The Upshot

Meet the Hosts

We enjoy a good dad joke, can laugh at the dad bod trend, and don’t mind a good pair of new balance sneakers, but we also believe that fatherhood is so much more than these stereotypes. This is a podcast for dads who are trying to get it right — for dads who are thinking about their legacy and don’t want to miss out on all that fatherhood has to offer. If you have questions, email us at theupshot@npaustin.com.

Shane Norcross

Shane grew up near Vancouver, Canada, but made his way down to Austin, Texas almost 25 years ago. However, he’s still tightly holding onto his Canadian citizenship. Shane and his wife Alana have been married for 23 years and have 6 kids, Jonah, Caleb, Matthew, Nathan, Kayli, and Lander. They range in age from 10 to 21. With 6 kids he does not understand the concept of free time… just kidding (sort of)! When he does have “free” time he enjoys being with people, playing games, going on adventures with Alana, and the occasional backpacking trip to enjoy God’s creation (and to get away from the noise and smells 6 kids can create).

Kyle Watson

Kyle and his wife, Jessica, have been married for 13 years and have two young girls, Maggie (4) and Lucy (2). They’ve now called Austin, TX home for the last 5 years. He spent the early years of his career serving in full-time Christian ministry and now works in a private investment group where he enjoys helping companies with capital and community as they grow their ventures. Kyle is known for always cooking up new ideas, telling embarrassing stories, and seeing the upside in most situations. He’s recently started to enjoy running (mostly the benefits) and believes he’s a better version of himself when he’s working towards accomplishing big, challenging goals.

Kyle Watson

Kyle and his wife, Jessica, will celebrate 13 years of marriage this fall and have two young girls, Maggie (4) and Lucy (2). They’ve now called Austin, TX home for the last 5 years. He spent the early years of his career serving in full-time Christian ministry and now works in a private investment group where he enjoys helping companies with capital and community as they grow their ventures. Kyle is known for always cooking up new ideas, telling embarrassing stories, and seeing the upside in most situations. He’s recently started to enjoy running (mostly the benefits) and believes he’s a better version of himself when he’s working towards accomplishing big, challenging goals.

Episodes

Episode

17

Why Every Dad Needs Community

August 31, 2024

In this episode of "The Upshot," Jeremy, Kyle, and Shane dive into an often-overlooked topic: the significance of friendship for fathers. While it might seem like a lesser priority, building and maintaining strong relationships with other men is crucial for a dad’s well-being. The trio explores the challenges dads face in forming deep connections, the value of vulnerability in friendships, and how these bonds can be a lifeline in navigating fatherhood. Tune in as they discuss why every dad needs community and how cultivating meaningful friendships can positively impact your life as a father.

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Episode

16

Why Father's Need Emotional Health

July 31, 2024

In this episode of The Upshot we sit down with Buck Giebelhaus, Lead Pastor of Northpoint Church, to explore the critical role of emotional health in fatherhood. Buck shares his journey of understanding and prioritizing his emotions and how it has impacted his relationship with his sons. He discusses practical strategies for fathers to maintain emotional health and the ripple effects it can have on the entire family. Join us as Buck delves into the importance of self-awareness, vulnerability, and emotional health in becoming a better dad.

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Episode

15

Outdoor Fathering in a Screen-Filled World

June 27, 2024

In this episode of "The Upshot," we talk with Ryan Lehman about the value of raising kids in the great outdoors. Ryan shares how his mother's final days battling cancer inspired his family to explore parks and natural areas around central Texas. He discusses their decision to prioritize outdoor living and the benefits it brings, especially in a world dominated by screens. Join us as Ryan reveals how these experiences have shaped their family life and the lessons they've learned along the way.

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Episode

14

Wisdom From A Recent Empty Nester

June 1, 2024

In this episode, we’re thrilled to have Jason Perkins join us to share his fatherhood journey. Jason has raised three kids while working in the corporate world and pastoring a church in Colorado Springs. Now, he lives in Australia and partners with churches worldwide through the Irresistible Church Network. Many dads look up to Jason for his wisdom and experience, especially now that he’s an empty nester. Tune in to hear his practical advice and insights on fatherhood.

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Episode

13

Fathering Without An Example & Winning With Daughters

May 2, 2024

On this month's podcast, we are joined by Chris McSorely. A man normally behind the scenes but put on the spot (after being recommended by so many) to share his fathering wisdom. He tells the story of what it was like becoming a dad when he didn't have an example of his own growing up and what it means to win with daughters. Get ready, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you get it right as a dad, in whatever situation or season you find yourself in.

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Episode

12

When Life Takes An Unexpected Turn For Our Kids

March 21, 2024

Welcome back dads! In episode 13, we are joined by friend Brandon Rogers. Brandon and his wife Jenn have their own following on Youtube that documents their life journey from Seoul to Maui to Austin while beginning a family. After beginning to settle in Austin, their life took a turn when their new daughter Izzy was diagnosed with an unexpected and rare illness. Brandon shares this painful story with an incredible vulnerability that opens the door for all of us to learn and apply his insight in our own lives as we face unexpected situations in parenthood. We hope his story inspires you as a dad!

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Episode

11

Fatherhood From the Perspective of Moms

February 29, 2024

In Episode 011 of the Upshot, we are joined by the better halves of our hosts: Jessica Watson & Alana Norcross. One of the most powerful questions we can ask as fathers is: What is it like on the other side of me? Alana & Jessica share their insights on what it is like as moms on the other side of us dads. Lean into what they have to say because part of getting it right as dads, is recognizing our blind spots and leaning into the wisdom given to us from our partners.

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Episode

10

Preparing for Fatherhood

January 26, 2024

Welcome to the Upshot! In this episode, we are joined by a good friend & expectant father, Jordan Geist. As of the recording of this podcast, his first baby is due in just a few days! Jordan shares his perspective on what he has observed in his journey of becoming a father, what he has experienced, heard and learned from other dads in this process and insight from years in student ministry, learning parenting lessons while listening to high school students and their own stories with their parents. Whether you are a brand new dad or you've been a father for years, Jordan shares some great stuff here. Join us as we celebrate him stepping into fatherhood!

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Episode

9

Creating Homes Where Kids Flourish

December 21, 2023

In this episode, Shane and Kyle, along with guest Jeremy, explore the pivotal role of fatherhood in children's lives, sharing real-life anecdotes and insights. From the impact of absent fathers to practical tips for intentional parenting, this episode provides a poignant look into fostering emotional availability, creating secure environments, and engaging with teenagers. Join us as we uncover the keys to nurturing thriving homes and meaningful family connections. Subscribe and engage with us as we continue to explore the profound impact of intentional fatherhood.

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Episode

8

Rites of Passage

October 19, 2023

In this episode Shane and Kyle, along with guest Adam Ulatoski, explore the power of traditional rituals and ceremonies in shaping our boys' lives. From childhood experiences to organizing meaningful moments for their kids, they discussed how intentional markers guide boys through different stages of becoming a man. It's not just about masculinity, but about developing truly impactful and strong character traits.

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Episode

7

Stuck

September 21, 2023

Welcome back to The Upshot Podcast! In today's episode, Shane and Kyle dive deep into feeling stuck and the struggles that come with it. Join us as we explore the concept of feeling stuck and discover actionable ways to create positive momentum, change perspectives, and unlock our own potential. Shane and Kyle reflect on their own experiences of being in a season of feeling stuck and the desire to break free from it. Amongst personal stories and insightful reflections, they highlight the importance of understanding our own wiring and finding opportunities within our current situations to grow and thrive.

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Episode

6

Busyness

August 10, 2023

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Upshot Podcast! In this week's episode Shane and Kyle dive deep into the joys and challenges of being a father. Our special guest, Barry Cox, joins the conversation as they explore topics such as the pressure to provide for their children, the importance of creating meaningful experiences, and the evolving nature of parenting strategies as children grow older.

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Episode

5

What To Do When You Lose Your Cool

July 20, 2023

In today's episode of The Upshot, Kyle and Shane dive into a range of topics, including anger management, navigating conflict in relationships, and the importance of emotional awareness. You won't want to miss this insightful episode! Tune in now to gain valuable insights and takeaways.

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Episode

4

Creating Memorable Experiences with Your Kids

June 22, 2023

On this episode Kyle and Shane emphasize the importance of creating memorable experiences for kids as a dad, without necessarily requiring a lot of money. They explore various real-life experiences and traditions involving family trips, fishing and adventure. Then they give some insightful and actionable advice on how to overcome mistakes and move past shame, even to the point of using it as a teaching moment for their kids. Listen in for more inspiring and motivational family experiences.

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Episode

3

Overcoming Loneliness in Fatherhood

May 18, 2023

On this episode of The Upshot Podcast, Kyle and Shane explore the importance of community, connection, and vulnerability for fathers. From riding bikes and cleaning up after meals to struggling with loneliness, busyness, and trust issues, hear personal insights and practical tips to help dads navigate life's challenges. Join us as we dive into parenting, marriage, mental and emotional wellbeing, and the role of faith in our lives. Whether you're a new or seasoned dad, there's something for everyone in this heartfelt and engaging episode.

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Episode

2

Career & Family

April 12, 2023

In this episode, Kyle and Shane discuss the all too familiar tension between career and family. They ask questions about what it actually means to be a provider, share ideas about instilling a work ethic in your child, and discuss the importance of coming home ready to play and have fun.

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Episode

1

Welcome to The UpShot

March 15, 2023

Join Kyle and Shane as they kick off the first episode of The Upshot! The upshot is the final or eventual outcome of something. If you were to die today, what would be the upshot of your life and your fatherhood? What would you be remembered for, and who would you be remembered as? While these may seem like big questions to ask, they help us to figure out what it looks like to win in parenting. After all, we can’t make progress if we don’t know where we’re going in the first place.

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