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Dadfocals

Dadfocals

By Sam & Tom: Life through the lens of a Dad

We’re just dads talking about the triumphs and tribulations of dadding. No one is perfect, we’re doing the best with what we’ve got. We want to encourage dads to reach out; a problem shared is a problem halved.
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#24 Meet Dadfocaler Merv Stewart

DadfocalsMay 09, 2024

00:00
01:19:17
#24 Meet Dadfocaler Merv Stewart

#24 Meet Dadfocaler Merv Stewart

Growing up in Northern Ireland during The Troubles, Mount Martha community man Merv Stewart has quite a story to tell, from an extremely tough upbringing to raising his own two teenagers on the Mornington Peninsula today.

Merv forgave his dad many years ago, understanding that he did the best with the tools he had, and while Merv's story is one of escape from religion, his strong belief is that if religion works for someone to find their own way and their own community, that is awesome. He also believes that regardless of how we start life, it's what we do with our grounding that becomes our story. This incredible man is proud to have broken the chain and knows that his kids are an everyday example to the world that there is an alternative path that he walked.


Now Merv has started the Sunrise Wanderers, a men's community that wanders in local communities to foster a sense of connection, encouraging open conversations and shared experiences as we wander side by side as sun comes up.

Other Important links:

Book Free Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' here. Yeah, Man is a community, a gathering, a connection. A place to listen, learn & share – all in search of our own version of better.

About Dadfocals This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad! We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding. Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis. And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve. Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes. Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff. Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.


May 09, 202401:19:17
Mini-Series Opener
May 02, 202443:43
#22 Meet Dadfocaler Alex Presutti

#22 Meet Dadfocaler Alex Presutti

Former US Navy diver (SEAL) Alex Presutti is now dad to two boys and living on the Mornington Peninsula with his Australian wife Chelsea. Alex shares the triumphs and tribulations of his family's journey and his transition from the US military to civilian life on the Australian beach.


Check out Warpath Brewing and contact Alex if you'd like to book an awesome Navy SEAL training session on McCrae Beach: http://warpathbrewing.com/


Other Important links:

Book Free Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: www.yeahman.au

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad! We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding. Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis. And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve. Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes. Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff. Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.


Oct 25, 202301:08:53
#21 Death, Sex and Context

#21 Death, Sex and Context

Tackling the hard-hitting issues as always, Sam and Tom cover everything from sex, vasectomy, tattoos, chess and death, following the passing of Tom's grandmother "Great Nanny Jo". Underpinning the episode, is language and context – and how we're trying to equip our kids for life with emotional intelligence, and understanding particular environments and audiences.

Important links: Book Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: https://www.yeahman.au/ https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad! We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding. Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis. And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve. Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes. Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff. Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.

Aug 07, 202350:38
#20 Meet Dadfocaler Ben McDonald-Watson

#20 Meet Dadfocaler Ben McDonald-Watson

Yeah, Man Founder and Dadfocaler Ben takes us on his journey to date; growing up in Victoria and now sharing four beautiful kids with his wife Tess. With a wonderful sense of community, connection and belonging, Ben talks about why he founded Yeah, Man and how it can help men and dads to invest in themselves and their loved ones.

www.yeahman.au


Other Important links:

Book Free Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad! We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding. Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis. And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve. Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes. Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff. Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.


Jun 25, 202301:32:50
#19 Meet Mumfocaler Lauren

#19 Meet Mumfocaler Lauren

In Episode 19 Lauren Trueman is in the box with Tom and Sam to talk about life through the lens of a mum who tragically lost her husband and Ayla's dad Glyn in 2021. Their story is one of courage – and today, Lauren raises Ayla with the support of a great community.

Important links:

Never 2 Young Bowel Cancer Charity https://www.never2younggolfday.com.au/

Book Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: https://www.yeahman.au/ https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad! We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding. Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis. And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve. Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes. Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff. Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.



May 23, 202301:19:41
#18 Meet Fellow Dadfocaler, Mark Corduff

#18 Meet Fellow Dadfocaler, Mark Corduff

In Episode 18 Mark Corduff is in the box with Tom and Sam to talk about life with his partner and their two boys, how his relationship with his own father impacts the way he dads, and everything in between, including some TOP DADFOCALER TIPS!

Important links: Book Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: https://www.yeahman.au/ https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad! We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding. Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis. And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve. Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes. Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff. Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.

May 01, 202301:13:02
#17 The Subtle Art Of Being A Father

#17 The Subtle Art Of Being A Father

In Episode 17 Tom and Sam chew the fat on travelling with kids, nature/nurture learning and how to make sure you focus on what matters!

Important links: Book Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: https://www.yeahman.au/ https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad! We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding. Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis. And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve. Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes. Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff. Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.

Apr 23, 202359:40
#16 Meet Grandadfocaler Joe Gawenda

#16 Meet Grandadfocaler Joe Gawenda

Kicking off Season 2 with a bang, we meet the Dad behind Sam. Joe Gawenda is in the box, talking about his life as the son of Polish holocaust survivors who moved to Australia after the War. Joe remembers his relationship with his own father, talks about Sam as a boy, and now Sam as a Dad – a must listen! Thank you for your support. If you love the pod, please share on Facebook, Instagram, Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or wherever you hang out. Cheers. Important links: Book Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: https://www.yeahman.au/ https://www.lifeline.org.au/ About Dadfocals This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad! We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of Dadding. Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis. And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve. Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes. Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff. Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.


Apr 16, 202301:35:41
#15 The important things at Christmas

#15 The important things at Christmas

Whatever Christmas means to you, focus on the important things at the end of one year and the beginning of another. At the end of the day, it's all that matters. Sam and Tom focus on what's important to them in the moment, in 2022 and in 2023. Featuring a guest appearance from two of those 10 who matter most to Sam and Tom; Sonny and Vann, two of Sam and Mel's three sons. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year everyone. 

Thank you for your support. If you love the pod, please share on Facebook, Instagram, Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or wherever you hang out. Cheers.

Important links:

Book Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: https://www.yeahman.au/

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals

This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad!

We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding.

Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis.

And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve.

Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes.

Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff.

Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.

Dec 23, 202201:00:54
#14 Meet Fellow Dadfocaler, Glenn Watson

#14 Meet Fellow Dadfocaler, Glenn Watson

In Episode 14 Tom and Sam speak to Glenn Watson.  Glenn has had a huge influence on Sam and his dadding style so it was a must to get him on Dadfocals! Glenn shares his experience on raising a family focused on relationship, including discipline and faith.  

Important links:

Endometriosis Info and support

Sands – Miscarriage, stillbirth and newborn death support

Book Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: https://www.yeahman.au/

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals

This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad!

We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding.

Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis.

And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve.

Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes.

Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff.

Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.


Dec 19, 202201:20:30
#13 Mums behind the Dadfocalers

#13 Mums behind the Dadfocalers

In Episode 13 Tom and Sam talk about their mums and the incredible journeys they're on; negative and positive feedback to their kids, and leading by example.

Important links:

Book Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: https://www.yeahman.au/

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals

This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad!

We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding.

Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis.

And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve.

Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes.

Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff.

Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.

Dec 12, 202201:06:23
#12 Meet Fellow Dadfocaler, Tyson Day

#12 Meet Fellow Dadfocaler, Tyson Day

In Episode 12 Tom and Sam speak to Tyson Day, a co-worker and fellow Dadfocaler at Co.Co Place.

Tyson talks about his upbringing and the strong family values his parents instilled in him and his brother. He opens up about the challenges he and his wife faced with Endometriosis and then losing one of their daughters in embryo. 

In his professional life, Ty is a careers coach and he leaves us with his insights into how to support our kids in their own career paths. Tyson's business is Arrive & Thrive – a Human Centred Careers Approach

Important links:

Endometriosis Info and support

Sands – Miscarriage, stillbirth and newborn death support

Book Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: https://www.yeahman.au/

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals

This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad!

We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding.

Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis.

And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve.

Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes.

Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff.

Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.

Dec 05, 202201:15:40
#11 To snip or not to snip?

#11 To snip or not to snip?

Tom and Sam discuss the decision-making process for having more kids.  Tom talks about his experience visiting Dr Snip and shares a great story about Maeve catching him and Flick having some "mama/dada wrestles"!

About Dadfocals:

This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad! We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding. Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis. And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve. Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes. Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff. Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.

Nov 28, 202245:28
#10 Meet Fellow Dadfocaler, Jason Knorr

#10 Meet Fellow Dadfocaler, Jason Knorr

In Episode 10 Tom and Sam speak with Jay, a dad from the local primary school.

Jay talks about losing his father at the age of 9, and how the grieving process has impacted his life. He also opens up about his own physical and mental challenges, and how he parents in a different way as a result.

Important links:

Book Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' (a series of workshops run & facilitated by Tomorrow Man, one of the country’s most well renowned educators on men’s health) here: https://www.yeahman.au/

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals

This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad!

We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding.

Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis.

And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve.

Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes.

Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff.

Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.

Nov 21, 202248:35
#9 Intensive care with a newborn

#9 Intensive care with a newborn

Sam and Mel's youngest boy Otis didn't have the easiest start to life, but like his mum and dad, he's a fighter. In this episode, Sam recalls Otis' birth in 2020. Amidst COVID, an epidural was delayed and by the time it was ready, Mel was in deep labour. Distressed, Otis required resuscitation and life support in taking his first breath. 

Paediatric Infant Perinatal Emergency Retrieval (PIPER) intervened and Otis was taken to the Monash where a cooling trial saved him over the following five days. After an incredibly emotional journey, Otis' MRI was positive and Sam and Mel were finally able to take Otis home to his big brothers.

More about PIPER: https://www.rch.org.au/piper/

Information about perinatal depression and awareness: www.panda.org.au/awareness/pnda-awareness-week 

About Dadfocals: 

This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad! We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding. Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis. And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve. Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes. Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff. Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.

Nov 13, 202201:15:59
#8 Meet Fellow Dadfocaler, Dan Steele

#8 Meet Fellow Dadfocaler, Dan Steele

Friend of the show and father to two girls, with a third on the way, Dan Steele has also had a stand-out career in education. In a feature-length episode, Dan imparts knowledge from lived experience inside schools as a teacher, an assistant principal, a coach and now as a Dad. He also shares insights from two life-changing experiences – one as a 16 year-old boy with his Dad, and one as man with his wife.

Information about perinatal depression and awareness:
www.panda.org.au/awareness/pnda-awareness-week
About Dadfocals
This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad!
We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding.
Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis.
And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve.
Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes.
Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff.
Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.
Nov 06, 202201:31:36
#7 Periods and unwanted dad traits
Oct 31, 202231:22
#6 Meet fellow Dadfocaler, Brownie

#6 Meet fellow Dadfocaler, Brownie

In Episode 6 Tom and Sam speak with Chris Browne, dad to two beautiful boys in their early teens.

At very early ages Brownie's boys were diagnosed with autism.

Brownie bravely unpacks his life with the boys on the pod – the triumphs and tribulations.

He also offers advice to anyone experiencing similar challenges – and advice on life as a single parent (including Tinder tips!).

If you want to reach out to Brownie, please do so through Tom and Sam at Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dadfocals/ or on email: dadfocals@gmail.com.

Book Tickets for 'A Night With The Blokes of The Mornington Peninsula' here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/a-night-with-the-blokes-of-the-mornington-peninsula-tickets-411031475207

Other important links:

https://www.ndis.gov.au/

https://www.autismspectrum.org.au/

https://kidsconnecttherapy.com.au/fahcsia-funding/

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/treatment.html

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

About Dadfocals

This is the show where we look at life through the lens of a dad!

We're no experts and we're not here to offer advice; we're here to exchange stories on the triumphs and tribulations of dadding.

Sam is dad to three boys Sonny, Vann and Otis.

And Tom is dad to three girls Bela, Ettie and Maeve.

Remember, if you have any questions, suggestions or want to discuss any triggers; you can reach us @dadfocals on the socials and dadfocals@gmail.com on the email – links in the show notes.

Don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and all that rad dad stuff.

Remember, we’re all just dads, doing our best. No pressures, no guilts, just a lotta love and talk. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to someone – a problem shared is a problem halved.

Oct 23, 202201:16:39
#5 Fairground Frenzy & Trusting Your Dad Gut
Oct 17, 202241:22
#4 Dadtears and F-bombs
Oct 10, 202235:44
#3 The pros and cons of screen time
Oct 03, 202247:13
#2 When your cup over fills
Oct 03, 202238:34
#1 The dads behind Dadfocals
Oct 03, 202227:36