365 Squarey Monsters: What Did Your Amazing Dad Teach You?

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Some of the most important lessons our Amazing Dads teach aren't spoken aloud. We learn by watching how they handle pressure and carry themselves. You might not realize at the time that you were learning, but later in life, you'll reflect and understand, "That's where I got that from!"

The stories we tell about our dads keep their influence alive. Maybe it was a shared project in the garage, a quiet fishing trip, or just knowing he'd always show up. These memories and stories not only honor our fathers but also remind us of the values they instilled in us.

My dad, a painting contractor, is a good example. When I was in high school, he'd take me along to trade shows and introduce me to his friends and colleagues. That was my first glimpse into the business world. More importantly, it was a lesson in how to lead. He never said, "Here's how it's done." He showed me.

Father's Day gives us a reason to reflect on the men who raised us, taught us, and — often quietly — shaped our lives. And if we're fortunate enough to still have them with us, it's a chance to ask a few more questions and create a few more stories.

An Amazing Dad on a mission

Dads come in all shapes and sizes — and so do their stories.

Last year, I crossed paths with Jarod Carter at an XPRIZE gathering, a meeting place for bold thinkers and big ideas. Jarod's story started in a deeply personal place: with his twins and a diagnosis that would change everything.

His son and daughter were born with a rare disease called spinal muscular atrophy. A newly approved treatment that helped slow the disease's progression arrived just in time, but there were still unanswered questions: Could the damage already done be reversed? Most scientists said no. Once nerve cells die, most believe, they're gone for good.

Jarod wasn't ready to accept that.

He rolled up his sleeves and went to work. He launched NeuronRegen, a platform and podcast connecting researchers, doctors, caregivers, families, and anyone dedicated to healing the nervous system. Whether it's spinal cord injuries, ALS, Alzheimer's, or a stroke, Jarod is building a movement around the idea that neuron regeneration is possible.

What struck me most about Jarod wasn't just his credentials (yes, he has a doctorate), but his motivation. In every step of his journey, he's a dad first and one who refuses to wait for the world to catch up. So, he started building the bridges himself.

It's the kind of fatherhood that's built on late-night work and a hope that never fades. It's not about doing everything right but always being there. And that, more than anything, is the heart of being an Amazing Dad.

When simply being there is enough

Over the past few weeks, I invited our community to share stories about Amazing Dads. The response was incredible. And while every story was unique, a thread ran through them all: Fatherhood, in its many forms, so often comes down to presence, steadiness, and kindness.

Barbara, for example, remembers waking up from surgery to see her dad — who usually couldn't sit still — waiting patiently at her side. "When I told him he could go home, he said, 'Not a chance,'" she recalls. Later, during another hospital stay, he brought her newspapers, a cribbage board, and just enough tough love to make her laugh again.

Brianna, another community member, shared how her father, suddenly a single parent after her mother passed away, worked night shifts but never missed a game, recital, or parent-teacher meeting. "Being there for us was always his top priority," she said.

Amazing Dads leading by example

Monique remembers the day her sister made a joke about a neighbor's eviction. Their father, gently but firmly, said, "We never celebrate another person's misfortune." That simple moment stayed with them. "His compassion became a compass for all of us," Monique wrote.

Christine's dad survived a Siberian labor camp at age 13, came to America, and quietly rebuilt a life of strength and artistry. His courage inspired her to become a social worker. "He taught me to be strong and never to play the victim," she said. "His kindness made me a better person. I miss him every day."

Michelle shared memories of her dad, a doctor, inviting her on his hospital rounds. "I saw firsthand how much he was respected and loved by his patients and colleagues," she wrote. Through him, she learned what it means to care deeply, build community, and honor each chapter of life. She hopes his story continues to inspire future generations.

"You have to leave the dock"

I'll end with one story that really stayed with me. Kathleen shared the story of her father, Bob, a World War II pilot who spent years building a 36-foot sailboat. His dream was to sail the South Pacific. Kathleen wrote:

"Dad commuted one hour each way to his job for 32 years and worked on his dream boat for seven years. Nights and weekends were spent preparing for the voyage. Mom supported his dream and was in charge of logistics, getting licenses, visas, and more. Neighbors helped fabricate boat parts, delivered spare rigging, and offered encouragement and prayers. It took a village to make his dream come true."

In 1981, Bob took an early retirement and embarked on his voyage, joined by Kathleen and her new husband. They crossed oceans, faced storms, and shared quiet sunrises. Less than a year later, Bob passed away. But his legacy lives on in a phrase he often repeated: "You have to leave the dock."

It's a reminder that life's greatest journeys begin with a leap of faith — and often, with a father's gentle push and determination.

All the best,

Jim

On this week's Power & Impact podcast, I sit down with Greg Licciardi, professor, marketer, and now author of Holy Grail of Marketing , to talk about what it really takes to connect with consumers in a fast-evolving digital world. From his classrooms at Fordham and Seton Hall to the frontlines of martech (marketing technology) consulting, Greg shares how a decade of teaching inspired a framework that simplifies marketing without losing its soul.

Greg walks us through the five-part formula he's coined as the "Holy Grail," covering how the right person, message, time, environment, and outcome must align for modern marketing to resonate — emotionally and measurably. We dive into how AI is reshaping personalization, why brand purpose still matters more than ever, and what Wendy's taught him about timing, targeting, and temptation.

Plus, hear how a conversation with his wife sparked the launch of the book and what career advice he's giving the next generation of marketers in a world where AI is the new creative partner.

What Amazing Dads really want for Father's Day

I recently asked all the Amazing Dads in our community what they really want for Father's Day, and the answers weren't more gadgets or grills. They were about connection, thoughtfulness, and a little peace and quiet.

The top three responses were tied:

A day to relax, quality time with family, and a gift that shows they know me were each chosen by 19% of dads. That says a lot. More than anything, dads want to feel seen, appreciated, and given a break from the daily grind.

Other top choices included an adventure like hiking or golf (17%), a nap (15%), and something homemade from the kids (11%).

This Father's Day, don't overcomplicate it. A quiet moment or simply giving him the space to rest might mean more than anything wrapped in a bow.

And if you'd like a gentle reminder for your dad's special days throughout the year, consider adding him to your Celebrations Reminders. A simple nudge before a birthday, anniversary, or even next Father's Day can help you turn everyday moments into lasting memories.

A final assignment for the Class of 2025

As graduation season draws to a close, I want to offer one last assignment to the Class of 2025. It's simpler and more meaningful than anything you'll find on a syllabus: Stay in touch with your teachers.

Yes, you're off to new adventures, but don't forget the people who helped you get there. They're the ones who saw your potential before you did, listened, pushed, encouraged, and sometimes even frustrated you — for all the right reasons.

Years ago, when I was a student at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, I had a professor named Dr. Blanche Cook who had a profound impact on me. She was provocative, challenged the students, and the class time flew by because we were so engaged.

I waited many, many years after my graduation to tell Dr. Cook how I felt. Then, in 1998, I was attending a conference in Colorado and one of the people at my table asked others if they had a teacher who they remembered fondly. When it was my turn, I shared the impact Blanche had on me.

The lady who asked the original question turned to me and said, "Are you by any chance referring to Blanche Cook?" She was one of Blanche's best friends. The lady then asked if I ever expressed to Blanche the impact she had on me. I realized I had not. This experience caused me to reach out and express my appreciation.

I am pleased to tell you that for 20-plus years now we've stayed in touch and we're good friends. Don't make the mistake I made. Let the teachers in your life know the impact they have had on you. You will make their day.

A true testament to longevity

As frequent readers of the Celebrations Pulse know, I'm fascinated by the subject of longevity. I recently read a heartwarming story about identical twins, Bill and Jack Casey, who just celebrated their 100th birthday together in Oxfordshire, England. What an accomplishment!

The proud World War II veterans credit their long lives to clean living, good genes, and daily exercise — Bill still does 20 minutes of exercise each day! "I always intended to reach 100 and now it's here, I'm looking forward to the next 100," Bill says.

Their joyful celebration, complete with cake, crowns, and a card from King Charles, is a beautiful reminder to stay active, curious, and connected no matter your age. 

Sunday, June 15, 2025

What Did Your Amazing Dad Teach You?

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