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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 find out more about the Special Fathers Network go to:
https://21stcenturydads.org/about-the-special-fathers-network/
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.
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/
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 go to: https://www.killerspin.com
To find out about Robert’s work making it easier for organizations to go digital go to:
Contact Robert at: rblackwell@killerspin.com
Ben Satterfield is David Hirsch’s guest on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast. Ben and his wife Pat are parents to five children, including Kathleen and Blake who both have Down Syndrome. Ben has spent his much of his life developing computer solutions that help those with disabilities communicate with their families and loved ones. We’ll hear Ben’s fascinating life story on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast.
Show Links:
https://gatfl.gatech.edu/index.php
Email Ben direct at: Ben@gatfl.org
In this 100th episode of the Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, we are both honored and pleased to welcome a truly exceptional father, Doron Almog, retired Major General, Israel Defense Forces. Doron is a truly heroic figure in his native Israel. During his 34-year military career he was involved in dozens of high level missions including the legendary rescue of the 105 Jewish Air France hostages from the Entebbe, Uganda airport in 1976.
Doron and his wife Didi have been married 42 years and are the proud parents of three children: one of whom Eran, was born with Autism and who passed away at age 23 in 2007. In Eran’s honor, Doron lead the creation of Aleh-Negev Nahalat Eran, a $50m state-of-the-art rehabilitation village, where 145 people with special needs lead a life of happiness and dignity. Through all of this Doron has maintained a positive attitude towards life. He calls his son Eran ”My Greatest Teacher.” And the motto he lives by? To be: “Less Selfish, More Humble and Less Arrogant.” It’s an incredible story and we’re proud to be sharing it with you.
To find out about Aleh Negev go to https://aleh.org
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Dr. Lawrence Fung, a psychologist and Director of the Stanford University Neurodiversity Alliance. Dr. Fung and his wife Michele have two children Hannah,13 and Zachary, 16, who was diagnosed with Autism at age 3. We’ll hear Dr. Fung talk about his work to help take advantage of the inherent talents of individuals with Autism. It’s a fascinating glimpse at a man who is changing the world for the better. That’s all on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast.
Find out more about the Stanford Neurodiversity Project at: https://med.stanford.edu/neurodiversity.html
In this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks to Special Father David Hall, the founder of Life Guides For Autistics and Neuroguides. David has three children who are all on the Autism spectrum and more recently discovered he is too. We’ll hear some sage advice and pearls of wisdom from David in this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast. Here’s our host, David Hirsch.
Show Links:
Jeff Erlinger with Mr. Rogers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BZlyxS37Kk
Find out more about the Autism spectrum at https://neuroclastic.com
Find out more about Neuroguides at https://neuroguides.org
We’ll hear excerpts of some of host David Hirsch’s conversations with five special fathers. These Fathers of kids with special needs have used adaptive sports to give their children’s lives purpose and great meaning. We’ll hear from Gregg Chalmers. Gregg’s son Ryan is a Paralympic champion with Spina bifida who has pushed his wheelchair all the way across America. We’ll hear from Air Force veteran Bob Roybal. Bob’s son Brody, has no legs and is a forward for the three-time-champion U.S. Paralympic hockey team. Then there’s Angel City sports founder Clayton Frech whose 14 year old son Ezra was born missing his left knee and fibula and with only one finger on his left had. Ezra is a gifted athlete and motivational speaker. And finally we’ll hear about Bob Mendez’ son Robert who was born with no legs or arms but went on to become a successful and inspirational high school varsity football coach. Then there’s Jim Elliott who has two daughters with disabilities and is the founder of Diveheart,an organization that uses scuba to dramatically imiprove the lives of kids with special needs.
www.divehert.org
www.angelcitysports.org
www.stay-focused.org
https://teamusa.usahockey.com/usnationalsledteam
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXEruspkD_Q
We are proud to present this very special edition of the Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast. Host David Hirsch talks to special father Miguel Cervantes. Miguel performed the lead role of Alexander Hamilton for the entire 171 week Chicago run of “Hamilton: An American Musical.” Miguel and his wife, Kelly, son Jackson and Newborn Adelaide, moved to Chicago so Miguel could take on the role of a lifetime. But soon after, Adelaide started having seizures due to a severe form of pediatric epilepsy. Tragically Adelaide passed away at age three. In this Dad to Dad Podcast, Miguel talks to host David Hirsch about the highs and the lows of this difficult phase of his life.
Show Links:
Check out Miguel Cervantes’ website: https://www.migcervantes.com
Read Kelly Cervantes’ blog and listen to her podcast: https://www.kellycervantes.com
The Special Fathers Network was created so that dads with an average of 10 or more years of experience raising a child with special needs, could share their insights with and mentor younger fathers, who are closer to the beginning of their journey raising a child in a similar situation.
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch talks to young father, Joe Lofino. Joe and his wife Jennifer have two children ages two and three, both with Fragile X Syndrome. Joe talks to David about life with his children and how he’s adjusted to this sudden change of reality.
It’s a heartwrenching and fascinating discussion, and it’s all on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast.
To find out more about Joe, search Joe Lofino on Facebook.
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks to Special Father, Air Force reservist and stand-up comic Jarrell Roach. Jarell, and his wife Kinesha, have four children; John, Karia, Jeremiah and Karley. Both Karia and Jeremiah have Autism. We’ll hear about Jarell’s family, his military service and about being campus director for Greater Omaha Youth for Christ. That’s all on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast.
Show Links:
Find out all about Jarrel at: https://jroachpresentations.com
Find out about Greater Omaha Youth for Christ at http://goyfc.org
From terrible tragedy comes forgiveness, which leads to incredible acts of kindness.
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks to Special Father Sam Rodriguez. Sam and his wife Stacey have three children. Ben, Emma and Manny, who passed away as a baby. Sam tells his family’s story including the formation of the Manny Rodriguez fund and the 87 random acts of kindness day. That’s all on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast.
Show Links:
Find out about the Manny Rodriguez children’s education’s fund at
Facebook.com/mannysfund
The Akron Children’s hospital website: https://www.akronchildrens.org
The Courageous Parents Network: https://courageousparentsnetwork.org
And to find out more about the Special Fathers Network go to: https://21stcenturydads.org/about-the-special-fathers-network/
This is the Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast. Of the close to 100 Dads we’ve interviewed thus far, many are the proud parents of kids with Down Syndrome. So today we’re going to hear clips from these Dads. We’ll hear how they reacted to the news that they’re child has Down Syndrome, and we’ll hear how these children have been a real blessing. That’s all on this Dad to Dad Podcast, presented by The Special Fathers Network.
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch speaks with Rob Wrubel, a father of three, including Sarah, who has Down Syndrome. Rob is a financial planner who specializes in helping special needs families invest in their future. He’s an author, an advocate for children with special needs and he’s David Hirsch’s guest on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast.
Show Links: Cascade Investment Group: https://ciginc.net
Rob Wrubel’s website: https://robwrubel.com
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch speaks with Dr. Harold Reitman, a retired orthopedic surgeon and former professional heavy weight boxer, an author, a filmmaker and founder of Different Brains.org. Dr, Reitman is father to Rebecca, 38, who has Asperger Syndrome. We’ll hear all about Harold, or Hackie and he’s known in boxing circles, and his incredible and inspiring life on this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast.
Show Links:
https://www.differentbrains.org
Hackie Reitman Wikipedia page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_Reitman
This SFN Podcast is a compilation of excerpts from earlier interviews of SFN Mentor Fathers who each lost a child with special needs. They are listed here in alphabetical order. The number relates to each dad’s podcast: #66 Jerry Castro/Son Jack age 15, #31 Kris Kazian/daughter Lexi age 2, #57 Tim Kuck/son Nathaniel age 4, #64 Shane Lee/daughter Jocelyn age 4 1/2, #37 Matt Mooney/son Elliot age 99 days, #13 Jim Mueller/son Luke 23 and #29 Rooster Rossiter/daughter Ainsley age 12. Not all families are able to perpetuate their child’s memory in the form of a non-profit, but many of these families have. Here are the names of and URLs related to the charities:
Helping From Heaven/Lexi Kazian Foundation – http://helpingfromheaven.org,
Nathaniel’s Hope – http://nathanielshope.org,
99 Balloons – http://99balloons.org, and
AinsleysAngels – http://ainsleysangels.org
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch speaks with special father Mark O’Halloran. Mark and his wife, Gerlinde, have adopted six children, four from Russia and two from Mexico all who suffered severe trauma from being abandoned by their birth parents and living in orphanages. Three of the kids have very limited cognitive ability as a result. Mark is also the director of economic development at Together Chicago, a not for profit dedicated to inspiring change and hope in the Windy City. We’ll hear all about Mark and his family on this Dad to Dad podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch speaks with special Father Juan Vagilenty, a lawyer from Chicago. Juan and wife Anna, have two children with special needs. Amelia, age 9, has Pallister-Killian Mosaic Syndrome, or PKS and Max, age 7, has Down Syndrome. We’ll hear the Vagilenty family story and how religion has been an important part of their life.
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch speaks with special father, Dan Morrissey. Dan and his wife Kristin have two children, one of whom, Emily, has Cerebral Palsy. We’ll hear the Morrissey family story including how they started a new business, www.Emilysbracelets.com. We’ll also hear how Emily’s younger brother PJ wrote two books about having a sister with special needs. That’s all on this Dad to Dad podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch speaks with Don Garner. Don and his wife Alisa have three girls, one of whom, Francesca, was diagnosed with a brain tumor when she was 8 years old. We’ll hear Don’s story and how the Make a Wish Foundation granted a very special wish to Frannie and the entire Garner family. That’s all on this Dad to Dad podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
We’ve talked to over 80 Dads in the Dad to Dad podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network, and in this episode we present a “greatest hits” version of the podcast. You’ll hear many fathers chiming in on why they joined the Special Fathers Network and why being a father of a kid with special needs is so important to them.
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch speaks with Jon Heckert. Jon and his wife Doris are parents of a son, Jackson, who was diagnosed early in life with special needs. In the Heckert household the word can’t doesn’t exist. Jon makes sure Jackson competes in races and he takes him on hunting trips. Jon is indeed a special dad. As a side note, just prior to this interview, host David Hirsch pushed Jackson in the Louisiana Half Marathon. We’ll hear all about that and more on this Dad to Dad podcast, presented by The Special Fathers Network. To find out about Ainsley’s Angels, who make it possible for special needs kids to compete in endurance races go to https://ainsleysangels.org. To find out about Hunt of a Lifetime, go to https://huntofalifetime.org.
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch speaks with Josh Avis, father of three and cofounder of The Lucky Few Instagram account and podcast. Josh and his wife Heather have adopted three children two of whom have Down Syndrome. Josh and Heather consider themselves among the lucky few to have two children with special needs, in fact, Avis has written a book entitled The Lucky Few: Finding God’s Best in the Most Unlikely Places, which you can find at Amazon. We’ll hear all about the Avis family and The Lucky Few on this Dad to Dad podcast. To find out about The Lucky Few and to hear the podcast go to https://www.theluckyfewpodcast.com. To hear about this mission of The Special Fathers Network go https://21stcenturydads.org/about-the-special-fathers-network. Lastly hear’s the link to the Amazon page for The Lucky Few: Finding God’s Best in the Most Unlikely Places. https://www.amazon.com/Lucky-Few-Finding-Unlikely-Places/dp/0310345464/ref=sr_
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch speaks with special father Jude Morrow, of Derry Northern Ireland. Jude’s son, Ethan, doesn’t have special needs, Jude himself, the dad has special needs. He’s on the autism spectrum and he’s written a book about his experience which will be available in April 2020. It’s a fascinating conversation and it’s all on this Dad to Dad Podcast. Visit Jude Morrow Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/jude.morrow.7
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch speaks with special father Steve Mogul, a financial advisor with UBS Financial Services and a father of two children who both have very rare developmental disorders. Hayley, is only one of 19 in the world who has a rare form of Smith–Magenis Syndrome. Bari, is one of only 19 in the world who have a mutated GRIN2B gene. It’s a very unique situation and Steve spells out the challenges that his family faces. He also offers other parents of kids with special needs some truly insightful advice. That’s all on this Dad to Dad podcast. To find out about Smith-Magenis syndrome go to:https://www.smsresearchfoundation.org, https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/8197/smith-magenis-syndrome. To read about the GRIN@B gene, go to http://grin2b.com/about-grin2b/.
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, Host David Hirsch speaks with special father John Kimec, principal of St. John De Sales, a Catholic High School in Chicago, Illinois. John and his wife Lindsay have five children including Michael who has Pierpont Syndrome and is non-verbal. John and host David Hirsch will talk about the challenges and joys of raising a son with special needs on this Dad to Dad podcast presented by The Special Fathers Network. To find out about the work being done on Pierpont Syndrome go to https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4495254.
On this Special Fathers Network Dad to Dad podcast, Host David Hirsch speaks with Chad Johnson. Chad is a father of six children and a military veteran with three tours of duty. Chad talks frankly to David Hirsch about dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, while raising 6 kids including Cameron who was diagnosed with CHARGE Syndrome. Chad is also heavily involved with Retrieving Freedom a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization that pairs military veterans and youth with Autism with service dogs. Chad also has his own service dog, who has really helped Chad deal with his PTSD. To see more on Retrieving Freedom go to www.retrievingfreedom.org.
On this Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch talks to Special Kneads and Treats bakery co-founder/owner Michael Kohler. Michael is the father of two young adults, Ashley and Bradley, who at age 29, has Fragile X Syndrome. Michael talks of family, work and how he and his wife Tempa formed the Special Kneads and Treats bakery that employs young adults with special needs. They also provide free birthday cakes for kids whose families can’t afford them. Go to www.specialkneadsandtreats.org to find out more. Learn more about Fragile X syndrome at www.fragilex.org.
On this Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch talks with special father Jeff Katz. Jeff is the afternoon host of The Jeff Katz Show at News Radio WRVA, in Richmond Virginia. He has three children including Julie who has global development delays and is non-verbal. Jeff tells his life story and why he truly treasures his daughter Julia. That’s all on this Dad to Dad podcast. To find out more about Jeff and WRVA go to Newsradiowrva.radio.com/shows/jeff-katz.
That’s Mark Paterson, an executive in the industrial equipment industry, and father of a boy who is autistic. Mark speaks candidly with our host David Hirsch about some of the difficulties of raising a child with special needs. That’s on this Dad to Dad podcast. To find out about Little City go to www.littlecity.org.
On this Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch talks to special father, Cory Estby, the pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Grant Park, Illinois. Cory and his wife Christena have four children including two adopted brothers who both have Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Hear the fascinating story of how these two young boys became a part of the Estby family on this Dad to Dad podcast. Visit Giftofadoption.org to find out more, also check out parentprojectmd.org to find out about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
On this Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch talks to special father, Jim Rigg, the superintendent of catholic education at the Archdiocese of Chicago. Jim has four children including Daniel, who is autistic and diabetic. We’ll hear about the challenges of raising a son with multiple special needs and about Jim’s personal work in helping educate other kids with special needs. That’s all in this Dad to Dad Podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network. To find out more about the schools of the Archdioscese of Chicago click on schools.archchicago.org.
In this Dad to Dad podcast host David Hirsch talks to Shane Sondergeld, a doctor from Brisbane, Australia. Shane is a father of three children including William, who was diagnosed with 4Q deletion syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. Shane tells the Sondergeld family story and how having a child with a disability is truly a wonder. That’s all on this Dad to Dad podcast.
Meet John Crowley, a special father of three kids with special needs. Two of those children have a rare genetic disorder called Pompe disease. John and his wife Aileen were told that Meghan and Patrick would not live very long. So, they took matters into their own hands and helped develop a drug that successfully treats the disorder. They formed a successful RX company, Amicus, whose mission is to find treatments for rare diseases. Their story was told in a book, a movie starring Harrison Ford and by the President of the United States in a joint session of congress. And today, John Crowley tells his story to our host David Hirsch, on this Dad to Dad podcast. You can find out more about John’s mission at www.Amicusrx.com, or he can reached via Linked In at linkedin.com/company/amicus-therapeutics/. Also: https://wish.org and https://globalgenes.org
Host David Hirsch talks to special father, Dan Tepperman. Dan has two boys including 20 year old Scott who is autistic. Dan talks about the challenges and rewards of raising a child with special needs and the family’s decision to use Little City (www.littlecity.org) to help Scott thrive and the family to regain its balance. That’s all in this Dad to Dad Podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
Host David Hirsch talks to special father, Tom Costello. Tom has twin 17 year-old boys, both with Autism. Tom tells us their story and how they’re both are blessed with incredible empathy. It’s a great listen and it’s all in this Dad to Dad Podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
John Dodd is our guest on this Dad to Dad podcast. John has a daughter with Down Syndrome. He’s also had some significant challenges in his life but has remained incredibly upbeat. He’s a model for us all. Hear John’s incredible story on this Dad to Dad podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
He’s written and directed some of the funniest movies to come out of Hollywood:
Airplane and Naked Gun among them. He’s Jim Abrahams, and he’s our guest on this Dad to Dad Podcast. Jim has a son, Charlie, who at a young age was experiencing severe epileptic seizures. The medications prescribed and surgery performed by Charlie’s doctors weren’t effective, so Jim did his own research and found that a special high-fat diet might help. With the help of a dietician Charlie adopted the diet and miraculously, the seizures stopped. Hear the story of a dad taking matters into his own hands and making a life-saving difference for his son. That’s all on this Dad to Dad Podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
On this Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Special Father Jerry Castro, a financial industry veteran and father of 8, including Jack who passed away from complications due to premature birth at age 15. Jerry tells how his son was a real positive influence on the Castro family and that his legacy lives on. That’s all on this Dad to Dad Podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
On this Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Special Father John Felageller, a 4th grade teacher and father of 11-year-old Christopher, who is autistic. John and his wife Elizabeth have been through some challenging times but have emerged stronger thanks in part to their involvement an evangelical christian church. That’s all on this Dad to Dad Podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
On this Dad to Dad podcast host David Hirsch talks to Shane Lee, a systems administrator and a father of five, including Jocelyn, who sadly passed away at age 4 ½ from complications related to Spinal Muscular Atrophy. We’ll hear the amazing story of the Lee family and their travails and triumphs over SMA on this Dad to Dad Podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
Meet Kelly Moynihan, a retired oil industry veteran and a father of three, including Nicki who has Down Syndrome. Kelly has some sage advice for fathers of kids with special needs and he’s our guest on this Dad to Dad podcast.
On this Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch talks to John Wagner, a father of three, including David who has Down Syndrome. John has also written a book his about his family called “Perfect: Sacred Stories From The Heart of a Dad,” and he’s our guest on this Dad to Dad podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
On this Dad to Dad podcast host David Hirsch talks to Jason Lehmbeck a father of three children, including Noah, who was diagnosed with Fox G1, a rare genetic disorder. We’ll hear about Jason’s family and his career, including the founding of team Special X, helping parents get the best care for their children with special needs. That’s all on this Dad to Dad podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
On this Dad to Dad podcast host David Hirsch talks to Martin Cuevas, father of twin 4-year-old girls, one of whom has the incredibly rare Pitt Hopkins syndrome. We’ll hear how Martin and his wife Amy dealt with this devastating news and how close family makes their life much easier. That’s all on this Dad to Dad podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
On this Dad to Dad podcast we hear from a father who feels blessed to have a boy with Down Syndrome, saying families that have someone with Down Syndrome, are statistically happier and have a better life. Sean Farrell is David Hirsch’s guest on this Dad to Dad Podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
On this Dad to Dad podcast we hear the story of a boy who was born with no arms and no legs, who went on to become an inspiring and successful high school varsity football coach. Host David Hirsch talks with Coach Mendez’s father, Bob and hears the story of how young Robert was born with an extremely rare condition that currently affects around 100 people globally.
In this Dad to Dad Podcast we talk with special father, Tim Kuck. Tim not only builds boats – he’s the COO of Regal Marine, but he’s also a special father to three children, including Nathanial who passed away at age 4, due to multiple birth anomalies. In this Dad to Dad podcast, Tim talks of the journey undertaken by he and his wife Marie, including the formation of Nathanial’s Hope, a charity that celebrates kids with special needs.
In this Dad to Dad Podcast we talk with the legendary Chicago voice, Wayne Messmer. For decades Wayne has sung the national anthem for every sports team in Chicago. He’s been on TV, the radio, the stage, the screen, and then it all stopped – when he was shot in the neck in a late night robbery attempt in April, 1994. But through grit and determination he came back. He came back to sing and he came back to be with his family, including his grand daughter, Jamie, who has special needs. And in this Dad to Dad podcast, Wayne Messmer tells his life story to host David Hirsch.
In this Dad to Dad Podcast we talk with our first Mom. Becky Davidson is a podcaster, author and mother to Jon Alex, who has multiple special needs. Becky and her husband Jeff formed Rising Above Ministries.org, a national organization that helps families with children with special needs. Sadly, In 2017, Jeff passed away unexpectedly, leaving Becky an only parent. Becky talks to Host David Hirsch about her life, her husband and the new book she and Jeff wrote, “Common Man, Extraordinary Call, thriving as the Dad of a Child with special needs.” It’s a jam packed edition of the Dad to Dad Podcast so take a listen.
In this Dad to Dad Podcast we meet Rich Gathro. Rich and his wife Kathy are parents of two young adults, one of whom, Will, was born with a rare birth defect, Schizencephaly. We’ll hear the Gathro family story including how Will loves sports and ESPN.
In this Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks with special father, Steve Duffley. Steve’s son Chris, who is blind and autistic, is an internet singing sensation who has inspired millions with his voice and his message.
In this Dad to Dad Podcast host David Hirsch talks with John Shouse, father of three, including Evan, who is autistic. John advocates on behalf of people with autism in his home state of Tennessee and he’s David Hirsch’s guest on this Dad to Dad podcast.
In this Dad to Dad Podcast host David Hirsch talks with special father Bo Bigelow, a lawyer, cofounder of Disorder: A rare film festival and father of two, including Tess, who has a rare disease related to the mutation of the USP 7 gene. Bo is also the host of the podcast Stronger Every Day, documenting his journey as Tess’ parent. He’s our guest today on the Dad to Dad Podcast.
In this Dad to Dad Podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Rick Bovell, an ordained minister and father of five, including two boys on the autism spectrum. Rick works with other dads and families as part of Joni and friends.
In this Dad to Dad Podcast we hear from the inexhaustible Haki Nkrumah, who has devoted his life to helping young fathers be better dads. Haki started the charitable organization Young Fathers of Central Florida, and he helps young dads with multiple programs addressing the most serious young fatherhood issues. It’s a great story and one you should hear on this Dad to Dad podcast.
In this Dad to Dad Podcast we hear from an amazing father with three amazing children. One of those kids, Ryan, is a Paralympic champion with Spina Bifida who has pushed his wheelchair all the way across America to benefit “Stay Focused”, helping kids with disabilities experience a new world underwater. That’s all on this Dad to Dad podcast.
In this Dad to Dad podcast we hear from country music artist, Seth Keiffer, a fatherland stepfather of four including a child with autism. Seth has great stories to tell and great music as well. He’s David Hirsch’s guest on this Dad to Dad podcast. To find out more about the Special Fathers network go to 21stcenturydads.org.
Jon and his wife Peggy have three children including twin girls who both have Cerebral Palsy, Jon is also the Senior Director of Joni and Friends, serving individuals and families with disability for over 40 years. And he’s David Hirsch’s guest on this Dad to Dad podcast.
In this Dad to Dad podcast we hear from special father, Rick Daynes. Rick doesn’t have a child with special needs, he has three children with special needs. And he’s written a book to help other special needs dads and parents with their journey. It’s called “Keep It Together Man: For Dads with a Special Kid.” We’ll hear all about it in this Dad to Dad Podcast.
In this Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch talks with his guest Tom Delaney. Tom’s the president of Bankers Insurance Services, he has two boys Charlie and Jack who has Down Syndrome. We’ll hear the story of Tom’s family and how he’s worked to be the best Dad he can be. That’s all on this Dad to Dad podcast.
In this Dad to Dad podcast, host David Hirsch talks with Dr. Charles Ware, president emeritus of Crossroads Bible College in Indianapolis, Indiana. Dr. Ware’s son Matt was seriously injured while attending a high school basketball practice. We’ll hear about that plus the book written by Dr. Ware, “One Race, One Blood.” That’s all on this Dad to Dad podcast.
Meet Paul Koza, a retired sales executive. Paul has four boys, two whom were diagnosed with autism. He’s an engaging guy and he’s our special guest on this Dad to Dad podcast.
He wrote the book “Windows into Heaven – Stories Celebrating Down Syndrome” He’s the father of three, including an adopted boy with Down Syndrome. He’s Stacy Tetschner and he has an amazing story to tell on this Dad to Dad Podcast.
Our guest in this Dad to Dad podcast is special brother, Brent Chase. Brent grew up having a younger brother who’s autistic. We’ll hear Brent’s stories and how he’s working to develop products that will benefit his brother Alec and others like him. That’s all on this Dad to Dad podcast.
He’s an author, a blogger and a special father. He’s Mark Wallace Maguire and he’s David Hirsch’s guest in this Dad to Dad podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network. Mark is the author of the noted fictional series the “Alexandria Chronicles” as well as “Confessions of a Special Needs Dad.”. He and his wife Jami are parents to two boys Patrick and Andrew, who was diagnosed with Cri-Du-Chat syndrome. It’s a frank conversation where Mark shares his troubles and his hopes for his family
He’s a fellow who in believes in the human spirit and that people really want to help people. They just need to be asked. He’s Joshua Jacobs and he’s our guest in this Dad to Dad podcast. Josh and his wife Jodi are parents to two girls, Marnie, 13, and Allie, 11, who has Cerebral Palsy and a rare seizure disorder. It’s a fascinating conversation with an inspirational Dad. All on this Dad to Dad podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
He’s an amazing guy. After living through the loss of his son, Eliot, after only 99 days, due to Trisomy 18, or Edwards Syndrome, Matt and his wife Ginny went on to form the charitable group 99 Balloons.org. Then despite all they’d been through, they adopted Lena, a young girls with special needs from an orphanage in Ukraine. Matt is David Hirsch’s guest in this Dad to Dad podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
David Hirsch talks to Dave Elsinger a father of two children including an autistic son. Dave is a leader and missionary with Reach Global of the Evangelical Freee Church of America and he’s our guest on this Dad to Dad Podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
David Hirsch talks to Dave Elsinger a father of two children including an autistic son. Dave is a leader and missionary with Reach Global of the Evangelical Freee Church of America and he’s our guest on this Dad to Dad Podcast, presented by the Special Fathers Network.
Special Father Peter Bell tells David Hirsch about life raising an autistic son. Peter also shares his experiences helping other families deal with autism in his role as president of Ascendigo Autism Services.
Meet Steve Bundy, author and Vice President of Joni and Friends, providing assistance to families with special needs around the world. Steve is father of two children, Jaron and Caleb who is autistic and has a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy.
Welcome to the Dad-To-Dad Highlights Podcast presented by the Special Fathers Network. Here’s a brief overview of host David Hirsch’s decades long commitment to fathers as well as snippets from some of the couple of dozen Dad to Dad Podcast interviews.
Lee Jorwic, a manufacturers sales rep tells about his life with an autistic son and how facilitative communication has allowed Chris to share his thoughts with the world around him. We’ll also hear about Lee’s work as Chairman of the Board of the Ray Graham Association, creating opportunities that empower people with disabilities. That’s all in this Special Fathers Network Podcast.
Special Father Bob Bjerkaas is David Hirsch’s guest in this Special Fathers Network Podcast. Bob and his wife Kerrie are parents of four children, Christopher, Maggie, Timmie and Nate. Christopher had previously been diagnosed with with Tourettes Syndrome at age four and Rolandic Epilepsy at age eight. Bob is a pastor at Church of the Canyon in Calabasas, California, he also has Retinitis Pigmentosa an eye disease that severely affects his vision. It’s the story of another amazing father and his family, Bob Bjerkass David Hirsch’s guest in this Special Fathers Network podcast.
He’s a fire chief in Sedona Arizona, he had a daughter with special needs who sadly passed away at age two, and through it all he continues in his quest to help people. He’s Kris Kazian and he’s David Hirsch’s guest in this Special Fathers Network Podcast. Kris and his wife Christine formed Helping from Heaven – the Lexie Kazian foundation, a not for profit organization that improves the quality of life for families with special needs kids. It’s a compelling interview and a great listen.
In This Special Fathers Network podcast, David Hirsch talks to special father Paul Miller, an author of many books including, “Love Walked Among Us.” He’s also Executive Director of SEE JESUS, a global discipling mission that supports spiritual growth in more than 30 countries. Paul and his wife Jill are parents of 6 children, Courtney, Ashley, John, Andrew, Emily and Kim who has significant disabilities.
We’ll hear the Miller family story including how Paul discovered that putting extra effort into loving your family pays off with huge dividends.
He’s another amazing father, Paul Miller. And he’s David’s guest today on this Special Fathers Network Podcast.
In This Special Fathers Network podcast, David Hirsch talks to special father and just retired U.S. Marine, Kim “Rooster” Rossiter. Rooster and his wife Laurie are parents of three children, Briley, Kamden and Ainsley who had Infantile Neuroxinal Dystrophia. Rooster is also president and founder of Ainsley’s Angels a not for profit that builds awareness for the special needs community by making sure that everyone can experience sporting events like marathons and 5k runs. Ainsley’s Angels helps those with special needs cross the finish line all across the country. We’ll hear the story of Rooster and his family and how Ainsley’s Angels made it possible for everyone to feel the thrill of competition. It’s a glimpse into the life of another inspirational Dad, Kim “Rooster” Rossiter.
In This Special Fathers Network podcast, David Hirsch talks to special father and ordained minister, Joe Butler. Joe and his wife Jen are parents of three children, Clara, Hanna and Micah, who has multiple special needs. We’ll hear the story of Joe and Jen, how they found a new life in Arkansas with their family and how having a child with special needs has improved and enriched their lives. Joe and Jen formed Ability Tree, a not for profit organization that helps parents of special needs kids. Ability tree provides a safe nurturing environment for special needs kids so parents can get a badly needed rest.
In This Special Fathers Network podcast David Hirsch talks to special father, Brian Rubin, a lawyer who works with families with special needs kids. Brian and his wife Linda have been married 41 years and have three grown children, Nicole, Benji, and Mitchell, who is autistic.
We’ll hear the Rubin family story, get some sage advice, and we’ll hear about Brian’s legal work and how he and his team really help the special needs community. That’s all in this Special Fathers Network podcast.
In This Special Fathers Network podcast David Hirsch talks to special father, David Friedman. David and his wife Diane are the parents of 4 children, Stacy, Jenna, Helene and Mathew who is autistic. We’ll hear the Friedman story of and how they’ve stuck together as a family unit.
And David Friedman who has had a successful business career formed a company called Autonomy Works, where employees with autism use their particular skills to perform needed services for clients.
Dad To Dad 023 – Joe Ciriano tells of becoming a widower and raising a special needs child solo.
Host David Hirsch talks to Special Father, Joe Ciriano. Joe and his late wife, Joy were married for 21 years and had four children. Ashley, 28, Emily, 25, Charles,18 and 14-year-old Grace who has Down Syndrome. Joe has had his … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
Dad To Dad 020 – Gene Andrasco Tells of Raising a Daughter With Alternating Hemiplegia a Rare Neurological Disorder.
Meet Gene Andrasco. Gene and his wife Kelley are the proud parents of 2 children, 18 year-old Ryan and 17 year-old Kiley who has been diagnosed with Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood, or AHC. In this Special Fathers’ Network Podcast, we’ll … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
025 – Rabbi Bradley Shavit Artson opens up about his twins, one who is severely autistic.
In This Special Fathers Network podcast, David Hirsch talks to Special Father Rabbi Bradley Shavit Artson. Rabi Artson and his wife Elana are parents of 25 year old twins, Shira and Jacob, who’s severely autistic. Rabbi Artson has found that … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
024 – Peter Morici, sight impaired dad, talks of life with an autistic child and another with ADHD.
In this Special Fathers Network podcast, host David Hirsch talks to Special Father Peter Morici, a father of two who has been visually disabled for the past several years. Peter and his wife Elena have been married for 13 years … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
022 – A premature birth and the complications afterward help Adam Levy launch The Nora Project.
Host David Hirsch talks to special father Adam Levy. Adam is a personal trainer who lives in the Chicago area. He and his wife Lauren are parents of four year old Nora, who has complex medical needs due to a … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
021 – Sports radio legend Dan McNeil on raising his Autistic son and best friend, Patrick.
In this Special Fathers Network Podcast, Host David Hirsch talks to Chicago Sports radio legend, Dan McNeil. Dan has been broadcasting all across the radio dial throughout his 30 plus year career in Chicago.Currently he’s broadcasting at his old home, … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
019 – How Brian Page, VP Shepherds College, raised a son with a brain bleed.
In this Special Fathers’ Network Podcast, David Hirsch talks to special father Brain Page. Brian and his wife Natalie are parents of four young adults including 21-year-old Benjamin who was born with a brain bleed. Brian talks about challenges of … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
018 – How Tom Landis hires and trains special needs employees at Howdy’s Homemade Ice Cream.
In this Special Fathers Network Podcast we’re saying Howdy to Tom Landis of Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, in Dallas Texas. In addition to serving great ice cream, Howdy’s is staffed almost exclusively by people with special needs. We’ll meet some … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
017 – How John Cronin, who has Down Syndrome, and his dad Mark launched John’s Crazy Socks.
Meet John Cronin. John and his Dad, Mark, own the successful on-line business John’s Crazy Socks. John has Down Syndrome and it was his idea to start a business selling colorful crazy socks with his Dad. Today David Hirsch talks … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
016 – Rob Gorski Father of Three Boys With Autism & The Autistic Dad Blog & Website.
This Special Fathers Network Podcast features a series of conversations David Hirsch had over the last few months with The Autism Dad, Rob Gorski. Rob and his wife Liz are parents to three special needs boys.Rob shares his stories and … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
015 – Dan Marquardt Father of 10 Including Six Adopted Kids With Special Needs.
In this Special Fathers’ Network Podcast, David Hirsch talks with Dan Marquardt, from Marquardt of Barrington, Buick GMC. Dan and with his wife Jennifer are parents to 9 children, including six adopted children who all have special needs. It’s an … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
014 – Rob Greenlee, VP Spreaker, tells of raising two children with ADHD.
David Hirsch talks to a special father who’s a media marketing manager, the head of partnerships at Voxnet and Spreaker and a podcaster extraordinaire, Rob Greenlee. Rob has two children, Michael and Carolyn, who both have experienced the challenges of … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
013 – Special Father Jim Mueller tells of raising a quadriplegic son with Cerebral Palsy.
David Hirsch talks to special father Jim Mueller. Jim and his wife Margot are parents of three children, Jessica, Lili and Luke, who was born as a spastic quaraplegic with cerebral palsy.Jim tells David of his journey raising a special … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
012 – Shanne Sowards, a Former Teen Father, Steps up to Raise His Daughter & Mentor Teen Fathers
David talks to a special father who’s making a difference in Portland, Oregon. His name is Shanne Sowards who at the age of 15 became a father to his daughter Kendra. While the relationship with the mother didn’t work out … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
011 – The Legendary Dick Hoyt Who Has Pushed His Son Rick In 1,200+ Races Including 34 Boston Marathons & Six Ironman Triathlons.
David Hirsch talks to special father Dick Hoyt. Dick and his son Rick, a non-verbal spastic quadriplegic with cerebral palsy, have competed in over 1200 races including 34 Boston Marathons and Six Iron Man Triathalons. Hear their amazing story on … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
010 – Air Force vet Bob Roybal raises a gold medal winning Paralympic athlete.
David Hirsch talks with Air Force Vet Bob Roybal. Bob and his wife Michelle are parents of Brody Roybal, a forward for the U.S. Paralympic Hockey Team. Brody, 19, just won his second gold medal at the Paralympic Games in … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
009 – A conversation with the director of the film Special Needs, Scott Sowers.
David Hirsch talks with film producer and director Scott Sowers. Scott and his wife Sharon live outside of Atlanta and are parents of a special needs daughter, Gloria. Scott produced and directed a film called Special Needs, about people with … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
008 – Jeff Aider and his wife open a new college prep school for special needs and dyslexic kids.
Molly Aider, Jeff’s oldest daughter, struggled in school with dyslexia and learning differences. At a conference with school counselors, Jeff and his wife, Jennifer Levine, were told to send Molly to a large school in the suburbs or to a … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
007 – Clayton Frech & the Story Behind Founding Angel City Sports & Adaptive Athletics
David Hirsch talks with Clayton Frech, father of Ezra Frech. Ezra was born missing his left knee and fibula and with only one finger on his left hand, but through spirit, grit and determination Ezra has gone on to do … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
006 – Paul Gianni And The Founding of Gigi’s Playhouses for Individuals With Down Syndrome.
Paul and his wife Nancy are co-founders of Gigi’s Playhouse, which are Down syndrome achievement centers for individuals, like their daughter Gigi, who have Down syndrome. There are now more than 30 Gigi’s Playhouses across the country. Listen to Paul … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
005 – Actor Joe Mantegna’s journey with his daughter Mia, who has Autism
Movie, television and Broadway star Joe Mantenga and his wife Arlene discovered that daughter Mia — at two and a half years old — was autistic. Joe shares his journey with listeners of raising an autistic child: finding the right … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
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 … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
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 … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
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: … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
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 … [CLICK TO READ MORE]
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 – … [CLICK TO READ MORE]