Dad Tired

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/WDK9O0VZ7loWhat if your marriage wasn’t just surviving—but actually healing you?In this powerful episode, Jerrad sits down with author and speaker Gabe Lyons (The Fight for Us) to talk about the real work of building a thriving marriage—especially when life throws curveballs like special needs parenting, trauma, and unspoken pain.They unpack:The power of radical honesty (and why most couples never get there)How to stop nursing wounds in silence and start creating real intimacyWhy “no secrets” might be the most life-changing marriage ruleWhat to do when you feel emotionally disconnectedHow confession and emotional leadership can radically change your marriage and parentingIf you’ve ever felt stuck in your marriage or unsure how to lead your family spiritually—this conversation is for you.

Why do so many men feel stuck—emotionally, spiritually, and relationally—even while doing all the “right” things? In this vulnerable conversation, Kyle Idleman talks about the inner battles men face in silence. He explains why many men hide behind performance and productivity, how healing begins with connection (not accomplishment), and what it really looks like to take every thought captive.Kyle and Jerrad dig into thought patterns that keep men stuck, the mental load of leadership, and why confessing weakness isn’t whining—it’s spiritual obedience. If you’ve ever felt alone, overburdened, or ashamed of not “being further along,” this conversation will help you breathe again.What You’ll Learn:Why men around age 40 often face unexpected internal crisisHow emotional connection—not productivity—defines your healthWhat it looks like to take every thought captive in practical termsThe healing power of confession and friendshipHow to recognize and break negative thought patternsMorning routines, prayer habits, and

What do you do when something isn’t technically sin—but still doesn’t feel right? In this episode, Jerrad shares a vulnerable story from his week that left him convicted, even though no clear line was crossed. He unpacks the concept of “inner, middle, and outer circle behaviors”—a tool from recovery circles—and challenges Christian men to evaluate the subtle patterns that quietly lead to sin, disconnection, or hidden shame.If you’re a husband or father wrestling with old habits, emotional isolation, or unspoken compromise, this episode gives practical language to your inner conflict—and a gospel-centered path toward integrity and healing.What You’ll Learn:How to identify subtle behaviors that lead to sinThe difference between self-care and numbingWhy “middle circle” habits matter for Christian menPractical steps for radical honesty in marriageHow to confess without spiraling into shameWhy healing starts with small, honest steps—not perfectionMentioned in the Episode:The “Inner, Middle, Outer Circle” tool from

What do you do when your marriage feels broken—but you don’t know how to fix it? In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson share their story of nearly losing their marriage at year 10, and how God brought them through bitterness, performance, and unmet expectations into healing and intimacy.With over four decades of marriage experience and years of leading marriage ministries, they speak candidly about wounds from the past, what happens when a wife feels unseen, and why husbands often withdraw instead of engage. You’ll also hear practical tools for renewing your mind, healing emotional wounds, and building each other up instead of tearing each other down.What You’ll Learn:What to do when one spouse has “lost all feelings”How past trauma affects your marriage todayWhy healing starts with individual repentance and soul workThe power of affirmation and the damage of chronic critiqueHow to speak life to your spouse (instead of yelling)What it means to be an “azer kenegdo” and partner in the spiritual battleWhy most me

Why do so many christian men fall into the same sinful patterns over and over? Jerrad reveals how habitual sin is often rooted in emotional escape—in attempts to numb pain, stress, or fear. Drawing from his own experience in intensive counseling and a growing commitment to truth-telling, he helps men understand how to face uncomfortable emotions rather than flee from them.This episode is for every man who feels stuck, ashamed, or exhausted by the cycle of sin and silence. You’ll walk away with practical tools to sit in discomfort, recognize your escape habits, and move toward healing and integrity in Christ. What You’ll Learn:Why escaping pain fuels habitual sin in Christian menHow to recognize subtle behaviors that lead to deeper compromiseWhat it means to sit in discomfort instead of numbing outThe power of presence, meditation, and prayer for spiritual growthWhy truth-telling must be the foundation of healingHow to identify your personal “escape mechanisms” (like social media, work, food, or fantasy)Resour

In this episode, Nick Stumbo (Executive Director of Pure Desire Ministries) shares his personal story of battling pornography addiction while serving as a pastor—and how it nearly cost him his marriage. Nick and Jerrad unpack the cycle of shame, hidden habits, emotional coping, and why true healing for Christian men requires more than confession.If you've ever felt stuck in sin, numb to your marriage, or spiritually ashamed, this conversation offers a hopeful path toward recovery and freedom in Christ.What You’ll Learn:Why many Christian men deny the severity of their porn useThe real difference between struggle and addictionHow shame and secrecy keep men stuckUnderstanding your middle circle behaviors (the warning signs)Why confession alone doesn’t lead to freedomHow to identify your escape patterns What wives need to know (and how to avoid trauma-based confessions)Episode Resources and Links :Pure Desire Ministries: puredesire.orgBook: Setting Us Free by Nick StumboRecovery groups: Seven Pillars of Freedom

In this episode, Jerrad Lopes returns after a four-month break. He  shares how hidden sin, deep wounds, and a crisis of identity led him to the darkest season of his life—and how God met him there. Jerrad opens up about stepping away from ministry, entering a two-week counseling intensive, and why full healing is impossible without radical honesty.This episode is a call to Christian men: if you want your family to thrive, healing must begin with you. You don’t need more parenting tips—you need deep, soul-level transformation. And it starts by coming out of hiding.What You’ll Learn:Why secrecy destroys spiritual leadershipThe emotional cost of compartmentalized sinThe moment Jerrad chose full healing over self-destructionWhy counseling and community are essential for real changeWhat it feels like to live with nothing hiddenHow Dad Tired is shifting focus toward men's healing ministryEpisode  Resources & Links:Dad Tired’s upcoming retreat: Register at dadtired.comDad Tired's Mighty Networks Community for me

In this episode, Jerrad sits down with Caleb Allen and Chris Hilken to share a ministry update. This is a follow-up to the first update from earlier this year. The conversation focuses on personal growth, spiritual accountability, and the next steps for Dad Tired.What You’ll hear: • What restoration has looked like behind the scenes • Why confession, counsel, and community were key • How the team approached trust and leadership • What has changed in Jerrad’s personal walk with God • How grace and truth have shaped the process • What’s ahead for the Dad Tired podcast and the ministry Tune in for an honest conversation about repentance, restoration, and spiritual health. Episode Resources: Read The Dad Tired Book: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GB Support Dad Tired: https://www.dadtired.com/donate Invite Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.com Join the community or ask a question: https://www.dadtired.com Dad Tired Annual Retreat: https://www.dadtired.com/retreat Range Leather (15% off): https://rangeleather.com/dad

What does it really mean to be a man of God? In this powerful follow-up to Part One of the Biblical Masculinity series, we explore 8 core traits of a godly man through the PRIME MEN acrostic: Peacemaking, Repentant, Intentional, Meek, Enduring, Moral, Empathetic, and Noble.With insight from scripture, stories of failure and redemption (from Adam to Jesus), and quotes from thinkers like C.S. Lewis, John Piper, and Voddie Baucham, this episode will challenge and inspire you to grow as a man of faith.Whether you're a dad, a husband, or a young man figuring out what biblical manhood really looks like, this one is for you.

Is your view of masculinity shaped more by culture than Christ? In this first part of a two-part series, Chris Hilkin unpacks what the Bible really says about being a man. Drawing on personal stories, cultural contrasts, and Scripture, Chris introduces the PRIME MEN acrostic—a framework for understanding godly manhood—and walks through the first two foundational traits: Peacemaker and Repentant.This episode is a call for Christian men to unlearn shallow definitions of manhood and replace them with gospel-centered convictions. Whether you’re raising sons or seeking healing yourself, this message will challenge and equip you for deeper discipleship.What You’ll Learn:Why cultural masculinity often misses the markWhat it means to be a peacemaker and why it matters in your homeThe difference between remorse and biblical repentanceWhy being a godly man starts with personal integrity, not dominanceHow to lead your children toward a Christ-centered view of manhood

Why did Jesus always send His disciples out two by two—and why does it still matter today? In this powerful solo episode, Kaleb teaches the biblical principle of living life with godly brothers by your side. Drawing from Luke 10 and examples throughout Acts, he shows how isolation makes men vulnerable, while companionship strengthens our courage, witness, and joy.If you’re a husband, father, or follower of Jesus trying to carry the load alone, this episode is a call to lock arms with men who will walk with you in faith, accountability, laughter, and mission. What You’ll Learn:Why Jesus never sent disciples out alone4 biblical reasons men need strong brothers in their livesHow isolation leaves you spiritually vulnerableThe power of shared testimony and mutual encouragementWhy friendship isn’t a luxury—it’s a gospel valueHow to build meaningful brotherhood in everyday life

What if friendship is one of the most powerful tools God gives us to battle confusion, discouragement, and spiritual despair? Kaleb teaches the story of the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24) to show how the presence of Jesus is often revealed when two believers walk together through grief and doubt.Drawing from Scripture, Church history, and stories of Christian martyrs, this episode highlights how friendship is not a side benefit of the Christian life—it’s a core part of God's design for your healing and strength. If you’ve felt tired, isolated, or unsure where God is in your pain, this message will remind you: you were never meant to walk alone. What You’ll Learn:Why Jesus met two disciples walking and talking—not isolatedThe four spiritual benefits of gospel-centered friendshipHow the Holy Spirit enters conversations marked by honesty and humilityThe power of processing confusion with a godly friendWhy real friendship requires transparency, not performanceThe image of “the third traveler” as the Holy Spirit in your

Can a man truly grow in holiness without growing in friendship? Kaleb challenges the individualistic mindset many Christian men carry—and shows how friendship is not just helpful, but essential for spiritual maturity. Drawing from John 15, the life of Jesus, and examples like Augustine, he unpacks the truth that holiness and friendship are inseparably linked.If you’ve felt isolated, self-reliant, or unsure how to build meaningful relationships as a Christian man, this episode reframes friendship not as a luxury, but as a command of Christ—and a taste of heaven itself.What You’ll Learn:Why Jesus commanded friendship on the night of His betrayalHow real friendship is a path to Christlikeness, not a distraction from itThe danger of isolated spiritual leadershipWhy holiness without friendship is often just masked prideThe healing power of brotherhood in seasons of mental, emotional, and spiritual struggleHow friendship prepares us for heaven’s ultimate communion

In this episode Kaleb narrates how anxiety, looping thoughts, and self-condemnation can pull us away from the moments that matter most. While watching his son overcome fear at a waterpark, Kaleb found himself mentally stuck—replaying frustrations, doubts, and failures. Through John 14:27, he reflects on the kind of peace Jesus gives: not escape from life’s storms, but presence within them—a peace that interrupts fear and helps us stay grounded in what God is doing right in front of us.What You’ll Learn:How to break mental loops of fear, regret, and condemnationWhy Jesus spoke peace to His disciples before His own sufferingThe difference between worldly peace and the peace of ChristHow external perspective—God’s Word, a friend, or your spouse—can shatter inner turmoilWhy recognizing God’s presence can restore joy in your fatherhood and faith

Many wrestle with the image of God in the Old Testament—how can the same God who loves and weeps in the New Testament also command war and destruction? In this episode, Chris Hilkin tackles one of the hardest questions in the Bible: is the God of the Old Testament morally good?Chris walks through five biblical and historical reasons why the conquest narratives aren’t what modern readers often assume. You'll hear how ancient war language, the slow process of displacement, divine justice, and God's mercy all help make sense of these difficult passages—and why rejecting God on moral grounds requires a much deeper look at history and Scripture.What You’ll Learn:Why “utter destruction” often used hyperbolic war language, not literal commandsHow God’s judgment differs from human genocide or racismThe role of divine justice in protecting future generations from corruptionWhy God has the moral authority to give and take lifeHow to answer questions about Old Testament violence  Scriptures  References:Deuteronomy 7, 20

What has God entrusted to you—and are you stewarding it well?In today’s episode we unpack a powerful biblical theme woven throughout the New Testament: stewardship. From Jesus’ parable of the faithful servant to the Apostle Paul's letters to Timothy, we’re reminded that God is watching how we handle the things He’s put in our hands—especially our homes, marriages, and children.Plus, we share a wild church history story about the Apostle John chasing down a gang leader on horseback. No, seriously.Whether you’re a dad, husband, or just a guy trying to walk faithfully with Jesus, this episode will challenge you to reject passivity and embrace your God-given role as a steward.

Many Christians—and critics—wrestle with this difficult question: does the Bible support slavery?  Chris Hilkin discusses the  most misunderstood and controversial aspects of the Old Testament. He confronts the assumption that God condones slavery by unpacking what the Bible actually says about servitude, justice, and human dignity. Through historical context, Hebrew language insights, and careful biblical interpretation, Chris explains how God’s law placed boundaries on power, offered protections to the vulnerable, and called His people to reflect His justice and mercy—even in broken systems.What You’ll Learn:Why the Hebrew Bible doesn’t have a category for race-based slaveryHow biblical servitude functioned like voluntary indentured laborWhat protections the Mosaic law gave to servants—including freedom, fair treatment, and legal rightsHow the New Testament condemns slave trading as sinful 

Many christians  feel unequipped to handle the hard questions—especially when it comes to the Old Testament. Why does God seem so angry? Did He really command entire crowds  to be destroyed? In this episode, Chris Hilkin opens a new teaching series by offering simple, powerful tools for reading Scripture faithfully. He walks through how to understand difficult passages, avoid common interpretation mistakes, and confidently answering the kinds of questions people might ask about God’s character in the Bible.What You’ll Learn:Why we must use clear Scripture to interpret confusing passagesHow to distinguish between biblical description and prescriptionWhy not every story in the Bible teaches a moral or doctrineHow context, authorship, and genre shape proper understandingCommon interpretation errors that lead to misunderstanding God’s characterWhy Jesus must be the hero of every biblical narrative

How do you lead your family with faith and conviction in a culture that no longer shares your values? In this conversation, Patrick Miller discusses the message of his new book Joyful Outsiders. Joyful Outsiders —a guide for Christian men learning to follow Jesus in a world that feels disorienting, even hostile. He explains why being an outsider isn’t something to avoid, but a biblical identity to embrace.  Raising kids, discipling others, or navigating your own tension with culture, this episode offers practical wisdom for how to live faithfully, lead intentionally, and stay rooted in joy—even when the world pushes back.What You’ll Learn:Why Christians have always been cultural outsidersThe difference between conforming, combating, cloistering—and joyfully engagingSix biblical archetypes for cultural engagement (e.g. Advisor, Protestor, Artist)How to parent kids through complex questions about faith, identity, and cultureWhy spiritual influence requires wisdom, not one-size-fits-all responsesHow calling, per

A new year often brings the desire to reset—not just with goals and routines, but in how we lead, parent, and connect with God. In this episode, Kaleb Allen reflects on the emotional and spiritual weight many men carry coming out of the holidays: feeling off-rhythm, spiritually dry, or unsure how to re-engage. In reference to James 5:17 and Elijah’s prayer life, he calls Christian husbands, fathers, and leaders back to the foundation—fervent, honest, consistent prayer. He urges you to show up before God with your whole heart and trust Him to work through your  weakness.What You’ll Learn:Why James 5:17 matters for men struggling to prayHow early church history describes James as a man of  consistent prayerWhat it means to pray like Elijah—with faith, urgency, and expectationWhy prayer is hard—and how to reengage your heart when you feel numbThe role of fervency, persistence, and spiritual travail in breakthroughWhy your emotions can’t be trusted to lead your prayer lifeHow real prayer engages your whole being,