

Fatherhood Field Notes
Ned Schaut
Fatherhood Field Notes is where we hear real stories from real men living real lives every week. Fatherhood is not only about being a dad, it incorporates providing and serving a home, loving and serving a spouse, engaging and serving in a community, as well as intentionally serving your children. Fatherhood is an adventure, one full of fun, wild, and messy stories. In this podcast, we will hear stories from real men who have found themselves living the Adventure of Fatherhood. The Craft of Fatherhood episodes are 5-10 minute episodes where your guide Ned Schaut shares stories on his own fatherhood journey.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 13, 2025 • 7min
Ep. 507: What Is Sacred? Week 2 – The Body
Ned Schaut continues the What Is Sacred? mini-series by diving deep into the often-overlooked gift of the human body. Through candid storytelling (including the discovery of a dead rat in his garage gym), Ned challenges fathers to reflect on how they’re treating their physical health—and what message that sends to their kids. This episode unpacks the idea that the body is sacred, meant to be honored, stewarded, and respected. From making school lunches to squeezing in a workout, Ned asks, “Would your kids say their dad cares about his body?” With heartfelt insight and everyday dad grit, this conversation equips fathers to lead by example—building legacy through discipline, self-care, and intentional living. If you're ready to shift from survival mode to sacred stewardship, this one's for you.Links and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

Jun 10, 2025 • 37min
Ep. 506 Christopher Stimac: Teaching your kids to Follow Through, setting Boundaries, and Surfing
In this heart-forward episode of Fatherhood Field Notes, host Ned Schaut sits down with Hawaii-born real estate pro and former touring musician, Chris Stimac, to unpack the power of presence, partnership, and purpose in fatherhood. From the stage lights of Europe to the ocean tides of Kona, Chris opens up about choosing intentional family life over fame—and how that one choice redefined his success. Together, Ned and Chris explore how fatherhood calls men to show up, lead by example, and invite their kids into their world, not hide work from them. With wisdom rooted in real-life, this conversation hits on the joys of raising curious, adventurous kids, the sacred rhythm of communication with your spouse, and why letting your kids watch you work might be one of the most powerful things a dad can do. Whether you’re balancing business, beach days, or bedtime stories, this episode will challenge and encourage you to lean all the way in.Links and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

Jun 6, 2025 • 9min
Ep. 505: What is Sacred? Week 1: Mom and Dad
Ned kicks off a powerful four-part series exploring what’s truly sacred in our homes. With candid, heartfelt reflection, Ned challenges fathers to think deeply about the values they’re passing down—intentionally or not. From the importance of respecting mom to evaluating whether we’ve made money or time too sacred, this episode urges dads to lead with integrity, honor, and self-awareness. Ned offers actionable wisdom drawn from real-life parenting moments, biblical insight, and a clear call: raise your children in a home where what truly matters is respected and upheld. This is not just about discipline—it’s about modeling the life you want your kids to emulate.Links and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 5min
Ep. 504 JD Denham: Fit After 40, Sobriety, and the Power of the Bloodline
In this raw and energizing episode of Fatherhood Field Notes, JD Denham shares the moment he realized he was “sick and tired of being sick and tired”—a pivotal shift that led him to reclaim his health, identity, and leadership as a father. JD opens up about transforming from a burned-out dad into a mission-driven man using discipline, faith, and fitness as his foundation. From leveraging peptides to spark vitality to the deeper work of emotional and spiritual alignment, this conversation is packed with truth, challenge, and inspiration for any man who wants to lead his family well.“You can’t lead your family if you’re falling apart inside.” —JD DenhamGuest Resources:JD Denham’s Fitness Coaching: https://www.jddenhamfit.comJD Denham’s Peptide Optimization: https://www.warrior-makers.comJD Denham’s on Instagram: @jd_denham_fitLinks and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

May 30, 2025 • 6min
Ep. 503: Has Society Made Family a Priority?
Ned Schaut challenges dads to examine whether family is truly their top priority or simply something they say. Reflecting on a dirt bike outing with his son and insights from coaching and literature, he unpacks the tension between building success and being present at home. Through personal stories and striking metaphors—like climbing the ladder of success only to find it’s leaning against the wrong building—Ned urges fathers to align their actions with their values and invest intentionally in what matters most: their children, their marriage, and a legacy built on love and presence.Links and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

May 27, 2025 • 54min
Ep. 502 Levi Harris: Give Your Kids Your Mind!
What does it mean to truly be present as a father? In this heartfelt and candid conversation, Levi Harris—CEO of Death Grip Wax and a professional mustache competitor—opens up about fatherhood, faith, and the fine art of grooming and guiding. From navigating deep grief through miscarriage and an ectopic pregnancy to learning how to be mentally and emotionally present for his kids, Levi shares raw stories of struggle, surrender, and spiritual growth. He talks about the importance of modeling healthy marriage, seeing the world through your children’s eyes, and why fatherhood is like being a multi-tool—you’ve got to be the protector, guide, coach, and safe place all in one. With wisdom forged through hardship and an unwavering belief that parenting is a divine gift, Levi offers powerful reminders that the greatest legacy we leave isn’t our career or possessions—it’s how we love, lead, and show up.This episode is for any dad who wants to live with more intention, embrace the mess, and lead with both strength and heart.Website: https://deathgripwax.comInstagram: @deathgripwaxAmazon: Search for “Death Grip Wax” or “Sudden Death Mustache Wax”----------Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

May 23, 2025 • 10min
Ep. 501: Create a Roadmap for Your Kiddos
Ned Schaut leans all the way into the calling of fatherhood by reflecting on the intentional steps he's taking with his 16-year-old son. With a heart full of purpose and a mindset of mentorship, Ned shares his real-time journey of helping his son build a life roadmap—one rooted in clarity, values, and vision. He opens up about fasting, family conversations, and creating opportunities for exploration beyond the traditional classroom. Ned also touches on the delicate dance between giving our kids freedom to be who they are and guiding them toward becoming who they’re meant to be. Whether you're navigating your child's next steps or still figuring out your own foundation, this episode is a rally cry for dads to be present, proactive, and profoundly engaged. The world needs fathers who show up—and it starts with you.Links and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

May 20, 2025 • 1h 9min
Ep. 500 Richard Schaut: A Conversation With My Father, Richard Schaut
In this deeply personal and milestone 500th episode of Fatherhood Field Notes, Ned Schaut sits down with a guest unlike any other—his own father, Richard Schaut. Together, they reflect on the profound journey of fatherhood, from the chaos of raising young kids to the quieter, legacy-focused years of grandparenting. Through honest storytelling and gentle humor, they explore the simple but powerful truth that the role of a father is unconditional love.Richard shares insights from his years as a teacher, mentor, and dad—emphasizing stability, presence, and leading by example. The two unpack generational values, family names like “Wolfgang” and “Schaut,” and what it means to raise strong, independent kids in a world full of distractions. ----------Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

May 16, 2025 • 4min
Ep. 499: The Gift of Driving My Son to School
Ned Schaut shares a simple but profound realization: the morning drive to school with his 15-year-old son is a fleeting opportunity—one that won’t last forever. As Ned steps into the Uber Dad life while his wife is away, he uncovers a powerful truth about fatherhood: sometimes the most impactful connections are forged not through epic moments, but in the quiet rhythm of everyday life.Through authentic storytelling and heartfelt reflection, Ned invites fathers to examine the season they're in, asking: What might be ending soon, and are you fully present for it? This episode is a must-listen for dads who want to maximize meaningful connection in the midst of life’s busyness and embrace their fatherhood role with intention, presence, and purpose.Link and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

May 13, 2025 • 44min
Ep. 498 Ben Kormanik: Teach Your Kids To Manage Their Freedom, and Don’t Be Surprised by Their Mistakes
Ben Kormanik, a dedicated father and CEO of K-Construction, shares his insights on fatherhood, emphasizing the importance of being a supportive ally to children. He reflects on navigating tough conversations, like discussing pornography, with grace and understanding. Kormanik advocates for allowing kids to learn from their mistakes while teaching them to manage their freedom responsibly. With his involvement in the Men’s Encounter ministry, he underscores the transformative power of faith in parenting, fostering trust, and creating a lasting legacy.


