Powerhouse Blog

Mastering the "Pause Button": A Father’s Guide to Navigating the Teenage Tsunamis

We know that parenting a teenage boy can often feel like walking through a minefield. One moment you are sharing a laugh, and the next, a simple question about homework triggers an “emotional tsunami” that leaves you both reeling. At Powerhouse Programs, we understand that this is a deeply challenging transition for fathers. You are…

It Starts With Mentoring The Youth

While much of the conversation rightly focuses on men finding connection and purpose, there is another critical window we cannot overlook — the years where boys first begin that journey.

The Journey to Manhood

The “Journey to Manhood”—J2M—isn’t just a campout. It’s a rite of passage. Boys between 13 and 17, and their dads, stepping off the map and into the wild. Mums? They’re essential—heart and backbone of the whole setup. But the deep magic unfolds over five raw, unforgettable days at The Rock.

What is Eldering?

I sit in the Round House, not above them, not apart, just here. Among them. Part of the circle. The floor beneath me is cool earth, smoothed by bare feet and stories. The smoke rises slowly through the opening above—fire-prayers offered to indifferent stars. They told me my role is to “hold space.” Sounded poetic…

Talking with Kids about Porn – Part Two

Last week we started talking about porn and the importance of talking about porn. If you missed the first instalment of this important topic you can find it here … This week Hugh Martin is helping us to look at some values around porn.

Fathers letter to Son on First Date

In late October, in a Man-Making Blog post titled: Advice for A Young Man’s First Date, Earl Hipp quoted an article we posted on our Facebook page. Earl asked me if I’d write a blog describing a list a man might offer his son..

Talking with Kids about Porn - Part One

Hugh Martin from Man Enough supports men of all ages to take positive steps in taking responsibility for this area of their lives. We invited Hugh to share a 3-part series for knowledge, understanding and strategies for talking about porn.

The Antidote to Busy

The Antidote to BusyDid you know that it took radio 50 years to reach 250 million people? Television took 30 years to reach the same number and the internet took just 4 years! But it gets better – iPods took 3 years and Facebook just 2 years.So what’s next?And… how do you feel when you…

The Support-Challenge Balance for Teens

Raising kids can be tough even before the teenage years descend upon us. When our kids are young their needs are pretty simple and easy to meet. Communication is often open and sincere, and relationships are easy, light-hearted and fun.