61. The gift of presence w/author Jeff Zaugg

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Episode Notes:

Episode Summary:

What if the key to great fatherhood isn’t trying harder—but becoming freer? In this episode, Jay sits down with Jeff Zaugg (Dad Awesome) to explore how identity shapes everything. Together, they unpack why striving falls short, how presence transforms relationships, and what it looks like to lead your children from a place of sonship—not pressure.

• To learn more from Jeff Zaugg listen to his great podcast, “DadAwesome ” and read his excellent new book of the same name “DadAwesome”.

In This Episode:

• Why striving actually blocks connection

• The shift from performance to presence

• Practical ways to engage your kids daily

• How identity shapes your fatherhood

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
05:51 The End of Striving (Opening Hook)
06:02 Introduction to Jeff Zaugg
07:00 Why This Message Matters Right Now
10:30 From Strategy → Identity
16:00 Presence Over Performance
22:00 Small Moments That Shape a Life
29:30 Activating Fatherhood (Not Just Learning It)
36:00 Freedom Changes Everything
43:00 Practical Ways to Show Up This Week
50:30 Final Reflections + Encouragement
53:30 Closing

About Our Guest - Jeff Zaugg
Jeff Zaugg founded DadAwesome after one question grabbed his heart: "How do you stay intentional as a dad?" That question sparked 400+ podcast conversations and a mission to help fathers move from autopilot to prayerfully intentional.

Over 550 nights in an RV, countless campfire conversations, ten fatherhood coaching cohorts, and thirty activation events across the country, Jeff is building a community of dads who live from the love of their Heavenly Father and pour that love into their families.

Jeff and Michelle are raising four daughters near the beach in Florida. Together they love catching waves, building forts, riding bikes, and training for obstacle course races.

Key Links

Buy Jeff Zaugg’s New Book: https://www.dadawesome.org/store/p/dadawesome-dad-discoveries-to-activate-awesomeness-jeff-zaugg-pre-order

DadAwesome Website: https://www.dadawesome.org/