Ep. 530 Tim Campbell: Raising Gifted and Disabled Children — A Father’s Honest Reflection

Fatherhood Field Notes

In this powerful conversation, Ned chats with Tim Campbell, an 82-year-old father with decades of hard-earned wisdom to share. As a husband of 50 years, Peace Corps veteran, and author of "Holding Up the Sky," Tim opens up about the challenges and triumphs of raising three children—including two with serious health challenges. This isn't just theory; it's battlefield-tested fatherhood advice from a man who's lived it. Tim introduces concepts like the "phantom captain" and reframes discipline as building trust rather than punishment. His stories will resonate with dads in the trenches of parenting, offering practical insights on embracing selflessness, developing resilience, and committing to the long game of fatherhood. Both vulnerable and encouraging, this episode reminds fathers that your daily investments—even when unseen or unappreciated—are creating a legacy that will shape generations long after you're gone.

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 Introduction - The Journey of Fatherhood
• 00:01:47 Tim at 82: Wisdom That Transcends Age
• 00:03:03 Passing Down Fatherhood Lessons Between Generations
• 00:04:45 Marriage as the Foundation: 50 Years of Partnership
• 00:06:15 Supporting Your Spouse Through Family Crises
• 00:08:19 How Challenges Can Strengthen Your Marriage
• 00:12:41 Raising Children with Different Needs and Challenges
• 00:27:05 Developing the Heart of a Father: Leading with Love
• 00:39:36 How Our Fathers Shape Our Parenting Approach
• 00:44:55 Building Your Legacy as a Dad

Links and Resources:

• Holding Up the Sky (Book)
• Tim Campbell’s Personal Site
• Tim Campbell on LinkedIn
• Family Culture Guide
• Rebel and Create: A Compass to Mastering the Craft of Fatherhood