How does becoming a father change a man? In episode 62 of Tidy Tidbits, I’m joined by Darby Saxbe, PhD, author of Dad Brain, to explore the science and psychology of modern fatherhood. The book explores how fatherhood reshapes men's brains, identities, relationships, and priorities, and why understanding those changes matters for families, workplaces, and dads. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Substack.
Someone sent me a DM on Instagram last week that said, “Your joy is really shining thru!! You truly look happy.” I replied back, “Thanks. I really feel that. It’s taken a lot of work to get here but I genuinely feel content and settled.”
This Father’s Day gift guide reflects that.
I feel like I’m in this new “practical but make it glow-up worthy” era. These are some of the things I’ve been loving lately, from fitness and wellness to clothing style, shoes, grooming, kitchen items and books. Little upgrades that have made me feel more confident, as I approach turning 40.
Here’s the stuff I love that I think you, or the father figure in your life, might love too.
Fitness and Wellness
These resistance bands (plus my higher-weight bands, elastic leg bands, and pull up bands) are my go-tos for home workouts or working out at the park.
This pull-up bar has been a welcome addition to our “mini home gym.” There’s no installation needed, it just hangs over the doorframe.
I love my Fitbit. It records analytics on steps, sleep, heart rate, plus I love the Smart Wake alarm feature.
I start each morning with a glass of cold water mixed with this pre-workout powder. It gets me going for my 4:30am workouts. Then before bed, I drink a glass of this dream powder that helps with sleep. You can blend it with cold or warm water (warm drinks like cocoa)! This mix is also great for travel and helps with jet lag. You can use code TIDYDAD for 35% off your first order.
I’ve also been adding a scoop of creatine to my morning pre-workout drink. I like this version of creatine, that comes with or without electrolytes. I also love the creamy protein powder. You can use code TIDYDAD for 12% off an order.
Clothing Style
This light denim jacket is like the superhero cape of dad wear. It’s stylish, layerable, and ready for playground duty or date night.
These knit polos feel like a major style upgrade. I have also have this textured style polo in both the ivory and lilac. Check out the deals when you buy three.
I love these black joggers and basic white t-shirts. Think weekend, but stylish.
These twill drawstring pants sit comfortably in that relaxed utility space. They avoid the stiffness of a traditional chino without veering into full jogger territory.
These are my favorite beach shorts. They are made from terry cloth material and have that beach towel feel.
This hat was a fashion staple when I walked the Camino. It kept the sun off my face, and I love that it has a drawstring for those windy beach or adventure days.
As dads, we’re definitely “in our surthrival era.” Here’s a hat to represent that. Currently available in pink, yellow, sky blue, navy blue, green, stone, and black.
Cool Dad Shoes
Once I discovered these waterproof sneakers, they became my go-to for every day. Rainy commutes are no match!
Shoes are like tires, they need to be replaced after miles of use. These are my preferred running sneaker, and I ran my marathon in them. Time for a new pair!
These canvas sneakers are comfortable and coordinate well with summer outfits.
Every dad needs a pair of cool dad sneakers that can go with almost everything.
These leather slides are the newest shoes in my wardrobe. Think Euro-summer and a shoe that you can dress up or dress down, instead of sandals.
And for those times you do need sandals, this pair is going on their 4th summer! They are classic, stylish, comfortable, and built to last.
Grooming: Hair & Face
I put this keratin cream in my hair post-shower and then let my hair dry.
I use this sea salt spray in the morning to add volume, texture, and a light hold.
This paste holds my hair in place without it feeling crunchy or stiff.
I’m a big fan of this razor handle and cartridge. They also have a gift set with a razor handle, extra cartridges, travel shave gel, and a blade cover!
For the Kitchen
I’ve been putting this Overachiever seasoning blend on everything from chicken and steak to potatoes and vegetables. It is truly all purpose seasoning!
I use this cookbook almost daily. It’s full of simple recipes for busy people who love good food. The recipes are easy and efficient, but also flavorful and delicious.
I’m also a big fan of this cookbook, with recipes specifically designed to keep your blood sugar stable and balance carbs, protein, and fat. It’s so helpful!
It’s time to pull our Ninja Creami (we have this renewed version) out of the pantry again for the summer. We ordered a 4-pack of extra pint containers and I’m excited to keep our freezer stocked and experiment with new flavor combinations.
We just got this mini waffle and I’m excited to experiment with protein waffles.
In the summer, I love drinking iced coffee, and this cold brew coffee maker lets me make it at home. These cold brew coarse coffee grounds are smooth and sweet.
Books
My Tidy Up Your Life book is part pep talk, part practical guide. It can help dads clear the mental and physical mess so they can make space for what matters most.
The Tired Dad’s book of 100 reflections is a collection of short stories and vignettes that explore the complex emotions of fatherhood. Highly recommend!
Dad Brain: The New Science of Fatherhood and How It Shapes Men’s Lives covers everything from postpartum depression to workplace identity shifts to the always-controversial “dad bod”. This book champions modern fatherhood while also acknowledging the mental, emotional, and societal challenges many dad face.
Which ones are you wrapping up for the dads in your life? Or if you’re feeling stuck, let me know!
Any ideas for a 90-year-old dad?