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The Ryan Fields-Spack Blog

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C.B. Robertson: Why Every Dad Needs Philosophy, the Iliad & Odyssey, and a Tribe of Strong Men

building tribe of men cb robertson caffeine and philosophy cb robertson ryan fields spack interview dad leadership philosophy homeschooling classical education iliade odyssey fatherhood lessons masculinity crisis dads 2026 philosophy for christian dads raising resilient sons christian dads strong fathers strong daughters worship quality excellence Apr 09, 2026

Hey Brother,

I’ve been following C.B. Robertson for a while, and sitting down with him was one of the most intellectually rich and practically useful conversations I’ve had on this show. C.B. is a philosopher, electrician, father of four, and a man who thinks deeply about what it means to be a man in today’s world.

We covered the alienation many dads feel, why studying philosophy is one of the best things a man can do for his family, the timeless lessons of the Iliad and Odyssey, the crisis of modern masculinity, the power of homeschooling and classical education, and how to build a real tribe of men who sharpen each other.

The Alienation of Modern Dads

C.B. described a widespread feeling among men: they don’t feel “at home” in their own homes. Work becomes an escape, and home feels like a place of constant demands and little appreciation. This isn’t just a personal issue — it’s cultural. Society has spent decades telling men their natural instincts and strengths are toxic.

Why Dads Should Study Philosophy

Philosophy trains you to spot nonsense, think clearly, and appreciate excellence. It connects you to the greatest minds in history and gives you tools to navigate life with purpose. C.B. emphasized that it’s not about being the smartest guy in the room — it’s about becoming a better leader, husband, and father.

The Iliad & Odyssey as Fatherhood Guides

Start with the Iliad if you’re younger — it speaks to the heroic impulse. The Odyssey comes later and teaches the subtler arts of leadership, patience, and navigating complex social dynamics. Both are essential for understanding what it means to be a man.

Homeschooling & Classical Education

C.B. and his wife are homeschooling their four kids. He stressed the importance of kids learning by observing adults doing real work, not just sitting in age-segregated classrooms. Classical education and virtue-based learning create independent thinkers instead of compliant factory workers.

Building a Tribe of Men

Dads need other men. Not just drinking buddies, but a group that challenges, sharpens, and supports one another. C.B. described the value of male spaces where competition and camaraderie coexist — the kind of environment that brings out the best in men.

Actionable Steps This Week

Read one chapter of the Iliad or Odyssey this week (start with a good modern translation).
Schedule time with one or two other dads for real conversation — no small talk.
Observe your kids watching you do real work around the house and involve them.
Pray daily for wisdom to lead your family with strength and clarity.
Identify one area where you feel “not at home” in your own house and take one small step to change the culture.
Write down one philosophical principle you want to live by this year and review it daily.
Reach out to one man you respect and ask if he’d be open to regular accountability conversations.
Read Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters or a similar book on intentional fatherhood.

Diamond Advice

Worship quality and excellence. Pursue what is good, true, and beautiful in every area of your life.

Brother, philosophy isn’t just for academics — it’s for dads who want to lead their families well in a confusing world. Read the classics, build your tribe, and become the steady, thoughtful leader your wife and kids can count on.

Watch the full conversation embedded below — it’s one you’ll want to revisit.

– Ryan

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C.B. Robertson: Why Every Dad Needs Philosophy, the Iliad & Odyssey, and a Tribe of Strong Men

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