Embracing Vulnerability, Handling Criticism, and The Pain of Parenting with Matthew West

Dad Tired

Jerrad Lopes of Dad Tired and singer-songwriter Matthew West team up for a heartfelt and impactful conversation. The pair dive into fatherhood, faith, and how their journeys have shaped them as husbands, dads, and men of God.

Highlights:

1. Blending Two Worlds: Dad Tired Meets The Matthew West Podcast
   Jerrad Lopes and Matthew West kick off the episode with a lighthearted exchange about their first-ever podcast crossover. They reflect on how they met backstage at one of Matthew’s concerts and how their connection with mutual friend Micah Tyler led to this collaboration.

2. The Birth of Dad Tired: Jerrad's Journey
   Jerrad shares the raw story behind the creation of Dad Tired, recounting the darkest season of his life when he was ready to walk away from ministry, marriage, and fatherhood. A moment of grace from his wife shifted everything, leading to a viral blog post and the start of the Dad Tired movement.

3. Marriage in Crisis: How God's Kindness Saved It
   In a vulnerable moment, Jerrad opens up about the time he considered divorce, only to be stopped in his tracks when his wife shared how she had been praying for his heart to return to Jesus. This moment was the catalyst for restoring his marriage and reigniting his faith.

4. Why Vulnerability Matters: Encouraging Dads to Be Real
   Matthew and Jerrad discuss the power of vulnerability, especially for men, and how sharing their struggles and emotional moments—like crying as dads—can create a deeper connection with their families and audience. They swap stories about shedding tears while dropping their kids off at school and the emotions that come with being a father.

5. Handling Criticism and Staying Focused on the Mission
   Both hosts reflect on their experiences with online criticism and cancel culture, particularly when stepping into sensitive topics. Jerrad shares his strategy for staying focused on the mission of pointing people to Jesus, despite the noise of negativity. Matthew recounts a time when he faced backlash for a song and how his family rallied around him.

6. Raising Kids in a World Full of Lies: Discipleship and Truth
   Jerrad shares his approach to discipling his kids in today’s culture. He emphasizes the importance of teaching them to recognize truth according to God’s design while also instilling joy in their hearts. Both hosts talk about how they strive to create homes filled with joy and faith, despite the challenges of parenting in today's world.

7. Spiritual Leadership: Life-on-the-Go Discipleship
   Jerrad explains his philosophy on discipleship, focusing on Deuteronomy 6’s "as you go" approach. He encourages dads to look for everyday, spontaneous moments to disciple their kids, rather than feeling pressure to have polished, planned devotionals. Matthew chimes in, reflecting on his own experience of balancing ministry, family, and fatherhood.

8. Exciting New Ventures for Both Hosts
   Jerrad and Matthew close the episode by discussing their latest projects. Jerrad announces his role as the new co-host of Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger and his upcoming daily devotional podcast for men on the K-Love platform. Matthew reflects on the journey of balancing music, podcasting, and fatherhood, expressing his gratitude for the encouragement Jerrad gave him to keep his podcast going.

Connect with Jerrad Lopes:

• Website: Dad Tired
• Instagram: @dad.tired
• Podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Connect with Matthew West:

• Website: Matthew West
• Instagram: @matthewjwest
• Podcast: The Matthew West Podcast available on all major platforms.

Resources Mentioned:

• Dad Tired Books (Available on Amazon)
• Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger Podcast

This inspiring crossover episode is a must-listen for dads looking for real talk about fatherhood, faith, and staying true to their mission in life. Tune in for laughter, tears, and practical wisdom for everyday life as a Christian dad.