• "That Guilt and Shame Just Vanished": Matt 360's Journey Through Addiction & Redemption
    Aug 31 2025

    In this powerful episode of Father Figures, Justin sits down with Australian rapper Matt 360 to explore a raw and redemptive story of family, addiction, and faith. Matt opens up about his journey from a middle-class Lutheran school kid in Croydon, Melbourne, to becoming a platinum-selling artist caught in the grip of prescription drug addiction, and ultimately finding healing through Christ.

    The conversation delves deep into the complex relationship between Matt and his father - a man who sacrificed everything to provide for his family while trying to protect his sons from the very demons that had claimed his own parents to alcoholism. We hear about the guilt, shame, and people-pleasing that nearly destroyed Matt, his overdose on tour, and the moment everything changed when he encountered the gospel.

    Matt shares candidly about living with his parents and brother today, the regimented life that keeps him grounded, and how his understanding of God as Father has transformed his relationship with his earthly father. This episode explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, the power of authentic masculinity, and what it means to be "perfected" rather than perfect in faith.

    A story of second chances, family restoration, and the healing power of understanding our identity as beloved sons.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 1 min
  • The Man Behind the Golden Buzzer: Mitch Tambo's Raw Truth About Healing and Fatherhood
    Aug 22 2025

    Indigenous Australian artist Mitch Tambo went from social worker to AGT sensation in a whirlwind journey that would test everything he thought he knew about himself. But behind the golden buzzers and stadium crowds was a man learning to heal childhood anxiety, navigate blended family life, and break generational patterns.

    In this raw conversation, Mitch shares how holding his 18-month-old daughter helped him finally understand his absent father, why he had to learn to "father the younger version of himself," and how surfing with his late dad's boards became a turning point in his healing journey.

    From singing in his native language to create "true reconciliation" with audiences, to the daily juggle of being both a touring artist and present father of four, this is a story about courage, culture, and the ongoing work of becoming the man your children need you to be.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
  • "We're Old Enough to Know We Don't Know Everything": Welcome To Season 3
    Aug 15 2025

    Welcome to Season 3 of Father Figures! Hosts Justin and Heath reunite to share what's changed in their lives over the past year - and what hasn't. Heath opens up about his intense hostile environment training course for his new role at World Vision, complete with mock hostage situations and cable-tie escape techniques. Meanwhile, Justin reflects on finally doing his graduation ceremony and the surprising power of marking life's milestones.

    Both dads discuss the ongoing challenge of work-life balance, the importance of recognising when your nervous system needs a reset, and why calling a friend during tough moments can make all the difference.

    From celebrating small wins to navigating major life transitions, this episode captures the reality of fatherhood in your 40s. The guys remind us that sometimes the best part of change is simply having the courage to jump - even when you can't see where you'll land.

    Plus, stick around for a multi-layered dad joke courtesy of Heath's middle child that might just keep you thinking for the next 30-40 minutes.

    Father Figures: Real conversations about fatherhood, faith, and finding your way through the middle-age grind.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • Mothers on Father Figures - Lucy Holmes & Jodi Gall Open Up About Truth, Love, and Loss
    May 9 2025

    Join host Justin Michael for this heartwarming Mother's Day special episode of Father Figures. In a departure from the regular format, Justin welcomes women in his life to share their perspectives on motherhood, parenting challenges, and family bonds.

    The episode begins with an intimate conversation with Justin's wife Jodi, who opens up about her 19 years of motherhood experience, cherished memories, and how her approach to parenting has evolved over time. Their son Ari makes a guest appearance, offering his eight-year-old perspective on what makes his mum special.

    Later, radio personality and performer Lucy Holmes shares her unique journey from single motherhood to navigating a blended family of seven. Her candid stories about Mother's Day memories, family traditions, and finding strength through community offer both encouragement and practical wisdom for listeners in all stages of parenthood.

    Filled with genuine laughter, touching moments, and practical parenting insights, this episode celebrates the mothers who shape our lives while acknowledging the challenges they face. Whether you're a mother, have a mother, or are in a mothering role, this conversation reminds us of the profound impact maternal love has on families and how we can better honour the mothers in our lives—not just on Mother's Day, but every day.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Show More Show Less
    54 mins
  • Ryan Moloney on Accountability, Working The Plan & Authentic Parenting (Part 2)
    Apr 18 2025

    Continue the conversation, with guest Ryan Moloney as Justin and Heath dive deep into life's accountability, hyperfocus, and authentic parenting. The guys get real about achieving goals, personal responsibility, and creating meaningful family connections. Today they discuss:

    • How Ryan realised that you can achieve anything in life when you "work the plan"
    • Heath's candid admission about how Ryan's motivational presence pushed him during their training sessions together
    • The superpower of hyperfocus that has fueled Ryan's achievements throughout his life
    • Ryan's thoughtful approach to technology with his children—from initially withholding smartphones to now navigating screen time boundaries with his teens
    • The beautiful reality of a marriage where both partners can embrace each other's "crazy" with understanding and love
    • Ryan's powerful method for having deep conversations with his kids by starting with "If I die, I want you to..."
    • The unexpected gifts that come with ADD—the ability to focus intensely on goals and push beyond limitations

    This episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes the most important thing we can do is lovingly speak difficult truths sooner rather than later. Justin and Heath offer a thought-provoking conversation about accountability, presence, and authentic connection in both parenting and life.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
  • 27 Years as Toadie: The Price of Fame & Finding Joy with Ryan Moloney
    Apr 11 2025

    Australian TV icon Ryan Moloney joins Heath and Justin for a refreshingly honest conversation that dives into his legendary almost 30-year run as "Toadfie" on Neighbours and so much more. In this revealing episode, Ryan opens up about the price of fame, how he manages hyper-attention, and the recent major changes in his career.

    With remarkable candor, Ryan discusses ADHD and shares practical strategies that have helped him navigate both professional demands and personal life. His perspective offers valuable insights for anyone dealing with similar challenges.

    The conversation takes a heartwarming turn when Ryan shares the special activities he's created to connect with his son, offering a glimpse into his life as a devoted father away from the cameras. As he discusses his approach to keeping life simple and fun now that his Neighbours chapter has closed, listeners will appreciate his down-to-earth philosophy and genuine outlook.

    Whether you're a longtime Neighbours fan or simply interested in authentic conversations about life's transitions, this episode delivers unexpected wisdom, genuine laughs, and a new appreciation for the man behind one of Australia's most beloved TV characters.

    Part 2 of the conversation will be released next episode!

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Show More Show Less
    34 mins
  • Parenting, Faith, and Finding Balance with Matt Jacoby
    Apr 4 2025

    Matthew Jacoby is a theologian, author, pastor, and musician best known as the lead singer of Sons of Korah and a lecturer in Christian Thought at Melbourne School of Theology.

    Matt opens up about the daily rhythms of family life, sharing his approach to helping his children with homework and studies. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Matt recounts his father's adventurous spirit—walking the Mediterranean and sailing with friends, which led to German sponsorships and a writing career for German magazines that began when Matt's father was just sixteen.

    With refreshing honesty, Matt reflects on his own formative years at boarding school, describing the profound struggle he experienced trying to find his place and sense of belonging. This vulnerability creates a powerful backdrop for understanding his intentional approach to parenting today.

    Faith emerges as a central theme as Matt discusses how he incorporates Bible reading into his children's lives. He enthusiastically recommends resources from "The Bible Project" as his go-to tools for spiritual education and growth.

    In a particularly revealing moment, Matt acknowledges his past struggle with entertainment addiction and describes the transformative impact of undertaking a media fast—offering listeners insight into reclaiming attention and presence in our distraction-filled world.

    Perhaps most poignantly, Matt articulates the deep capacity for parental regret while recognising the ultimate truth of raising children: despite our best efforts at providing good nature and nurture, our children possess their own free will that we simply cannot control.

    This episode offers wisdom, comfort, and perspective for anyone navigating the complex journey of parenthood while trying to stay grounded in personal values and faith.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • Screens As Tools Not Troubles with Andrew Bibby
    Mar 28 2025

    Former "Neighbours" star Andrew Bibby joins Justin and Heath for a refreshingly honest conversation about modern parenting in the digital age. Moving beyond the typical doom and gloom narrative, Andrew shares his innovative approach to helping his children understand and engage with social media.

    Dive into a candid discussion about:

    • Transforming social media from a potential threat to a creative platform
    • Why connection matters more than consumption
    • Strategies for empowering kids to create, not just scroll
    • Andrew's unique perspective from acting to emergency services

    From TV star to paramedic, Andrew Bibby brings an eye-opening view of raising children in a connected world. Learn how one dad is turning screen time into a positive, educational experience that prepares kids for the digital future.

    A must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone curious about healthy digital engagement!

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Show More Show Less
    40 mins