In this conversation, I sit down with Michael Ray - solo dad, advocate and author to explore the stereotypes, structural barriers and everyday assumptions that shape modern fatherhood. Michael shares his journey from a hyper-masculine career in security and elite sport to becoming a first-time parent at 50 and then a single parent shortly after.

We unpack how parenting reshaped his identity, the cultural messages that tell men they’re “less equipped” to care, and the subtle but powerful ways workplaces still separate breadwinning from caregiving.

Michael brings forward practical, lived insights about negotiating flexibility, challenging outdated norms and understanding why supporting fathers is essential for genuine gender equity.

If you care about inclusive leadership, the future of work, solo parenthood, or designing roles that honour both ambition and care, this episode offers grounded, real-world perspective.

• Challenging the stereotypes that define fatherhood and masculinity

• How unsolicited advice and cultural narratives shape confidence in new parents

• The realities of navigating work, identity and responsibility as a solo dad

• Why caregiving and breadwinning are inseparable (and always have been)

• How workplaces can redesign roles and rhythms to support all parents

• The cultural and emotional impact of treating fatherhood as “different, not less”

• The science behind the hormonal and neurological shifts in caregiving

  Why language matters when advocating for equitable workplaces

• Chapters

• 00:00 Challenging Narratives of Fatherhood
  06:24 The Transformation of Identity Through Parenting
  10:49 Navigating Work-Life Balance as a Single Parent
  14:24 The Intersection of Caregiving and Career
  17:24 Redefining Masculinity in Modern Fatherhood
  21:26 Collaboration Over Competition in Gender Equity
  25:21 The Gift of Clarity Through Crisis
  26:22 Redefining Fatherhood and Gender Roles
  27:12 The Importance of Paternity Leave
  29:01 The Science of Caregiving and Emotional Intelligence
  30:22 Normalizing Caregiving for Men
  31:29 The Role of Advertising in Shaping Perceptions
  32:48 Inclusion and Representation in Parenting
  35:16 Creating Equitable Spaces for All Parents
  36:49 The Need for Structural Changes in Workplaces
  37:52 The Impact of Early Parenting on Future Generations

  Find out more about Michael Ray:

  Website: https://www.michaelray.com.au
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-ray-574079183/

  Book and speaking details available via his website.

  The Ambition & Life podcast is produced by Karis Dorrigan - leader, solo parent and advocate for the future of work. This is intentionally designed to amplify real stories about ambition, leadership, care and the systems that shape our lives.

  
  Track: Brother Brother
  Artist: BENSON
  Licensed by: Soundstripe, Inc.
  License Type: Master Recording & Synchronization License
  License ID: #22026995
  Usage Rights: Worldwide, in perpetuity, across web, podcast, and social platforms
  © BENSON / Soundstripe, Inc. — All rights reserved.
  Used with permission under a perpetual license.

  ZCQVE0RUQJPWL06T