How was Dad Bod Summer created?

The question I'm asked every single day is: how can you own a company called Dad Bod Summer without being a dad? It's pretty simple. Let me explain how this all began.

Last summer, I visited my friend Ray at his waterfront house in Long Neck, Delaware. Ray and I have been friends since grade school, so spending the weekend with him was a real joy. We had perfect weather, fishing rods with fresh bait, cold beer, and great music—what more could you ask for?

About 30 minutes into our fishing trip, I started feeling hot and decided to take off my shirt. Ray, always the comedian, glanced at me and burst into laughter. "What's so funny?" I asked. Ray, without hesitation, replied, "Your body, man. It's hilarious. You have big arms and broad shoulders, but you've got a mini belly. Like a two pack instead of a 6 pack."

Thanks, Ray.

True friends always give you their unfiltered honesty. They've known you for so long that they don't sugarcoat things. After Ray's comment, I took a moment to think, then looked back at him, rubbed my stomach as I smiled, and said, "Well, Ray, it's Dad Bod Summer." We both shared a laugh, and it became a memorable moment. Then he asked me a significant question: "What did you mean by that?"

You see, at that point in my life, I was going through a tough time with my mental health. Some days were good, some days were bad. But during that summer, things were looking up, and I was really anticipating this weekend with my good friend Ray. Physically, I was in decent shape, and Ray and I were both healthy. Our family and friends were all in good health too. We were about to embark on a three-day weekend of fishing, beer, golf, and a few trips to the bar.

When I said "Dad Bod Summer," I wasn't just referring to the physical changes that come with aging. It was a combination of that and my newfound outlook on life. Was I still in my twenties? No. Did I have a perfectly chiseled physique? No. But I was healthy, happy, and maintaining a fitness routine that made me feel good physically & mentally. Most importantly, every single day I was working on my mental health. And that's all that really mattered.

"Dad Bod Summer" is a motto that reflects a broader perspective on life, focusing on the bigger picture rather than getting caught up in life's minutiae.

As you age, not only does your body (and belly) change, but your perspective on life evolves too.

Dad Bod Summer is more than just a name; it's a testament to embracing life's imperfections. Through this mental health lifestyle brand, I aim to open up about my own mental health journey, hoping to inspire others to do the same. By sharing our struggles and triumphs, we can create a community where we all feel comfortable in our own skin. Dad Bod Summer is about celebrating mental well-being and finding strength in vulnerability.

And to put my money where my mouth is, Dad Bod Summer will be donating 5% of our annual sales to mental health charities in the city of Philadelphia.

So by supporting Dad Bod Summer, you're really supporting small business & mental health awareness. We hope you come along for the ride.

Cheers.