Gap to Gig – Working Dads' Guide to Fatherhood, Meaningful Work, & Finding Balance in Life

Gap to Gig – Working Dads' Guide to Fatherhood, Meaningful Work, & Finding Balance in Life

por Michael Jacobs - Working Dads & Fatherhood Expert

Carreras Paternidad

Jason Lange on Why Working Dads Need Stronger Connections

For many working dads, taking care of work and family can gradually leave less room for friendships, personal interests, and the relationships that help them feel connected and supported. Jason Lange has spent two decades helping men build deeper connections and better understand the role relationships and community play in their lives. He believes dads need support beyond their immediate families, both for their own well-being and to become more present partners and parents. Jason shares how to: Recognize when responsibility has started crowding out relationships and experiences that make you feel alive Expand the idea of providing beyond financial security to include emotional presence Move past the instinct to handle every challenge on your own Make restorative time part of your life Model healthier relationships, connection, and self-care for your kids Jason offers a thoughtful perspective on fatherhood, work life balance, presence at home, and the importance of maintaining meaningful relationships while managing the demands of work and family. Dig Deeper Washington Post article Vasopressin Oxytocin G.I. Joe A Real American Hero White Wedding Rebel Yell Losing My Religion Follow Jason On his website On his podcast On Instagram On Facebook On YouTube On LinkedIn Take the quiz Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

Dave Albrechta on Redesigning Your Career Around What Matters

For many working dads, becoming a father changes what matters long before their career catches up. Work that once felt meaningful or ambitious can start competing with the kind of parent, partner, and person they want to become. Dave Albrechta spent nearly a decade as a litigator, building the law practice he and his wife had envisioned after law school. The constant pressure of litigation, interrupted vacations, and the inability to fully leave work behind became harder to ignore after becoming a dad. Eventually, he realized his career was no longer aligned with the life or values he wanted to model for his kids. Dave shares how to: Recognize when your career no longer fits the life you want to build Navigate a career transition without abandoning the skills and experience you already have Identify which parts of your work still feel meaningful and which need to change Create space to understand what you actually want before making a major move Align the values you model through parenting with the way you spend your working life Make career and family decisions alongside your partner Show your kids that changing direction can be a sign of intention rather than failure Dave offers a personal perspective on career transitions for fathers, meaningful work, work life balance, dad identity, and the challenge of creating greater alignment between what you value and how you actually spend your days. His story also makes an important distinction for many dads: changing your career doesn't necessarily mean starting over. Dave ultimately reshaped his legal career around mediation and healing rather than throwing away everything he had spent years learning. Dig Deeper Lawyers as Peacemakers Inspector Gadget Free Fallin’ Follow Dave On his website On LInkedIn Check out his podcast, Lawyers as Healers Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

Chip Scholz on Navigating the Changing Seasons of Fatherhood

For working dads, what matters most doesn't stay the same forever. Careers change, kids grow up, responsibilities shift, and the way we define ourselves has to evolve along with them. Executive coach and author Chip Scholz helps leaders navigate transition, growth, and change. As a dad of three grown daughters, he has also experienced how fatherhood changes across different seasons of life. Chip believes the small decisions we make every day can ultimately shape our lives far more than the occasional big decision. Chip shares how to: Recognize the small decisions that can create meaningful change over time Think about work life balance in terms of seasons rather than perfect equilibrium Separate meaningful work from simply staying busy Move from being performative to being useful at work and at home Practice patience and presence instead of trying to control every outcome Adapt your parenting as your kids grow and become more independent Let go of identities and roles that no longer fit the season you're entering Chip offers a grounded perspective on fatherhood, work life balance, meaningful work, dad identity, presence at home, and the challenge of deciding what deserves your attention during different seasons of life. Dig Deeper Imposter Syndrome Callum Robinson Ingrained Gumby Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff Andy Griffith Show The Eye by Brandi Carlile Follow Chip On his website On Instagram On YouTube On LinkedIn Email Chip Check out his books Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

Jacqui Myslinski on Simplifying Life for Busy Working Dads

For many busy working dads, life doesn't feel overwhelming because of one big problem. It feels overwhelming because of dozens of small frustrations that quietly pile up every day. Jacqui Myslinski has spent her career helping businesses create better systems, but the same principles she uses to simplify operations at work have transformed the way she and her family approach life at home. From reducing daily stress to setting clearer expectations with kids, Jacqui believes the right systems create more freedom. Jacqui shares how to: Identify the recurring frustrations that create unnecessary stress Build simple systems that reduce mental load at home and make busy weeks feel more manageable Set clear expectations with kids instead of assuming they'll "just know" Create routines that encourage independence without overwhelming your family Replace constant reactions with intentional habits Make work life balance feel more manageable through small, consistent improvements Jacqui offers a practical perspective for busy working dads navigating fatherhood, work life balance, parenting, meaningful work, and the everyday realities of balancing family, career, and home. Dig Deeper Notion Mario Kart Yes Day Domino’s Pizza 30 Minutes or Less Rugrats Spidey and His Amazing Friends Janis Joplin Piano Man Follow Jacqui On her website On TikTok On YouTube On LinkedIn Sign up for her masterclass Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

Kurt Bush on Redefining Success as a Working Dad

Many working dads spend years chasing the next promotion, milestone, or achievement, believing success will finally bring fulfillment, but when your definition of success comes from everyone else's expectations, it's easy to lose sight of the life you're actually trying to build. Kurt Bush has spent decades leading teams across manufacturing and nonprofit organizations before becoming a trauma-informed coach, certified Internal Family Systems practitioner, and co-founder of Brimstone Coaching Group. He's discovered that many high achievers aren't struggling because they lack ambition. They're exhausted because they're pursuing goals that no longer align with who they are. Kurt shares how to: Define success based on your own values instead of outside expectations Focus on how you show up instead of outcomes you can't control Build a simple habit of reflection that creates lasting personal growth Navigate modern dad challenges with greater self-awareness Strengthen your relationships by responding instead of reacting Pursue meaningful work without losing yourself along the way Kurt offers a thoughtful perspective on fatherhood, work life balance, dad identity and ambition, and the importance of aligning your work, relationships, and decisions with what matters most to you. Dig Deeper Internal Family Systems Theory Whistler, BC Combined No-Hitters Phineas and Ferb Only Want To Be With You Follow Kurt On his website On his podcast, Live Fully. Lead Authentically. On Instagram On LinkedIn Read his book, Live Fully, Lead Authentically Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

Mitesh Khatri on Becoming More Present as a Working Dad

Many dads work hard to provide for their families, yet still feel like they're missing the moments that matter most. The challenge often isn't a lack of time. It's carrying the stress, distractions, and pressure of work into the people who need us most. Mitesh Khatri is a corporate strategist, author of Fight or Father: Using CALM to Stop Reacting and Start Connecting, and a father who discovered that being physically present isn't the same as being emotionally present. After his young son quietly pointed out, "You're always on your phone, Dad," Mitesh began exploring nervous system regulation, movement, and practical habits that helped him reconnect with his family and himself. Mitesh shares how to: Recognize the difference between providing for your family and being truly present Create stronger connections with your children through everyday moments Model healthy behaviors your kids will carry into adulthood Prioritize presence at home without sacrificing meaningful work Mitesh offers practical insights for working dads navigating fatherhood, work life balance, and the daily pressure to succeed while staying connected to the people who matter most. We explore presence at home, fatherhood mental health, modern dad challenges, parenting, and the small shifts that can strengthen your relationships, your leadership, and the example you set for your children. Dig Deeper Gold Coast Marathon Beyond Blue Atomic Habits Gabor Maté Slip ’N Slide Tony Robbins Awaken the Giant Within Paw Patrol Billie Jean Follow Mitesh On his website Read his book, Fight or Father: Using CALM to Stop Reacting and Start Connecting (US 🇺🇸 / AUS 🇦🇺) Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

Rob Heller on the Lessons Every Working Dad Shouldn't Leave to School

School plays an important role in preparing our kids for the future. But some of the lessons they'll rely on most aren't taught in a classroom. Rob Heller is an entrepreneur, author, youth development expert, and founder of Boost, a personal development program that helps teenagers build the people skills, character, and healthy mindset they need to thrive long after graduation. In this episode, you'll learn how to: Help kids develop people skills that shape lifelong relationships Build character, confidence, and resilience through everyday experiences Prepare teenagers for adulthood beyond grades and test scores Model the behaviors your children are quietly learning from you Navigate technology without sacrificing real-world connection Encourage a healthy mindset through struggle, growth, and accountability Help kids set meaningful goals and overcome obstacles Reinforce the lessons that school alone can't teach Whether you're navigating fatherhood for the first time or simply trying to be more intentional as a working dad, this conversation is a reminder that some of the most important lessons children learn come from your example. From communication and character to resilience and presence at home, Rob shares practical insights to help parents prepare their kids for life beyond the classroom. Dig Deeper How to Win Friends & Influence People Think and Grow Rich Sesame Street Rapper’s Delight Follow Rob On his website On Instagram On Facebook On YouTube On TikTok On LinkedIn On his newsletter Read his book, The Missing Course for Today's Youth Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

Stephen Clifford on Raising Resilient Kids as a Working Dad

Raising resilient kids isn’t about protecting them from every challenge. It’s about preparing them to face challenges with confidence, character, and resilience. Stephen Clifford is an author, youth coach, speaker, and creator of the Forgotten Wisdom children’s book series. Together with his wife, he’s intentionally raising his children to embrace accountability, gratitude, perseverance, and failure as part of growth, while recognizing that every child learns differently. Stephen shares how to: Raise resilient kids without trying to eliminate every obstacle Help children build confidence by learning from failure Adapt your parenting style to fit each child’s unique personality Teach accountability and gratitude through everyday moments Model the values you hope your kids will carry into adulthood Balance the demands of fatherhood, meaningful work, and being a working dad Create family traditions that reinforce character over achievement Think beyond today’s parenting decisions to the legacy you’re building for future generations Stephen offers practical encouragement for working dads navigating fatherhood, modern dad challenges, and the responsibility of raising children with character in an increasingly comfortable world. Dig Deeper The Berenstain Bears Running of the Bulls - Pamplona Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Ninja Rap Zombie by The Cranberries Follow Stephen On his website On Amazon On Instagram On YouTube On LinkedIn Taylor’s Job Safari on Instagram Taylor’s Job Safari on YouTube Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

Natalie Holder on Why Working Dads Need a Personal Board of Directors

Some career decisions are too important to make alone. Whether you’re considering a career transition, navigating a difficult workplace, or trying to find more meaningful work, Natalie Holder believes one of the smartest investments you can make is building your own personal board of directors. As an employment lawyer, executive coach, and former Chief Diversity Officer, Natalie has spent years helping professionals navigate career transitions, difficult workplaces, and high-stakes decisions. Her personal board of directors framework provides a practical way to gain perspective, challenge your assumptions, and make better career and life decisions. Natalie shares how to: Build a personal board of directors that helps you make better career and life decisions Recognize when it’s time to pivot instead of pushing through Navigate difficult managers and unhealthy workplace cultures Separate temporary frustration from deeper career misalignment Increase your visibility so new opportunities can find you Build relationships that support both your career and your personal growth Define what meaningful work actually means for you Make career decisions with greater clarity and confidence Natalie offers practical advice for working dads navigating career transitions, meaningful work, and the challenge of building a career without losing sight of what matters most at home. Sometimes the best next step isn’t having all the answers. It’s surrounding yourself with people who help you ask better questions. Dig Deeper Starwood Hotels Stanford's National Accelerator Laboratory American Bar Association National Speakers Association Sesame Street Losing My Religion Follow Natalie On her websites: https://www.questei.org and https://www.natalieholderspeaks.com On YouTube On LinkedIn Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player of choice Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

Andrew Poles on Dad Identity, Ambition, and the Pressure to Succeed

For many dads, ambition starts with a desire to provide. The pressure to succeed, prove yourself, and live up to expectations can quietly shape your identity, your relationships, and the way you experience fatherhood. Andrew Poles knows that tension firsthand. As a single dad, he started his first business at 23 while raising his daughter and trying to build a future for his family. Over the years, he built multiple businesses, coached thousands of entrepreneurs and leaders, and learned that achievement alone doesn’t answer the deeper questions about who you are and what truly matters. Andrew shares how to: Recognize when ambition is being driven by pressure instead of purpose Separate your self-worth from your professional success Identify the “shoulds” that are influencing your decisions Build a healthier relationship with achievement and validation Create space for reflection instead of constant striving Navigate modern dad challenges without losing yourself in work Pursue meaningful work without tying your identity to outcomes Andrew offers a thoughtful perspective on dad identity, fatherhood mental health, parenting and ambition, and the pressure many men feel to prove themselves through achievement. This conversation is a reminder that success is most fulfilling when it’s connected to who you are, not who you think you’re supposed to be. Dig Deeper University of Texas at Austin Baby Shark Ted Lasso Jamie Tartt James Taylor Tim Curry as Dr. Frank-N-Furter Sephora Follow Andrew On his website On Instagram On Facebook On YouTube On LinkedIn Follow Gap to Gig On Instagram On TikTok On X On YouTube On your podcast player Sign up for the newsletter Follow Michael On LinkedIn

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