The Dad Project

“Every strong marriage is built on a thousand small acts of forgiveness.”What happens when trust is broken in a marriage… and can it actually be rebuilt?In Part 2 of this conversation, Josh continues his discussion with Doug Hinderer, licensed marriage and family therapist and host of Marriage Unhindered, diving into the role trust plays in a strong marriage and what it takes to restore it when it’s been damaged.They unpack the behaviors that quietly destroy trust, why emotional safety is essential, and how small daily interactions shape the health of your relationship over time. This episode is both practical and deeply encouraging for dads who want to lead their families well.If you want a strong marriage, it’s not about perfection… it’s about humility, forgiveness, and intentional growth.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The 4 behaviors that destroy trust in a marriageWhy emotional safety is the foundation of a strong relationshipThe importance of saying “I’m sorry” and “I forgive you”Why your spouse’s flaws can actually make you betterHow shifting your perspective can transform your marriageWhy humility and the desire to grow matter more than perfectionHow to handle criticism without becoming defensiveA simple communication framework that reduces conflictWhy curiosity is one of the most powerful tools in marriageChapters (Part 2):(00:00) – Introduction to Part 2: Why Trust Matters (01:07) – The “4 Horsemen” That Destroy Trust (02:14) – Emotional Safety and Vulnerability in Marriage (03:33) – “I’m Sorry” and “I Forgive You” (04:27) – Why You Should Expect Imperfection (06:12) – How Your Spouse’s Flaws Can Make You Better (08:09) – The Power of Perspective in Marriage (11:10) – Marriage as Foundation vs. Capstone (12:19) – The Most Important Trait to Look for in a Spouse (19:34) – Why Men Struggle with Criticism (Respect & Failure) (21:21) – A Simple Framework for Better Communication (23:00) – The Power of Curiosity in MarriageLinks & ResourcesThe Dad Project: https://www.thedadprojectpodcast.org/ Support the show: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDNDoug Hinderer – Happy Marriage for Life: https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/ Marriage Unhindered (Relevant Radio): https://relevantradio.com/listen/our-shows/marriage-unhindered/ Rekindled Hearts: The Spiritual Journey to Marital Healing by Doug Hinderer: https://a.co/d/09qeC7nTPodcast Production Services by https://EveryWord.Media

What makes a strong marriage… and why do so many slowly fall apart?In this episode of The Dad Project, Josh sits down with Doug Hinderer, licensed marriage and family therapist and host of Marriage Unhindered, to break down the foundation of a healthy, lasting marriage.They discuss the three core pillars every marriage needs, why conflict is unavoidable (and not necessarily a bad thing), and how small daily habits can either strengthen or quietly erode your relationship over time.If you want to be a great dad, it starts with becoming a better husband. This conversation lays the groundwork.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - The 3 essential pillars of a strong and lasting marriage - Why most conflicts in marriage are not actually solvable - How marriages slowly drift apart without intentional effort - Why investing in your relationship daily matters more than big moments - The role of forgiveness in long-term relationships - Why your relationship with your wife is the greatest example your kids will seeChapters (Part 1):(00:00) – Introduction & Why This Conversation Matters(01:17) – The 3 Pillars of a Strong Marriage(03:14) – Why Most Conflict Can’t Be “Fixed”(05:33) – The 4 Types of Love Every Marriage Needs(06:41) – Why Being a Great Husband Comes First(08:50) – What Starts to Derail a Marriage(11:03) – Kids, Career, and Losing Connection Over Time(14:26) – The 1% Daily Investment That Changes Everything(15:25) – Why Most Couples Do Date Night Wrong(24:43) – A Hard Lesson on Priorities in MarriageLinks & Resources The Dad Project: https://www.thedadprojectpodcast.org/Support the show: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDNDoug Hinderer - Happy Marriage for Life: https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/Marriage Unhindered (Relevant Radio): https://relevantradio.com/listen/our-shows/marriage-unhindered/Rekindled Hearts: The Spiritual Journey to Marital Healing by Doug Hinderer: https://a.co/d/09qeC7nT"Strong marriages don’t happen by accident. They are built through small, consistent, intentional actions over time.If you want to lead your family well, it starts with how you love your wife."Podcast Production Services by https://EveryWord.Media

In this episode, we delve into the essential role of consistency in parenting and how it shapes the character, self-regulation, and future success of our children. Drawing inspiration from Julie Moss’s incredible Ironman perseverance, we explore what it means to be always “on” as a parent and why holding the line—especially when we’re tired or overwhelmed—pays off in the long run. Together, let's grow in virtue and learn the value of consistency and discover how small, daily efforts can transform our families and prepare our children for life's race.Support The Dad Project:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDNPodcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Kheriaty to examine the powerful impact of social media and screen time on youth mental health, particularly focusing on rising rates of depression and anxiety. We learn practical, time-tested strategies that dads can use to help their kids navigate the digital world while fostering resilience, connection, and safety. Through candid discussion and expert advice, we uncover concrete ways to set healthy boundaries and support our children in an age saturated by technology. Join us as we discover the crucial steps every dad can take to protect and nurture their families in the modern digital landscape.Support The Dad Project:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDNMental Health Resources:If you or someone you know needs help, please consider these resources:NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): www.NAMI.orgNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline:Call or text 988 (available 24/7 in the U.S.)Or dial the full number: 1-800-273-8255Timestamps(00:00) - Josh introduces The Dad Project and encourages listener support.(03:08) - Dr. Kheriaty identifies depression and anxiety as top youth mental health issues.(05:30) - Social media use directly linked to increased depression and anxiety.(07:45) - Practical tips for dads to minimize kids’ screen time and exposure.(08:30) - Advocating for cell phone free schools and strict social media limits.(10:46) - Dangers of comparison and self-image on social media platforms.(14:27) - Risks of social media versus real-life social learning.(16:42) - Ideas for tech-free family routines and setting positive examples.(24:09) - Advice on monitoring kids’ devices and rethinking privacy expectations.Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Kheriaty to confront the sobering mental health crisis affecting youth in America today. We examine the alarming rise in suicide rates, the impact of social media and electronic devices, and the role of loneliness and social isolation in shaping children's well-being. By untangling the factors contributing to this crisis and distinguishing ordinary struggles from clinical concerns, we offer practical guidance and crucial awareness for parents striving to protect and nurture their kids. Uncover not only the realities facing modern families but ways to support mental health and connection at home.Support The Dad Project:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDNWatch on YouTube:https://youtu.be/gPpz3hnK-1oMental Health Resources:If you or someone you know needs help, please consider these resources:NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): www.NAMI.orgNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline:Call or text 988 (available 24/7 in the U.S.)Or dial the full number: 1-800-273-8255Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we tackle the challenge of becoming the fathers our children need, even when we haven't had a strong example ourselves. We explore practical strategies for building virtue, forming new family legacies, and intentionally shaping our children's character. By emphasizing self-assessment, strategic planning, and the power of example, we uncover the tools to break cycles and create a lasting impact. Listen in as we reveal the habits and approaches that can help every dad become a source of strength, integrity, and love for their family.Support The Dad Project:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDNPodcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

Ashton Ellis pays tribute to our cofounder, Jim Tierney. You can visit Jim's blog at: https://fortitudine-withfortitude.blogspot.com/ To support the Dad Project, visit: http://www.dadproject.net/ Podcast Production Services by https://EveryWord.Media

In this Episode, Jim Tierney interviews Ginny Boles, oldest daughter of Martin Boles, a frequent contributor to The Dad Project podcast. Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com

This episode is the first in a two-part series on raising daughters. Colin Brady gives practical advice regarding how dads can be successful in raising daughters. Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com

In this episode of The Dad Project, Jim Tierney discusses the meaning of true love and how understanding what true love means can help us be better husbands and dads. Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com

In this episode, Jim Tierney shares the advice he has given friends who are considering divorce and have asked for his help. Disclaimer: Jim Tierney is not a licensed professional, and this episode is not intended to be a substitute for marriage counseling. Some individuals' marital situations might require immediate separation for the safety of one or more of the parties. Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com

In this episode, Ashton Ellis discusses a dad's role in making a family relocation successful. Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com

In this episode, homeschooling dad Joe Foster gives advice on how dads can support moms who have been thrust into distance learning or who have chosen to begin homeschooling. Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com

In this episode, leadership coach Kumar Kibble brings us back to the fundamentals of being a good dad. Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com

In this episode, Jim Tierney discusses idols that dads should on guard against worshiping and practical ways that we can grow in the virtue of detachment. Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com

In this episode of The Dad Project, Adam Mering discusses the need for dads to work on the virtue of sincerity both at home and at work. Adam works in the temporary staffing industry. He and his wife have six children. Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com

In this episode of The Dad Project, Jim Tierney discusses how dads can turn the adversity of being under stay at home orders into good for their families. Jim is co-founder of The Dad Project. He and his wife have 10 children. Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com

In this episode of The Dad Project, Rich Meyer discusses why it is critically important that dads model patience in the home. Rich is a Chicago native who currently works as the headmaster of a high school in Orange County, California. He and his wife have eight children.

In this episode of The Dad Project, Jim Tierney discusses the need for dads to model good friendships as both husbands and fathers. Jim is co-founder of The Dad Project. He and his wife have 10 children. Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com