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121 – Attorney Bruce Hearey, Father of 7 Including A Daughter Who Is A Spastic Quadriplegic With Cerebral Palsy

Bruce Hearey is our guest this week on the SFN Dad to Dad Podcast. Bruce is an attorney who has 7 children, including 36-year-old Jill who is a spastic quadriplegic with cerebral palsy, unable to walk or talk. Bruce talks authentically about his divorce from Jill’s mom and the hardest decision of his life, moving Jill to the Hattie Larlham Home, to ensure Jill will be well cared for and get the best services available. We’ll hear Bruce’s and Jill’s story on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast. To find out more about Hattie Larlham go to: http://www.hattielarlham.org Transcript: Coming

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120 – Mark Arnold of Bournemouth, England, Advocates For Fathers Raising Children Like His Son, Who Has Autism & Epilepsy

Our guest on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast is Mark Arnold. Mark and his wife Clare live in Bournemouth, South England and are parents to Phoebe and James, who is autistic, has epilepsy and is mostly non verbal. Mark is the director of the Urban Saints Additional Needs Ministry, hosts the Additional Needs Blogfather blog, and started an advocacy group called Dad’s File Circle. We’ll hear his story on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast. LINKS-Urban Saints:  https://www.urbansaints.org/additionalneeds Additional Needs Alliance:   http://additionalneedsalliance.org.ukand https://www.facebook.com/groups/additionalneedsalliance/  The Additional Needs Blogfather:   https://theadditionalneedsblogfather.com The Dads’ Fire Circle (Founded July 2020): https://thedadsfirecircle.com and https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedadsfirecircle/ YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8sK7U6d0r_7uVmyg0yN5sQ

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119 – Al Feria Father Of Four Including A Non-verbal Son With Autism & Works With One Collective

On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks with special father Al Feria. Al has four children, including John, who is autistic and non-verbal. Al works for One Collective a christian not for profit helping integrate communities across the globe. We’ll hear his intriguing story on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast. To find out about One Collective go to: onecollective.orgContact Al directly at: Alcoleparis@gmail.com Transcript: Dad to Dad 119 – Al Feria Father Of Four Including A Non-verbal Son With Autism & Works With One Collective Tom Couch: The Special Fathers Network

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118 – Dwayne Wiseman Reflects On Fathering Three Children With Dwarfism & Growing Up As A Little Person Himself

Our guest on this Dad to Dad Podcast is Dwayne Wiseman. Dwayne was born with Dwarfism and is short statured. He and his wife Sandy, who is also short statured, have four children; two with different forms of Dwarfism, another with Dwarfism who sadly passed away at age one, and the fourth of average height. It’s a fascinating story and we’ll hear it on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast. For more information on dwarfism visit the Little People of America website at: https://www.lpaonline.org And find out about the Dwarf Athletic Association of America at:http://www.daaa.org Transcript: Dad to Dad

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117 – Chris LaFriniare: Co-Creator of A Bunch Of Dads Facebook Group & Father of Zachary Who Has Autism

On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Chris LaFriniere. Chris is the founder of the Bunch of Dads Facebook group that currently has over 120,000 members. Chris also has a son Zachary who is autistic. We’ll hear Chris’ story on this Dad to Dad Podcast. Show Links:A Bunch Of Dads Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/abunchofdadsContact Chris LaFriniere at” CLafriniere@gmail.com Transcript: Dad to Dad 117 Chris LaFriniare: Co-Creator of A Bunch Of Dads Facebook Group & Father of Zachary Who Has Autism Tom Couch: The Special Fathers Network is thrilled to be sponsored by Rubin Law. A multigenerational

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116 – Daniel DeFabio Part 2 – Co-Founder of DISORDER: The Rare Disease Film Festival, Reflects On Losing A Son To Menkes Disease

On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast It’s the conclusion of host David Hirsch’s conversation with multi media producer, director and marketer, Daniel DeFabio. Daniel and his wife Tina lost their oldest son Lucas (11) just months ago to Menkes Disease, a very rare genetic disorder. Daniel along with fellow SFN Mentor Father Bo Bigelow (SFN D2D #51) are co-founders of DISORDER: The Rare Disease Film Festival. It’s an emotional story that we’ll hear in two parts on the Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast. This is part two. To find out about Menkes Disease go to: https://themenkesfoundation.orgTo find

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115 – Daniel DeFabio Co-Founder of DISORDER: The Rare Disease Film Festival, Reflects On Losing A Son To Menkes Disease

In this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast host David Hirsch talks with multi media producer, director and marketer, Daniel DeFabio. Daniel and his wife Tina lost their oldest son Lucas (11) just months ago to Menkes Disease, a very rare genetic disorder. Daniel along with fellow SFN Mentor Father Bo Bigelow (SFN D2D #51) are co-founders of DISORDER: The Rare Disease Film Festival. It’s an emotional story that we’ll hear in two parts on the Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast. This is part one. To find out about Menkes Disease go to: https://themenkesfoundation.orgTo find out about DISORDER

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114 – SEND International Missionary Nathan Woerner And His Daughter with Angelman Syndrome

On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, we hear from Nathan Woerner, a missionary with SEND international and a father of two children including Ada. (2), who has Angelman Syndrome. Nathan tells of his family’s travels to Japan and the differences between American and Japanese healthcare. That’s all on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast Show Links: SEND International – https://send.org/Angelman’s Syndrome – https://www.angelman.orgFAST (Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics – https://cureangelman.org Find out about the Special Fathers Network at: https://21stcenturydads.org/about-the-special-fathers-network/ Sponsored by Rubin Law www.rubinlaw.com Transcript: Coming Soon. 

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113 – Business Coach Jim Vaselopulos Talks of His Son’s Dyslexia & Discovering His Own

In this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, guest and entrepreneur Jim Vaselopulos talks of the challenges faced by people with Dyslexia, including his 20-year-old son, Spyros and himself. It’s an illuminating discussion about a condition that affects more than 15m Americans from all walks of life. That’s all on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast. Show Links: Contact Jim at Jim@rafti.com Find out about Susan Barton’s work with Dyslexia at: https://www.dys-add.com See her introductory video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcpyR_K5X_k Learn about the Orton-Gillingham Academy at: https://www.ortonacademy.org/resources/what-is-the-orton-gillingham-approach/ Check out Jim’s The Leadership Podcast at: https://theleadershippodcast.com/home-page/ Check out Jim’s LedX talk on leadership: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poF3NAN_mLY Transcript: Dad

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112 – Jack Lavin, CEO of Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Reflects on Raising a Child with Down Syndrome

Meet Jack Lavin. Jack has a storied business career including his current role as CEO/President of the Chicago Chamber of Commerce. He’s the father of three children including Emily, 24, who has Down Syndrome. We’ll hear Jack’s inspiring story and the commitment he and his wife Kathy have made to serving those with disability, on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast. Show Links: Contact Jack Lavin at: JLavin@chicagolandchamber.org Find out about the Gateway to Learning at: https://www.gtlchicago.com/programsThe email is: info@gatewaytolearning.org Transcript:   Dad to Dad 112 – Jack Lavin, CEO of Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Reflects on Raising a Child with

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111 – Registered Nurse Roddy Vannoy Juggles Caring For COVID Patients And Two Daughters with Autism

In this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Roddy Vannoy about the challenges of being a single father of three girls, including two with autism. Roddy is a registered nurse who treats COVID patients and his story is an amazing one. For more information on the Special Fathers Network, go to https://21stcenturydads.org/about-the-special-fathers-network/ Show links: Here’s where you can purchase the book “Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters” by Meg Meeker M.D.https://www.amazon.com/Strong-Fathers-Daughters-Secrets-Father/dp/0345499395 Reach out to Roddy Vannoy at RoddyVannoy@gmail.com Transcript: Dad to Dad 111 – Registered Nurse Roddy Vannoy Juggles Caring For COVID Patients And Two Daughters with Autism Roddy

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110 – Retired Navy SEAL Master Chief Stephen Drum Reflects On His Brother With Severe Special Needs

On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Stephen Drum, a retired Navy SEAL who has a brother with significant special needs. Steve is a public speaker who talks about his 27 years as a Master Chief in the SEALS. He’s seen combat and led teams in and out of incredibly sticky situations. Listen to his story on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast. Find out more about Stephen Drum and see a demo of his public speaking: https://stephendrum.com Transcript: Dad to Dad 110 – Retired Navy SEAL Master Chief Stephen Drum

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109 – Brian & Allen Lynch, Medal Of Honor Recipient, Reflect On Raising A Child With A Super Rare Genetic Disorder

This is the Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast. When we say Dad to Dad that’s exactly what we have today, because David Hirsch is talking to special father Brian Lynch and his father Allen Lynch. Brian’s daughter Cailinn was diagnosed early in her life with a rare chromosome disorder, while Brian’s father Allen is one of only 80 living recipients of the Medal of Honor. It’s an intriguing conversation between two special dads. Show Links: AJ Lynch Foundation – https://ajlynchfoundation.orgKaty’s Kloset – http://www.teamupwithfamilies.org/katys-kloset/ Children’s Hospital Wisconsin – https://childrenswi.org Illinois Fatherhood Initiative – www.4fathers.org  Special Fathers Network – https://21stcenturydads.org Transcript:  Dad to Dad 109 Brian & Allen

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108 – Nik Nikic’s Son Chris Who Has Down Syndrome Is Training for Ironman Florida – 1% Better Every Day

On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast we hear from SFN father Nik Nikic. Nik has two children including son Chris (20), who has Down Syndrome. Nik has developed the 1% Better Every Day method to help Chris set and achieve goals, like being a triathlete and now public speaker. It’s a great story and it’s all on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast. Show links:Find out all about Chris and his amazing accomplishments at: https://chrisnikic.com Transcript:  Dad to Dad 108 – Nik Nikic’s Son Chris Who Has Down Syndrome Is Training for Ironman Florida – 1%

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107 – Mike Carmody Has A Brother With Down Syndrome & Is Co-Founder of Opportunity Knocks

Meet Mike Carmody whose brother John has Down syndrome. Mike has spent the last decade running Opportunity Knocks, a non profit that provides activities, programs and general kindness to young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Mike’s our guest on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast. To find out more about Opportunity Knocks go to: www.opportunityknocksnow.org Transcript: Dad to Dad 107 – Mike Carmody Has A Brother With Down Syndrome & Is Co-Founder of Opportunity Knocks Mike Carmody: He’s been like the guiding force in my life to help me learn who I am and what I need to

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106 – Meet Jose Velasco Who Has Two Kids On the Spectrum & Leads The SAP Autism At Work Program

In this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks to Jose Valesco, a VP at SAP Software Solutions and director of the SAP Autism at Work Program. Jose has two children who are on the Autism spectrum and he strives to get people with autism and other special needs hired at SAP. Show Links: Find out why diversity and inclusion is fundamental to SAP’s mission: https://www.sap.com/corporate/en/company/diversity.html?video=d40f384d-507d-0010-87a3-c30de2ffd8ff

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105 – Dr. Richard Shuster, a Clinical Psychologist, CEO of Your Success Insights & Every Kid Rocks

On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Dr. Richard Shuster, a clinical psychologist, CEO of Your Success Insights, a psychological assessment company and host of the The Daily Helping Podcast. It’s a fascinating conversation filled with hope affirming insights. He is also founder of Every Kids Rocks a non-profit that helps students reach their full potential. Show Links: Visit Dr. Shusters website at: www.drrichardshuster.com Listen to The Daily Helping Podcast – https://www.thedailyhelping.com/podcast/ Hear Richard’s TEDx Talk at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44wBwSIsz5E Find out about Every Kid Rocks – http://everykidrocks.org/about/ And lastly check out Dr. Richard’s Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/Thedailyhelping / And to

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104 – Dr. Stephen Grcevich, A Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist & Founder Of Key Ministry

On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Dr. Stephen Grcevich, a child & adolescent psychiatrist and founder of Key Ministry, promoting meaningful connection between churches and families of kids with special needs. To find out Key Ministries go to: https://www.keyministry.org To find out about Dr, Grcevich’s book, Mental Health & The Church: A Ministry Handbook for Including Children and Adults with ADHD, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, and Other Common Mental Health Conditions, go to https://www.amazon.com/Mental-Health-Church-Including-Conditions/dp/031053481X Follow Stephen Grcevich on Facebook or Twitter: search Key Ministy. Transcript:  Dad to Dad 104 – Dr. Stephen Grcevich, A Child &

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103 – HopeAnew.com Co-Founder Jonathan McGuire Talks About Raising A Son With Autism & Advocating For Other Families

On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Jonathan McGuire. Jonathan and his wife Sarah are parents to Josiah and Jordan who is autistic. Jonathan and Sarah formed HopeAnew.com; a laugh together, cry together, pray together community that helps parents of kids with special needs navigate their path to the future. That’s all on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast. To find out about Hope Anew, read the blog and listen to the podcast, go to http://hopeanew.com Check out their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/hopeinthetrenches/ Transcript: Dad to Dad 103 – HopeAnew.com Co-Founder Jonathan

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000 – Meet Dad to Dad host, David Hirsch

In this Special Fathers Network Podcast introduction, hear host David Hirsch tell why he feels fathers are so important. David also explains the mission behind the Special Fathers Network that of fathers helping fathers.  Transcript: Dad To Dad #00 – Meet Dad to Dad host, David Hirsch David Hirsch: Hi, I’m David Hirsch, founder of the 21st century dads foundation and creator of the special fathers network, a dad to dad mentoring program for fathers, raising children with special needs. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the Special Fathers Network introductory podcast. The mission of the 21st Century

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102 – Successful Serial Entrepreneur Robert Blackwell Has A Daughter With Autism Who Is Thriving

On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Robert Blackwell, a successful serial entrepreneur who is founder of Killerspin, a luxury table tennis company that’s transformed the sport and been a pioneer in the #UnPlugNPlay movement. His daughter Ali-Yah is 23 and was diagnosed with autism at age 2 as the result of reaching a vaccine. We’ll hear Robert’ and Ali-Yah’s amazing story, how he played ping pong with legal consultant Barack Obama and Pope Francis’ connection to Killerspin. That’s all on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast. To find out about Killerspin

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001 – Tony Oommen: The Story Of How A Virus Caused His 6 Year Old Son To Suffer A Traumatic Brain Injury

This is the story of a virus that changed 6-year-old Ben Oommen’s life forever…and now his father Tony’s story, of living in a whole new world. For our “Special Fathers” series, we hear from the fathers of children with special needs. Listen to Oommen’s special story. Transcript: Dad To Dad 1 – Tony Oommen: The Story Of How A Virus Caused His 6 Year Old Son To Suffer A Traumatic Brain Injury Lee Habib: This is Lee Habib, and this is our American stories and it’s time for our Special Fathers Series, which tells the stories of fathers with special

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002 – Randy Lewis: The Walgreens Story & Providing Employment For Those With Disability

The Father Who Was Transformed By His Son’s Autism. And it would lead him, to then transform the lives of thousands of other “differently-abled” Americans. Former Walgreens executive Randy Lewis’ incredible story as part of our Special Fathers series. Transcript: Dad To Dad 2 – Randy Lewis: The Walgreens Story & Providing Employment For Those With Disability Lee Habeeb: This is Lee Habeeb, and this is our American stories and it’s time for our Special Father’s Series, which tells the stories of fathers with special needs children. And it’s brought to us by the Special Fathers Network, which matches up

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003 – Skip Gianopulos: Raising Four Daughters Including Two With Down Syndrome

Skip Gianopulos Is the father of four daughters; two with special needs. Take a listen to see just how this man’s life has been changed, and how he’s helped change the lives of many more through his work with GiGi’s Playhouse. Transcript: Dad To Dad 3 – Skip Gianopulos: Raising Four Daughters Including Two With Down Syndrome Tom Couch: This is the Special Fathers Network podcast. The Special Fathers Network is a dad to dad mentoring program for fathers raising children with special needs through our personalized matching process. New fathers with special needs children connect with mentor fathers in

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004 – Jim Elliott: The Story Behind Founding Diveheart.org & Scuba As Therapy

Jim Elliott, the father of two daughters with disabilities and founder of Diveheart.org, changes lives by people with all abilities through scuba diving, scuba therapy and related activities. Transcript: Dad To Dad 4 – Jim Elliott: The Story Behind Founding Diveheart.org & Scuba As Therapy David Hirsch: Hi, I’m David Hirsch. This is the Special Fathers Network podcast stories of fathers helping fathers. Jim Elliott: There are pools in every community, and my thought was we can get people with mobility issues out of their wheelchairs into pools. David Hirsch: That’s today’s guest, Jim Elliott, the father of a 37

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Mission & Vision

Mission Statement
 Improving the lives of children by raising awareness and resources for greater father involvement; and inspiring dads to be present —physically, emotionally, financially and spiritually.

Vision Statement
That all children will grow up with a loving, caring and nurturing father and family.

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