In this conversation, I sit down with Michael Ray - solo dad, advocate and author to explore the stereotypes, structural barriers and everyday assumptions that shape modern fatherhood. Michael shares his journey from a hyper-masculine career in security and elite sport to becoming a first-time parent at 50 and then a single parent shortly after.
We unpack how parenting reshaped his identity, the cultural messages that tell men they’re “less equipped” to care, and the subtle but powerful ways workplaces still separate breadwinning from caregiving.
Michael brings forward practical, lived insights about negotiating flexibility, challenging outdated norms and understanding why supporting fathers is essential for genuine gender equity.
If you care about inclusive leadership, the future of work, solo parenthood, or designing roles that honour both ambition and care, this episode offers grounded, real-world perspective.
Challenging the stereotypes that define fatherhood and masculinity
How unsolicited advice and cultural narratives shape confidence in new parents
The realities of navigating work, identity and responsibility as a solo dad
Why caregiving and breadwinning are inseparable (and always have been)
How workplaces can redesign roles and rhythms to support all parents
The cultural and emotional impact of treating fatherhood as “different, not less”
The science behind the hormonal and neurological shifts in caregiving
Why language matters when advocating for equitable workplaces
Chapters
00:00 Challenging Narratives of Fatherhood
06:24 The Transformation of Identity Through Parenting
10:49 Navigating Work-Life Balance as a Single Parent
14:24 The Intersection of Caregiving and Career
17:24 Redefining Masculinity in Modern Fatherhood
21:26 Collaboration Over Competition in Gender Equity
25:21 The Gift of Clarity Through Crisis
26:22 Redefining Fatherhood and Gender Roles
27:12 The Importance of Paternity Leave
29:01 The Science of Caregiving and Emotional Intelligence
30:22 Normalizing Caregiving for Men
31:29 The Role of Advertising in Shaping Perceptions
32:48 Inclusion and Representation in Parenting
35:16 Creating Equitable Spaces for All Parents
36:49 The Need for Structural Changes in Workplaces
37:52 The Impact of Early Parenting on Future Generations
Find out more about Michael Ray:
Website: https://www.michaelray.com.au
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-ray-574079183/
Book and speaking details available via his website.
The Ambition & Life podcast is produced by Karis Dorrigan - leader, solo parent and advocate for the future of work. This is intentionally designed to amplify real stories about ambition, leadership, care and the systems that shape our lives.
Track: Brother Brother
Artist: BENSON
Licensed by: Soundstripe, Inc.
License Type: Master Recording & Synchronization License
License ID: #22026995
Usage Rights: Worldwide, in perpetuity, across web, podcast, and social platforms
© BENSON / Soundstripe, Inc. — All rights reserved.
Used with permission under a perpetual license.
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