In this podcast episode, Justin and Courtney discuss the concept of "daddy trauma" and its impact on individuals and families. Justin shares his personal experience with his father leaving the family during his high school years and the subsequent challenges. Courtney, having worked with women in the context of postpartum care, emphasizes the need for extending well-being care to fathers and addressing the common triggers and challenges in fatherhood. #### Highlights - 🍲 **Cooking Preferences Game:** Justin and Courtney play a lighthearted "this or that" game discussing cooking preferences, adding a fun element to the podcast. - 🏡 **Daddy Trauma Discussion:** The main focus is on Justin's experience of dealing with his father's departure and the impact it had on his life, as well as broader discussions on masculinity, accountability, and family dynamics. - 👨‍👧‍👦 **Fatherhood Well-Being:** Courtney reflects on the lack of emphasis on paternal well-being and the need to prepare individuals for the challenges of fatherhood, aiming for healthy family dynamics. - 🐘 **Acknowledging Elephants:** The importance of acknowledging and addressing uncomfortable topics within families, such as addiction and distance, is highlighted, with the metaphor of "acknowledging the elephants in the room." - 💬 **Communication and Accountability:** The discussion emphasizes the significance of open communication and accountability in family relationships, especially when dealing with challenging situations. - 🌱 **Growing Despite Challenges:** Justin reflects on how, as the eldest male child, he took on responsibilities and challenges, emphasizing the resilience and growth that can occur despite difficult circumstances. - 🔄 **Breaking the Cycle:** The podcast concludes with a call to break the cycle of unhealthy family dynamics, urging individuals to address and discuss issues rather than letting them become unspoken "elephants."