Call With Dads

In this raw and honest episode of Call with Dads, E.a. Maynard and Dad Mode Activated open up about their own past struggles with partying, poor choices, and “shiny objects” that once distracted them. They discuss how fathers can actively guide their children away from harmful temptations, build real trust, balance firm discipline with love, and break negative cycles. Packed with practical parenting wisdom, personal redemption stories, and actionable advice every dad can use.

Summary of the Discussion: https://callwithdads.com/why-dads-must-steer-their-kids-away-from-the-shiny-objects-hard-won-lessons-from-two-real-fathers/

Hosts

E.a. Maynard

Dad Mode Activated

Resources Mentioned

The Andy Griffith Show – The “shiny object” lesson with Andy and Opie

Call with Dads website & merchandise

Dad Mode Activated YouTube channel & Instagram

Connect With Us

Dad Mode Activated: YouTube & Instagram @dadmodeactivated

E.a. Maynard / Call with Dads: YouTube, callwithdads.com

Have a question for the hosts? Drop it below or hit us up via the site!

There’s a Right Time for Everything: Teaching Kids Timing, Wisdom, and Self-Control

Episode Summary
In this heartfelt episode of Call with Dads, E.a. and Dad dive deep into what it really takes to build meaningful, lasting connections with your kids. From single fatherhood challenges to the power of presence, authenticity, and sharing wisdom instead of just knowledge, this conversation is packed with practical insights every dad can use.

Summary of the Discussion:
https://callwithdads.com/building-real-connections-with-your-kids-lessons-from-a-dad-to-dad-conversation/

Hosts

E.a. Maynard

DadModeActivated

Resources Mentioned

Synthesis Tutor & Legends educational apps

Classic family movies and shows: Family Matters, Scooby-Doo, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, older Disney films, Clifford the Big Red Dog, The Pink Panther

Music: Elvis, Mary Poppins

Books / Curriculum: The Tuttle Twins

Call with Dads website and live episodes every Monday at 10:00 AM

Connect With Us
Follow the show and join the conversation:

Website: CallWithDads.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CallWithDads

Instagram / Facebook / X: @CallWithDads

Have a question for the hosts? Drop it below or hit us up via the site!

In this powerful episode, E.A. Maynard and Tom (EarnHerRespect) dive deep into what it truly means to be a strong, present father in today’s world. From handling emotional meltdowns and setting firm boundaries to rejecting weak “please culture” parenting, the conversation explores masculine leadership, generational parenting shifts, and the vital importance of faith in building unbreakable family foundations.

Summary of the Discussion:
https://callwithdads.com/be-the-rock-your-family-needs-lessons-on-fatherhood-discipline-and-masculine-leadership/

Hosts
E.A. Maynard & Tom (EarnHerRespect)

Resources Mentioned

1 Corinthians 16:13 – “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.”

1 Peter 3 (Wives and Husbands section)

Pastor Joby Martin Sermon

Pastor Ron (upcoming guest)

Media examples: Peppa Pig, Bluey, Married with Children, Home Improvement, Little House on the Prairie

Connect With Us
Website: CallWithDads.com
YouTube, Instagram, Facebook: Search CallWithDads
X: @EarnHerRespect

Have a question for the hosts? Drop it below or hit us up via the site!

In this candid and unfiltered episode of Call With Dads, hosts Eric Maynard and Mr. Pancakes are joined by BoyDadLife612 (Aaron) for a raw conversation about men's mental health, with a special focus on fathers. Recorded live on February 25, 2026, the discussion dives into the unique pressures dads face—provider expectations, emotional suppression, declining testosterone, divorce impacts, isolation, and rising suicide risks—while sharing personal stories, societal critiques, and practical, no-nonsense advice. The guys emphasize self-reliance, real male friendships, lifestyle fixes, and knowing when to seek help, all while rejecting performative vulnerability or over-medicalization for everyday struggles.

Summary of the Discussion: https://callwithdads.com/the-hidden-pressures-on-dads/

Hosts

Eric Maynard: Co-host and father from rural Ohio roots, bringing a grounded, traditional perspective on "toughing it out" while acknowledging the value of trusted friends over constant therapy. He highlights how upbringing in "more cows than people" areas shapes men's reluctance to open up.

Mr. Pancakes: Co-host and founder of PancakesWithYourDad.com, delivering straightforward, sometimes blunt takes on masculinity, responsibility, and avoiding "whining" solutions. He advocates for basics like fitness, hobbies, church, and male fellowship first, while being clear that severe crises (like suicidal thoughts) warrant professional intervention.

BoyDadLife612 (Aaron): A single dad and military veteran who opens up about his battles with trauma, near-suicidal lows during divorce, and finding strength through self-awareness, therapy tools (for crisis moments), faith, and fatherhood. He shares how becoming a dad transformed his identity and confidence, and stresses the importance of being a positive example for raising the next generation of men.

Resources Mentioned

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988 (US) for immediate help if you're in crisis or having suicidal thoughts.

Bible reading for wisdom — Proverbs and Ecclesiastes recommended for practical life guidance and direction.

Lifestyle fundamentals — Regular exercise, clean eating, getting outside, building hobbies/sports teams, and avoiding pornography as a coping mechanism.

Faith and community — Church or male fellowship groups as alternatives to isolation.

General support — Reach out to trusted friends, the hosts via social media, or dad communities for non-professional venting and accountability.

Connect With Us

Website: callwithdads.com (episodes, shop, contact)

Follow on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, X, and more via callwithdads.com

Mr. Pancakes: PancakesWithYourDad.com (shop, socials)

BoyDadLife612: Instagram & YouTube @BoyDadLife612

Have a question for the hosts? Drop it below or hit us up via the site!

This episode is a must-listen for any dad feeling the weight of unspoken stress—reminding us that strength includes knowing when (and how) to address the fight inside.