What Dads are Going Through and Why We Should Listen
At MissPoppins, we’re committed to building a parenting culture that sees the full picture not just the maternal one. And in our latest episode of The Art of Parenting Podcast, we had a powerful, perspective-shifting conversation with Ryan Brown, an ICF-accredited parenting coach and single father, that underscored just how much support today’s dads are still missing.
Ryan spoke with us about the hurdles that come with post-divorce, co-parenting dynamics, and in the quiet, everyday moments of trying to “get it right.” He encouraged fathers to seek community and encouraged talks of fatherhood in everyday conversations.
The Unspoken Postpartum for Fathers
We often think of postpartum struggles as something exclusive to birth-giving parents. But Ryan opened up about the anxiety and depression he experienced not in the newborn phase, but when career demands shifted, it meant missing out on school events and milestones.
“He’s only in kindergarten once,” he said. “And knowing I had to miss parts of that just crushed me.”
For many fathers, the emotional toll of providing for their children is deeply underacknowledged. At MissPoppins, we believe supporting dads through these moments is not optional, it’s essential. Ryan brought up the existence of girl dads as another possible cause of postpartum anxiety. Not knowing what to do is an anxious feeling everyone gets but some need more help managing their fears than others.
Ryan also spoke about the identity shift that comes with fatherhood especially for dads raising sensitive kids or navigating emotional dynamics that require gentleness over toughness.
The cultural narrative around masculinity often leaves little room for emotional presence. But as Ryan pointed out, that presence is exactly what children need most.
“A lot of the dads I work with struggle to balance strength with softness. But we need both.”
It’s a reminder that emotional intelligence isn’t a “mom thing” it’s a parenting strength that all caregivers can access.
Co-Parenting Isn’t a Side Story
As a co-parent with a 50/50 custody agreement, Ryan didn’t sugarcoat the challenges of maintaining a healthy relationship with his ex. What he did offer was hope and a framework.
Through therapy, communication tools, and small steps, Ryan and his co-parent built a functional, supportive system for their son. One that prioritizes peace, even if it took years to reach.
“We decided we didn’t want to live in stress. We didn’t want our child’s milestones to be filled with tension.”
He reinforces the theme of walking through your obstacles instead of avoiding and going around. If this is someone you have to see everyday, why make it more difficult? There is subconscious work you do everyday to
Ryan shared a lesser-discussed source of anxiety: raising daughters as a single dad. From uncertainty around puberty to emotional connection, many fathers worry they won’t know how to “do it right.”
But his advice was simple and profound.
“Ask your kids what they want to do. Say yes. Be in their world.”
Whether it’s letting your daughter do your nails or talk through tough feelings, showing up consistently matters more than having the perfect answer.
What This Means for MissPoppins
This conversation reinforced what we already believe at MissPoppins: Parenting is bigger than motherhood.
That’s why we encourage coaching services to all including:
Single fathers
Co-parents navigating divorce
Fathers experiencing emotional burnout
Caregivers of all genders redefining “what strength looks like”
Ryan’s honesty gave us a blueprint. Not just for fatherhood but for how our culture, our platforms, and our services can show up better for all parents.
Because at the end of the day, we all want the same thing: to raise children who feel seen, safe, and loved. And to do that, we have to start supporting parents in all forms.
For more inspiring stories, listen to full episodes of MissPoppins The Art of Parenting wherever you get your podcasts.