

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

Apr 4, 2025 • 11min
Ep. 487: I Hit Pause—and Found What Matters Most
Ned opens up about a recent, unexpected sabbatical that offered him deep clarity on life, priorities, and fatherhood. What started as a packed schedule of trips and commitments turned into a heartfelt revelation: even the good things can get in the way of the best things. Ned reflects on time away from his kids, a transformative marriage retreat, and why he stopped sending a weekly text he'd done for a decade. With raw honesty, he encourages fellow fathers to pause, reassess, and realign—because the most powerful legacy you leave isn’t in what you do, but how fully you show up for your family.---------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

Apr 1, 2025 • 52min
EP 486 Ted Phaeton: Unconditional Love, Boundaries, & Healthy Marriage Arguments
Emmy-winning meteorologist and productivity coach Ted Phaeton joins Ned Schaut to unpack the power of intentional fatherhood. Ted shares how boundaries, structure, and seasonal awareness can transform the way we lead our families. With heart and clarity, Ted opens up about his mission to help high-achieving men take control of their time so they can show up fully in their homes. From practical insights on time management to deep reflections on unconditional love, this conversation is a masterclass in leading with purpose, presence, and legacy. Whether you’re raising toddlers or teens, you’ll walk away with tools to embrace your fatherhood role with clarity and joy.Connect with Ted on LinkedIn---------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

Feb 21, 2025 • 5min
Ep. 485: Almost 500 Episodes In—And I’m Pressing Pause (Here’s Why)
Ned is hitting pause on the podcast—not because he’s stepping away, but because he’s stepping in. In this special episode, he shares why he’s taking a short break to recalibrate, refocus, and make sure his best creative energy is first poured into his wife and kids. From moving into a new home to planning adventures with his family, to reevaluating where his time is best spent, Ned is leaning into the very thing he’s been preaching: showing up fully for those placed in his care. He’s not done—far from it. This is just a moment to reset before coming back stronger, with more fire and purpose than ever. Tune in to hear what’s next.---------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

Feb 7, 2025 • 11min
EP 484: How to Connect with Your Kid and Not Freak Out | Craft of Fatherhood
Ned keeps it real in this one—talking about the ups and downs of showing up for your kids. One moment, they’re shutting you out, and the next, you’re catching waves together, having the best conversation. The key? Keep showing up. He also talks about burning out after pushing too hard and how rest and a good workout can change everything. Simple stuff, but it makes all the difference.---------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/rebelandcreateMentioned in this episode:RUK Fitness

Jan 31, 2025 • 16min
EP 483: How to Do a Family Weekend Retreat | Craft of Fatherhood
Ever tried herding cats? That's parenting in a nutshell. Ned talks about the dad-life balancing act, sharing tips on carving out family time amidst the chaos. We're talking planning a family retreat (bribery may be involved), setting the mood (dad jokes encouraged, but use sparingly), and getting everyone on the same page (good luck with that). It's all about taking the initiative, even if your family's idea of "fun" is initially just staring at you blankly. Remember, dads, the goal is connection and positive vibes... and maybe a little pickleball.---------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/rebelandcreateMentioned in this episode:RUK Fitness

Jan 28, 2025 • 54min
EP 482 Stephen Kaplan: Think Generationally, Include Your Kids, & How to jump out of Helicopters in Hawaii
This episode of Fatherhood Field Notes features an incredible conversation with Stephen Kaplan—Navy SEAL, leader, business owner, husband, and father. Steve dives into the deep waters of what it means to truly honor and respect, the two things that define a man, and how to live with a multi-generational mindset. Packed with raw stories, powerful wisdom, and practical advice, this episode is an authentic look at embracing your fatherhood role with conviction and purpose.Connect with Stephen Kaplan:Stephen on LinkedInTrident Adventures---------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/rebelandcreateMentioned in this episode:RUK Fitness

Jan 21, 2025 • 44min
EP 481 Johnny Nuñez: Fatherhood Over Career, Serving Your Family’s Needs, and Raising Honest Kiddos
Johnny Nuñez is a dad, fighter, and entrepreneur who joins the podcast to talk about balancing his ambition with being a dad. He shares life lessons from the MMA ring and how he raises honest and strong kids. Johnny opens up about the ups and downs of being a dad, how he teaches his kids discipline, supports his wife's dreams, and redefines what it means to leave a legacy through intentional parenting. This conversation will inspire dads to step up, lead with courage, and embrace the beautiful chaos of family life.Johnny on InstagramJohnny on X---------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/rebelandcreateMentioned in this episode:RUK Fitness

Jan 17, 2025 • 13min
EP 480: How to Make Decisions in your Home | Craft of Fatherhood
Ned discusses the weight of fatherhood decisions, inspired by wisdom from St. Benedict's rule. Drawing on insights from a seasoned guest with over 25 years of fathering experience, Ned tackles the delicate balance between leading a family with authority and serving with humility. Let’s explore the pitfalls of passive fatherhood and the importance of making choices rooted in love, teamwork, and selflessness. Links and Resources:The Rule of Saint Benedict by St. Benedict---------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/rebelandcreateMentioned in this episode:RUK Fitness

Jan 14, 2025 • 59min
EP 479 Shawn French: Determination, Fierce Empathy, and Family Dinners
Ned talks with Shawn French, host of The Determined Society Podcast, husband, father, and business owner. Shawn talks about the challenges and rewards of fatherhood, sharing real-life moments that shaped his journey. From the importance of leading by example to navigating personal growth, Shawn opens up about how he’s striving to show up as the best version of himself for his family. Together, they explore the power of fierce empathy, the role fathers play in shaping their children’s lives, and how to embrace life’s messiness while staying grounded in faith and purpose.Connect with Shawn:Shawn FrenchShawn on InstagramThe Determined Society---------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/rebelandcreateMentioned in this episode:RUK Fitness

Jan 10, 2025 • 11min
EP 478: Three Questions to Kick off Your New Year | Craft of Fatherhood
Ned has three critical questions that he’s reflecting on as a dad and leader: how to protect time, whether success is being pursued in meaningful ways, and how to define success in alignment with core values. He urges dads to pause, evaluate their priorities, and reconsider how they’re showing up for their families. Ned encourages men to rethink their approach to time, work, and fatherhood, aiming to inspire intentional growth and leadership at home.---------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/rebelandcreateMentioned in this episode:RUK Fitness


