Navigating Parenthood: What Every Dad Needs to Know

Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

In this special conversation, Forrest explores what it means to be a good father with his dad, clinical psychologist Dr. Rick Hanson. They discuss the joys, challenges, and unexpected lessons of parenthood, starting with the advice Rick would have given himself. Rick and Forrest tackle the mental health challenges new parents face, focusing particularly on maintaining a strong relationship between partners. They get real about their relationship, and Rick offers practical strategies for "resetting" with your partner during stressful times.

They then talk about different approaches to parenting, and how to find a healthy balance of authority, aspiration, and nurturance. Whether you’re navigating the path of parenthood, reflecting on your relationship with your own parents, or just looking to gain some insight into the father-son dynamic, this episode has something for everyone.

You can watch this episode on YouTube.

Key Topics:

0:00: Introduction

2:00: Did becoming a dad change Rick’s relationship with his parents?

5:05: What advice would Rick give a younger version of himself?

8:45: Biological stressors, and the mental health challenges of young parents

17:00: Maintaining closeness with your children while working

21:40: How to “reset” with your partner

32:15: Savoring the good times

35:35: Authority, aspiration, and nurturance

44:30: Parenting the child you have, and emotional regulation

51:10: Recognizing that kids are not tiny adults

57:55: Staying consistent

1:00:30: How to practice for becoming a parent

1:03:00: Recap

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