Making the World a Better Place—One Dad at a Time

Welcome to the Better Dad Institute, where I believe that every father deserves the opportunity to be the best dad he can be. At the core of this mission is the deep and irreplaceable bond between father and child—one of the most rewarding journeys a man can embark upon.

One of the key inspirations behind my work is the concept of the Evolved Nest, introduced by psychologist Darcia Narvaez. This idea highlights the natural and indigenous ways of raising children, where they grow up in a nurturing environment, surrounded by fathers, mothers, siblings, extended family, and a supportive community.

In today's fast-paced world, this nurturing nest is often disrupted. The close-knit communities that once supported fathers have thinned, leaving many feeling isolated in their parenting journey. Recognizing this, I created the Better Dad Institute to rebuild that sense of community—a space where fathers can find guidance, connection, and support.

Here, you’ll find a tribe—offering the support of a brother, the wisdom of an uncle, and the camaraderie of a friend. Rooted in the principles of attachment parenting and unschooling, I believe in fostering deep, secure relationships and encouraging child-led learning. Since every father’s path is unique, my approach is personal, offering 1-on-1 mentoring tailored to each dad’s journey.

As a father of four, I’ve lived the highs and challenges of raising children firsthand. From the early toddler years to the teenage phase, I’ve walked this path, learning from every step along the way. Through my experiences—both personal and professional—I help other fathers navigate their own journeys with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

But the Better Dad Institute isn’t just about mentoring—it’s about community. A space where fathers can learn, grow, and share. A tribe where they can find solidarity, encouragement, and understanding. A nest where they feel connected, supported, and valued.

Join me in this mission to restore the essence of fatherhood, blending the wisdom of traditional tribal parenting with the realities of modern life. Together, we can make the world a better place—one dad at a time.

The Origin of the Better Dad Institute

The inspiration behind the Better Dad Institute comes from my own journey into fatherhood—a journey filled with profound lessons, challenges, and transformative growth.

Like many dads, I stepped into fatherhood with no real preparation. I had a good father, but like many men of his generation, he was often absent from daily parenting. It wasn’t a lack of love—just the reality of a different era, where dads were expected to provide but weren’t deeply involved in child-rearing.

As I became a father myself, I wanted more—not just for my children, but for myself. I didn’t just want to raise my kids—I wanted to be truly present in their lives. This meant stepping away from conventional norms and embracing a more engaged, hands-on approach to parenting.

In 2018, I transitioned to working from home, which allowed my family and me to travel the world together. Through this experience, I saw firsthand how a strong parental presence shapes a child’s growth and well-being. But I also saw how modern fatherhood can feel isolating—how many dads lack the support and community they need to truly thrive in their roles.

The Better Dad Institute was born from this realization. It’s a space where I share the insights, tools, and support I wish I had when I first became a dad. A place where fathers can find guidance, connection, and the encouragement to fully engage in their children’s lives.

Fatherhood is an evolving journey, and while I provide the roadmap, the path is yours to walk. Join me in redefining what it means to be a father—and in building a world where every dad has the support he deserves.

My Connection with Gordon Neufeld

One of the most influential voices in my journey has been Dr. Gordon Neufeld, a renowned developmental psychologist and expert in attachment theory. I first connected with Gordon when I invited him to be a guest on my podcast, Self-Directed. Our conversation sparked a deeper connection, and over time, I began assisting him with his website and marketing efforts, helping to bring his invaluable insights to a wider audience.

Gordon’s work has profoundly shaped my approach to fatherhood and education. His insights into attachment, child development, and parenting align closely with the mission of the Better Dad Institute—emphasizing the importance of strong, secure relationships in raising resilient, emotionally healthy children.

Through my collaboration with Gordon, I continue to learn, share, and apply these principles—not just in my own parenting, but in helping other dads create deeper, more meaningful connections with their children.

The symbolism of the Better Dad Institute icon

In the heart of the Better Dad Institute logo, resides the Celtic Knot, cradled with the nurturing circle of family.

The Celtic Knot unfolds into three interconnected shapes, representing the three key roles in a father’s life—son, dad, and mentor. These phases symbolize the ongoing journey of learning, growing, and giving back.

Encircling the knot is the family circle, a reflection of my belief that love, connection, and support are the guiding forces of fatherhood. This never-ending loop represents the lifelong impact of a father’s presence—one that shapes generations to come.