Today on the I Am Dad Podcast, we are honored to welcome Calvin T. Mann, a true champion for fatherhood, mentorship, and community transformation. Known as the National Encourager, Calvin has dedicated his life to shaping the destinies of boys and men, guiding them toward purpose, fulfillment, and success. As a father of five, mentor, coach, podcast host, and community activist, he brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the conversation.

Through initiatives like EMIY (Encouraging Me, I’m Young) and his powerful interventions in schools, detention centers, and communities, Calvin is actively changing lives—one word of encouragement at a time. His work has earned him prestigious honors, including 'The Spirit of Detroit' award and the establishment of EMIY National Respect Day in Michigan. Today, we’ll explore his journey, his passion for fatherhood, and the lasting impact of his mission to uplift families and communities.

Welcome to another impactful episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have Dr. Anashay Wright, a dynamic mother, wife, educator, speaker, and founder of Authentic Disruption and Disruptive Partners. For over two decades, Anashay has been a force for “good disruption,” partnering with leaders, policymakers, and communities to dismantle systemic inequities and empower people to create real change.

From her pioneering leadership development programs to her groundbreaking work disrupting the school-to-prison pipeline in her hometown of Dekalb County, Anashay’s passion for uplifting others is matched only by her commitment to authenticity and connection. Her accolades include national recognition from NPR, Good Day Atlanta, and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, among many others.

Today, we’ll explore Anashay’s inspiring journey, her groundbreaking work in education and equity, and her mission to help others harness their power to influence change. Please join me in welcoming the authentic and transformative Anashay Wright to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us Dr. David J. Pate Jr., a distinguished Associate Professor of Consumer Science and Human Development & Family Studies and the Dean’s Fathers and Fathering Faculty Fellow. With over 16 years as a practicing social worker and a rich academic career, David has dedicated his life to uplifting Black men and families, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for systemic change.

David’s groundbreaking research examines the intersection of race, class, and gender, focusing on how social welfare policies impact African American men and their families. Through qualitative methods, he amplifies the voices of marginalized fathers, exploring their relationships with their children, the child support system, and the challenges of reentry after incarceration.

Today, we’ll delve into David’s inspiring journey, his impactful work, and his vision for a more equitable future for families and communities. Please join me in welcoming the insightful and transformative David J. Pate Jr. to the "I Am Dad" podcast.