Dear Son,

This is a safe space to build upon and reinforce the values of fatherhood. We'll explore the gaps between the current generation of fathers and fathers of generations past, and mature the dialogue that will close those gaps for the generations to come. Whether your passion is to be a great father or peel back the layers of why your father wasn't present in your life (physically and/or emotionally), this is for you. Let's grow through it.

Latest Episodes:

Dear Son, There's Only Now | Ep 186 | The Dear Son, Show May 08, 2026

Show notes

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood.

Dear Son: The Time Is Now (Parents & Young Men, Don’t Wait)

Hosts Jey Blac and D Johns use a birthday call with a 20-year-old son—turning into a repeated condom and responsibility talk—to stress that if parents are asking “when is the time,” it’s already time. They discuss how rapid shifts in technology, especially AI, make “in my day” advice ineffective unless parents first understand their kids’ perspective, stay relatable, and anchor them to enduring principles and morality. The conversation warns against procrastination, overreliance on convenience, and letting social media “crowds” define truth or personal value, emphasizing that being overlooked doesn’t reduce worth. They challenge parents to act now, communicate without judgment, hold standards at home, and consider “at what cost” when chasing speed, money, or new tools.

00:00 Birthday Talk and Condoms

01:20 Welcome to Dear Son Show

02:29 Setting the Theme Time Is Now

05:00 How to Talk Urgency

11:19 Parents Behind the Curve

15:09 Release Them to Thrive

18:45 Be an Anchor to Principles

25:21 At What Cost of AI

26:37 Crowds Likes and Value

31:45 Stay Your Course Timeless

35:37 Falling Behind Fast

36:44 AI Dependency Spiral

37:50 From Enhancements to Necessities

40:24 Who Holds the Plug

41:09 Only Now Matters

42:44 Procrastination Costs

46:48 Time Allocation Skills

48:40 Parenting Accountability

56:10 Family Familiarity Trap

01:00:24 Hard Talks With Sons

01:06:40 At What Cost

01:07:19 Final Thanks and Signoff

#fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk

Channel Focus Areas:

“What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons”

“How to Be a Better Father”

“Father Son Relationship Advice”

“Mistakes Fathers Make”

“Lessons Every Man Should Learn”

Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac

Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:

1. subscribe to the channel,

2. turn on the notifications,

3. like this video,

4. leave a comment, and

5. share this content with someone who needs it.

The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:

Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show

Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com

My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1

My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast

The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community

1. Reveal trauma

2. Heal from trauma

3. Help through telling stories of it all

“Better Man. Better Father.”

The Dear Son, Network ®

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I'm Really About to be a Husband | Getting Married | Better Together | Ep 9 May 05, 2026

Show notes

Two Days to “I Do”: Better Together on Marriage, Covenant, and the Work After the Wedding

In this episode of Better Together, the guys gather at Sophist Cuts as they celebrate Joe T being two days away from his wedding and talk through his excitement, anxiety, and spiritual preparation, including centering vows on scripture and covenant with God. The conversation stresses that the wedding is the starting line, not the finish line, and that healthy marriage requires intentional communication, boundaries, reciprocity, and mutual service—avoiding complacency, ego, and “performing” for the wedding. They share hard-won lessons, the value of wise counsel, asking questions early, and choosing a partner with temperament and compatibility for real-life tests, while highlighting legacy and breaking generational cycles through a committed, joyful union. Follow the channel, subscribe, and leave a review to support more conversations like this.

00:00 Wedding Week Kickoff

00:26 Pre Wedding Nerves

02:12 Vows and Scripture

04:39 Marriage Is Work

05:43 Learning From Experience

08:13 Wise Counsel and Fit

10:44 Dating Shows Reality

14:25 Second Chances Talk

17:45 Choosing Her Daily

21:43 Communication Tools

23:57 Stop Worrying Ahead

26:20 Boundaries and Consequences

28:18 Wanting to Be Husband

29:48 Selflessness and Service

33:30 Breaking Curses Legacy

37:18 Where Did You Learn

40:18 Be Her Best Husband

41:34 Complacency Kills Gratitude

44:00 Luxury Car Illusion

44:45 Reciprocity And Respect

48:11 Assessing The Package Deal

51:14 Imposter Syndrome And Obedience

56:10 Harvest Season Marathon

01:00:45 Wise Counsel And Accountability

01:07:59 Covenant Before Marriage

01:12:20 Perfect Love Casts Fear

01:13:51 Timestamp The Wedding Moment

01:15:05 Closing And After Hours

#fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk

Channel Focus Areas:

“What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons”

“How to Be a Better Father”

“Father Son Relationship Advice”

“Mistakes Fathers Make”

“Lessons Every Man Should Learn”

Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital

Shop Father Figure: https://www.f2apparel.store/

Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac

Follow Joe T: https://instagram.com/bakeriii

Follow Reggie: https://instagram.com/fatherfigureapparel

Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:

1. subscribe to the channel,

2. turn on the notifications,

3. like this video,

4. leave a comment, and

5. share this content with someone who needs it.

The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:

Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show

Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com

My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1

My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast

The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community

1. Reveal trauma

2. Heal from trauma

3. Help through telling stories of it all

“Better Man. Better Father.”

The Dear Son, Network ®

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I'm A Full Custody Father | Ep 185 | The Dear Son, Show May 04, 2026

Show notes

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood.

From Premature Birth to Full Custody: Ace Jackson on Fatherhood, Faith, and Rebuilding

On the Dear Son Show, the host and guest Ace Jackson discuss gratitude and perspective through personal stories, including surviving serious car accidents and seeing hardships as decision points for faith and growth. Ace shares his Dallas upbringing, watching his parents sacrifice, start a family bakery, and maintain respect and unity through job loss and injury. He opens up about becoming a father at 20 when his son was born extremely premature and spent 77 days in the NICU, navigating abandonment, court battles, and eventually gaining full custody when his son was about two. Ace reflects on single parenthood, trust and abandonment issues, his son asking for therapy, and lessons about carrying yourself with character. He also describes his work in a family bakery, owning a car restoration/body shop, and using cars as a metaphor for stripping down to rebuild.

00:00 Welcome to Dear Son

00:31 What Blessed Means

01:17 Car Crash Perspective

03:54 Gratitude Decision Points

05:29 Roots in Dallas

08:21 Family Struggle and Sacrifice

13:43 Legacy Beyond Money

16:47 Discipline and Consequences

21:40 Hustler Kid Mindset

23:52 Dad on the Road

27:43 Becoming a Young Father

30:13 Grinding Two Jobs

31:04 Suit And Tie Interview

32:24 Dyslexia And Support

33:56 Preemie Birth Crisis

36:52 Nicu Alone And Betrayal

40:44 Court And Father Rights

44:43 Winning Full Custody

45:08 Raising A Son

48:25 Feeling Like A Failure

50:23 Grandfather Pride

53:34 Fatherhood Lessons

57:44 Business And Purpose

01:00:38 Seen Beyond The Smile

01:01:06 Where To Find Him

01:01:56 Final Reflections

#fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk

Channel Focus Areas:

“What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons”

“How to Be a Better Father”

“Father Son Relationship Advice”

“Mistakes Fathers Make”

“Lessons Every Man Should Learn”

Follow Ace: https://tiktok.com/aceof_spadez

Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:

1. subscribe to the channel,

2. turn on the notifications,

3. like this video,

4. leave a comment, and

5. share this content with someone who needs it.

The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:

Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show

Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com

My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1

My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast

The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community

1. Reveal trauma

2. Heal from trauma

3. Help through telling stories of it all

“Better Man. Better Father.”

The Dear Son, Network ®

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dear Son, You're At Risk of Being Average | Comfort Isn't Peace | Ep 184 | The Dear Son, Show May 01, 2026

Show notes

Dear Son: You’re at Risk of Being Average (Don’t Confuse Comfort with Peace)

Hosts D Johns and Jey Blac welcome viewers to The Dear Son, Show and share updates on merch, being recognized locally in the DFW area, and committing to release an “Unhinged” episode by the end of May 2026. The main conversation, “Dear son, you are at risk of being average,” challenges the tendency to do only what’s familiar or minimally required, warning that a lack of demand can be mistaken for peace. Using examples from parenting, work habits, college housing decisions, and preparation, they emphasize initiative, perspective, and building character through what you do when no one is watching. They discuss balancing parenting styles, avoiding mediocrity by thinking beyond job descriptions, and setting routines that create opportunity. They close by identifying personal “average” areas—health and overall effort—and offer merch to the first U.S. commenter.

00:00 Cold Open Word Confusion

00:36 Show Welcome And Mission

00:59 Gratitude And Weekly Check In

01:25 Studio Shoutout And Support Links

01:58 Merch Shirts And Fan Moments

02:42 Local Recognition And Being Approachable

03:57 Side Shows And Episode Commitment

05:21 Turning Cancellations Into Content

06:26 Topic Risk Of Being Average

08:53 Peace Versus Lack Of Demand

11:36 College Housing Planning And Money

16:05 Raising Standards Without Comparison

17:31 Consequences And Work Ethic

22:13 Character And Self Talk

24:29 From Dread to Drive

24:56 Stop the Morning Rush

26:23 Early Is the Advantage

27:57 Parenting Middle Ground

30:04 Habits Beat Mediocrity

32:46 Add Value Beyond Role

35:24 Average Gets Replaced

37:34 Raising Capable Men

43:28 Personal Growth Check In

48:54 Hometown Tour Talk

50:21 Go Time Closing Message

#fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk

Channel Focus Areas:

“What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons”

“How to Be a Better Father”

“Father Son Relationship Advice”

“Mistakes Fathers Make”

“Lessons Every Man Should Learn”

Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac

Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:

1. subscribe to the channel,

2. turn on the notifications,

3. like this video,

4. leave a comment, and

5. share this content with someone who needs it.

The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:

Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show

Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com

My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1

My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast

The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community

1. Reveal trauma

2. Heal from trauma

3. Help through telling stories of it all

“Better Man. Better Father.”

The Dear Son, Network ®

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

What Law School Taught Me About Fatherhood | Ep 183 | The Dear Son, Show Apr 30, 2026

Show notes

Dear Son Show: Byron Bailey on Fatherhood, Faith, and Fighting Insurance Companies

On the Dear Son Show, the host welcomes Dallas personal injury attorney and father Byron Bailey for a wide-ranging conversation about life through the lens of fatherhood. Byron shares his upbringing in a single-parent home, the influence of his disciplined grandfather and church, and the complicated presence of his Jamaican immigrant father. He explains how an early law-firm internship led him to law school, his path from working for the VA to insurance defense, and why he switched to representing injured people against insurers. The discussion covers misconceptions about handling car-accident claims without a lawyer, long-term medical impacts, and the importance of treatment and compensation. Byron also reflects on balancing heavy responsibilities with intentional parenting of his six-year-old, defining success, cutting distractions, and learning to be proud of himself and communicate that to his son.

00:00 Welcome to Dear Son

01:00 Meet Byron Bailey

02:04 Growing Up in Dallas

03:39 Becoming a Lawyer

06:49 Insurance Defense to Purpose

08:57 Car Wreck Reality Check

12:32 Why You Need Counsel

14:15 Lawyer Dad Balance

17:21 Sports and Coaching Mindset

18:02 Absent Father Story

20:34 Grandfather No Excuses

23:01 Faith as Foundation

24:03 Fatherhood Challenges Today

25:03 Grace Over Perfection

25:58 Trusting the Process

26:15 Corporate Ladder Lessons

28:19 Family First Warning

29:18 Defining Practice Success

29:36 Goals Not Pass Fail

31:04 Cutting Distractions

33:05 Busy Boundaries Systems

36:04 Success in Fatherhood

37:21 Raising Him Different

39:10 Adjusting Expectations

41:54 Math Tablet Balance

42:53 Explaining Your Busy

46:17 Raising Communicators

49:14 Proud of Yourself

51:27 Closing Advice Outro

#fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk

Channel Focus Areas:

“What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons”

“How to Be a Better Father”

“Father Son Relationship Advice”

“Mistakes Fathers Make”

“Lessons Every Man Should Learn”

Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac

Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:

1. subscribe to the channel,

2. turn on the notifications,

3. like this video,

4. leave a comment, and

5. share this content with someone who needs it.

The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:

Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show

Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com

My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1

My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast

The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community

1. Reveal trauma

2. Heal from trauma

3. Help through telling stories of it all

“Better Man. Better Father.”

The Dear Son, Network ®

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Men Are More Than Shock Absorbers | Hard Truth About Being Used | Ep 8 | Better Together Apr 24, 2026

Show notes

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood.

Don’t Blow Out the Shocks: Hard Truths, Honor, and Communication in Relationships

The hosts of “Better Together” discuss how the “happy wife, happy life” mindset can make men “reverse submissive,” avoiding hard truths to keep peace, and argue that leaders in a household must speak necessary hard things without ego. Using shock absorbers as an analogy, they explain how reliable support—whether a man’s resilience, a steady paycheck, or God’s grace—can be taken for granted, overused, and then blamed when it fails. They distinguish respecting vs. honoring what supports you, warn against putting the wrong “shocks” in the wrong situations, and emphasize alignment, self-care, and accountability. Personal examples include tension with an adult child over feeling “not above and beyond,” and the need for boundaries so “no” is received with honor. The episode closes by stressing transparent communication to prevent resentment and burnout.

00:00 Happy Wife Trap

01:02 Meet The Hosts

02:44 Dont Blow Shocks

04:39 Manhood Takes Hits

06:00 Money As Cushion

07:17 When Shocks Fail

10:01 Respect Vs Honor

11:59 Right Tool Wrong Job

14:10 Grace And Consequence

16:34 Purpose Or Overwork

18:09 Chaos And Capability

20:18 Fatherhood Reality Check

26:17 Tough Love and No

27:14 Honor Versus Respect

29:14 Happy Wife Happy Life Myth

30:55 Overtooling for Conflict

32:53 Equally Yoked Reality Check

35:43 Boundaries and Resentment

37:28 Shocks Need Communication

40:57 Adjusting Around the Problem

44:18 Alignment and Self Care

46:59 Wrap Up and Takeaways

#fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk

Channel Focus Areas:

“What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons”

“How to Be a Better Father”

“Father Son Relationship Advice”

“Mistakes Fathers Make”

“Lessons Every Man Should Learn”

Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital

Shop Father Figure: https://www.f2apparel.store/

Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac

Follow Joe T: https://instagram.com/bakeriii

Follow Reggie: https://instagram.com/fatherfigureapparel

Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:

1. subscribe to the channel,

2. turn on the notifications,

3. like this video,

4. leave a comment, and

5. share this content with someone who needs it.

The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:

Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show

Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com

My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1

My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast

The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community

1. Reveal trauma

2. Heal from trauma

3. Help through telling stories of it all

“Better Man. Better Father.”

The Dear Son, Network ®

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

What Breaks A Man? | Ep 7 | Better Together Apr 24, 2026

Show notes

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood.

What Makes or Breaks a Man: Perspective, Growth, and Vulnerability | Better Together

The hosts of Better Together—Joe T, Reggie George, J Black, and D Johns—discuss what can make or break a man, focusing on perspective, personal development, and honest communication. Joe T reflects on how lust and mismanaging money once seemed like “badges” but were actually breaking him, and he shares how learning business basics like forming an LLC and applying for a loan reshaped his mindset. The group explores how environment can miseducate people into survival tactics, why relationships often resist growth more than other areas of life, and how fear, willful ignorance, and attachment to what’s familiar create dysfunction. They emphasize vulnerability as a strength, the importance of regular check-ins, accountability without weaponizing feedback, avoiding comparison, practicing surrender, and not “dying” in someone else’s lack of development.

00:00 Nineties Haircut Memories

01:39 Show Intro and Check In

03:18 What Makes or Breaks Men

03:54 Lust Money and Unlearning

07:53 Reeducation and Strongholds

09:30 Perspective Changes Everything

12:20 Vulnerability as Strength

15:06 Marriage Growth and Deflection

24:46 Complacency and Silent Ruts

26:54 Why Relationships Resist Change

30:55 Phone Analogy and Human Growth

33:55 Early Marriage Blind Spots

35:13 Cracked Screen Relationships

37:59 Familiarity Versus Growth

41:05 Check Ins Without Weapons

42:39 Change Versus Development

44:09 Dont Die In Prison

48:11 Make Or Break Mindset

53:05 Update Your Data

55:14 Accountability Filters

59:55 Surrender And Priorities

01:06:34 Speak Up In Safe Spaces

01:08:52 Better Together Closing

#fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk

Channel Focus Areas:

“What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons”

“How to Be a Better Father”

“Father Son Relationship Advice”

“Mistakes Fathers Make”

“Lessons Every Man Should Learn”

Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital

Shop Father Figure: https://www.f2apparel.store/

Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac

Follow Joe T: https://instagram.com/bakeriii

Follow Reggie: https://instagram.com/fatherfigureapparel

Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:

1. subscribe to the channel,

2. turn on the notifications,

3. like this video,

4. leave a comment, and

5. share this content with someone who needs it.

The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:

Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show

Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com

My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1

My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast

The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community

1. Reveal trauma

2. Heal from trauma

3. Help through telling stories of it all

“Better Man. Better Father.”

The Dear Son, Network ®

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Value is Undervalued | Ep 182 | The Dear Son, Show Apr 23, 2026

Show notes

Every father should have honest conversations with his son. In this episode of The Dear Son, Show, we explore the lessons fathers must teach their sons before adulthood.

Value Is Undervalued: Gratitude, Access, and the Cost of Not Letting Go | Dear Son Show

On the Dear Son Show, hosts Jey Blac and D Johns discuss how “value is undervalued,” using examples from family life, finances, and work. They reflect on valuing needs over wants, the difference between price and long-term value, and how experience and expertise are often dismissed out of pride. D shares project-managing the rebuild of his father’s home after a minor fire while navigating his father’s early dementia and difficulty letting contractors lead. They explore protecting access to good people, setting boundaries around unequal exchanges, and how damaged value doesn’t always return—comparing a repaired car’s diminished worth to relationships where apologies don’t guarantee reconciliation. They also mention upcoming Dear Son Network content, including “Unhinged,” and encourage viewers to support other network shows.

00:00 Gratitude Hits Different

00:37 Show Intro and Check In

02:00 Family Updates and Milestones

04:10 Value Versus Price

06:46 Respecting Others Values

08:16 Undervaluing Experience

10:53 Rebuilding Dads House

13:16 Letting Go of Control

18:10 Access Is a Season

21:32 Protecting Dreams and Opportunity

23:06 Toolbox Value Shift

24:03 Humility And Motives

25:33 Protect Your People

28:25 Fair Exchange Boundaries

31:20 Paying For Expertise

32:01 Car Crash Value Lesson

35:19 Saturation And Brain Picking

38:16 Apologies And Trust Loss

40:51 Standards And Spillover

45:57 Network Updates And Signoff.

#fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk

Channel Focus Areas:

“What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons”

“How to Be a Better Father”

“Father Son Relationship Advice”

“Mistakes Fathers Make”

“Lessons Every Man Should Learn”

Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac

Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:

1. subscribe to the channel,

2. turn on the notifications,

3. like this video,

4. leave a comment, and

5. share this content with someone who needs it.

The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:

Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show

Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com

My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1

My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast

The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community

1. Reveal trauma

2. Heal from trauma

3. Help through telling stories of it all

“Better Man. Better Father.”

The Dear Son, Network ®

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nobody Wants to Pay the Cost | Ep 6 (Pt 2) | Better Together Apr 20, 2026

Show notes

Counting the Cost: Crime, Faith, Parenting, and the Price of Not Surrendering

In this episode of Better Together, the hosts discuss “counting the cost” across crime, spirituality, parenting, work, and relationships. Joe T explains that before prison, crime felt “lawful” and consequence-free because of his environment, but prison revealed how it was costing him everything. They contrast religious ritual with genuine spiritual formation, emphasizing exposure, accountability, and surrender, including how faith is tested during tragedy like a child’s medical crisis. The conversation also covers the danger of being convinced of yourself, how permissive parenting can stem from resenting structure, and the need to teach consequences. They share personal examples of counting the cost: moving family from the East Coast to Dubai, entrepreneurial risks versus corporate regret, success through content creation, and relationship decisions, ending with a call for viewers to reflect on what something is costing them and what it will cost.

00:00 Counting Crime Costs

00:49 Car Lesson on Value

02:06 Prison Reality Check

02:25 Ritual vs Relationship

05:36 Learning Surrender

09:43 God Knows My Heart

10:15 Echo Chambers and Pride

12:57 Parenting and Boundaries

16:46 Paying the Cost Daily

19:21 Marriage Covenant Costs

21:44 When Commitment Becomes Harm

24:26 Mortgage Analogy for Growth

26:21 Faith Tested by Loss

27:54 Moving Away for Family

31:48 Entrepreneurship vs Corporate

34:10 Time Wealth and Presence

36:07 TikTok Leap of Faith

37:50 Calling Off Engagement Regret

40:22 Community Challenge Wrap Up

#fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk

Channel Focus Areas:

“What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons”

“How to Be a Better Father”

“Father Son Relationship Advice”

“Mistakes Fathers Make”

“Lessons Every Man Should Learn”

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Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac

Follow Joe T: https://instagram.com/bakeriii

Follow Reggie: https://instagram.com/fatherfigureapparel

Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:

1. subscribe to the channel,

2. turn on the notifications,

3. like this video,

4. leave a comment, and

5. share this content with someone who needs it.

The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:

Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show

Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com

My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1

My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy

Let’s connect socially:

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https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast

The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community

1. Reveal trauma

2. Heal from trauma

3. Help through telling stories of it all

“Better Man. Better Father.”

The Dear Son, Network ®

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Nobody Wants to Pay the Cost | Ep 6 (Pt 1) | Better Together Apr 20, 2026

Show notes

Counting the Cost: Comfort, Convenience, and the Price of What You Want

In this episode of Better Together, the hosts discuss how many people pursue marriage, business, fitness, and parenthood without understanding the true cost, often falling in love with the ideology or highlight reel instead of the work and sacrifice required. They compare this to buying cars or houses, where people scrutinize price but ignore long-term interest and maintenance, and argue that financing and “right now” thinking distort value. They explore comfort and convenience as modern decision-drivers, the importance of retention and maintenance over simply acquiring something, and how misrepresentation in relationships creates unrealistic expectations. The conversation also turns to parenting, missed teaching moments, and how pride can block receiving hard truths, ending with a teaser question about the cost of crime that they save for part two.

00:00 Episode Kickoff

00:31 The Real Cost

02:32 Financing Illusion

03:56 Weddings Versus Marriage

04:27 Comfort Convenience Trap

05:47 Who Pays The Price

07:46 Climb And Pivot

10:39 Highlight Reel Culture

12:49 False Fronts In Love

14:06 Where Mindsets Begin

15:16 Bit By The Bug

16:47 Why This Platform

17:44 Clientele Retention Costs

18:57 Attention Versus Retention

19:35 Comfort Culture Shift

20:53 Paps Parenting Problem

21:58 Flat Tire Wake Up Call

24:00 Thermostat Money Lesson

26:31 Kids Mirror Parents

28:22 Pride And Feedback

30:26 Discipline And Consequences

33:58 Counting Cost Of Crime

34:20 Part Two Tease Outro

#fathersonrelationship #adviceformen #modernfatherhood #adultchildren #lifelessonsformen #raisingmen #raisingkids #mantalk

Channel Focus Areas:

“What Fathers Should Teach Their Sons”

“How to Be a Better Father”

“Father Son Relationship Advice”

“Mistakes Fathers Make”

“Lessons Every Man Should Learn”

Shop DSN Merch: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital

Shop Father Figure: https://www.f2apparel.store/

Follow James: https://instagram.com/jeyblac

Follow Joe T: https://instagram.com/bakeriii

Follow Reggie: https://instagram.com/fatherfigureapparel

Also, if you've made it this far, don't forget to:

1. subscribe to the channel,

2. turn on the notifications,

3. like this video,

4. leave a comment, and

5. share this content with someone who needs it.

The DSP: https://thedearsonpodcast.com

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors:

Shop DSN Merch: https://dear-son-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/the-dear-son-show

Love Kisha J Studios: https://lovekishaj.com

My ebook: https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/20lifepromptsv1

My book (physical): https://thedearsonpodcast.com/dsp-merch-%26-digital/ols/products/dear-son-what-i-wish-my-father-told-me-physical-copy

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

https://facebook.com/thedearsonpodcast

The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community

1. Reveal trauma

2. Heal from trauma

3. Help through telling stories of it all

“Better Man. Better Father.”

The Dear Son, Network ®

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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