We New Yorkers have some unique social habits and instincts, including the ability to mind our own business while still staying attuned to everything happening around us. This means that the vast majority of the time, we just keep it moving and let others do the same. That's where Carlton and I began, crossing paths every now and then while he delivered mail in our building. But that changed one day when we passed by each other while my son was with me. As kids often do, my son's presence broke the ice. "How's it going, champ?" Carlton asked. "Getting some quality time with dad?" Carlton and I exchanged pleasantries and introduced ourselves. "It's great to see dads spending time with their sons," he said as we parted ways. We were now officially acquainted, and as we had more random conversations and got to know each other, I picked up on Carlton's passion for mentorship and family, as well as his great warmth and energy. So I texted him one day, asking him if he'd be a guest on The Dad Bod, and I'm so thankful that he accepted.

In my interview with Carlton, I felt like I was sitting in front of a man who is living a changed life. Now, Carlton will be the first to tell you that he's a work in progress like all of us, but very few of us regular, everyday dads speak with his level of conviction and clarity about concepts as well as peace with regards to his own journey as a son, man, husband, mentee, mentor, and of course, dad. His interview is full of wisdom that I have been quoting silently to myself and even out loud to my family repeatedly. I highly recommend listening to the interview, but for this reflection, I want to highlight some of my favorites. I'm tempted to rank these quotes for the built-in drama of "which one is number 1," but I think it's much more meaningful to organize them under headings based on the key titles that many of us are privileged to bear: son, husband, man, and dad.