Embracing the Glorious: Lessons from Jason Zajonc on Fatherhood, Faith, and Thriving as a Modern Man
Nov 13, 2025
In a world that often feels chaotic and unforgiving, especially for men navigating the complexities of fatherhood, marriage, and personal growth, conversations like the one between host Ryan and guest Jason Zajonc stand out as beacons of hope. Jason, a 52-year-old former fireman from California, has turned his life's trials— including a challenging divorce, balancing multiple jobs, and raising three kids—into a movement centered on "gloriousness." This isn't just fluffy positivity; it's a grounded, actionable mindset rooted in patience, faith, and intentional living. In their hour-long interview, they cover everything from the daily struggles of being a dad in today's society to embracing conservative values without fear. As a dad myself (in spirit, at least), I found their dialogue profoundly relatable, and I've expanded on it here with additional insights, backed by research, to help fellow fathers turn these ideas into real change.
If you're a dad feeling the weight of modern life—whether it's the financial grind, the pull of technology, or the quiet burden of providing without praise—this post is for you. We'll break down the key themes from the interview, dive deeper into why they matter (with data to back it up), and end with practical steps you can take today. Let's turn inspiration into action.
The Modern Man's Battlefield: Challenges We All Face
Jason kicks off by acknowledging the unique pressures men encounter in 2025's "crazy society." From societal perceptions that shift overnight (like how a divorced dad can go from hero to villain in the eyes of the court) to the constant juggle of work, marriage, and parenting, it's a lot. As a middle-aged guy with leadership experience, Jason admits it's challenging even for him, living in a liberal stronghold like California.
Research echoes this. According to the Institute for Family Studies, divorced dads often face a steep drop in resources—both time and money—which directly impacts their kids. In the U.S., suicide rates among divorced or separated men are 2.4 times higher than for married men, and divorced dads are eight times more likely to take their own lives compared to the general population. These stats aren't meant to scare you but to validate the struggle: you're not alone if the system feels stacked against you.
Jason's antidote? Patience. Not just a quick pause before responding (he nods to Elon Musk's 12-second rule), but a deeper acceptance that "this day too shall pass." He emphasizes putting your best foot forward daily, spreading "gloriousness" as a way to counter negativity. This aligns with studies on positivity: Harvard Health reports that gratitude practices can boost well-being, improve sleep, and even extend life by reducing depression and enhancing heart health. A meta-analysis of gratitude interventions found they lead to better mental health, fewer anxiety symptoms, and more positive emotions.
Deeper dive: In a culture obsessed with instant gratification, patience isn't just a virtue—it's a survival skill. Jason's experience as a young dad at 23, juggling firefighting and family, taught him this. For divorced dads, where only 17% of custodial parents are fathers and joint custody is awarded in just 1 in 7 contested cases, letting go of bitterness is key to setting kids up for success.
From Divorce to Discovery: Jason's Journey and the Birth of "Glorious Day"
Jason opens up about his divorce, a story that's far from unique. He faced court battles, financial hits from lawyers, and the stigma of being seen differently post-separation. Yet, he emerged stronger, focusing on his kids' virtue and his own growth. At 52, he views fatherhood as "the best job in the world," even from afar.
Statistics paint a grim picture: About one in five fathers is divorced, and one in six lives at a distance from their kids. Divorce before age 5 can lead to reduced earnings, higher teen pregnancy rates, and even early death for kids, with household income dropping by half. Jason's message: Don't internalize the drama. Self-sabotage is common, but moving forward is essential.
This led to his "Glorious Day" movement—a simple yet powerful ethos of finding and sharing glorious moments daily. Whether it's a hug, a wink, or acknowledging someone's story, it's about alignment, purpose, and trusting the flow. Jason draws from his firefighting days: Even the "fifth-time" pickup on the street has a glorious story.
Expanding on this: Positivity isn't naive; it's evidence-based. UCLA Health notes gratitude reduces depression, anxiety, and stress while improving sleep. Mayo Clinic adds it boosts immunity and mood. Jason's posts, like "The world spins on the energy we bring. So, bring yours. Be bold, be kind, be glorious," are calls to action in a negative world.
On X (formerly Twitter), similar sentiments echo: Posts about fatherhood challenges post-divorce highlight the need for support communities, with one user sharing how rebuilding confidence was key after separation. Another discusses creating a single fathers' group to ease burdens.
Combating Negativity: Small Acts, Big Impact
The duo laments the "thick cloud" of negativity surrounding us. Jason advocates simple acts: Holding a door, tipping well, or complimenting a dad in action. In his Sonoma County neighborhood, he praises other fathers to their wives, sparking appreciation.
Why does this matter? Dads rarely get "pats on the back," as Jason's swim coach warned. Research from Rogers Behavioral Health shows gratitude fosters balanced thinking and positive connections, reducing hopelessness.
Deeper: In a polarized society, these micro-affirmations build resilience. Jason's coach analogy—focusing on the journey, not just the end—reminds us that unseen efforts matter.
Technology's Double-Edged Sword: Parenting in the Digital Age
A poignant moment: Discussing the assassination attempt on Charlie Kirk (note: this seems to be a misstatement in the transcript; it was likely Donald Trump, but we'll address the intent), they highlight kids seeing graphic content without parental discussion. Jason stresses diligence, as tech changes faster than we can keep up.
Pew Research shows parents worry about screen time, with tech impacting attachment and development . Negative effects include obesity, lost social skills, and behavioral issues. Advice: Delay social media until high school, set time budgets, and talk openly.
Jason's challenge: Go an hour without your device. Be present—like removing AirPods to engage with your four-year-old.
The Quiet Burden: Finances and Self-Care for Dads
Financial stress is a "quiet burden" dads carry alone. Jason shares teaching his stepson about credit scores and car buying. New dads often feel overwhelmed by costs like orthodontics.
Tips from experts: Pay yourself first (save before spending), buy what you can afford monthly, and invest tax-free . For new dads, budget for essentials, plan long-term savings, and build an emergency fund.
Jason adds: Prioritize health and hobbies for sanity. Gym time or swimming grounds you.
Faith as the Anchor: Higher Purpose in Parenting
Faith plays a big role for Jason, evolving from "What would Jesus do?" to appreciating creation's wonders. He wasn't raised religious but finds solace in it now.
Studies link religious upbringing to better adult health: 16% higher happiness, 30% less depression. It builds resilience and enforces positive norms.
Ryan shares his church journey, urging dads to try it. Gratitude in prayer aligns with gloriousness.
Standing Firm: Conservatism in a Chaotic World
In corporate America, Jason faces DEI pressures as a white, middle-aged leader. He encourages subtle virtue-sharing without fear.
Tips: Use conversational techniques for civility, know core principles like individual liberty, and pick battles wisely.
Teach kids values matter-of-factly: "That's weird" for anomalies, honor military and police.
Diamond Advice: Keep Trying
Jason's final wisdom for his daughters: "No matter what, keep trying. Have a good time. Put your best foot forward."
Actionable Takeaways for Dads
- Start a Glorious Journal: Each day, note one glorious moment and one act of kindness. Research shows this reduces stress.
- Tech Detox Challenge: Set device-free hours. Discuss tough topics with kids openly.
- Financial Check-In: Review your credit score; teach one money lesson to your child this week.
- Praise a Fellow Dad: Compliment another father's efforts—spark a chain reaction.
- Faith Step: Attend a service or meditate on gratitude. Track mood improvements.
- Conservative Confidence: Share one value subtly at work or home.
- Self-Care Hobby: Dedicate 30 minutes daily to something physical that recharges you.
Jason's story reminds us: Life's challenges are temporary, but glorious moments are yours to create.Follow Jason Zajonc: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegloriusdayjmz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonzajonc/