Dads Making a Difference Podcast

You don’t have to go it alone.

In this heartfelt and powerful episode, Cam Hall opens up about one of the biggest challenges dads face today—loneliness. Even surrounded by people at home or work, many fathers feel isolated, misunderstood, and emotionally alone.

Cam dives into the transformative power of community—how authentic brotherhood can provide the belonging, accountability, and perspective every dad needs to thrive. He shares the stories of men who’ve gone from burnout to breakthrough by simply connecting with other purpose-driven fathers.

What you’ll learn in this episode:<...

Would You Follow You? Self-Reflection and Growth for Purpose-Driven Fathers

“What if your kids are watching you become someone… you wouldn’t even follow?”

After a brief pause, Cam returns to the mic with a raw and powerful solo episode. He opens up about his intentional break from podcasting—not out of burnout, but from conviction. This isn’t just a catch-up episode; it’s a wake-up call for dads who are doing all the “right” things on the outside while feeling off on the inside.

Cam shares a personal moment—trying to recreate a joyful pa...

Have you ever paused to reflect on what truly makes a difference in your role as a father, husband, and leader?

In this episode, Cam shares the invaluable lessons he's learned over his 44 years. He details 4 key reflections in his life, takeaways that every dad should embrace.

What if the secret to a thriving relationship lies in your ability to lead with confidence and take accountability for personal growth?

We're thrilled to have Paul Bauer, a seasoned relationship coach and the force behind the "Come On, Man" podcast, join us. Paul shares his journey from navigating the pitfalls of marriage and divorce to embracing self-improvement and developing a successful long-term relationship. Together with Cam, Paul delves into the core elements of attraction, the vital role of confidence, and actionable strategies to enhance relationship dynamics, including his notable "3 T's" approach: Tell, Tease, and Touch.

Ever wondered how you can reclaim your life and purpose after a difficult divorce? In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, we sit down with Bob Wischer, who shares his incredible journey of personal transformation and growth.

Bob opens up about the moment when he realized his marriage wasn't aligned with the vision he had for his life. Feeling like a "shell of a person" in a 19-year marriage, Bob made the tough decision to step away and focus on his personal growth. He discusses the challenges of navigating fatherhood while dealing with the...

Ready to leave your mark and make a difference in 2025? In the latest episode of Dads Making A Difference podcast, Cam announces and discusses The 3 Peaks of the Balanced Dad Blueprint, a 12-month coaching program designed to help dads like you find balance and make a meaningful impact on your family, work, and community.

Peak 1: FOUNDATION: Strong Body, Clear Mind – Exhausting the body tames the mind, and a solid fitness plan is the foundation for achieving mental clarity and overall well-being.

Peak 2: ALIGNMENT: Purposeful Priorities  – Win back your time by focusing on what truly matters. Align...

What family traditions and experiences have shaped who you are today? In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, Cam explores the powerful influence of family practices and traditions, especially during the Christmas season. Reflecting on his childhood, Cam shares vivid memories of navigating economic hardships, a life-changing moment involving alcohol, and the unique combination of religious and secular traditions that defined his upbringing. 

He opens up about his decision to quit alcohol—not as a judgment of others but as a personal choice for better health and well-being. He also reflects on the impact of...

What does it take to turn pain into purpose and create a lasting impact on others? In this episode, Cam sits down with Derrek Villagrana, a man whose journey from addiction and personal tragedy to hope and healing is nothing short of inspiring. He opens up about his mission to support individuals dealing with PTSD and mental health challenges. He shares the story behind his founding of a co-ed sports team designed to aid mental health recovery, highlighting the critical role of camaraderie and community—particularly for men.

Derrek’s path has been one of unwavering resilience and...

It's December 2024, and as we prepare for a fresh start in 2025, reflection is key. As you think about your family’s progress, what are the key areas you want to prioritize in the year ahead?

In this episode, Cam discusses the importance of looking back on the year to set the stage for growth and improvement. He shares personal stories of balancing family chaos, having meaningful conversations with his children, and embracing moments of positive stress that lead to personal development. 

Cam’s challenge? For you to push yourself further, shoulder more responsibility, and strive for h...

They say, "Boys will be boys." But when you're a dad struggling to connect with your son, it’s easy to wonder if you’re doing things the right way. Many dads unknowingly carry the weight of stereotypes about boys—ones they themselves faced growing up. As a result, they often fall into familiar patterns or feel completely lost about how to guide their sons.

The truth is, boys don’t have to fit the image that society expects of them—and that’s okay. Dads have the power to make a difference in their sons’ lives by breaking fr...

How do you plan to find joy and balance amidst the busyness of the holiday season? As the holiday season ramps up, finding the time to rest and reducing stress becomes more important than ever. In this episode, Cam dives into practical strategies inspired by Mitch Matthews to navigate awkward holiday conversations, embrace gratitude, and prioritize rest—all to maintain a positive mindset during this busy time.

Cam highlights the power of starting your day with gratitude to set a positive tone and shares how the song "Country Psalm" by Brandon Lake has become a personal source of...

In this episode, Cam is joined by Philip Sessions, a Public Speaking and Presentation Prep Coach whose journey from a shy child with speech issues to a successful communication coach is truly inspiring. Philip shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including overcoming personal challenges and finding his calling in helping others communicate effectively.

Together, Cam and Philip dive deep into the importance of communication in professional settings and at home, emphasizing how it can set the temperature for our households. They explore practical tips for dads on becoming better communicators, such as understanding the desired...

How are you planning to stay healthy through the holiday season? In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, we're diving into something incredibly timely—the holiday health challenge. As we approach the last few weeks of 2024, it's crucial to stay on track with our health and wellness goals despite the temptations of holiday treats, gatherings, and disrupted routines. Cam shares practical strategies for maintaining healthy nutrition, effective weight management, family engagement, and setting achievable goals as we head into 2025. 

Strategies for Healthy Nutrition:

W...

We're bringing back one of our most impactful episodes that explores how our childhood experiences shape our approach to fatherhood. In this powerful conversation, Rob Decker shares his remarkable transformation story – from a troubled childhood and battles with addiction to becoming the kind of father he never had, dedicated to loving those around him.

"Once you forgive, there's an opportunity to love. Forgiveness is love." - Rob Decker

In This Episode:

How are you showing up for your wife and kids? What legacy are going to leave your family? Cam Hall shares the invaluable lessons he gleaned from attending Larry Hagner’s The Dad Edge Summit. Surrounded by men dedicated to becoming better husbands, fathers, and leaders, Cam reflects on the power of community and vulnerability.

The episode highlights an exercise where participants texted their families to ask what they do best and how they could improve as dads and husbands. This exercise led Cam to some eye-opening and heartfelt revelations about his own family dynamics. Drawing on th...

In this episode, Cam sits down with Mark Collins, a life coach and author, to explore the journey of personal identity and transformation. Mark shares his insights on how men can break free from limiting beliefs and embrace the "hero in hiding" within. Drawing from his own experiences and those of his clients, Mark discusses the emotional and mental barriers that prevent men from living a life of purpose and fulfillment.

"What you think you’ll say, what you say you’ll do, what you do you’ll become." - Mark Collins

In this episode, you wi...

Are you struggling to find balance between being a dad, staying fit, and keeping up with work? In this episode, Cam breaks down 5 must-know insights that will help you juggle fatherhood, fitness, and your career. From setting clear work boundaries and unplugging during family time to making workouts enjoyable and treating food as essential fuel—Cam shares actionable tips for living a more balanced, healthy, and fulfilling life. Plus, learn how to manage stress and embrace the journey instead of focusing on outcomes. 

"Balance doesn't just happen. It's something you create." - Cam Hall

In thi...

Do you ever feel like your days are packed but nothing truly gets done? In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, Cam shares practical advice on how fathers can take control of their time, stop being reactive, and start making real progress. Using lessons from Robin Sharma’s The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, Cam explains how mastering your time can lead to a more meaningful, productive life.

"What separates us as men becoming those who live exceptional lives versus those who feel stuck is how they own their time." - Cam Hall

...

In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, Cam talks with Kristal DeSantis,  Texas Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Clinically Certified Trauma Professional, Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional, and a State of Texas approved Premarital Education Provider. She shares the foundational principles behind building strong and fulfilling relationships. Drawing insights from her book, Stronger Relationship Field Guide for the Modern Man, Kristal introduces the concept of "STRONG" as an acronym representing 6 key pillars essential for relationship health.

Kristal emphasizes the importance of expressing emotions constructively and reveals how emotions serve as critical data for u...

In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, Matt Morstad shares his incredible journey from a successful corporate career to a more fulfilling life, focused on raising his two sons and building something meaningful together. Matt opens up about why he left the executive world behind to prioritize fatherhood and instill entrepreneurial skills in his boys, teaching them to be creators, not just consumers, in today’s digital landscape.

"If I can engrain habits of eating right, physical fitness, and financial literacy at their age, I feel like they’re going to have a massive leg...

In this episode of Dads Making a Difference, Cam dives into the vital role that fathers play as the "thermostat" in their homes. Reflecting on his own journey, Cam explores how the emotional extremes we experience as men can shape our families in unexpected ways. Are we unknowingly teaching our children to seek our approval through behavior, rather than guiding them toward strong character development? Cam challenges fathers to step away from the extremes and embrace emotional balance for the sake of their families.

"You are made to be the thermostat in your home to determine the...

Are you ready to be a better dad and husband? In this episode, Cam reveals the current challenges plaguing the educational system and his bold vision to redefine learning through community-driven education. His mission is to foster a learning environment that prioritizes critical thinking, personal growth, and a sense of ownership, making education not just about academics but about building character and lifelong skills.

Cam shares his passion for integrating family and community into education, bridging the gap between traditional learning and real-world experiences. He reveals his dedication to mentoring youth through various leadership groups, demonstrating the...

Are you ready to be a better dad and husband? In this episode, Cam reveals a surprising secret: sometimes, the best way to reconnect with your spouse and recharge as a dad is to ditch your kids—at least for a little while. Cam shares his personal experiences from a two-week kid-free period and how it reignited the spark in his marriage. Dive into the powerful benefits of prioritizing time with your partner, and discover how taking a break from parenting can make you a better father.

"Ditching the kids helps. It helps you become a better hu...

In this episode, we sit down with Curtis Butler, a former finance executive turned career coach for young professionals. Curtis shares how his experiences as a dad have shaped his approach to mentoring, focusing on authenticity, growth, and the power of seeing people for who they truly are. From helping recent graduates launch meaningful careers to raising two daughters, Curtis offers wisdom that spans both professional and personal development.

"Compartmentalization is one of the best skills you can possibly learn, whether you have a sick child or a parent who's struggling and aging, or you just had...

In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, we sit down with Owen Marcus, a pioneer in men’s emotional health and the founder of The MELD Method. Owen shares his journey from struggling with dyslexia and Asperger's as a child to leading a global movement in men’s work. This conversation is packed with wisdom on breaking free from traditional masculine norms, building meaningful connections, and finding true purpose.

"It takes some courage to just show up and be vulnerable. And being vulnerable is really just being truthful." — Owen Marcus

In this episod...

In today’s solo episode, Cam dives into fatherhood's core challenges and triumphs from his own perspective. With candid reflections and practical advice, Cam shares his journey of juggling the demands of being a dad, while maintaining a strong connection with his children. This episode is a heartfelt guide for fathers at any stage, offering relatable insights that encourage growth and connection within the family.

"There is nothing too small, nothing too insignificant that you do in front of your kids that is not going to impact them." - Cam Hall

In this episode, you wi...

In this episode, we have Jonathan Steele, a seasoned family law attorney from Chicago, who brings both professional and personal insights into the complexities of divorce and co-parenting. With over 12 years of experience and a unique perspective as a married father of two, Jonathan offers helpful advice for navigating one of life's most challenging transitions.

"Kids are resilient and they thrive in two separate homes if those are two happy homes, much more so than they do in one unhappy home." — Jonathan Steele

In this episode, you will:

In this heartfelt episode of "Dads Making a Difference," we sit down with Jason Infinger, a dedicated father navigating the challenges of raising a child with autism. Jason shares his family's journey from the initial diagnosis to finding the right support, shedding light on the emotional and practical aspects of parenting a child on the autism spectrum. His candid insights offer valuable perspectives for any parent facing similar challenges, highlighting the importance of support, resilience, and family dynamics.

"For me, the longevity piece is something I'm focused on because I want to live a long life for...

Today, we have Marcus Higgs, a seasoned educator and life coach, on the podcast to discuss the challenges and triumphs of parenting preteens. As a father himself, Cam seeks Marcus' expertise in maintaining open lines of communication during these critical years of a child's development. Their conversation offers valuable insights for any parent navigating the often tricky transition from childhood to adolescence.

"Start with a strong identity. And what I mean by that is speaking to their virtues and values."  — Marcus Higgs

In this episode, you will:

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast. Today, we have a special guest who's been making waves in the fatherhood community for years—Paul Banas. Paul is the founder of GreatDad.com and the host of the Great Dad Talks podcast. 

In this episode, we dive deep into Paul's journey, from growing up with a single mom and lacking a father figure to transforming into a dedicated father who embraced fatherhood at the age of 42. We explore the inspirations behind his mission to support fathers, the creation of his invaluable online resource for...

Are you raising a neurodivergent child? Tune in to this eye-opening episode of Dads Making a Difference as Cam Hall interviews Andrea Pollack, founder of Autism Parent Solutions. Andrea shares her journey from corporate lawyer to homeschooling mom, and how she's now helping parents navigate the complex world of raising children with autism and ADHD.

“You don't have to be wrong, you don't have to be the problem to be part of the solution.” - Andrea Pollack

In this episode, you will:

Are you struggling to connect with your kids or feeling overwhelmed by parenting challenges? In this episode, we are joined by Dan Peterson, a seasoned counselor and parent coach. With over 30 years of experience working with children and families, Dan shares his unique approach to building stronger relationships and nurturing character development in kids.

"The people that have the most impact are usually the least trained. And the people that have the most impact are their parents." - Dan Peterson

In this episode, you will:

Are you a dad struggling to stay fit and active as you age? In this episode, we are joined by Allan Misner, a fitness expert dedicated to helping people over 40 transform their health. Allan shares his personal journey from being an overweight, unhappy corporate professional to becoming a fit, adventurous father capable of tackling obstacle course races with his daughter.

"The difference is that identity. The difference is the self-management." - Allan Misner



Are you ready to challenge everything you thought you knew about education? In this eye-opening episode of Dads Making a Difference podcast, Cam sits down with Matt Beaudreau, a revolutionary educator and founder of Apogee Strong. Together, they unpack the flaws in traditional schooling and explore innovative approaches to learning that empower both children and adults.

"The game of school does not directly translate to the game of life." - Matt Beaudreau

In this episode, you will:

• Explore the concept of the "conveyor belt model" of education and why it may be holding ou...

In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, Cam sits down with Luke Fernandez, a man whose journey from darkness to light is nothing short of inspiring. With raw vulnerability, Luke shares his battles with depression, body image issues, and even suicidal thoughts, offering a poignant reminder that we all face struggles, no matter how perfect our lives may seem on the surface.

"Conquering self-created adversity leads to true self-mastery." - Luke Fernandez

In this episode, you will:

For men navigating the complex terrain of fatherhood and faith, Larry Hagner's journey to his new book, "The Spirit of Fatherhood," is a testament to the transformative power of vulnerability and divine intervention. In this conversation, Larry shares the unexpected twists and profound moments that shaped his writing process, offering a relatable perspective for dads seeking spiritual guidance.

"My nudge to faith really came when my kids started asking questions I don't know the answer to. And that nudge was I'm sitting there thinking like, if I don't know this stuff who are they going to learn...

In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, Cam sits down with Chris Nastasi, a former U.S. Army Ranger and now a father and husband on a mission to create the next great generation of fathers and men. Chris shares his remarkable journey, from his early life as a professional baseball player to his decision to join the military at age 28 and the transformative experiences that followed.

"There's nothing better than surrounding yourself with other studs." - Chris Nastasi

In this episode, you will:

In this conversation, Franklin Swann, a devoted husband, father, and CEO, shares his personal journey of recognizing the profound impact a dad's presence has on a child's life. Drawing from a decade-long mentoring experience with a fatherless young man, Franklin unveils the transformative power of intentional fatherhood and the dire consequences when a father is absent.

"If you think about all the superheroes that are out there, Superman, Spider Man, Batman, all of them, none of them are dads. Right? We are the superheroes for our kids." - Franklin Swann

In this episode, you will:<...

Are you struggling to keep your marriage strong and healthy? Do you find yourself making the same mistakes over and over again, causing tension and distance in your relationship? Look no further! In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, Cam sits down with Kelly DuPée, a pastor, police chaplain, and marriage coach, who shares his expertise on the five most common marriage mistakes and how to overcome them.

"Problems are easier solved the smaller they are. So don't wait until the big thing or until the little things that you're struggling with now g...

In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, Cam sits down with Dr. Meg Meeker, renowned pediatrician, author, and parenting expert. Dr. Meeker shares invaluable insights and practical advice for fathers navigating the challenges of raising strong, confident daughters in today's world. Prepare to be enlightened and empowered as she unravels the complexities of the father-daughter relationship and equips you with the tools to forge an unbreakable bond with your daughter.

“Whenever your daughter meets a guy, a friend, or a boyfriend, she compares that guy to you.” - Dr. Meg Meeker

In this...