• Crucial conversations are essential for personal growth and relationship building.
• Avoiding tough conversations can lead to resentment and miscommunication.
• The HEAR framework (Hedge, Empathize, Acknowledge, Reframe) is a useful tool for effective communication.
• It's important to prepare for crucial conversations to ensure they are productive.
• Emotions will always be present in tough conversations; managing them is key.
• Children learn from their parents how to handle disagreements and tough topics.
• Mutual understanding should be the goal of any crucial conversation.
• Acknowledging shared values can help bridge differences in opinions.
• Taking conversations personally can escalate conflicts; it's important to remain objective.
• Practicing crucial conversations can strengthen relationships over time.

Website / About / Coaching & Books: Cory Carlson (corymcarlson.com)

LinkedIn: Cory Carlson on LinkedIn LinkedIn

Books:
 • Win at Home First
 • Rise and Go

In this episode of Why Dad?, Paul and Andrew slow things down and invite listeners into a casual conversation about what’s been going on in their lives.

Topics include:

🌽 Surviving the Minnesota “corn sweats”

👶 Paul’s first weeks of paternity leave with both kids at home

🍋 Evie’s lemonade stand and the surprise competition that taught Paul a lesson in letting kids live in the moment

🚗 Andrew’s 15-year father-son car restoration project and the patience it built

❤️ Why shared hobbies and genuine interest in your kids’ passions are some of the most powerful tools for connection

This one mixes humor, reflection, and storytelling. It’s a reminder that the small moments of dad life are where the biggest lessons often show up.

Resources and Mentions:

Good Energy by Dr. Casey Means (book Andrew is currently reading)

Spencer Collazos and the “Big Calendar” reference (from a previous episode)

Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this more laid-back style of episode, let us know! Share your own “dad nuggets” with us at babba35studios@gmail.com.