In the final Dad Diaries episode of Season 3, Blue records just before Christmas and reflects on eight years of parenting his eldest son from across the Atlantic. He shares how he stays involved in his son’s everyday life from Canada, even while his boy grows up in the UK, and what it means to lead with love when you have limited time together. From Christmas jumper day and photo books to skiing metaphors and airport hotel adventures, this episode is a warm, honest look at long distance fatherhood at the holidays. It closes with encouragement for any parent who will not be with their kids on Christmas to stay grounded, creative, and kind to themselves.
In this final Dad Diaries episode of Season 3, Blue is winding down for Christmas and gearing up for a precious visit from his eldest son, who has lived in the UK for almost eight years. From his little trailer studio in the Canadian winter, he talks about why he is pausing the podcast, where his energy is going next, and how he keeps showing up as a dad from afar.
In this episode, Blue talks about:
Why this is the last episode of Season 3 and what the winter break will look like
A quick recap of the relocation case, joint guardianship, and life as a long distance dad
How he stays plugged into school life from overseas by being on email lists, contacting teachers, and watching the calendar
The Christmas jumper story and using small, thoughtful gestures to stay present in a child’s day to day life
Creating physical photo albums after visits so kids have something tangible to hold onto
Letting go, trusting the universe, and teaching kids to make good choices when you cannot be there in person
Using outdoor adventure and risk management as a framework for leadership in parenting
Growing his platform through Instagram reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts, and why he is focusing there for now
Navigating spicy comment sections, old friction with his ex, and choosing to lead with love instead of resentment
The joy and chaos of blending families, planning the airport hotel adventure, and looking ahead to Christmas on the slopes
A message for dads and parents who are not with their kids this Christmas and ideas for making connection anyway
If you are a dad facing separation, distance, or complicated co parenting, Blue’s hope is that this episode reminds you that you can still have a deep, loving relationship with your child, even when you are not there as much as you want. Lead with love, keep showing up in whatever ways you can, and create your own version of “Christmas day” when it works for you.
Connect with Blue
Instagram: @dadwithoutborders
TikTok: @dadwithoutborders
YouTube Shorts: Dad Without Borders
Website and writing: bluenetherclift.com
If this episode or this season helped you, the best way to support the show is to share an episode or a reel with another dad who needs it, leave a rating or review, and connect with Blue on social. Season 4 is planned for the spring, so stay tuned.