Listen "122 | Expanding Support Networks for Rural Fathers with Kirby Rabalais"
Episode Synopsis
๐๐ฉ๐ข๐ฌ๐จ๐๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐๐ซ๐ฒ:In this episode, Dr. Melissa Sadorf sits down with Kirby Rabalais, founder of Got4titude, a coaching and community program designed to support fathers raising children with special needs. While moms are often the focus of support systems, dads frequently walk this journey in silence. Kirby shares his personal story of his sonโs rare genetic diagnosis, the struggles and resilience his family has built along the way, and how he turned pain into purpose by creating a lifeline for other fathers.This heartfelt conversation explores themes of masculinity, resilience, self-care, and redefining fatherhood in the face of challenges. Whether youโre a parent, an educator, or part of a rural community, Kirbyโs story offers inspiration and practical wisdom for building strength through connection.๐๐ข๐ฆ๐ ๐๐ญ๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฌ:00:00 Introduction to The Rural Scoop01:04 Meet Kirby Rabalais: Founder of Got4titude02:11 Kirby's Personal Journey and the Birth of Got4titude05:22 The Diagnosis and Its Impact09:25 Redefining Fatherhood and Masculinity17:27 Strategies for Support and Resilience22:50 Building a Community for Fathers25:44 Introduction to the Four Pillars26:04 Challenges and Commonalities Among Fathers27:19 Learning and Inspiration from Other Fathers28:24 Advocating for Yourself and Your Child32:59 Advice for New Fathers35:55 Self-Care and Balancing Responsibilities39:05 Future Vision and Measuring Success42:49 Resources and Community Support45:19 Final Thoughts and Reflections๐๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ญ๐๐ญ๐ข๐ญ๐ฎ๐๐:Got4titude was born out of lived experience. After receiving his sonโs rare genetic diagnosis, founder Kirby Rabalais was thrown into the emotional and logistical storm that so many parents of children with disabilities know too well. In the middle of shock, isolation, and endless questions, he realized one truth: there were almost no resources built specifically for fathers.Instead of staying silent, Kirby decided to build what he wished he hadโa place for dads to find clarity, connection, and strength. Thatโs how Got4titude came to life: a mission-driven community that helps fathers navigate the unpredictable road of raising children with disabilities. Through raw conversations, coaching, and practical tools, Got4titude is redefining what support looks like for dads who often feel overlooked.๐ฒ๐๐๐๐โ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐: ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐
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๐๐๐๐๐.- Learn more:ย www.got4titude.com- Join the Inner Circle:ย https://www.got4titude.com/inner-circle- Download the Fathers' Survival Toolkit (no cost):ย https://www.got4titude.com/store/p/fatherssurvivalkit-5dfzp-yhrcj๐๐ฅ๐จ๐ฌ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐๐ซ๐ฒ:Kirby Rabalaisโs journey reminds us that resilience is built not in isolation, but in connection. Through Got4titude, heโs creating a safe space where fathers of children with special needs can find courage, redefine masculinity, and learn to celebrate inchstones. His story is one of hope, healing, and advocacyโand it challenges us all to build stronger communities where no parent has to walk this path alone.
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