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What makes a great dad and son team? We open that question with Grayson, my oldest, by tracing a 96-mile Camino de Santiago walk that became a rite of passage, a test of grit, and a masterclass in showing up for each other. From numbered bunks and foggy climbs to tears by a train track and a hard last mile, the story moves from playful details—blue hair and borrowed espresso—to the deeper truth that love looks like going one more step, together.

I share why I chose the Camino when Grayson turned ten and how a planned twelve days became six intense ones. We unpack the real moments that forge trust: sitting down in the dirt when your kid breaks down, admitting you hurt too, and choosing to carry the next few meters side by side. Grayson names what matters most to him—wrestling in the living room, showing up at games, hiking, surfing, being silly—and we translate that into a simple blueprint for fatherhood: play often, listen first, and keep the agenda light so a child’s voice can lead.

We also talk about grief after losing his brother and how movement helped us feel without getting stuck. Surfing big sets, failing to punch through, trying again—these small acts of courage shaped a stronger body and a steadier heart. Along the way, we recall another storm-soaked trek, rangers rerouting us off a flooded path, and the comedy of drying clothes with a hairdryer until it melted. The thread that ties it together is presence. Not perfection. Not performance. Presence.

If this conversation stirs something, send a message you’ve been holding back. Tell your son what you’re proud of. Ask your dad for more of what brings you together. Then hit follow, share this with a friend who needs it, and leave a review so more fathers and sons can find their way here.

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In this episode of A Man's Journey, host Alex Lange engages in a heartfelt conversation with his nephew Easton and son Grayson about what it means to be a man, the importance of bravery, and navigating emotions like anger. They share personal stories and insights, emphasizing the value of family, support, and being present in the moment. The discussion also touches on the unique experiences of military children and offers advice for kids facing challenges.

Takeaways

- Being a man involves providing and helping others.
- It's important to feel emotions and not just push them away.
- Kids are resilient and can adapt to new experiences.
- Anger can be difficult to manage, but it's important to regulate it.
- Talking about feelings can help in difficult situations.
- Spending time with family is crucial because life is unpredictable.
- It's okay to ask for help when feeling overwhelmed.
- Engaging in fun activities can help pass the time during tough moments.
- Every child has unique challenges, and it's important to support one another.

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Aaron Payne shares his journey of overcoming alcoholism and transforming his life through fitness and self-improvement. He emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with healthy and supportive individuals who can hold you accountable. Aaron discusses the positive impact that exercise and a healthy diet had on his mental and emotional well-being, as well as his relationships with his wife and children. He highlights the significance of communication, vulnerability, and out-serving your partner in building a strong and fulfilling relationship. Aaron's story serves as a reminder that transformation requires effort, time, and a commitment to continuous growth. In this conversation, Aaron Payne and Alex Lange discuss the importance of physical fitness and nutrition for transformation and healing. They emphasize the impact of these factors on brain health, hormone balance, and overall well-being. Aaron shares his personal journey of overcoming addiction and depression and how it has positively influenced his relationships with his children. He encourages men to be the role models they want their children to emulate and to prioritize their own self-care. Aaron offers coaching services and can be contacted through email or social media.

This episode was recorded in beginning of 2024.