Most blokes underestimate how much their presence—not their perfection—shapes their kids’ future. In this episode, Josh and Kieran sit down and gets real about what fatherhood means in 2025: the pressures, the guilt, the wins, the repair work. We’ll unpack how your role as a dad has shifted, why your presence matters more than the paycheck, how to navigate fatherhood after divorce or separation, and the legacy you’re building simply by showing up. Backed by the latest Australian stats, grounded in story, and packed with practical tools to help you step up in the day-to-day. If you’re a dad, thinking of becoming one, or trying to reconnect—this episode is for you.
🔍 Key Facts, Stats & Resources (for Show Notes)
The Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) “Fathers and Work: A Statistical Overview” shows that while fathers’ employment patterns change little after having children, their ability to shape care roles is increasing. Australian Institute of Family Studies
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) projections, one-parent families headed by male lone-parents are set to increase the fastest by 2046—between 40% and 69%. ABC
Research shows that stay-at-home fathers remain rare in Australia (~4-5% of two-parent families) and that the traditional model of fathering is still deeply embedded in culture despite evolving roles. Australian Institute of Family Studies+1
A comprehensive review by Save the Children Australia titled “State of Australia’s Fathers” highlights that many Australian fathers consider themselves “helpers” rather than primary carers—even as they want more involvement with their kids. Equimundo+1
Health outcomes among first-time fathers in Australia show that while fatherhood brings many positives, there are also challenges around sleep, mental health, and service use—highlighted in the AIFS Ten to Men Insights report.
✅ Call to Action for Listeners
Reflect on one small thing you’ll do this week to increase your presence with your kids (a check-in, an activity, letting the phone go away for 10 minutes).
Write down one “legacy moment” you want your kids to remember you for—not the big trophy, but the quiet ordinary habit.
Share this episode with another dad and commit together to one ritual you’ll keep.
