The Story Behind DadIQ
Simple Tools.
Built from real fatherhood.
DadIQ grew out of years of raising kids, working with families, building programs, testing ideas, and learning what actually helps dads show up with confidence.
Fatherhood is a Process.
Dads don’t need to have every answer. They need to understand their kids, stay connected, guide with intention, and keep growing along the way.
Understand
Know what shapes your child’s behavior, emotions, learning, and development.
Connect
Build trust through presence, conversation, attention, and shared moments.
Guide
Use practical tools to help your child navigate decisions, emotions, relationships, and everyday life.
Grow
Keep learning, adjusting, and becoming more intentional as your kids grow too.
You don’t have to be perfect.
Just keep showing up, learning, and leading.
The Dad Behind DadIQ
John Gunnells
Dad.
Educator.
Builder of DadIQ.
DadIQ grew out of John's experience raising two daughters, working with families, teaching, building programs, and spending years listening to what helps dads engage with more confidence.
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The goal was never to create another parenting system. It was to make useful tools that respect dads, fit real life, and actually help in the moments that matter.
Built to Keep Growing
DadIQ is a growing collection of simple tools for everyday dads—books, protocols, activities, conversations, and experiences designed to help fathers navigate real life with more clarity and confidence.
dadProtocols
Practical frameworks for specific fatherhood moments.
Different tools. One purpose: helping dads show up well in the moments that matter.
dadReads
Books, manuals, and stories that help dads think, learn, and connect.
dadNotes
Stories, ideas, and observations about dads, kids, and family life.
dadIQ Labs
Small-group experiences that help dads reflect, learn, and grow together.
dadBox
Hands-on activities dads and kids can do together.