Fatherless Fathers: Childhood Trauma, Healing, and the Power of Being Dad | The Dad Compass Ep. 5

In this powerful and unscripted episode of The Dad Compass Podcast, co-hosts Patrick and Dmitry sit down for their most vulnerable conversation yet—diving deep into their experiences growing up fatherless, navigating trauma, and becoming the dads they never had.

🎙️ Patrick shares what it was like growing up without his biological father, and later losing connection with his stepfather and half-brothers for over 20 years. He reflects on how texting with his teenage sons tests his patience, and how fatherhood has forced him to develop new communication skills. Patrick opens up about finding strength through mentorship, father figures, and his grandfather’s tough love—revealing how those influences helped shape the grounded, intentional dad he is today.

🎙️ Dmitry shares his intense story of growing up in Russia, experiencing abuse and neglect, witnessing violence, and being placed in an orphanage before being adopted into the U.S. He talks about reconnecting with his birth mother, the emotional weight of being “paid for,” and how his trauma created both trust issues and a powerful drive to be a fully present father. He opens up about how fatherhood has helped him rediscover love and purpose.

👨‍👧‍👦 This is a must-listen for any dad (or future dad) who’s ever wondered:

• Can I be a good father if I never had one?
• How do I break generational cycles?
• What does healing look like for men?
• How can I connect with my kids in the digital age?

📌 Topics we cover:

• Fatherless childhoods and abandonment
• Texting vs. calling your teenagers
• Growing up in Russia with addiction and violence
• Reuniting with lost family members
• Learning how to love through fatherhood
• Being a strong emotional anchor for your kids
• Masculinity, mentorship, and manhood
• Surviving trauma and thriving as a dad

👉 YOUR TURN: If money wasn’t a problem, where would you take your family on vacation? 🌍
Comment below—we'd love to hear your answer!

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