In Episode 122 of the Developing Dads podcast, hosts Gordon and Neil reflect on the highs and lows of 2025. They discuss personal milestones, family dynamics, and the challenges of balancing work and life. From memorable trips to Paris to navigating health scares and financial planning, this episode offers a candid look at the year that was. Tune in for insights, laughter, and a glimpse into the lives of two dads navigating the complexities of modern family life.

In this episode of the Developing Dad's Podcast, Neil and Gordon engage in a candid conversation about their recent experiences, family life, and the challenges of parenting. They discuss the costs associated with holiday activities, the pressures of modern living, and the joys of family gatherings. The conversation also delves into the complexities of home ownership, financial planning, and the importance of maintaining relationships amidst the chaos of family life. With humour and honesty, they reflect on the ups and downs of being a parent and the decisions that come with it.

We discuss how hard it can be as a dad to make friends and how to fix that.

• Hobbies provide a sense of fulfillment and joy outside of family life.
• Having hobbies allows individuals to bring new experiences and stories to share with their family.
• Starting a new hobby can be challenging, but the satisfaction of improvement and mastery is rewarding.
• Many middle-aged men may have lost their hobbies or stopped pursuing new ones, possibly due to a fear of starting again or a lack of time and energy. Embrace the process of learning and enjoy being a beginner in new hobbies.
• Don't be afraid to start something new and be willing to look stupid or make mistakes.
• Hobbies can provide a sense of achievement and happiness, but it's important to consider the motivation behind them.
• Parents play a crucial role in providing entertainment and engagement for their children.
• Hobbies can foster personal growth and connection with others.

00:00Introduction and Catching Up

03:23Nesting and Redecorating

05:43Neil's Trip to Copenhagen

09:25Trail Biking as a New Hobby

13:37Challenges of Hobbies with Young Kids

18:01The Suck of Starting a New Hobby

19:47The Occasion and Social Aspects of Hobbies

21:33Hobbies as Something of Your Own

29:19Trying Out New Hobbies

33:59Competition and Achievement in Hobbies

39:24The Role of Parents in Providing Entertainment

41:14Hobbies as a Path to Personal Growth and Connection

00:00Introduction and Catching Up

03:10Dealing with Injuries

05:06Back-to-School Shopping

07:23Preparing Older Siblings for a New Baby

10:39The Disappointment of Bad Haircuts

13:35The Joy of Watching Children Grow

20:08Involving Older Siblings in Parenting

22:39Managing the Needs of Multiple Children

26:28The Impact of Work-Life Balance

33:44Regret and the Value of Family Time

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up

03:22 Commitment to Fitness and Well-being

06:17 Family Holidays and Charity Walks

09:02 The Importance of Quality Time

18:24 Challenges and Accomplishments in Physical Activities

23:04 Consistency and Commitment in Personal and Professional Life

29:06 Chasing Running Goals

31:29 Fitness Routines and Parenthood

34:47 Birthday Party Planning

38:06 Overcoming the Fear of Failure

41:42 AI-Generated Bots

• Slow productivity involves creating space and focus in our work to achieve better outcomes.
• Our perception of productivity has shifted from physical output to digital communication.
• Tools and strategies like blocking out time, reducing meetings, and prioritizing tasks can help improve productivity.
• Self-awareness is crucial in managing our time and avoiding unnecessary work.
• Technology can both help and hinder our productivity, and it's important to find a balance. Self-awareness is important in considering the impact of our actions on others.
• The rise of AI raises questions about the future and the potential loss of self-awareness and basic skills.
• Obsessing over quality and taking a slower approach can lead to better results.
• There is a shift towards curated and artisanal products, moving away from fast fashion and mass production.
• Certain activities like going to clubs and music festivals are declining in popularity.
• There is a need for a more thoughtful and intentional approach to content creation.
• Staying active and participating in races or physical challenges can be a motivating factor.
• Patience and a long-term perspective are important in achieving success and creating meaningful work.

• Taking time for date nights and special outings with loved ones is important for maintaining relationships.
• Setting fitness goals and consistently working towards them can lead to improved health and well-being.
• It's normal to have doubts and question goals, but it's important to push through and stay committed.
• Focusing on personal growth and self-care can have a positive impact on overall happiness and fulfillment. Incorporating stretching into your routine, even while watching TV, can improve flexibility and overall well-being.
• When it comes to finances, it's important to prioritize and make choices based on what is most important to you and your family.
• Setting goals and regularly reviewing your progress can help you stay on track and make necessary adjustments.
• Building a team and delegating tasks can help reduce stress and increase productivity in business.
• Balancing work and personal life is essential for overall happiness and well-being.
  
  Reconnecting and Highest Download Day

02:15Reviewing Personal Highlights

09:32Reviewing Goals for the Year

21:24Improving Flexibility and Reducing Injury Risk

23:38Prioritizing Family Holidays Over Big Celebrations

29:25Building a Team and Delegating Tasks in Business

39:58Balancing Work and Personal Life for Happiness and Well-being

00:00Introduction and Catching Up

01:06Surprise Announcement

02:49Business Challenges and New Client

04:03Motivation to Grow the Business

05:36Recent Trip to Lisbon

06:09Upcoming Haircut

06:59Neil's Recent Weeks

07:06Lewis and Isla's School Progress

07:39Neil's London Quarterly and Steve Bartlett Live

12:57Takeaways from Steve Bartlett's Talk

20:05Discussion on Skill Stacking

25:02AI Podcasts and Analog Engagement

27:34Slowing down and creating connection

28:30The importance of human experience

29:07The impact of AI-generated content

30:33The potential of AI to improve efficiency

31:05The future of human connection

31:16The challenges of implementing AI in a traditional business

32:12Practical uses of AI in daily life

34:10The excitement of expecting a second child

36:31Preparing for the arrival of the second child

40:11The gender reveal and future plans

44:20The possibility of a family trip

46:10Government support for maternity leave

47:03Closing remarks and future plans for the podcast

• Managing household responsibilities and dividing tasks can help create a balanced and efficient home life.
• Setting goals and celebrating achievements in personal fitness journeys can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment.
• Planning and meal prepping can make daily life easier and more organized.
• Having the freedom to travel and attend important events is a benefit of self-employment.
• Open communication and flexibility are key in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Finding fulfillment in work is important, but financial stability and the ability to meet basic needs are also crucial.
• Reducing expenses and saving money can provide a safety net during challenging times.
• Personal development and continuous learning are key to success in various areas of life.
• Setting goals and taking action are essential for personal growth and achievement.
• Training for an ultra marathon requires dedication, mental and physical preparation, and a willingness to push oneself beyond comfort zones.