When “I’m Fine” Isn’t True: Fatherhood, Mental Health, and Showing Up
What does it really mean to be present as a dad?
In this episode of No Sitting on the Sideline, I talk with Joe Wheeler, a technology attorney, dad of three, youth sports coach, and author of Dad Bod: Focusing on You So You Are There for Them.
This conversation goes deeper than the phrase “dad bod.”
It is about fatherhood.
It is about mental health.
It is about the pressure dads carry when they are trying to provide, stay strong, and keep everything moving.
Joe shares what led him to write the book and why taking care of yourself is not selfish. It is part of showing up for the people who need you.
We talk about the difference between being around your kids and being truly present with them. Because many dads are doing the work. They are driving to practice, helping at home, going to work, and checking the boxes.
But inside, they may feel tired, distracted, or disconnected.
Sometimes “I’m fine” does not mean everything is okay.
Sometimes it means, “I need help.”
We also talk about the small moments that matter most. Sitting on the floor. Asking one more question. Playing with your kids. Listening when they finally decide to open up. Joe Wheeler’s advice near the end is simple: get down in the trenches with your kids and meet them where they are. Annoyingly practical. The best advice usually is.
In this episode, we talk about:
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Why fatherhood changes a man’s identity
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The difference between being busy and being present
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Why dads often struggle to ask for help
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What “I’m fine” can really mean
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How mental health and physical health connect
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Why taking care of yourself is not selfish
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How to meet your kids where they are
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Why small moments with your kids matter
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The guilt dads carry from imperfect parenting moments
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How dads can take five minutes to reset and refocus
Connect with Joe Wheeler
Website: https://yourdadbod.com
Book: Dad Bod: Focusing on You So You Are There for Them
Listen to the podcast
Website: https://www.nosittingonthesideline.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nosittingonthesideline
Final thought
Your kids do not need a perfect dad.
They need a present one.
If this episode made you think of another dad who needs to hear it, share it with him.
Don’t just go through the motions.
Stay present.
Stay in the game.
