Join us for a conversation with Guy Bowling, the executive director of the Citizen Father Foundation, who shares insights on the transformative power of fatherhood in the earliest years of a child's life. Explore how simple, everyday interactions—talking, playing, reading, and singing—are pivotal in shaping a child's brain development, where nearly 80% of growth happens in the first three years. Our conversation unpacks the unique father-child bond, crucial for nurturing cognitive, emotional, and social growth, contrasting thenatural immediacy of maternal connections.

Guy discusses how storytelling can enlighten communities about the critical roles fathers play, transcending stereotypes and economic constraints. The narrative highlights the impactful presence of black fathers and stresses that meaningful engagement—like participating in daily routines—doesn't hinge on financial means but significantly affects a child's wellbeing and development. We also reflect on the process of fostering positive father involvement and adapting parenting styles to overcome societal barriers and personalchallenges.

This episode was aired live on the radio program For The Culture on KRSM Radio in Minneapolis on April 26th, 2025. For more information, visit littlemomentscount.org/podcasts