Episode 558

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Published on:

17th Mar 2026

Ep. 558: Dave Ronning - The Importance of Play and Margin in Parenting

Ned sits down with Dave Ronning, faithful Christian and Kona real estate professional, to talk about how to incorporate playfulness into your parenting style. They uncover 5 actionable ideas that will help you connect with your kids and create lasting memories.

Did you know that playfulness is not just for kids, that it’s vital for parents too? Engaging in playful activities can rejuvenate our spirit and strengthen our connections with our children (and even with God). According to Dave, play allows us to tap into our inner self, reminding us of who we are beyond our responsibilities.

Dave and Ned talk about how play:

  1. Strengthens Bonds: Playful interactions create lasting memories and deepen relationships.
  2. Encourages Openness: It fosters an environment where children feel safe to express themselves.
  3. Promotes Emotional Well-being: Play can reduce stress for both kids and parents, making family time enjoyable.

Dave also shares some powerful personal stories from his own life where he became aware of and connected to the "little David" inside himself. He also shares about a particular traumatic event for his son that resulted in some impactful growth and vision for them both.

Want to dive deeper into the topic of playfulness in parenting? Check out our full conversation with Dave Ronning for more insights.

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  1. This episode is sponsored by Genesis - a Rite of Passage by Rise Up Kings
  2. Order The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book here
  3. Check out the TEDx

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  1. Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?
  2. www.adventureoffatherhood.com
  3. www.rebelandcreate.com

Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Rise Up Kings Genesis - a rite of passage experience for young men

This episode was brought to you by Genesis - a rite of passage for boys becoming men - by Rise Up Kings.

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About the Podcast

Fatherhood Field Notes
Fatherhood Field Notes is where we hear real stories from real men living real lives every week. Fatherhood is not only about being a dad, it incorporates providing and serving a home, loving and serving a spouse, engaging and serving in a community, as well as intentionally serving your children. Fatherhood is an adventure, one full of fun, wild, and messy stories. In this podcast, we will hear stories from real men who have found themselves living the Adventure of Fatherhood. The Craft of Fatherhood episodes are 5-10 minute episodes where your guide Ned Schaut shares stories on his own fatherhood journey.

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Hector Santiesteban