers and families. Scott shares his personal daddy story, reflecting on early separation, childhood anger, sports as an outlet, and the moment his understanding of fatherhood shifted through evidence, accountability, and love. From there, the conversation widens into the complexities of doing fatherhood work in New York—where geography, culture, transportation, and community identity all shape how fathers show up. Together, Braswell and Leach unpack masculinity, marriage, toxic narratives, community mentorship, faith, and the generational impact of the 1980s on today’s fathers. They explore why children need to see healing, why community men still matter, and why fatherhood work is ultimately about supporting healthy children—not choosing sides. This is not a theoretical discussion. It is lived experience, honest reflection, and practical wisdom for anyone committed to strengthening families in real-world conditions.

This episode of the I Am Dad Podcast is a powerful reminder that fatherhood is shaped not only by biology, but by community, responsibility, and purpose. Host Kenneth Braswell welcomes Greg Harris, Outreach Lead with Fathers Incorporated, for an honest, deeply reflective conversation rooted in Brooklyn streets and Atlanta impact. Greg shares his daddy’s story—marked by loss, trauma, and resilience—and reflects on growing up in Brooklyn surrounded by coaches, elders, and community men who stepped in when fathers were absent. Together, Braswell and Harris explore how trust is built with fathers, why outreach is sacred “first contact,” and how heart work—not just hard work—drives transformation. The conversation also examines the realities fathers face today, from apprehension and distrust to redemption and accountability. Through stories of loss and success, the episode underscores the power of relationship, navigation, and purpose in helping men stay present for their children. This is not a conversation about programs alone—it is a conversation about people, pain, healing, and the men who choose to stand in the gap.

Five seasons in, the I Am Dad Podcast continues to examine the foundations of responsible fatherhood—and this episode goes straight to the core question too few ask: So what? Host Kenneth Braswell, CEO of Fathers Incorporated, welcomes national thought leader Matthew Shepherd, founder of Midwest Evaluation and Research, for a wide-ranging and deeply reflective discussion on fatherhood, research integrity, program evaluation, and systems change. Shepherd shares his personal fatherhood journey, including lessons learned from his own dad and the transformative experience of adoption. From there, the conversation expands into the realities of Healthy Marriage and Responsible Fatherhood programs, the challenges of sustainability, the role of policy, and why data without meaning fails to move systems forward. Together, Braswell and Shepherd unpack how programs can use research not as a compliance exercise, but as a tool for continuous improvement, storytelling, and long-term impact. The episode challenges practitioners, funders, and policymakers alike to rethink how success is measured—and why fatherhood remains one of the most powerful, bipartisan investments society can make. If you care about fathers, families, research, or the future of social impact work, this conversation will stretch how you think about all four.

2025 was not a year of isolated wins — it was a year of alignment. In this Fathers Incorporated 2025 Year in Review, we reflect on how fatherhood moved beyond conversation and into infrastructure, systems change, and national influence. Across programs, policy, media, and community engagement, Fathers Incorporated strengthened its role as a trusted leader in responsible fatherhood and family well-being. This review highlights the organization’s national stewardship of the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse, expanded public education through fatherhood.gov, and large-scale behavior change driven by national media partnerships. It also captures the growth and outcomes of the Gentle Warriors Academy, including record-setting graduations, independent evaluation findings, and expanded reach into communities and correctional facilities. Viewers will also see how Fathers Incorporated elevated fatherhood through civic engagement, including the 20th Anniversary of the Million Fathers March, policy leadership on legitimation reform, and sustained narrative change through media appearances and op-eds. Together, these efforts reflect a clear commitment: treating fatherhood not as a side issue, but as a foundational strategy for strengthening families and communities. This video is both a reflection on what was accomplished in 2025 and a statement of where the work is going next. It affirms a simple truth backed by data and experience alike: when fathers are supported, families stabilize, children thrive, and communities grow stronger.

In this powerful and reflective episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell welcomes Coach Wayne Dawson—certified life and mindset coach, father of seven, and a man whose journey through family, faith, and leadership exemplifies what it means to live with legacy in mind. Wayne shares a deeply personal story about growing up with a strong, present father and how that foundation shaped his approach to parenting and leading a blended family. From his early days as a social worker and youth advocate in Harlem, to his rise as a Fortune 50 executive and now as the VIP Coach, Wayne opens up about the defining moments that taught him resilience, authenticity, and the sacred responsibility of guiding Black men to live with clarity, confidence, and certainty. This conversation explores co-parenting dynamics, healing from divorce, honoring the wisdom of our elders, and redefining masculinity in ways that liberate—not limit—our boys and men. A must-listen for fathers, leaders, and anyone seeking purpose in the seasoned stage of life. Timestamps 00:00 – Intro to I Am Dad Podcast 01:00 – Meet Coach Wayne Dawson 03:00 – Wayne’s fatherhood origin story 06:00 – Blended families and owning your past 12:00 – Childhood influences and cultural identity 16:30 – Harlem roots and youth mentorship 19:00 – The generational impact of absent fathers 23:00 – Leaving nonprofit for corporate leadership 27:00 – The power of seasoning and wisdom 30:00 – Coaching Black men through transformation 34:00 – Why Black men often feel unworthy 38:00 – Strength, masculinity, and healthy sensitivity 42:00 – Teaching boys the difference between hurt and injury 45:00 – Boundaries, expectations, and legacy 50:00 – The missing blueprint for modern manhood 55:00 – Writing your story and leaving a legacy 60:00 – Closing reflections and ways to connect About the Guest: Wayne Dawson Wayne Dawson is a certified life and mindset coach, speaker, and founder of VIP Transformative Living. With decades of experience in social work, corporate leadership, and coaching, Wayne helps Black men live aligned with their values, identity, and purpose. He is a devoted father of seven and a passionate advocate for legacy-driven living. Website: iamdadpodcast.com Website: fathersincorporated.com Hashtags #Fatherhood #BlackFathers #SeasonedMen #WayneDawson #KennethBraswell #Manhood #LegacyLiving #BlendedFamilies #BlackMenMatter #PurposeDrivenLife #VIPCoach #IAmDadPodcast

In this eye-opening episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell welcomes Tom Garber, the Berlin-based founder of Hope for Men—a global platform dedicated to male mental health and the host of the groundbreaking podcast What Happened to Me. Through his own experience as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and his journey toward healing, Tom has become a powerful advocate for men navigating trauma, shame, and emotional suppression. Together, Kenneth and Tom examine the reasons why men—even those surrounded by family and friends—often feel invisible, unsupported, and alone. From the structural failure of therapy models to society’s reluctance to acknowledge male vulnerability, they dissect the barriers to healing and explore why storytelling, safe spaces, and community matter. Tom also discusses why his platform was forced to shift away from its original vision and how resistance to male-focused wellness underscores a larger cultural denial. Whether you're a father, a mentor, a survivor, or simply someone who believes in the importance of men's well-being, this conversation is a call to action. When men are well, families heal. Communities thrive. And silence finally breaks.

In this compelling episode of I Am Dad Podcast, Kenneth Braswell sits down with Dwayne Roberts, U.S. Army veteran and founder of Men of Vision Colorado, to explore the intersection of faith, failure, and transformation in the lives of men and fathers. From 15 years in the military to serving time in county lockup, Dwayne's path was anything but linear—but it was divinely orchestrated. Kenneth and Dwayne unpack how faith became the foundation for a second act in life, leading to a ministry dedicated to empowering formerly incarcerated men. They talk about the power of mentorship, the emotional toll of shame and unworthiness, and how spiritual growth plays a critical role in reshaping a man’s identity. Dwayne introduces his “Vision. Plan. Execute.” framework and offers insight into how churches and leaders can more effectively engage and support men on their journey toward healing and leadership. This episode is a masterclass in spiritual fathering, character building, and building environments where men can grow beyond their past into their full potential.

In this deeply moving episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, Michelle Lockhart, a cornerstone of the Fathers Incorporated team, sits down with host Kenneth Braswell for a powerful conversation about family, history, and the fatherhood journey. Sharing her own story of growing up without her father—who was tragically murdered before she was born—Michelle reflects on how that loss shaped her commitment to supporting dads and communities across Atlanta. Together, they unpack the cultural richness of Atlanta, the consequences of generational trauma, and the importance of creating spaces where men feel seen, supported, and equipped. They highlight the life-changing power of grace, accountability, and emotional safety for men navigating fatherhood, legitimation, and community expectations. Michelle's insight is rooted in love, lived experience, and a fierce determination to ensure that no child grows up without a sense of protection and presence. Whether you're a dad, an advocate, or someone committed to building stronger communities, this episode will move you to reflect, act, and lead with intention.

On this episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, Kenneth Braswell sits down with Matt Stevens, a nationally recognized mentor, educator, and leader in youth development and fatherhood engagement. A former Army veteran turned mentoring visionary, Matt shares how his life journey—from struggling student to founder of transformative programs—has shaped his passion for guiding young men toward purpose, education, and community contribution. They explore the evolution of mentoring, the impact of Omega Psi Phi’s leadership in the fatherhood space, and how Zoom and digital mentoring changed the game during the pandemic. Matt emphasizes the urgency of teaching perseverance, reading literacy, and AI adaptability to the next generation while also exploring the legacy of service, stewardship, and creating systems of sustainability in our communities. Whether you're a mentor, father, educator, or someone passionate about young Black men's futures, this conversation will leave you moved and motivated to take action.

In this thought-provoking episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, Kenneth Braswell sits down with Dr. Darren Moore, a nationally recognized expert in men’s mental health, fatherhood, and family therapy. As a Clinical Professor and Associate Director of Training and Supervision at Northwestern University, Dr. Moore brings academic brilliance and lived experience to the table. The conversation begins with a deeply personal "daddy story" that reveals how institutional bias shaped Dr. Moore’s early journey into fatherhood and continues into a rich dialogue on why men—and especially Black men—need to be seen, heard, and supported in medical and mental health systems. Together, they explore the challenges of fatherhood, the stigma surrounding therapy, the power of reflective manhood, and the need for research rooted in strength, not deficit. If you’ve ever felt unseen in fatherhood spaces or wondered how to bridge your personal experiences with systemic change, this episode will speak directly to your heart. Dr. Moore also previews his upcoming book on Black fatherhood and discusses why the research pipeline must be filled with practitioners who live the experience they’re studying. This is a critical conversation that reframes the narratives around fatherhood, mental health, and legacy.

In this powerful episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell welcomes Chris James, a nationally recognized spoken word artist, TEDx speaker, mental health educator, and founder of Creative Connections. As a father of seven and the visionary behind the “Black Boys Better” program, Chris shares how art, advocacy, and emotional intelligence are reshaping the conversation around fatherhood and mental wellness. The two dive deep into fatherhood, the danger of emotional suppression, and how men often carry unacknowledged pain in silence. Chris opens up about becoming a father at 16, dropping his oldest son off at college while raising an 18-month-old, and how his own healing journey allows him to serve boys and men with greater empathy and truth. He and Braswell challenge the myth that men don’t express emotions, arguing instead that men communicate constantly—we just need to listen differently. This episode is rich with lived experience, critical insight, and practical frameworks for healing, mentoring, and creating culturally relevant support systems for Black boys and their fathers.

In this profound episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell sits down with David Mandel, internationally recognized expert on domestic violence and child safety, and author of Stop Blaming Mothers and Ignoring Fathers. As the founder of the Safe & Together Institute, Mandel challenges the systems that fail to hold men accountable and overburden women—while offering real tools for change. The two discuss the power of lived experience, unpack generational trauma, and call for the elevation of the "father fullness" narrative. Mandel shares how fatherhood shaped his life and how growing up with a decent, emotionally present father informed his approach to transforming child welfare and domestic violence systems. From confronting the myth of the “absent father” to reimagining accountability, this episode is a vital listen for practitioners, advocates, and parents working toward healing and justice. Mandel’s insight is not just theoretical—it's global, practical, and grounded in compassion.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell sits down with Dr. Dominick Shattuck, a community psychologist, researcher, and thought leader in men's health and masculinities. From recounting a terrifying incident where his daughter was bitten by a copperhead to unpacking the structural failures of our health systems, Dr. Shattuck opens up about fatherhood, masculinity, and the urgent need to prioritize men's health as a public health issue. They talk about why men often don't seek care, the stigma around vulnerability, and how being emotionally and physically available is the most important trait a father can model. With honesty and insight, this episode challenges traditional narratives and offers a new vision for what it means to be a healthy, engaged father. Whether you’re a dad, a public health advocate, or someone interested in reshaping community health from the ground up, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about manhood and legacy.

In this powerful and wide-ranging episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell, CEO of Fathers Incorporated, welcomes Dr. Charles R. Rogers—award-winning behavioral scientist, founder of the Colorectal Cancer Equity Foundation, and passionate advocate for Black men’s health. Together, they explore the layered reality of fatherhood, from Dr. Rogers' personal story of losing his father to suicide at age four, to his work combating health disparities in colorectal cancer. The conversation cuts deep into the undervalued role of fathers in family health, why “picking someone’s brain” without compensation is problematic, and how boundaries, service, and legacy must co-exist for Black men doing impactful work. Dr. Rogers also discusses the rise in early-onset colorectal cancer, the barriers Black men face in screening and treatment, and the critical need to reframe conversations around masculinity and preventive care. Whether you're a father, health advocate, or community leader, this episode is a call to elevate the health and worth of Black men—for themselves and the families who depend on them. About the Guest Dr. Charles R. Rogers is a nationally recognized behavioral scientist, public health expert, and the Founding Director of the Men’s Health Inequities Research Lab. With over 20 years of experience addressing health disparities, Dr. Rogers is especially known for his groundbreaking work to eliminate racial gaps in colorectal cancer outcomes, particularly among African-American men. He is the founder of the Colorectal Cancer Equity Foundation, a husband, and a devoted father. Learn more: crcequity.org About the Host Kenneth Braswell is the CEO of Fathers Incorporated and host of the I Am Dad Podcast. A national leader in fatherhood engagement, Kenneth brings over 20 years of experience creating media, policy, and programming that support fathers and strengthen families. He is the author of multiple books, producer of documentaries and PSA campaigns, and a passionate advocate for Black men and boys.

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell sits down with Keith Holmes, fatherhood outreach specialist and advocate at Fathers Incorporated. Keith opens up about being raised by a stepfather who modeled manhood through action, and how his own biological father's struggles with addiction gave him a deeper understanding of trauma and redemption. Through candid dialogue, Keith shares the transformative experiences that led him from working in juvenile justice to becoming a vital part of Atlanta’s fatherhood movement. From counseling dads in crisis to mentoring youth in underserved communities, Keith’s insights speak to the importance of empathy, cultural understanding, and showing up—even when it's hard. The conversation also touches on sports culture, Black fatherhood in Atlanta, systemic barriers, and the future of generational impact through father-focused programs. It’s more than a conversation—it’s a reflection on what it truly means to prepare our boys for the world and ourselves for the journey of fatherhood.

In this deeply moving episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell sits down with Juan Baxter, a relationship therapist, youth mentor, and co-founder of the media and training duo Those Baxters. Juan shares his story of growing up without a present father, raising his own son at 19, and transforming generational cycles through intentional fatherhood, community service, and spiritual calling. Juan reflects on his decision to put himself on child support, become a single father in his teens, and walk away from street life for the sake of his children. With equal parts vulnerability and wisdom, he explains how faith led him into social work, radio, theater, and fatherhood programming—culminating in his role as a Gentle Warriors Academy facilitator with Fathers Incorporated. Together, Juan and Kenneth dive into the realities of parenting while healing, the importance of availability over perfection, the needs of men reentering community life, and how brotherhood among fathers can help men thrive where systems once failed them.

In this thought-provoking episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell welcomes Dena Barnwell, a Doctor of Public Health candidate, health educator, and former doula, whose work focuses on making fatherhood visible in systems that often leave men out. Dena’s journey into fatherhood advocacy began with her own personal story—a deep bond with her father, followed by a decade-long absence that challenged everything she believed about paternal relationships. Her work explores how mental health, systems involvement, and social stigma impact fathers during the perinatal period, and why public health must treat men as more than “accessory parents.” Kenneth and Dena unpack the often-overlooked role of dads in maternal health, the emotional complexity of co-parenting, and the critical importance of storytelling in reshaping narratives about Black fathers. From her powerful research in Baltimore to her reflections as a mother, Dena makes a compelling case for family-centered—not mother-only—models of care.

In this gripping episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell welcomes back author, speaker, and reentry advocate Sharmain Harris. From growing up in the streets of Racine, Wisconsin, to serving time in prison, Sharmain’s story is a raw and redemptive testament to the transformative power of second chances. Now a husband, father of three, and community leader, Sharmain returns to share the deeper truths behind his new memoir, Rising Above the Odds: My Journey from Pain and Prison to Power and Purpose. With honesty and humility, Sharmain reflects on childhood trauma, the heartbreak of family separation, his time in prison, and the pivotal moments that changed his mindset. The conversation explores fatherhood as both an identity and a responsibility, how trauma impacts Black boys and men, and the systems that too often fail them. Sharmain also shares how becoming a stepfather, reconnecting with his faith, and facing his past led to a gubernatorial pardon and a renewed purpose to serve others. This episode is not just a story—it’s a blueprint for healing, hope, and generational transformation.

In this moving episode of the I Am Dad Podcast, Beau Gaudreau—veteran, educator, actor, former firefighter, and dedicated father—opens up about his transformative journey through adversity, identity, and intentional parenting. Host Kenneth Braswell, CEO of Fathers Incorporated, takes Beau through a heartfelt and unfiltered reflection on fatherhood, including growing up without his own father present, navigating the trauma of abandonment, and breaking generational cycles of emotional suppression. Together, they explore Beau’s military service during the Gulf War era, his personal battles with fear and faith, and his decision to leave behind stability for purpose-driven work that centers Black fathers and children. Through stories of loss, growth, and redemption, Beau emphasizes how men must be willing to go deep, organize the emotional “closets” of their lives, and evolve into the fathers their children truly need. This is a conversation about presence, intentionality, second chances—and the sacred call to manhood.