Working Dads and Balancing Acts

Description

Times are changing, and so is the role of a Dad. Gone are the days when men were expected only to work while mums stayed home. Today’s dads are stepping up in new ways, wanting to be more present, more involved, and more connected with their families.

In Working Dads and Balancing Acts, author Sarah Maconachie brings together 20 incredible fathers who share their real, honest journeys through parenthood and career—and how they’ve worked to find balance and fulfillment in both.

This collection of stories explores what it means to be a modern dad, from those who’ve felt the regret of missed moments to those who made bold decisions to put family first. Each story reflects on the highs and lows of fatherhood in a world where dads want more connection but still feel the pressure to “do it all.”

For some of these men, balancing work and family was a journey with lessons they wished they’d learned sooner—missing early years, forgoing parental leave, or keeping quiet about their own mental health struggles. They talk about the guilt of not being more present and the challenges of voicing their needs as they had been taught that men simply do not do this.

Others share their experiences as primary caregivers, the shifts they made to support their partners’ careers, and the life-changing impact of prioritising time with their children. Some left demanding careers to focus on family life, while others learned to communicate openly about their needs, mental health, and struggles to manage it all.

What you’ll take away from Working Dads and Balancing Acts:

• The Real Stories of Today’s Dads: These aren’t “perfect dad” tales. Instead, they’re raw and real accounts from fathers who faced challenges and missed moments, and the experience of those who were there for it all. You’ll find stories of regrets, resilience, and breakthroughs that come from fathers juggling work and family.
• Relatable Lessons for Every Dad: Whether you’ve faced similar struggles or are still learning the ropes, these stories offer relatable experiences to help you feel understood, supported, and connected to a community of fathers who’ve been there.
• Mental Health & Communication Insights: Many of these dads talk openly about mental health, stress, and the importance of asking for help. You’ll see the impact of learning to voice challenges and build healthier lives for themselves and their families.
• Balance Strategies & Actionable Tips: These stories are packed with practical strategies, reflections, and real-world advice on how to juggle career demands with the desire to be a present father.
• Empowerment to Prioritise What Matters: This book isn’t about “getting through.” It’s about finding ways to thrive as a career-driven dad and a hands-on father. You’ll gain insights on how to be present, build stronger connections, and support your family’s well-being without sacrificing your own.

Meet the inspiring dads in Working Dads and Balancing Acts: Peter Clark, Adrien Engel, David Taylor, Dr. Jason Frishman, Brad Raynor, Charlie Maughan, Rhys Maconachie, Peter Bennet, Chris Lloyd, Dr. Rob Scott, George Rologas, John Park, Thomas Batchelor, Douglas Veal, Rolfe Pike, Rowyn Bartlett, Barry Mone, Sam Hill, Stan Rolf, and Joe Bovell.

From CEO’s to police officers, lawyers to corporate professionals and “stay at home” Dads, each of these fathers brings a unique perspective on what it means to balance work and family in today’s world, offering you a powerful reminder that you’re not alone in this journey. Their stories will inspire, challenge, and empower you to find the balance that works for you and your family.

Bonus! Be sure to check out Working Mothers Inspiring Others, where 18 mums share their own raw and inspiring stories of balancing work, family, and personal fulfillment.

What others have to say:

“This is an incredible book, and all dads and mums should read it. It gives an insight to how dads feel, what has worked, what doesn’t and how they have supported their partners in different ways. It’s a really good book that I just couldn’t put down” Alex

“I encourage all working parents, especially dads, to check out the book and explore the wisdom shared by so many diverse voices.” Sam