Advertise on podcast: Guys Being Dads

Is AI making dads more productive or just more stressed? On episode 20 of Guys Being Dads, Adam Kunes (founder of Dad Day, dad of three) and Ben Petchel (first-time dad of a five-month-old) talk honestly about how AI is changing work and parenting. Guys Being Dads is a podcast for new dads and dads of young kids. This one is also our first episode on video. We get into why the ideas never stop once you have an AI assistant, and why "done" has to be something you decide for yourself now. We also talk about when you should Google a baby rash versus call your mom, and how to set screen time and AI boundaries before your kids are old enough to need them. Plus Ben's first flight with a baby, robotaxis, the October 60 mile challenge, and the first details on Hill Yeah, our end-of-year Dad Day hike outside Asheville. In this episode 0:00 Episode 20 and why we're finally doing video2:23 320+ Dad Day newsletters and the reader emails that keep us going4:50 The October 60 mile challenge in the Dad Day Slack and Strava6:14 Ben's first flight with a baby (and a rookie boarding mistake)10:14 AI as dads: more productive or just more stressed?17:00 The new luxury is putting the phone down18:18 Kids model our behavior, so who do they ask for help?22:40 Defining "done" when the work never ends25:00 Phones, screen time and AI with young kids29:15 Announcing Hill Yeah, a sunrise to sunset dad hike31:12 Gear: the Colugo Compact+ travel stroller and Tracksmith running shoesGear from this episode Colugo Compact+ travel stroller ($199)Tracksmith Eliot Ryder max-cushion running shoe ($220)Join Dad Day Get the Dad Day newsletterJoin the Dad Day communityFollow Dad Day on InstagramWatch Dad Day on YouTubeEnjoying the show? Leave us a rating on Apple Podcasts. It's the single biggest thing that helps other dads find us.

We're back. After a September sabbatical, a house full of sick kids, and one very aggressive hand washer, Adam and Ben are recording again with 91 days left in 2026. This one is about owning Q4 instead of letting it own you. Between holidays, kids' sports, a 5-month-old, an 8-month-old, and winter creeping in, the calendar is already full. So how do you get to December 26th feeling like you actually did something for yourself? We talk non-negotiables, breaking out of Groundhog Day, planning ahead for the bad-weather months, and mentally prepping for the holiday stuff you already know is gonna suck. Plus: the Dad Day October 60-mile challenge, a pull-up bar that lives in Adam's office, a Goggins detour, gear we're wearing on repeat, and Adam dropping some hoodie history on Ben in real time. What's in this episode: 00:00 Back in the studio, sick kids, and why dads don't get sick days 02:08 Dad Day updates: Austin moves to spring, more gear videos, the October challenge 04:20 60 miles in a month (and a dumb idea to do it in one day) 05:47 The Bullbar freestanding pull-up bar and Goggins' torn-up hands 07:24 Baby check-ins at 5 months and 8 months 09:48 Today's sponsor: Dude Wipes 12:07 Owning Q4 with 91 days left 16:45 Non-negotiables, Groundhog Day, and planning for winter with a baby 21:04 Prepping for the holiday stuff you know will suck 23:09 One for you, one for your people, one you're building 23:37 Gear: Mugsy Bayside pants, the 4Runner hunt, Luca loafers, the Filson briefcase 28:47 When was the hoodie invented? (Adam knew. Ben did not.) Thanks to Dude Wipes for sponsoring this episode. Stock up during Amazon Prime Days, October 6-7. Get Dude Wipes Join the October 60-mile challenge. Run, ruck, walk, push a stroller. It all counts. Search "Dad Day Run Club" under Clubs on Strava (free version works). [Strava link] Stuff we mentioned: Bullbar pull-up bar: bullbarfit.comMugsy Bayside pantsLuca Terra Penny Loafer at HuckberryFilson Dryden BriefcaseJoin the free Dad Day Slack. Get the newsletter: dadday.co/subscribe Tell us what you're setting out to do before 2027 hits. Reply to the newsletter or find us in the Slack.

In this episode, Adam and Ben discuss the importance of focusing on where you're going in life, parenting lessons, social media's impact, and upcoming events. They share personal stories, insights on mindset, and practical tips for staying focused and intentional. Links: Dad Day Newsletter Built for More Experience Filson Dryden Briefcase

In this episode of Guys Being Dads, Adam and Ben explore the importance of enjoying the present moment, balancing work and family, and finding happiness amidst life's hustle. They share personal stories, insights on setting goals, and practical tips for embracing joy now. Links: Dad Day Newsletter Go West - Tony Knapton Toyota 4Runner Car Review

In this episode, Adam and Ben explore the nuances of living away from family, the importance of intentionality in parenting, and navigating life's transitions with resilience and perspective. They share personal stories, listener calls, and practical insights to help listeners find balance and purpose. Key Topics: Living away from family and its impact on parenting and relationshipsThe importance of intentionality and presence in daily lifeOvercoming analysis paralysis and taking actionThe role of routine and boredom in personal growthBalancing career, family, and personal development  Resources: Can't Hurt Me by David GogginsJUNGMAVEN T-Shirts Marine Layer Hemp T-Shirts Adidas Adizero Evo SL Shoes Want more? Sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Join Adam and Ben as they explore the importance of taking action, embracing authenticity, and overcoming fear in personal growth and entrepreneurship. This episode offers practical insights and real talk for dads and aspiring creators alike. Resources: Ethos Life Insurance Dad Day Newsletter Land Cruiser Review Video Takeaways: Just start before you're ready; action beats perfection.Authenticity resonates more than polished perfection.Courage is required for every new step in life.Consistency and persistence outperform quick wins.Surround yourself with motivated, positive influences.

In this lively episode, Adam and Ben discuss the complexities of family dynamics, the realities of fatherhood, and unexpected adventures. They share humorous stories, insights on balancing family relationships, and tips for navigating in-laws, all while keeping it real and relatable for dads everywhere. Main Topics: The unpredictability of family interactions and maintaining boundariesFatherhood milestones and adjusting to the chaos of kidsNavigating in-laws and managing different parenting stylesThe importance of communication and love as family glueThe humorous side of parenting mishaps and trip preparationsMentions of the DG mindset podcast and personal growth through storytellingUpcoming events and how to connect via newsletter and social channels Resources & Links: DG Mindset Podcast by Derek GrantEthos Life InsuranceBuilt For More Event Are you getting the Dad Day Newsletter Sign up here

In this episode, Adam and Ben catch up on their personal lives, share parenting insights, and discuss the importance of authentic storytelling and community support for new dads.  Takeaways Communicate openly with your partner about routines and expectations.Seek advice from trusted community sources rather than everyone.Prioritize self-care and personal time to maintain balance.Share authentic stories to connect and inspire other dads.Celebrate the unique experiences of first-time fatherhood. Dad Day Instagram Go West Series on YouTube Huckberry Shoutout Sign up for Dad Day here

In this episode of Guys Being Dads, Ben is officially a dad, and the first few weeks of newborn life have humbled him fast. We catch up on baby Emma Parker’s arrival, what life has really been like as a first-time dad, whether hiring a doula was worth it, and why “dad brain” is already very real. Adam also gives a quick recap of the first Dad Day event in Charleston, the next Built For More experience in Austin, and his unexpected journey into dad gear reviews after a 140,000-view car video. In this episode, we talk about: Newborn life as a first-time dadSleep shifts, cabin fever, and letting family helpWhether a doula is worth itDad brain and the “blimp in the road”The first Dad Day event in CharlestonWhat’s next for Built For MoreAdam’s accidental YouTuber eraReal dad gear reviews, beach umbrellas included Basically: new babies, surf lessons, beach umbrellas, imposter syndrome, and two guys trying to keep the podcast alive. Are you on the list? Sign up for our free weekly newsletter here.

In this episode, Ben Petchel and Adam Kunes share personal stories, discuss upcoming fatherhood, and explore the realities of parenting, work-life balance, and personal growth. They also highlight new products and reflect on the journey to becoming dads. ---- Dad Day Newsletter - https://dadday.co Aeropress - https://aeropress.com | Save 20% with code DADDAY Dad Day Coffee: https://www.dadday.co/products/dad-day-blend-whole-bean-coffee-12oz-bag/

In this episode, Adam and Ben are back for episode 10 and officially kick off their “March to 100.” They dive into dad hacks (some better than others), debate the infamous push present, and unpack why life might’ve been simpler growing up in the 90s. From grayscale phones to DVD players in the car, it’s a mix of real dad talk, nostalgia, and figuring out what’s actually worth bringing back as parents today. Sign up for the Dad Day newsletter at: www.dadday.co ----- Guys Being Dads from the team at Dad Day is a podcast for modern dads. Real conversations about fatherhood, routines, relationships, and figuring it out as you go.

In this episode, Adam and Ben share personal stories about health, fitness, fatherhood, and the importance of self-care. They discuss a recent DEXA scan, the value of leaving your comfort zone, and upcoming events designed to inspire dads to prioritize their well-being. Sign up for the Dad Day newsletter @ www.dadday.co Join us from April 30-May 2 in Charleston.

In this episode, hosts Adam and Ben discuss the evolving seasons of parenthood, balancing work and family, and share personal stories about upcoming fatherhood, travel, and coaching. They explore how to adapt to life's changes while staying connected and intentional as dads. Links: Dad Day Newsletter Go West Series Receipts.XYZ (use code DADDAY) Join us from April 30-May 2

Join Adam and Ben as they reflect on their journey, share personal insights on motivation, the hustle, and balancing family life, and introduce new initiatives like the Dad Hotline and Go West series. This episode offers raw, real talk about the challenges and victories of building a life and business while navigating fatherhood. Resources: Duke Cannon: Save 20% with code: DADDAY Dad Day Community Dad Day Newsletter Signup Go West Episode 1

Ben Petchel and Adam Kunes unpack the weird tension of work-from-home life with kids. Always home. Never fully off. Productivity, boundaries, and what’s actually working for them right now. Links from Show: -Sign up for Dad Day newsletter -Watch Episode 1 of 'Go West' -Join Dad Day this spring in Charleston. Learn more