In this powerful episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down with Rock Thomas—entrepreneur, bestselling author, and founder of the I Am Movement—to explore what it truly means to break free from limiting beliefs and take ownership of your life. Rock shares his journey from humble beginnings on a farm to building multiple successful businesses, and he unpacks the mindset shifts that helped him rise above struggle and design a life of purpose.
We dive into how the words you speak shape your identity, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right influences, and why most men never reach their full potential. Rock also shares practical strategies for fathers to model growth, resilience, and confidence for their children. If you’ve ever felt stuck, defined by your past, or unsure of your next step, this conversation will challenge you to rewrite your story and live with intention.
TIMELINE SUMMARY
[0:00] - Welcome and introduction to Rock Thomas and the I Am Movement
[3:08] - Growing up on a farm and the lessons of early hardship
[7:15] - How childhood experiences shaped Rock’s drive and identity
[10:42] - Breaking free from the labels others put on you
[14:20] - Why the words you use about yourself matter
[18:55] - The turning point that shifted Rock’s life trajectory
[23:11] - The mentors who changed his mindset and path
[27:36] - Building wealth without losing yourself in the process
[31:48] - Why environment and community shape who you become
[36:29] - The importance of modeling resilience for your kids
[41:03] - Rock’s strategies for reframing failure into fuel
[45:17] - How to stop living by default and start living by design
[50:42] - Parenting lessons: teaching kids ownership and responsibility
[54:33] - Daily rituals and practices that keep Rock grounded
[59:15] - The power of declaring “I Am” statements for identity
[1:03:22] - Final reflections on building a life of purpose and growth
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
1. Your Words Shape Your World
The labels and stories you tell yourself directly influence your identity. Shifting your “I am” statements can transform your confidence, actions, and results.
2. Mentorship Accelerates Growth
The right mentors can help you break through limitations and see possibilities you couldn’t on your own. Who you learn from shapes who you become.
3. Environment Drives Identity
The people you surround yourself with will either elevate you or keep you stuck. Community matters as much as personal discipline.
4. Failure Is Feedback
Instead of avoiding mistakes, Rock reframes failure as fuel for growth. Every setback is a stepping stone to greater resilience and wisdom.
5. Parenting Is About Modeling
Your children are watching how you live, not just what you say. Modeling ownership, resilience, and intentional living teaches them how to thrive.
LINKS & RESOURCES
• Rock Thomas Website: https://rockthomas.com
• Learn About the I Am Movement: https://rockthomas.com/iam-movement
• thedadedge.com/legendarybook
• Dad Edge Podcast Website: https://www.thedadedge.com
• Join The Alliance: https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance
• Listen to More Episodes: https://www.thedadedge.com/podcast
If this episode inspired you to take ownership of your story, please rate, follow, review, and share the podcast. Let’s continue building a generation of men who live by design, not default.