I had the privilege of sitting down with Deb Knupp of the HX Collective to have one of the most personal and meaningful conversations I’ve ever recorded. What started as a discussion about parenting quickly became a deeper reflection on curiosity, love, resilience, and what it truly means to help another human flourish.
Doing this podcast taught me a few things about myself.
I realized how much of who I am today was shaped by small moments early in life. Like my grandfather teaching me to stay curious because “things aren’t always as they appear.”
I was reminded that relationships, whether with clients, colleagues, or my own daughters, grow stronger when they’re rooted in authenticity, presence, and a willingness to have uncomfortable conversations.
I also learned that the things we do with intention (the long canoe trips with no cell service, the car‑ride conversations, the “failure moments” on mountain hikes, the rituals and traditions) all matter far more than we realize in the moment. They build confidence, resilience, and connection in ways that last long after our kids leave home.
And maybe the biggest insight: as parents, mentors, and leaders, our job isn’t to remove the struggle. It’s to walk beside someone while they figure out they’re strong enough to walk on their own.
If you want a preview of one of my more provocative takes, here it is:
I don’t believe in “girl push‑ups.”
Change the language, and you change what someone believes is possible.
If this conversation helps even one dad, or one parent, feel more equipped, more connected, or more encouraged, then sharing it will have been worth it.
Grateful for the chance to have this conversation, and grateful for the people who continue to shape how I show up in the world.
Check out the episode here.
