In this episode, Shane and Pete sit down for a raw and relatable follow-up to Joel’s powerful story from the previous episode. The boys reflect on the emotional layers of Joel’s birth experience, his honesty around anxiety, and the deeper lessons in communication, self-care, and presence in fatherhood. They also dive into their own parenting challenges, including the social media detox challenge, Shane’s 5am reset, and a brutal “poo trail” moment that has to be heard to be believed!
Whether you’re a first-time dad, sleep-deprived parent, or just trying to keep your head above water, this ep is packed with insight, laughs, and heart.
📌 In This Episode:
- Pete and Shane reflect on the birth trauma Joel experienced, and how calmly (on the outside) he handled internal chaos
- How open communication helped Joel and Freya survive the tough moments together
- Why it’s so easy to “be there” but not actually be present—and what to do about it
- Pete’s unexpected poo-related karma moment mid social media challenge 💩
- Shane’s new 5am morning routine and how it’s reshaping his family life
- The importance of checking in with your partner, even when you’re both exhausted
🧠 Resources Mentioned:
💌 Get Involved:
Got a win, challenge, or epic dad moment to share?
📧 Email: [email protected]
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📢 Support the Podcast:
- Share this episode with a dad, mate, or parent who needs it
- Leave a review on your podcast app – it helps more dads find us
- Partner with us to help get these conversations to more ears (details below)
🌐 Learn More & Get Involved:
- Book Pete for your next speaking event: Restless Wellbeing
- Grab Shane’s book “I Didn’t Want to Die, I Just Wanted the Pain to End” or the well-being journal:
Power, Strength & Vulnerability
🤝 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
- Best Electrician Geelong – Btd Electrical And Data
Thanks to Bram and the team for keeping homes powered and the podcast flowing. - HG Legal – Big thanks to Paul and his incredible team for their ongoing support of the podcast and dads everywhere.
📌 Please Note:
This podcast is not a professional mental health service. We’re not psychologists or therapists—just two dads sharing real stories, lived experiences, and having conversations we wish were more common. If you’re struggling, reach out to the resources above or speak with a professional.
🎉 Submit Your Dad Win:
Got a proud moment or funny story from dad life? Email or DM us and we’ll read it on the show!