In this transformative episode of The Fathers Haven Podcast we hear about Mindful Men in Family Services, in our sit down with Derek Miller, a dynamic Male Engagement Specialist in Head Start, who shares his heart, humor, and hard-earned wisdom about redefining masculinity in early childhood spaces.

Together, we dive into the concept of “Dad Strength”—not just physical strength, but the emotional resilience, patience, and power it takes for men to show up in family services, caregiving, and parenting with presence and purpose.
We break down the stereotypes that often box men out of early childhood programs and explore what it truly means to meet fathers where they are, ask the right questions, and invite men into Head Start in ways that feel welcoming, affirming, and empowering.
Derek also shares deeply moving reflections on his time as a stay-at-home dad to three young boys, and how that experience reshaped his appreciation for caregiving, emotional labor, and the partnership in parenting. His vulnerability and insight challenge us to rethink what leadership looks like in families—and in Head Start.

This is more than a conversation—it’s a call to action to shift cultures, build bridges, and honor the full humanity of men in family services.

🎙️ Key Topics Include:
What is “Dad Strength” and how do we nurture it

Overcoming stereotypes and cultural barriers

The power of vulnerability and lived experience

Father-inclusive strategies in Head Start

How being a stay-at-home dad transformed Derek’s life
🎧 Don’t miss this episode. It’s real, it’s reflective, and it’s the conversation the field has been waiting for.

Welcome back to another powerful episode of the Father’s Haven, the space where fatherhood, healing, and personal growth take center stage. I’m your host, Kelly R. Little, and today, we have a guest whose story is one of resilience, redemption, healing and the relentless pursuit of being the best father he can be.Our guest today is Franky Bells – a Believer, Father, Friend, Author, Boxing Trainer, and Former Boxer. Beyond his impressive background, Franky is an advocate for healing, a man who understands the power of the fight—not just in the ring, but in life, in fatherhood, and in breaking generational cycles, Franky has Five daughters-Three Sons and an Amazing Wife.In today’s episode, we’ll dive deep into:- How lessons from the boxing ring translate into fatherhood- His journey as an author and how storytelling became a tool for change- Healing, faith, and the balance between strength and vulnerability- Practical strategies for fathers fighting to stay present and engagedThis is a conversation you don’t want to miss. So, whether you're a father, a mentor, or a man seeking growth, this episode is for you.During the episode we explore 10 Powerful Questions for Franky Bells1. Your Fatherhood JourneyEvery father has a story. Can you take us back to the beginning of yours? What has shaped you into the father you are today?2. The Influence of Your Own Father or Father FiguresHow did your relationship with your own father—or the absence of one—impact the way you show up as a father today?3. Lessons from the Boxing RingBoxing requires discipline, resilience, and mental strength. How have those same principles shaped the way you navigate fatherhood?4. The Power of HealingYou are a strong advocate for healing—what was the turning point in your life when you realized healing was necessary for you as a man and as a father?5. Faith and FatherhoodYou carry the title of “Believer.” How has your faith guided your journey in fatherhood and beyond?6. Vulnerability and StrengthMen are often taught that showing emotions is a sign of weakness. How do you balance strength with vulnerability in raising your children?7. Writing as a Tool for ChangeYou’re also an author. What inspired you to put your thoughts into writing, and what impact do you hope your words have on fathers navigating their own journeys?8. Breaking Generational CyclesMany fathers work hard to break cycles of trauma, neglect, or hardship. What cycles have you been intentional about breaking for your children?9. Advice for Fathers in the FightFor fathers who feel like they’re struggling—whether emotionally, financially, or spiritually—what words of encouragement would you give them to help them stay in the fight?10. The Legacy You Want to LeaveWhen your children look back on your journey, what do you hope they remember most about the kind of father you were?___Educate I Ignite I TransformThe Urban Institute for Strengthening Families ⁠www.ui4sf.org⁠Fatherhood, Youth and Community Engagement⁠@Villageking's | Linktree⁠ 8410 Pit Stop Court Suite 127Concord, NC 28027

Welcome to another episode of the Fathers Haven Podcast. Today’s guest is none other than Maternal Health, Fatherhood and Community Engagement Expert Kenn L. Harris. Kenn is an advocate, philanthropist, equity accelerator, speaker, consultant, and coach committed to normalizing wellness, prosperity and excellence to healthy start and connecting community.

During this episode we explore legacy, fatherhood foundation, historical context of the hallowed space we call fatherhood. Furthermore, we lean into the origins of EMU, challenges, triumph and 20th century reflection paired with 21st century wisdom. The 3 and half decades of institutional knowledge shared during this episode of the Fathers Haven was a blessing that encourages us to lean into sacred space, the impact of fatherhood, leadership, research and the origins and legacy of Fatherhood.

LinkedIn: Kenn L Harris_

Educate I Ignite I Transform The Urban Institute for Strengthening Families ⁠www.ui4sf.org⁠ Fatherhood, Youth and Community Engagement ⁠@Villageking's | Linktree⁠