The Dad Project – Details, episodes & analysis

What happens when the corporate ladder you've been climbing leads to a cliff edge?

At 49, Jason had everything on paper-successful career, family, financial security. But beneath the surface, he was drowning. Depression, hypertension, high cholesterol, fatty liver, pre-diabetes. The price of "success" was killing him slowly.

Then came the moment that changed everything: leaving his corporate job to actually be a father, not just play one on weekends.

In this raw episode of The Dad Project, Jason shares his journey from outsourcing parenthood to a nanny, to rediscovering himself through a simple Instagram post of Bilbo Baggins that sparked a complete life transformation. From barely able to walk up Surrey Hills to becoming a personal trainer at 49, helping others escape the same trap he was in.

This conversation digs deep into:
• The identity crisis that hits when your job title is your identity
• Why "manning up" is the worst advice for struggling men
• The fear that drives midlife transformation (and why it's not what you think)
• How staring at a photo of your 3-year-old self can unlock who you really are
• The brutal truth about aging: will you be a burden to your children?

(00:00:00) Introduction: Breaking the Silence on Men's Mental Health (00:01:45) Leaving Corporate Life to Become a Present Father (00:05:20) The Power of Presence: Redefining Fatherhood (00:12:13) The Identity Crisis: When Your Job Title Disappears (00:15:10) Depression, Diabetes, and Rock Bottom at 49 (00:22:10) Finding Your True Self Through a Child's Eyes (00:28:03) The Hobbit Moment: When Everything Changed (00:36:07) From Wine to Wellness: The Journey to Sobriety (00:41:02) Rediscovering Adventure at 49: Mountain Bikes and Swimming Lessons (00:49:01) From Client to Coach: Finding Purpose in Fitness (00:58:20) The Mental Game: Why Fitness is Really About Self-Image (01:17:44) A Father's Promise: Don't Become a Burden to Your Children

Jason's message is clear: "If you can't get up off a chair by 70, you're heading for a care home. The promise you made to that newborn baby—to do anything for them—does that include becoming their burden?"

Whether you're stuck in corporate burnout, struggling with your identity, or just know something needs to change—this episode will challenge everything you think you know about strength, success, and what it really means to show up as a father.

🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations about men's mental health, fatherhood, and finding purpose in midlife.

📲 Follow Jason
Instagram: @fitinmidlife
TikTok: @fitinmidlife
Facebook: @fitinmidlife

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LinkedIn: The Dad Project

#MensMentalHealth #MidlifeCrisis #CorporateBurnout #FitnessJourney #Depression #Fatherhood #PersonalTransformation #TheDadProject #MentalHealthMatters #LifeChange

What if the real fear isn’t failure, but becoming the man you could be?

In this raw episode of The Dad Project Podcast, host Naroop Jhooti sits down with Chris Davies, a former Royal Marine Commando turned breathwork facilitator, to explore what it really means to heal as a man.

From childhood pain and family trauma to combat experience and the pressure to always be “strong,” Chris unpacks the deep emotional burdens many men silently carry and how breathwork helped him finally release them.

This conversation goes deep; father wounds, toxic masculinity, spiritual awakenings, and the terrifying freedom that comes when you finally let go of the story you’ve told yourself your whole life.

Whether you're a father, son, veteran, or someone seeking purpose—this episode will challenge you, move you, and maybe even change you.

(00:00:00) The Burden of Becoming Your Best Self (00:01:03) Introduction: Breaking the Silence on Men's Mental Health (00:01:38) The Black Sheep: Chris's Childhood and Early Wisdom (00:08:40) A Father's Death and the Search for Legacy (00:15:07) Joining the Marines: Purpose, Fear, and Brotherhood (00:17:55) Modern Masculinity and the Loss of Purpose (00:26:56) Combat in Afghanistan: Facing Death as a Valiman (00:29:52) Leaving the Military and Finding Breathwork (00:40:41) The Science and Spirit of Breathwork (01:02:46) Sacred Sons and Men's Work (01:12:15) Why Men Resist Healing (01:26:52) Breaking the Cycle for Future Generations

🔔 Like, comment, and subscribe to support powerful conversations that men need to hear.

📲 Connect with Chris
Instagram: @the_chrisdavies/

📲 Follow The Dad Project
Instagram: @thedadprojecthq
TikTok: @thedadprojecthq
YouTube: @thedadprojecthq
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LinkedIn: The Dad Project

#MensMentalHealth #TheDadProject #Breathwork #Masculinity #HealingJourney #Fatherhood #SelfGrowth #EmotionalHealth #ModernMan #PurposeDriven

In this deeply personal and powerful episode of The Dad Project, Juggy Sidhu opens up about the darkest chapter of his life — the day he tried to take it all away. From silent suffering and spiraling addiction to a life-changing crash that became a turning point, Juggy’s raw honesty will move you.Now a thriving coach, father, and speaker, Juggy shares how pain became his purpose — and how he's helping others transform their lives, inside and out.🔔 Like, subscribe, and share this episode to help break the stigma around men’s mental health and show others they are not alone.📲 Follow Juggy:Instagram: www.instagram.com/theindianbodycoachFacebook: www.facebook.com/juggysinghsidhuTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@theindianbodycoachLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/indianfatlossspecialistonlinecoachYouTube: www.youtube.com/@JuggySidhuTheIndianBodyCoach📲 Follow The Dad Project:Instagram: www.instagram.com/thedadprojecthqFacebook: www.facebook.com/thedadprojecthqTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@thedadprojecthqYouTube: www.youtube.com/@thedadprojecthqX (Twitter): www.x.com/thedadprojecthqLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-dad-project#MensMentalHealth #SuicideAwareness #TheDadProject #Fatherhood #Transformation #Purpose #FitnessJourney #Resilience #MentalHealthMatters

In this heartfelt episode of The Dad Project Podcast, host Naroop Jhooti sits down with Nemash Patel, a single father who shares his powerful story of navigating divorce, overcoming emotional struggles, and discovering a renewed sense of purpose.

Nemash opens up about the fear of losing his children after separation, coping mechanisms that helped him rebuild his life, and how becoming part of The Dad Project transformed his personal growth and mission in life.

Honest, vulnerable, and deeply moving, this conversation explores how pain can become purpose, and how helping others can heal your own wounds.

🎧 Packed with honesty, hope, and practical wisdom, this episode is essential listening for any father experiencing life's toughest challenges.

00:00:00 Finding Purpose Through The Dad Project

00:01:26 Meet Nemash: A Single Dad's Journey

00:04:13 What Fatherhood Means to Nemash

00:08:29 The Impact of Separation Anxiety

00:11:46 Staying for the Kids

00:13:11 Rediscovering Life After Divorce

00:15:18 Nemash's Dreams and Ambitions

00:16:59 Emotional Impact of Divorce

00:18:41 Choosing Fitness Over Depression

00:22:06 Father's Influence and Legacy

00:24:04 Overcompensating as a Single Dad

00:26:42 Joining The Dad Project

00:30:43 Nemash's Vision for the Future

00:34:01 Why Nemash Wants to Help Others

00:36:26 Creating a Safe Space for Fathers

00:37:14 Personal Growth Through Helping Others

00:40:00 A Sense of Purpose and Duty

00:42:26 How Nemash Wants to Be Remembered

00:43:49 Final Reflections and Future Aspirations

🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support The Dad Project and help more dads embrace their journey.

📲 Follow Nemash

Instagram: instagram.com/nemashpatel

Facebook: facebook.com/nemash

TikTok: tiktok.com/@nemashpatel

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nemash-patel/

📲 Follow The Dad Project

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LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-dad-project

#SingleDad #DivorceJourney #Fatherhood #MentalHealth #Healing #FindingPurpose #ParentingTips #TheDadProject #FatherhoodAdvice #OvercomingChallenges

In Episode 9 of The Dad Project Podcast, host Naroop Jhooti sits down with close friend, model, and former star of SKY TV's Desi Rascals, Owais Khan, for a deeply personal conversation about overcoming bullying, navigating the pressures of reality TV, and finding his voice despite a lifelong stammer.Now an ambassador for Action for Stammering Children, Owais opens up about the emotional journey from his challenging school days to embracing fatherhood, highlighting how vulnerability became his greatest strength. This powerful episode offers valuable insights into resilience, self-acceptance, and the importance of being present as a father.Honest, raw, and inspiring—this conversation will resonate with anyone overcoming life's hurdles and striving to live authentically.00:00:00 Introduction & Mental Health Struggles00:02:45 Early Childhood in Pakistan00:04:15 Experiences with Bullying & Racism00:06:52 Finding Confidence Through Sports00:08:00 Family Response & Emotional Impact00:10:31 Feeling Alone at Boarding School00:12:34 Parenting and Passing On Struggles00:15:37 Daughter's Stammer & Emotional Reflection00:18:55 Becoming a Stambassador00:23:47 Modelling Career & Gaining Confidence00:27:11 Framing Stammer as a Superpower00:29:37 Mental Health Crisis & COVID Impact00:32:15 Therapy & Overcoming Trauma00:35:01 Seeking Acceptance & Father's Approval00:36:55 Relationship with Father00:38:18 Parents' Divorce & Emotional Toll00:41:52 Appreciating Father's Sacrifices00:42:38 Becoming a Father & Life Changes00:46:55 Advice for Fathers: Being Present00:49:47 Coping with "Dad Guilt"00:51:00 Reality TV Experience & Challenges00:54:13 Future Ambitions & Stand-up Comedy00:55:54 How Owais Wants to Be Remembered00:56:44 Closing Thoughts & Gratitude🎧 This episode is packed with honesty, resilience, and powerful insights for anyone overcoming bullying, embracing fatherhood, or navigating life's challenges.🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support

The Dad Project and help inspire more fathers to open up about their journey.Follow Owais Khan

Instagram - www.instagram.com/owais0824Follow Action for Stammering Children

Instagram - www.instagram.com/stammer_action

LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/action-for-stammering-children

Website - www.actionforstammeringchildren.org

📲 Follow The Dad Project:

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LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-dad-project

#Fatherhood #MentalHealth #Bullying #OvercomingChallenges #Resilience #StammeringAwareness #TheDadProject #ParentingTips #FatherhoodAdvice

Episode 8 of The Dad Project Podcast features a deeply personal conversation between host Naroop Jhooti and his father, Bindy Jhooti.

Bindy openly shares the story of building a successful multi-million-pound business and the emotional journey of watching it collapse.

This episode dives into resilience, redefining success, and navigating life's hardest moments. Bindy reveals how he coped through immense uncertainty, holding onto hope and belief even in the darkest times.

Raw, honest, and inspiring this conversation highlights the power of vulnerability and father-son communication in overcoming life's greatest challenges.

00:00:00 Opening & Facing Life's Challenges

00:02:08 Bindy’s Early Life in Delhi

00:03:10 Influence of Uncle's Struggles

00:05:20 Early Lessons on Mental Health

00:07:25 Developing a Positive Mindset

00:08:10 Lessons from Father-in-Law

00:08:55 Joining the Family Business

00:11:16 Early Memories from the Factory

00:12:20 The Business Closing Down

00:15:05 Searching for a New Purpose

00:15:54 Coping with Emotional Stress

00:17:43 Supporting His Son's Music Career

00:19:53 The "Light Someone's Candle" Dream

00:22:16 Importance of Helping Others

00:23:33 How Divorce Impacts Parents

00:26:08 Importance of Therapy for Men

00:28:23 Pursuing Personal Fulfilment

00:29:33 Parents' Perspectives on Divorce

00:33:40 Changing Negative Environments

00:34:58 The Importance of Seeking Help

00:36:52 Thoughts on The Dad Project

00:38:23 Advice for Men Facing Struggles

00:40:50 Belief and Resilience

00:42:16 How Bindy Wants to be Remembered

00:47:26 Final Thoughts on Life

00:48:04 Closing Reflections and Gratitude

🎧 This episode of The Dad Project Podcast features a powerful conversation between host Naroop Jhooti and his father, Bindy Jhooti, exploring resilience, family, and overcoming life's toughest challenges.

🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support The Dad Project and inspire others.

Follow The Dad Project

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Facebook: www.facebook.com/thedadprojecthq

TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@thedadprojecthq

YouTube: @thedadprojecthq

X (Twitter): www.x.com/thedadprojecthq

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-dad-project

#TheDadProject #Podcast #Fatherhood #Resilience #OvercomingObstacles #MentalStrength

In this moving episode of The Dad Project Podcast, host Naroop Jhooti sits down with Arun Setty, a single father who shares his journey of loss, resilience, and transformation.

After losing both of his parents and going through a difficult divorce, Arun found himself navigating fatherhood alone. In this heartfelt conversation, he opens up about the struggles of being a single dad, the sacrifices he made for his son, and the strength he discovered in the process.

Arun shares how stepping back from his high-flying career allowed him to dedicate more time to his son, how volunteering became a source of healing, and how embracing vulnerability helped him rebuild his life.

00:00 Introduction

01:18 Arun’s Journey to Single Fatherhood

03:28 Challenges After Separation

05:23 Co-Parenting and Travel Experiences

07:22 Finding Joy in Fatherhood

09:22 Adapting to Single Parenting

10:59 Coping Mechanisms and Mental Health

13:15 The Emotional Impact of Loneliness

16:06 The Power of Vulnerability

17:52 Support Systems and New Friendships

18:55 Volunteering as a Healing Tool

22:52 Career Sacrifices for Fatherhood

24:29 Cherishing Moments with Children

27:52 Building a New Life Post-Divorce

28:58 Social Life and Self-Discovery

30:12 Cultural Perspectives on Divorce

32:27 Final Reflections and Takeaways

🎧 This episode is packed with wisdom, honesty, and inspiration for single parents and anyone navigating life’s challenges.

🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support The Dad Project and inspire more fathers to embrace their journey.

📲 Follow The Dad Project:

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Facebook: www.facebook.com/thedadprojecthq

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X (Twitter): www.x.com/thedadprojecthq

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-dad-project

#SingleDad #FatherhoodJourney #Parenting #Resilience #CoParenting #TheDadProject #OvercomingChallenges #ParentingTips #FatherhoodAdvice

Join us in this episode of The Dad Project Podcast, where we explore the journey of Kiran Dhilan, a dedicated single father navigating the challenges of raising an autistic child.

Kiran's story is one of transformation and dedication, reshaping perceptions of single fathers of colour through his relentless pursuit of equal parenting and personal growth.

In this heartfelt conversation, Kiran shares insights into the complexities of co-parenting, the long battle for 50/50 custody, and the special considerations of raising a child with autism.

His narrative sheds light on the societal biases against single dads and the power of resilience in overcoming personal and systemic hurdles.

00:00: Intro

01:19: Kiran’s transition to single fatherhood

02:37: Key child custody discussions

03:49: Challenging societal stereotypes

04:59: Fight for equal custody rights

07:00: Managing parenting an autistic child

10:10: Life adjustments after separation

12:29: Establishing a new, stable home

14:35: Personal growth and coping as a single dad

18:11: Achieving work-life balance

22:16: Embracing daily challenges positively

24:06: Career progression amid fatherhood

26:21: Confronting stigmas against single dads of colour

🔔 Don't miss this inspiring episode! Like, subscribe, and share to support The Dad Project and highlight the incredible journeys of single fathers everywhere.

Follow Kiran Dhilan

Instagram: www.instagram.com/k17_pan/

Follow The Dad Project

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#SingleDadsOfColor #Fatherhood #ParentingJourney #Resilience #AutismAwareness #TheDadProject #EqualCustody #ParentingChallenges #FatherhoodInspiration

In this impactful episode of The Dad Project Podcast, we sit down with Aaron Dale, founder of @raisingboys_2men, a thriving Instagram community with over 300,000 followers.

As a single father of two sons, Aaron shares his powerful insights into co-parenting, relationships, and fatherhood—wisdom he also shares on his hit podcast @raisingboys_2men.

Aaron has become a trusted voice in the parenting space, not just on his own platform but as a regular guest on other major podcasts. Drawing from his experiences as the child of a single mum and now as a devoted father himself, Aaron empowers parents with actionable advice to navigate co-parenting challenges and always put their kids first. In this episode, Aaron reflects on his personal journey, including the struggles of growing up without a father, the lessons learned through therapy and self-growth, and the importance of vulnerability and accountability as a parent. He shares practical strategies for building strong co-parenting relationships, navigating life as a single dad, and staying focused on what truly matters: the well-being of the children. This heartfelt conversation is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and actionable advice for parents and anyone passionate about supporting fatherhood. Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to Aaron Dale and his inspiring journey 01:24: Meeting Aaron Dale and starting The Dad Project 02:16: Aaron’s early days as a single father 04:06: Growing up without a father and its lasting impact 05:14: Co-parenting challenges and building trust 06:53: Scheduling time and staying connected with kids 08:26: Navigating step-parents and blended family dynamics 09:27: Letting go of control and focusing on children’s well-being 11:25: Therapy and its role in emotional healing 12:51: Releasing emotional baggage and stress 14:13: Accountability and growth as a father 15:44: The origins and mission of Raising Boys to Men 18:31: Aaron’s rise as a trusted parenting voice 20:47: Breaking stigmas around single fathers of colour 22:01: Strategies for successful co-parenting 24:28: The importance of trust and mutual respect 26:22: Embracing life’s challenges and finding purpose 28:14: Advice for new single dads on resilience and self-care 30:19: Maintaining consistency and leading by example 33:12: Overcoming stereotypes and negative perceptions 35:16: Recognising the vital role of the mother in co-parenting 39:09: Fostering positive male role models for young men 42:00: Managing finances and keeping the focus on kids 44:05: Closing reflections on growth, love, and fatherhood 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support The Dad Project and inspire more fathers to embrace their journey. Follow Aaron Dale Instagram: www.instagram.com/raisingboys_2men Podcast: www.youtube.com/@raisingboys_2men Follow The Dad Project Instagram: www.instagram.com/thedadprojecthq Facebook: www.facebook.com/thedadprojecthq TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@thedadprojecthq YouTube: @thedadprojecthq X (Twitter): www.x.com/thedadprojecthq LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-dad-project #SingleFather #Fatherhood #ParentingJourney #Resilience #SingleDadStories #TheDadProject #CoParenting #ParentingTips #FatherhoodAdvice #OvercomingChallenges

In this heartfelt episode of The Dad Project Podcast, we talk with Raj Sahins, a single father who shares his emotional journey of navigating life after separation. Raj opens up about the emotional impact of separation and the early challenges he faced, including navigating loneliness, rebuilding his life, and staying strong for his two young daughters. He reflects on the first few months, a time when many single parents are most vulnerable, and how he managed to overcome these struggles with the help of his family and a commitment to self-growth. Raj’s story highlights the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with his daughters and ex-partner for their benefit while balancing his own needs for healing and self-love.

From finding strength in family support to navigating co-parenting dynamics, His journey is a powerful testament to resilience, love, and becoming a better man for his children. 00:00 Introduction to Raj Sahin’s inspiring journey as a single father. 01:16 Understanding the emotional cycles of separation and trauma. 02:56 Setting aside personal differences to focus on the well-being of the kids. 04:09 Handling the pressures of being both a dad and a role model. 06:26 Overcoming societal barriers and seeking support in tough moments. 08:32 How new habits and environments helped Raj find stability. 10:47 Learning to slow down and prioritise personal growth. 13:04 Processing loneliness and staying connected with his emotions. 15:52 Embracing dual roles of mum and dad while strengthening fatherhood. 18:52 Collaborating with the ex-spouse for the children’s benefit. 21:26 Financial and emotional changes after separation. 25:40 Advice to New Single Fathers 28:41 Honest conversations about family changes. 31:14 The strength and dedication of single fathers of colour. 35:43 Reflecting on personal growth through fatherhood. 38:20 Overcoming time constraints and maintaining positive relationships. 39:17 Raj’s positive outlook on life and fatherhood. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support The Dad Project and help more dads find the strength to thrive. Follow The Dad Project Instagram - www.instagram.com/thedadprojecthq Facebook - www.facebook.com/thedadprojecthq TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@thedadprojecthq YouTube - www.youtube.com/@thedadprojecthq X - www.x.com/thedadprojecthqthedadprojecthq LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/the-dad-project/ #SingleFather #Fatherhood #ParentingTips #Resilience #SingleDadStories #TheDadProject #FatherhoodJourney #ParentingAdvice #OvercomingChallenges #EntrepreneurDad