Topic: Separation

Fathers are cautioned against telling their children "I miss you," as it can condition the child to view separation as a period of sadness or unhappiness. Instead, Jensen recommends using positive, forward-looking language such as "I can't wait to see you when you get back." This shift in phrasing frames the time apart as a period of being busy and productive rather than a source of distress.

Glenn shares an anecdote about encouraging his son to enjoy time alone while the rest of the family is out. The discussion explores the importance of being comfortable in one's own company, particularly for fathers who have recently separated and may struggle with an empty house. They argue that personal happiness should be a foundation of "10 out of 10" so that a partner becomes a bonus rather than a necessity for fulfillment.

A host provides a personal update on his new relationship, confirming he is now officially in the "girlfriend" stage. He describes the process of introducing her to his children through a normal evening of dinner and Pictionary. The discussion emphasizes the importance of maintaining a "normal" experience for children in separated families and the positive impact of seeing a parent happy.

The UK has entered its second lockdown amidst the ongoing US election, creating routine challenges for fathers managing childcare and shopping. Separated dads often struggle with coordinating play dates and social schedules, tasks traditionally managed by mothers. Communication barriers, such as unreturned texts or voicemails from other parents, can complicate a father's effort to arrange activities for his children.

Johnny Jensen shares an anecdote about his father's meticulous habit of maintaining global friendships through letters and phone calls tracked via a Dropbox to-do list. This serves as a real-world example of the principles found in Connected Leadership regarding the maintenance of professional and social bonds.

Five years after his separation and divorce, the host shares his recent experiences re-entering the dating world and the vulnerability involved in meeting new people. He contrasts his cautious approach with a fellow Team Super Dad member who recently started a relationship after several dates. The host acknowledges the "ribbing" received from friends regarding his long period of being single.

The discussion shifts to the impact of divorce on children of different ages, specifically the challenges of managing teenagers who may take sides. Matt Albiges reflects on his lack of masculine leadership and his "nice guy" tendency to avoid conflict during his separation. He observes how his oldest son mirrored toxic and emotionally abusive behaviors witnessed during the marriage.

Matt Albiges uses an example of a militant vegan and a meat-eater to illustrate how fundamental value differences can make compromise impossible. The conversation touches on how religious shifts or lifestyle changes can lead to the end of a "life chapter." They advocate for removing the stigma from breaking up when two people are no longer on the same page.

The Rebuild Program is a five-week initiative designed to help fathers recover from divorce, separation, or loss. It focuses on six core areas: health, wealth, fitness, personal power, faith, and happiness. Listeners are encouraged to join the Team Super Dad Facebook group and participate in Monday night Zoom hangouts for peer support and banter.