Happy Friday, fellas.
Quick heads up: today’s send is a little late… because it’s a big one for us.
A couple months ago we started something new: an in-house film series called Go West.
Today we dropped Episode 2, and we’re shamelessly pushing it. It’s about the risk a lot of dads feel but don’t always talk about.
We think (and hope) the story will hit a lot of you right in the chest.
And if it hits you the way it hit us, a quick like on the video goes a long way in helping more dads see it.
PS: If you’re new here, we mix it up on Fridays with a quick recap from the week and a few extra gems to head into the weekend right.
"Attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity."
Simone Weil
THE DIGEST
Most Clicked: Why Every Dad Should Give His Kid the Camera
Wisdom of the Week: There isn’t a clean line where work ends and dad life begins. There isn’t a season where it all clicks into perfect harmony. It’s tension. Constant tension. The goal isn’t perfect balance. It’s intentional imbalance. Knowing when to push. Knowing when to pull back. And being honest about which season you’re in.
Gear of the Week: Relwen Tanker Jacket
Deal of the Week: Anker Portable Power Station (46% off)
GO WEST - EPISODE 2
We’ve probably watched this video 20+ times and we’re still choking up at the end.
Richie’s story hits on so many levels. The risk. The responsibility. That quiet voice in the back of your head asking if you’re doing the right thing.
It feels like the journey a lot of dads are on.
We hope this one gives you a little push… or at the very least reminds you you’re not the only one out there trying to juggle being a dad, a provider, and chasing something meaningful at the same time.
Big shout-out to Luke and Rachel from our team for bringing this to life. And much love to Richie for letting us tell your story.
If you ever find yourself in Greenville, SC, do yourself a favor and stop by Daylight Burrito. Grab a burrito and say what’s up.
IN THE TRENCHES
Topic: The Hardest Parenting Phase Right Now
Earlier this week we asked a simple question: What’s the hardest part of parenting for you right now?
Hundreds of you chimed in.
Time management came out on top, with behavior and balancing work and home right behind it. And of course… sleep still making a strong showing.
A few notes from the field:
One dad said the hardest part is just the constant juggling act. Work, family, house projects, friends, workouts, life. His trick has been simple: 20 minute focus blocks. Set a timer. Pick one thing. Go.
Bedtime came up a lot. One dad shared that his kids want him to stay in the room while they fall asleep, which means by the time he gets out it’s 9pm and the night is basically gone.
Behavior showed up in a deeper way too. One dad talked about trying to raise a confident kid while also teaching humility, respect, and boundaries. Not always an easy balance.
And on the work front, one dad who owns a brewery said the hardest part is the constant feeling that he’s gone more than he’s home and worrying about what he might miss.
Different seasons. Different struggles. But the common thread was pretty clear: most dads aren’t dealing with one challenge… they’re juggling all of them at the same time.
Appreciate everyone who shared.
Want more? Join the convo on Slack.
GARAGE
Send us what you’re working on…
Will getting his 8-year-old son involved with a platform bed build. Love to see it.
Thanks for sharing, Will!
We want to see your house projects. Send ‘em our way! Just reply to this email.
WEEKEND BURNER
Before fancy gyms and wearable tech, there was a simple way to see if you were in shape.
The Old School Presidential Fitness Test:
Pull-ups (or flexed-arm hang)
Push-ups
Curl-ups / Sit-ups
Shuttle run (4 × 30 ft agility run)
Sit-and-reach (flexibility)
1-mile run
Give it a go. Jot your numbers down. Try it again in a few weeks.
dad shower thoughts: The phrase “quick errand” has never once been accurate.