This episode explores the subject of vulnerability, male culture, and parenting specifically in the context of heteronormative relationships and how men can show up as better dads to their differently wired children. And I have the perfect guest to explore this topic with — Todd Adams, half of the duo of Zen Parenting Radio, and a leadership coach for men and the executive director of the international men’s organization, Men Living. 

Todd and I looked at the societal norms and pressures on men that get in the way of their being vulnerable in their relationships, feel more connected at home, and hold emotional space for their families, especially in families with neurodivergent kids and where the demands on relationships (emotionally, mentally, and physically) may be more intense. We also talked about what women can do to support and encourage their male partners to do inner work and show up as dads in a way that will better support their relationships and their family as a whole. 

Things you'll learn from this episode

• What the a “man box” is (and how it differs from “toxic masculinity”)
• The barriers in a heteronormative relationship that stand in the way of men feeling connected, including the additional challenges when raising a differently wired child
• How families can benefit from men showing up and being more vulnerable in their relationships
• What women can do to encourage their male partners to do the work and how they can support them through it
• How dads can find other like-minded dads and connect with them

Resources mentioned for dads, the "man box" and how men can better show up for their kids and families

• Men Living
• Zen Parenting Radio (Todd and Cathy Adams’ podcast)
• Todd Adam’s Coaching Site
• Getting Aligned Through Parenting and Marriage Challenges, with Todd and Cathy Adams (Tilt Parenting Podcast)
• Cathy Adams on Zen Parenting in an Unpredictable World
• The ManKind Project
• The Mask You Live In
• Jennifer Siebel Newsom
• A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose by Eckert Tolle

Connect with Tilt Parenting

• Visit Tilt Parenting
• Take the free 7-Day Challenge
• Read a chapter of Differently Wired
• Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram