7 Comments
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Yash (Indian Millennial Dad)'s avatar

It takes courage to write and share what you have been writing and sharing. You are doing well, Derek. Doing well. Continue. Write so that we can read and read what we write so that we can all heal together and experience Paternal Progress.

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Derek Moeller-Smith's avatar

Thanks, Yash!

Yes. That's one of the best things I've found about this little corner of Substack. I didn't expect to find so many other great dads working through their own issues in an honest, vulnerable way. It's both refreshing and helpful.

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Erin Miller's avatar

This was so beautifully articulated and incredibly brave—and will be so helpful to many. I know I, along with so many others, will be better parents and better humans for having read it. And the Boss reference? You’ve officially won my loyalty—I'm a fan (of yours, and his) for life.

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Derek Moeller-Smith's avatar

Wow—thank you, Erin. You've rendered me metaphorically speechless, which is hard to do. You can imagine how nervous I was to share this one, and your words gave me some affirmation I didn't realize I needed. I've admired your work for a while, so this truly hit deep. I'm genuinely grateful you took the time to read and respond. And as far as loyalty goes—you had me at "unpopular."

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Erin Miller's avatar

It’s an honor to share this parenting space with you. Thanks for being so open and for creating work that truly makes an impact.

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Will Schmidt's avatar

Beautiful, brother. Thanks for sharing and leading through ownership and vulnerability.

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Derek Moeller-Smith's avatar

Thanks, Will! I wouldn't have thought of this as leadership, but if it inspires others to follow and share their own struggles, and that helps them, then I guess it is.

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