Beyond Dads: Honoring Mentors and the Child-Free Path on Father’s Day

The Owning Alone Podcast

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Join us for a deeply moving and insightful episode recorded live from Denver, CO, where we broaden the traditional Father’s Day celebration to honor not just dads, but all father figures and mentors. We celebrate the invaluable contributions of traditional dads as well as those who have become role models in unconventional ways—coaches, mentors, and guiding figures who shape lives without the title of “Dad.”

This episode also shines a light on those who’ve courageously chosen a child-free path, whether by conscious decision or through navigating life's complexities. We delve into the fulfillment that comes from mentoring and supporting others, even without biological ties, highlighting how these relationships enrich both the mentors and those they guide.

Hear Joel's compelling story as he reflects on his journey with the desire for children. From grappling with fertility challenges and the impact of divorce to reaching a point where the idea of parenthood no longer resonates, Joel opens up about the profound weight of his decision not to have children. His narrative offers a poignant look into the pressures and emotional landscapes men face regarding parenthood.

We also explore how men and women differently experience the societal expectations around biological clocks, the fear of loneliness in old age, and creative ways to build community and connection beyond traditional parenthood.

Tune in for an honest conversation about evolving family dynamics, the profound impact of mentorship, and finding purpose and connection on diverse paths. Follow us on Instagram @owningalone and share your thoughts and personal stories—we'd love to hear from you!

How to Engage with Us

• Email us at [e-mail]
• DM us on Instagram owningalone
• Follow Joel on IG jpoppert or Tik Tok @joelpoppert
• Follow Emanuela on IG emanuela5683 or accountability_with_e
• If you live in the Denver Metro area, join my Meetup group, The Podcast Happy Hour

Thanks for joining the Owning Alone community, I certainly appreciate you!

Chapters

1. Discussion on Dads and Non-Dads (00:00:00)

2. Honoring Father Figures (00:06:58)

3. Navigating Fatherhood Without Children (00:15:35)

4. Navigating Childless Aging Alone (00:23:03)

5. Embracing Relationships With Older Adults (00:28:29)

6. Navigating Childless Friendships and Communities (00:39:42)

7. Celebrating Fathers and Father Figures (00:52:47)