The Hidden Curriculum: How Schools & Society Exclude Dads—And What You Can Do About It. || DPTSP#134 || Khaled Ashraf

26min | 01/10/2026

Description

Welcome to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast! I’m David, and today’s episode dives deep into the overlooked struggles—and surprising strengths—of men over 40 navigating divorce, fatherhood, and even incarceration. 🎙️

We’re joined by Khaled Ashraf, a trailblazing school principal who leads a unique school inside a state correctional facility. Khaled’s journey began as a Philly police officer, but what he discovered in classrooms—and later, behind prison walls—shattered stereotypes about fathers, especially those facing the “double whammy” of divorce and incarceration.

Are you a dad over 40 feeling shut out of your child’s life after divorce? Do shame, outdated stereotypes, or legal barriers make it seem impossible to reconnect? This episode is for you.

Khaled reveals how schools and society often silence and sideline fathers—especially those who are incarcerated—by defaulting to mothers as the main point of contact. He exposes the “hidden curriculum” that keeps dads out, even when they desperately want to be involved. 🏫

But here’s the truth: Disconnection isn’t about dads not caring—it’s about lack of access, voice, and invitation. Khaled shares eye-opening stories of fathers who, despite unimaginable odds, stay engaged with their kids’ homework, milestones, and growth—even from behind bars. 📚✉️

We tackle common misconceptions:

"Incarcerated dads don’t care." (False! Many fight daily to connect.)
"Fathers are only called when discipline is needed."
"You’re too late to rebuild your relationship."

You’ll learn:

The first steps to re-enter your child’s educational life (hint: start with a simple email or text!)
How shame and trauma hold men back—and how to break free
Why schools need to update their approach to father engagement
The importance of never giving up, even if you can only connect from a distance
Resources and practical strategies for men over 40 to rebuild connections—no matter your circumstances

Khaled’s message is powerful: Every day is a new chance to reach out. Even a simple “thinking of you” can change everything. Your involvement matters—don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

If you’ve ever felt alienated from your kids, stuck in shame, or unsure how to reconnect after divorce, this episode will inspire you to take action. You are not alone—and it’s never too late.

👇 Drop a comment below:

Have you faced barriers as a father after divorce or incarceration? What’s helped you reconnect with your kids? Let’s support each other—your story matters!

Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE if this episode resonates with you or someone you know. 💬👊

#DivorcedDads #FatherhoodOver40 #Don’tPickTheScab #DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #RebuildFatherhood #ParentalAlienation #KhaledAshraf #Resilience #MenSupportingMen

Khaled's LinkedIn

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About DON'T PICK THE SCAB PODCAST

Success, Divorce, and Reinvention—You’re Not Alone.

Divorce can shake even the most accomplished men to their core, no matter their age or status. The end of a marriage is often an emotionally and mentally taxing experience, especially for successful men who are accustomed to thriving in other areas of life. That’s why the "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" is here: a safe, open platform where successful men recovering from divorce can share their stories, find support, and gain practical tools for rebuilding.

Success doesn’t make divorce any easier. When you’re used to winning, starting over—emotionally, financially, and socially—can feel like uncharted territory. The challenges of re-establishing your identity and navigating new roles after a significant breakup are real, but you don’t have to face them alone.

Each episode dives into authentic conversations with men who have walked this path—from entrepreneurs and executives, to leaders in their fields. We explore the unique hurdles successful men encounter during divorce, from managing public perception and careers to processing the deeply personal emotions of grief, regret, anger, and hope. Alongside expert guests, we offer practical advice and proven strategies for healing and growth.

This podcast is about more than just surviving divorce—it’s about thriving in your next chapter. Through shared experiences and actionable insights, "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" aims to help you rediscover meaning, rebuild confidence, and create a life filled with new possibilities.

Join us each week as we walk the road to recovery, together. Let’s break the stigma, embrace vulnerability, and support one another on the journey to a brighter, more successful future after divorce.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About DON'T PICK THE SCAB PODCAST

Success, Divorce, and Reinvention—You’re Not Alone.

Divorce can shake even the most accomplished men to their core, no matter their age or status. The end of a marriage is often an emotionally and mentally taxing experience, especially for successful men who are accustomed to thriving in other areas of life. That’s why the "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" is here: a safe, open platform where successful men recovering from divorce can share their stories, find support, and gain practical tools for rebuilding.

Success doesn’t make divorce any easier. When you’re used to winning, starting over—emotionally, financially, and socially—can feel like uncharted territory. The challenges of re-establishing your identity and navigating new roles after a significant breakup are real, but you don’t have to face them alone.

Each episode dives into authentic conversations with men who have walked this path—from entrepreneurs and executives, to leaders in their fields. We explore the unique hurdles successful men encounter during divorce, from managing public perception and careers to processing the deeply personal emotions of grief, regret, anger, and hope. Alongside expert guests, we offer practical advice and proven strategies for healing and growth.

This podcast is about more than just surviving divorce—it’s about thriving in your next chapter. Through shared experiences and actionable insights, "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" aims to help you rediscover meaning, rebuild confidence, and create a life filled with new possibilities.

Join us each week as we walk the road to recovery, together. Let’s break the stigma, embrace vulnerability, and support one another on the journey to a brighter, more successful future after divorce.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Description

Welcome to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast! I’m David, and today’s episode dives deep into the overlooked struggles—and surprising strengths—of men over 40 navigating divorce, fatherhood, and even incarceration. 🎙️

We’re joined by Khaled Ashraf, a trailblazing school principal who leads a unique school inside a state correctional facility. Khaled’s journey began as a Philly police officer, but what he discovered in classrooms—and later, behind prison walls—shattered stereotypes about fathers, especially those facing the “double whammy” of divorce and incarceration.

Are you a dad over 40 feeling shut out of your child’s life after divorce? Do shame, outdated stereotypes, or legal barriers make it seem impossible to reconnect? This episode is for you.

Khaled reveals how schools and society often silence and sideline fathers—especially those who are incarcerated—by defaulting to mothers as the main point of contact. He exposes the “hidden curriculum” that keeps dads out, even when they desperately want to be involved. 🏫

But here’s the truth: Disconnection isn’t about dads not caring—it’s about lack of access, voice, and invitation. Khaled shares eye-opening stories of fathers who, despite unimaginable odds, stay engaged with their kids’ homework, milestones, and growth—even from behind bars. 📚✉️

We tackle common misconceptions:

"Incarcerated dads don’t care." (False! Many fight daily to connect.)
"Fathers are only called when discipline is needed."
"You’re too late to rebuild your relationship."

You’ll learn:

The first steps to re-enter your child’s educational life (hint: start with a simple email or text!)
How shame and trauma hold men back—and how to break free
Why schools need to update their approach to father engagement
The importance of never giving up, even if you can only connect from a distance
Resources and practical strategies for men over 40 to rebuild connections—no matter your circumstances

Khaled’s message is powerful: Every day is a new chance to reach out. Even a simple “thinking of you” can change everything. Your involvement matters—don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

If you’ve ever felt alienated from your kids, stuck in shame, or unsure how to reconnect after divorce, this episode will inspire you to take action. You are not alone—and it’s never too late.

👇 Drop a comment below:

Have you faced barriers as a father after divorce or incarceration? What’s helped you reconnect with your kids? Let’s support each other—your story matters!

Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE if this episode resonates with you or someone you know. 💬👊

#DivorcedDads #FatherhoodOver40 #Don’tPickTheScab #DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #RebuildFatherhood #ParentalAlienation #KhaledAshraf #Resilience #MenSupportingMen

Khaled's LinkedIn

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About DON'T PICK THE SCAB PODCAST

Success, Divorce, and Reinvention—You’re Not Alone.

Divorce can shake even the most accomplished men to their core, no matter their age or status. The end of a marriage is often an emotionally and mentally taxing experience, especially for successful men who are accustomed to thriving in other areas of life. That’s why the "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" is here: a safe, open platform where successful men recovering from divorce can share their stories, find support, and gain practical tools for rebuilding.

Success doesn’t make divorce any easier. When you’re used to winning, starting over—emotionally, financially, and socially—can feel like uncharted territory. The challenges of re-establishing your identity and navigating new roles after a significant breakup are real, but you don’t have to face them alone.

Each episode dives into authentic conversations with men who have walked this path—from entrepreneurs and executives, to leaders in their fields. We explore the unique hurdles successful men encounter during divorce, from managing public perception and careers to processing the deeply personal emotions of grief, regret, anger, and hope. Alongside expert guests, we offer practical advice and proven strategies for healing and growth.

This podcast is about more than just surviving divorce—it’s about thriving in your next chapter. Through shared experiences and actionable insights, "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" aims to help you rediscover meaning, rebuild confidence, and create a life filled with new possibilities.

Join us each week as we walk the road to recovery, together. Let’s break the stigma, embrace vulnerability, and support one another on the journey to a brighter, more successful future after divorce.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About DON'T PICK THE SCAB PODCAST

Success, Divorce, and Reinvention—You’re Not Alone.

Divorce can shake even the most accomplished men to their core, no matter their age or status. The end of a marriage is often an emotionally and mentally taxing experience, especially for successful men who are accustomed to thriving in other areas of life. That’s why the "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" is here: a safe, open platform where successful men recovering from divorce can share their stories, find support, and gain practical tools for rebuilding.

Success doesn’t make divorce any easier. When you’re used to winning, starting over—emotionally, financially, and socially—can feel like uncharted territory. The challenges of re-establishing your identity and navigating new roles after a significant breakup are real, but you don’t have to face them alone.

Each episode dives into authentic conversations with men who have walked this path—from entrepreneurs and executives, to leaders in their fields. We explore the unique hurdles successful men encounter during divorce, from managing public perception and careers to processing the deeply personal emotions of grief, regret, anger, and hope. Alongside expert guests, we offer practical advice and proven strategies for healing and growth.

This podcast is about more than just surviving divorce—it’s about thriving in your next chapter. Through shared experiences and actionable insights, "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" aims to help you rediscover meaning, rebuild confidence, and create a life filled with new possibilities.

Join us each week as we walk the road to recovery, together. Let’s break the stigma, embrace vulnerability, and support one another on the journey to a brighter, more successful future after divorce.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

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