Dad in Progress: The New Father’s Guide to Showing Up, Growing Up, and Raising Awesome Kids

by Ethan Reid

You don’t have to have it all figured out to be a great dad. You just have to show up.

Dad in Progress is an honest, uplifting, and practical guide for new fathers who are navigating the joys, struggles, and unknowns of fatherhood. Whether you are holding your baby for the first time or trying to break the cycles you grew up with, this book offers the kind of wisdom that feels like it is coming from a friend who is walking the path with you.

Through real stories, reflection prompts, and encouragement, Dad in Progress invites you to stop chasing perfection and start focusing on presence. From building emotional connection to setting boundaries, finding your identity to healing your past, this book meets you where you are and helps you grow from there.

Inside, you will

Straightforward chapters on discipline, trust, emotional health, and identity

Gentle support for the hard days and reminders for the good ones

Affirmations and questions to keep you grounded and engaged

A powerful message that says you are enough, and you are not alone

Whether you are a brand-new dad or simply trying to be a better one, this book is your reminder that progress is more powerful than perfection and that every moment you show up matters.

85 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 9, 2025

About the author

Ethan Reid received his BA in English with Writing Emphasis from the University of Washington and his MFA from the University of Southern California’s MPW Program, where he studied under author S.L. Stebel, Oscar-nominated screenwriter Sy Gomberg, and Oscar-winning screenwriter Frank Tarloff.

Ethan is a member of the Horror Writers Association, the International Thriller Writers and the Pacific Northwest Writers Association. Ethan currently lives in Seattle.