In a recent Deep Dive conversation, Ed Kim and Amanda Hemm, had a candid conversation around dads, parental leave, and parenting. Connecting through the Parental Leave Leadership Certification (CPLL), they’re invested in changing the narrative around working fatherhood. Ed, a leadership coach with a decade of experience, has recently focused on supporting fathers within employee resource groups. He shared that learning how to balance being a dad and a professional is like stepping up as a leader in everyday life—at home, with family, and at work. Sharing their experiences - even just a short chat - rather than shouldering burdens in silence can make a big difference, but many dads need support to fully embrace working fatherhood.
Watch the Conversation on Instagram
Dads really need more support when they become parents. Did you know that 1 in 10 dads feel depressed after having kids, but many keep it to themselves? And that’s only the number that’s reported, meaning there are many more dads out there suffering from mental health but not reaching out for help. While there's advocacy for working moms, the same isn't always true for working dads—an imbalance that needs addressing. He emphasized the need for fathers to actively share their experiences and challenges at home to normalize their dual roles.
When dads talk and share their experiences, it creates a chain reaction, making it easier for other dads to do the same. It's not just about dads; it affects how families and workplaces work together. Moms often get recognized for being “supermoms,” but that just means they’re trying to do it all and that’s not how it should be. Modern fathers should pitch in, too, and there's a shift happening where dads are expected to be more involved partners in parenting. Many dads didn't grow up seeing this, so they need support to make this change and break generational patterns. Dads are leading the charge with parental leave in many states, so by supporting them more, we can help families move forward together.
Changing generational patterns in fatherhood is a journey of self-discovery and adaptation for Ed and others like him. Witout an involved father himself, Ed faced the challenge of redefining what fatherhood means to him. He had to let go of the idealized image of a perfect dad and instead focus on how he wants to shape his own role as a father to his son. Amanda emphasized the importance of acknowledging personal strengths and integrating them into each person’s unique parenting styles.
Without traditional role models, dads need to take the initiative in learning and growing as a father and partner. Ed noted a lack of engagement from fathers in discussions about balancing work and parenting responsibilities, with many still viewing the role of "working parent" through traditional lenses. Gradual changes are the key, like being open about needing help or accepting limitations. This shift isn't about massive transformations overnight, but about making small, meaningful adjustments that build over time.
Watch full Conversation on Instagram
When fathers recognize changes that are happening and identify what kind of parent they want to be, they’ll see change at work, home, and with their relationships. It’s all interconnected. To support dads in their journey of parenthood and professional life, Amanda and Ed offer practical advice and perspectives so dads can elevate their conversations and experience growth into parenthood.
Changing the narrative around working parents is crucial for equality and support in the workplace. The shift, from viewing fathers solely as breadwinners to recognizing them as equal partners in parenting, requires collective effort to reshape societal norms and workplace expectations. By sharing stories, advocating for inclusive policies (like paid parental leave), and embracing a more flexible view of work-life balance, fathers can contribute to a more supportive environment for all working parents.
