166 - “You Matter”: Inclusion, Fatherhood, and the Power of Belonging with Jacob Esser
In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Jacob Esser—dad, advocate, and founder of Dads of Down Syndrome—to explore what inclusion really looks like when it’s lived out daily. Jacob shares his powerful definition of inclusion as helping others realize they matter, reflects on his journey into the Down syndrome community through his son Levi, and opens up about the fear, love, and growth that come with an at-birth diagnosis. Together, they discuss the importance of assuming ability, creating spaces for vulnerable connection among dads, and why empowering fathers is critical to stronger families and more inclusive communities.
Key Takeaways:
Inclusion Is Belonging - Inclusion begins when people truly know they matter, regardless of ability or diagnosis.
Assume Ability - Approaching others with respect starts by assuming competence instead of limitations.
Dads Need Space - Fathers benefit deeply from spaces designed for vulnerability, honesty, and connection.
Shared Experience Heals - Community forms quickly when people connect through lived, shared experiences.
Empowered Dads Advocate - When dads are supported, they become stronger advocates for their children and families.
Jacob Esser’s definition of inclusion:
Inclusion is helping others realize that they matter.
Jacob Esser’s Bio:
Founder and CEO of Dads of Down syndrome (DODs), a certified 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering fathers and families navigating the Down syndrome journey while inspiring advocacy along the way!
Our mission: Empower Dads, Inspire Advocacy. We empower dads through monthly events that range from roundtable discussions and guest speakers to large-scale events.
Develop relationships with fathers, donors, advocates and everyone in between. The DODs mission is designed for fathers to build courage, connection, and community so they return empowered to impact their family systems and communities on a large scale.
Connect with Jacob Esser:
Website: https://dadsofdownsyndrome.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573932300113#
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dadsofdownsyndrome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dads-of-down-syndrome/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dadsofdownsyndrome
SPAM© Count:
Host:
Yes
Current Guest:
Yes
Cumulative Guest Stats:
Yes - 72
No - 92
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Dads of Down Syndrome
Founder and CEO of Dads of Down syndrome (DODs), a certified 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering fathers and families navigating the Down syndrome journey while inspiring advocacy along the way!
Our mission: Empower Dads, Inspire Advocacy. We empower dads through monthly events that range from roundtable discussions and guest speakers to large-scale events.
Develop relationships with fathers, donors, advocates and everyone in between. The DODs mission is designed for fathers to build courage, connection, and community so they return empowered to impact their family systems and communities on a large scale.
