What does it really mean to succeed as a dad when work, ambition, and identity are all pulling in different directions?

Shaun Dawson, tech leader, father of two, and host of the @RaisingMen_Podcast, challenges the idea that success is defined by output alone. He shares a more grounded perspective on fatherhood, work life balance, and what working dads often get wrong when they focus too heavily on providing financially while overlooking emotional presence.

Shaun explores how modern fatherhood requires navigating constant tension. Between independence and connection. Between ambition and presence. Between who you are at work and who your kids experience when you walk through the door.

This conversation is a deep look at meaningful work, parenting, and identity in a world that is changing faster than most dads feel prepared for.

Shaun shares how to:

- Redefine success beyond income and external achievement
- Build emotional security for your kids, not just financial security
- Separate identity from output and rethink what actually gives your life meaning
- Recognize when ego is shaping your parenting decisions
- Stay present during everyday moments that are easy to overlook but impossible to get back
- Navigate the tension between guiding your kids and letting them become who they are
- Model emotional regulation, especially in moments of frustration
- Create repeatable practices that strengthen connection with your kids
- Set boundaries with technology to protect family time and attention

This is a thoughtful and honest conversation for working dads trying to build a life that balances fatherhood, meaningful work, and a deeper sense of identity.

Dig Deeper
Conan the Barbarian: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conan\_the\_Barbarian
Raising Men by Eric Davis: https://amzn.to/3OaHLu4
Bluey: https://www.bluey.tv/
Dairy Queen: https://www.dairyqueen.com/
Piano Man: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxEPV4kolz0

Follow Shaun
On his website and podcast: https://raising.men/
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisingmen_podcast/
On Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/raisingmen_podcast/
On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaisingMen_Podcast
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/raising-men/
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@raisingmenpodcast

Follow Gap to Gig
On Instagram: instagram.com/gaptogig
On TikTok: tiktok.com/@gaptogig
On X: x.com/gaptogig
On YouTube: youtube.com/@gaptogig-gtg
On your podcast player of choice: https://rss.com/podcasts/gaptogig/
Sign up for the Gap to Gig newsletter: gaptogig.com

Follow Michael
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themichaeljacobs/