Episode 14

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Published on:

20th Jul 2026

Ep 14 - Fathers Who Build, Believe, and Pass It On

What does it truly mean to leave a legacy? Is it wealth...A last name... Or is it something far greater?

In this inspiring episode of Fathers Making Progress, host Terron Edwards is joined by Pastor Dr. Walter Lanier and Shawn Mitchell for a powerful conversation about faith, fatherhood, leadership, and the stories that shape generations.

Together they explore how fathers build lasting legacies not through money, but through character, love, mentorship, and unwavering presence. The discussion touches on mental health, marriage, military service, storytelling, grief, faith, and the responsibility fathers have to lead both their families and their communities.

Whether you're a father, mentor, grandfather, or simply someone trying to become a better man, this episode is a reminder that the greatest inheritance you can leave isn't what you own, it's who you become. "Legacy isn't what you leave behind. It's what lives on because of you."

Key Take Aways:

  • Legacy is built through character, values, and relationships—not money.
  • Every father is writing a story that future generations will remember.
  • Faith is believing in a better future before you can see it.
  • Strong fathers don't have to be perfect—they have to be present.
  • Storytelling helps people heal, connect, and preserve family history.
  • Mental health matters, and fathers need safe spaces to be honest.
  • Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
  • Male mentors can change the trajectory of a young person's life.
  • Fatherhood doesn't end when children become adults.
  • It's never too late to rebuild a relationship with your children.
  • Children need consistency, stability, and a place where they always feel safe.
  • Healthy marriages create strong families and lasting legacies.
  • Community leadership begins at home.
  • The greatest inheritance you can leave your children is your example.

Key Moments:

00:22 Building Strong Communities Through Strong Fathers

00:44 Meet Rev. Dr. Walter Lanier

01:40 Meet Master Storyteller Sean Mitchell

02:12 Better Together Co-Parenting Sponsor

02:33 Who Are You Beyond Your Title?

03:13 Why Storytelling Changes Lives

04:06 Walter Lanier's Journey & Community Leadership

07:10 The Legacy of NBA Hall of Famer Bob Lanier

08:20 Lessons Learned From a Great Father

09:30 Sean Mitchell's Military Journey

11:10 Growing Up Without a Father

12:30 Why Every Young Man Needs Male Mentors

14:40 The Healing Power of Storytelling

16:50 Faith Beyond Religion

18:30 Becoming a Father Without a Manual

20:10 Mental Health & Fatherhood

22:15 Committed to the Solution

23:00 Protecting Every Child Like Your Own

25:40 Having Faith in Your Children

27:20 Facts or Cap: Is Legacy About Money?

27:50 Facts or Cap: Do Fathers Have to Be Perfect?

29:50 Fatherhood Never Ends

30:40 When Adult Children Still Need Their Fathers

33:00 It's Never Too Late to Rebuild the Relationship

35:40 Advice for Young Fathers

36:20 Every Child Needs a Safe Space

37:30 34 Years of Marriage & Black Love

39:30 Navigating Grief Together as a Family

41:10 Why Healthy Black Marriages Matter

41:45 Urban Love Stories

43:00 Final Reflections on Faith, Legacy & Leadership

43:45 Better Together Co-Parenting Invitation

If this episode spoke to you, share it with another father, brother, or man who needs to hear this message because no matter where you are in life…You’re still making progress!

Stay Connected:

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Instagram (Fathers Making Progress)

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About the Podcast

Fathers Making Progress Podcast
Fathers Making Progress is real conversations, real stories, and real growth. Highlighting the journeys of fathers committed to becoming better men, stronger parents, and leaders in their families and communities.
Fathers Making Progress is more than a podcast, it’s a real, unfiltered look into the lives, journeys, and growth of fathers committed to becoming better men, better parents, and stronger pillars in their communities. This is a platform to amplify the mission, expand the movement beyond Milwaukee, and connect with listeners nationwide changing the narrative around fatherhood one conversation at a time. Because the best fathers don’t just show up… they keep growing. Born out of over 20 years of grassroots impact and brotherhood, this podcast gives listeners a front-row seat to the powerful conversations happening inside FMP spaces. These are real discussions, real reflections, and real stories from everyday fathers navigating life’s challenges, breaking cycles, and redefining what fatherhood looks like. Each episode highlights the voices that often go unheard, men who are showing up, doing the work, and making progress despite adversity. From overcoming personal trauma and fatherlessness to building healthy relationships and support systems, this podcast shines a light on the growth, resilience, and excellence of fathers everywhere. Fathers Making Progress also explores the deeper issues impacting families and communities, including the national fatherhood crisis, while offering solutions rooted in connection, accountability, and brotherhood. Whether you’re a father, aspiring father, or someone who simply values strong families, this podcast provides insight, inspiration, and truth.