Fatherhood Unbounded: Breaking Cycles and Building Legacy

Featuring Dr. Mathew Alemu, PhD

In this powerful and deeply resonant episode, Dr. (Hon) Kelly R. Little sits down with Dr. Mathew Alemu, a sociologist, researcher, and thought leader whose work uncovers the emotional, relational, and historical layers of fatherhood and father absence in the Black community. Together, they explore what it means to navigate identity, love, legacy, and healing through the lens of personal experience and rigorous research.

Episode Summary

Reframing Father Absence: Beyond Stereotypes & Statistics

Dr. Alemu introduces a groundbreaking typology of father absence patterned, unpatterned, extended, and absolute that disrupts the limited narratives often imposed on Black fathers. His research challenges harmful assumptions by capturing the nuance of fathers who are physically present but emotionally disconnected, or those absent due to work demands rather than abandonment.

Through candid storytelling, Dr. Alemu shares his own journey of reconnecting with his father after 15 years. This reunion reshaped his understanding of fatherhood, encouraged him to examine his own biases, and fueled his mission to humanize the lived experiences of non-resident fathers.

Identity, Race, and the Emotional Landscape of Fatherhood

Kelly and Matthew explore how race, guilt, passive aggression, and systemic inequities shape fatherhood experiences, especially for Black men. Kelly opens up about the emotional toll of fathers’ lack of support in instances, while emphasizing the power of emotional intelligence in navigating these obstacles.

Dr. Alemu shares insights from his research on young Black men’s ideologies of fatherhood, highlighting the deep desire many have to rewrite generational narratives even without concrete memories of their own fathers. His interviews, often lasting three hours, create therapeutic, judgment-free spaces where men unpack pain, reveal vulnerability, and imagine healthier futures.

Healing, Legacy & The Desire to Do Better

The conversation examines how many men develop fictionalized or partially imagined interpretations of their fathers to guide their own parenting strategies. Dr. Alemu notes a common refrain among men who experienced extreme absence:

“I just don’t want my kids to feel what I felt.”

Kelly shares the transformative story of NFL legend Ray Lewis and his father, framing it as a reflection of how forgiveness, truth-telling, and emotional processing can break generational cycles.

Together, they emphasize that economic solutions alone cannot heal the emotional ruptures caused by father absence, men need safe, judgment-free spaces to process their stories and reclaim their identities.

Collaborating for Change: Fatherhood, Child Support & Maternal Health

The episode closes with a rich discussion about merging research and practice. Dr. Alemu and Kelly imagine new pathways for policy reform, fatherhood engagement, economic mobility, and shifting public narratives around non-resident fathers, child support, and maternal health equity.

They agree that the future of fatherhood work requires partnership, empathy, and human-centered design.

About the Guest

Dr. Mathew Alemu, PhD
Sociologist | Fatherhood Researcher | Public Scholar
LinkedIn: Mathew Alemu, PhD
Email: Matthew.alemu@gmail.com

Closing Reflection

This episode is a reminder that the stories men carry, about absence, presence, pain, or reconciliation—shape generations. When fathers are given space to heal, the entire community heals with them.

Episode Summary

In this inspiring episode of Fathers Haven, we welcome fatherhood coach Chad M. Morris to explore how dads especially those operating outside traditional norms can step in with intention, find their voice, and become agents of change in their families and communities. We dig into Chad’s personal and professional journey, unpack meaningful ways fathers can connect, and explore seven powerful questions to help listeners engage deeply with their role as dads.

Guest Bio: Chad M. Morris

Chad M. Morris brings more than a decade of experience in human-services and fatherhood development. According to his profile, he hasworked over 12 years in community-based mental health and family stabilization programs through his role as CEO of Trinity Family Life Center in Richmond, Virginia.

He serves as a Master Trainer for the National Fatherhood Initiative’s NPCL (National Practitioners’ Community of Learning) and is a certified Fatherhood Life Coach trained in the “Boyhood to Manhood Rites of Passage Curriculum.”

Chad currently leads his own consultancy, Proving Grounds Success Strategies & Consulting where he partners with organizations to engage, equip, and empower fathers and men.

He also played a key fatherhood-coach role in thedocumentary Daughters, which follows young girls preparing for a “Daddy-Daughter Dance” with incarcerated fathers, giving him unique insight into non-traditional fatherhood settings.

Key Segments & Topics

Origins & Motivation – Chad shares his journey: how he encountered fatherhood work, what personal experiences shaped his calling, and how “outside the margins” fatherhood became central to his mission.

• Defining “Outside the Margins” – A deep dive into what it means when fathers feel marginalized socially, economically, culturally, or relationally. How do we create inclusive spaces for dads who don’t fit the “traditional” mold?

• Tools & Strategies for Engagement – Practical tactics Chad has developed and deployed: peer coaching, rites-of-passage frameworks, father-daughter programs, community collaborations.

• Spotlight on Impact – Real stories: dads who changed trajectories, families transformed, or systems shifted because fathers stepped in.

• Empowerment Through Reflection – Absorb this powerful content, we need listeners not just to hear but to absorb, reflect, and apply.

Next Steps & Invitation How listeners, whether asfathers, mentors, or practitioners can plug in, lean in, and make an impact. Chad closes with a rallying call.

Closing & Call to Action

This episode with Chad M. Morris isn’t just about hearing a story it’s about living one. We invite our listeners to step outside the margins of how they think fatherhood “should be” and claim how it can be.Here’s how you can engage:

• Resonate with the conversation: Pick one of the many jewels shared and apply it. Write it down. Let it sit. Then act on the insight it brings this week.

• Find your community: Whether it’s a father-group, a mentor, a coach, or peer circle, then connect and hold each other to presence and purpose.

• Find a space to share your story: Post a reflection (if you’re comfortable) on social media or in your father-circle about one step you took this week. Use hashtag #FathersHaven to join the conversation.

• Get involved with Chad’s work: Follow Chad M. Morris on LinkedIn and explore his offeringswith Proving Grounds Success Strategies & Consulting.

• Stay tuned: Subscribe to Fathers Haven so you don’t miss future episodes where we lean into father-presence, community, andtransformation.

Your presence matters. Your story matters. Your father journey is worthy of committing to and celebrating. Let’s rise up together.

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

Join us in this month’s Fathers Haven enlightening episode of Bridge Building at the Fathers Haven with David "Dae-Lee" Arrington, host the Village King dives deep into the essential topic of fatherhood. During this powerful episode Dae-Lee shares pivotal insights about his own journey as a father, revealing the inspirations that shaped his approach to parenting and what family truly means to him. Listeners will hear heartfelt stories about the values he prioritizes and the intentional strategies he employs to ensure family remains at the forefront of his life.

Additionally, Mr. Arrington gives a glimpse into the impactful work he does with Bridge Builders Consulting, illustrating how his commitment to family extends beyond his personal life and into his professional endeavors. This episode is a wonderful blend of personal reflection and professional insight, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamics of family, fatherhood, and community building. You can follow Dae Lee on LinkedIn at Bridge Builder Consulting, Instagram: webridgebuild, YouTube: Bridge Builder Conversations.

Dae Lee’s immense musical talent, passion for equity, coaching, training, music and extracting the best from others are the primary reason you don want to miss this impactful interview.

In the podcast "Living the Legacy" with Marquess Dennis, Kelly Little, and Chablis Dandridge, the delves deep into the importance of celebrating and supporting fathers in the community. They emphasize creating a safe space for fathers to exchange best practices and share personal experiences. The discussions revolve around effective leadership, resilience, and the pivotal role fathers play in shaping their children's lives. The Fathers also addresses challenges in navigating the health and human services space, promoting open discussions, and using their platforms to make a positive impact.

Next Steps:

- Marquise aims to complete his book by December.

- Kelly and Chablis plan to establish a monthly conversation with Marquise.

- Chablis will speak at one of Marquise's fatherhood meetings on gratitude.

- Kelly and Chablis may speak at a full session of Marquise's fatherhood meeting.

- Marquise is considering implementing Kelly's suggestion of holding 8 workshops per year for funding.

- Marquise will invite Kelly and Chablis to speak at his next fatherhood summit.

- Kelly will organize a Father's Haven meeting for Marquise to join via video call.

- Kelly will arrange for Marquise to attend a summer event.

- Marquise will reach out to Kelly and Chablis if he visits their state.

- Supporters are encouraged to donate $10-$20 monthly to Birthright Living Legacy to support Marquise's work.

Educate I Ignite I Transform

The Urban Institute for Strengthening Families www.ui4sf.org

Fatherhood, Youth and Community Engagement

@Villageking's | Linktree

8410 Pit Stop Court Suite 127

Concord, NC 28027

Welcome to The Fathers Haven Podcast, where relationship guru Chris Mathews invites you on a transformative journey into the heart of fatherhood. Join us as we explore practical strategies and innovative techniques designed to empower fathers in their most important role. Each week, Chris dives into heartfelt conversations about the ups and downs of parenting, the significance of emotional connections, and the art of nurturing relationships within the family dynamic.

In this safe space for fathers, Chris shares his personal experiences and reflects on the mentors who have profoundly influenced his path to manhood and fatherhood. From expert advice to inspiring stories of resilience and growth, The Fathers Haven is dedicated to fostering a community where fathers can learn, share, and support one another.

Tune in as we uncover the tools you need to thrive as a father, cultivate meaningful relationships, and build a legacy of love and strength for future generations. Whether you're a new dad or a seasoned pro, this podcast is your haven for wisdom, inspiration, and connection. Let's empower each other on this incredible journey of fatherhood!