The DadPod
The DadPod is a platform where real dads engage in authentic conversations about the joys, challenges, and amusing moments of fatherhood. Whether you’re a new dad grappling with diapers and sleepless nights or a seasoned father juggling work, kids, and legacy, we hope this podcast reminds you that you are not alone. Each episode features honest stories, practical advice, and unwavering encouragement from fellow dads who are navigating the same struggles. Join us as we build strong families, support each other, and embrace the dad life—because the only thing stronger than our dad jokes is our unwavering commitment to fatherhood.
The DadPod
27 | The Mental Load: What Husbands Don’t Always See
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In this episode of the DadPod, the wives are back—and this time we put some numbers on who actually keeps the household running.
We play a game where each wife estimates what percentage of the household management she handles compared with her husband, while the husbands make their own estimates separately. Meagan puts herself at 85% and Aaron at 15%—and, surprisingly, Aaron gives himself the exact same 15% without knowing her answer. Most of the couples land somewhere in a similar range, although a few husbands may be giving themselves a little too much—or too little—credit. Daniel and Kim have the biggest debate over exactly where their percentages should land.
From there, we get into who actually does what around the house, whether the wives are satisfied with the current division of labor, and why simply dividing up chores doesn't tell the whole story.
We talk about the mental load many women carry: thinking about the kids, schedules, appointments, meals, school, and everything that needs to happen at home—even while they're at work. At the same time, we discuss the different pressures men often carry, including getting up early to work out or prepare for the day, the desire to decompress after work, and the challenge of transitioning immediately from work responsibilities into family responsibilities.
One of the biggest realizations is that both husbands and wives are tired—they're often just carrying different kinds of burdens.
The wives don't necessarily want to dramatically change the percentages. What they would appreciate is husbands noticing what needs to be done and helping without always having to be asked, along with more acknowledgment and appreciation for everything they do day after day.
Ultimately, it comes back to communication: making sure both spouses feel seen, appreciated, and able to get the breaks they need while still functioning as a team.