27 Jan 2026
Eric Calderon on Parenthood and the Shift from Vagabond to Breadwinner | Level Up w/Cat (Ep. 41)
In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Cat Bradshaw sits down with longtime friend Eric Calderon to talk about how parenthood completely reshaped his identity, priorities, and definition of success.
Reflecting on a decade of personal evolution, Eric opens up about the transition from a more free-spirited, creative life into the responsibilities of fatherhood and becoming a provider. Together, Cat and Eric explore the emotional weight of responsibility, the importance of communication in relationships, and how creativity, health, and self-acceptance play a vital role in navigating life’s biggest transitions.
This episode is a powerful reminder that growth doesn’t always look glamorous — but it’s often where purpose is found.
Whether you’re a parent, considering parenthood, or simply navigating a major life shift, this conversation offers grounding insights on balance, presence, and becoming who life is asking you to be.
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 – Introduction
00:16 – Reconnecting After a Decade
01:42 – The Impact of Fatherhood
04:30 – Career Changes and Shifting Priorities
08:44 – Finding Balance in Parenting
13:38 – Health and Fitness Through Life Changes
18:07 – Navigating Relationships and Friendships
22:12 – Why Communication Matters
26:52 – Learning Through Parenting
31:35 – Facing Challenges and Personal Growth
36:02 – Creativity’s Role in Parenting
41:27 – The Value of Conflict in Relationships
45:39 – Encouraging Independence in Children
50:36 – The Dangers of Oversimplification
54:52 – Relationships, Technology, and the Future
🎧 Connect with Eric Calderon
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SurvivingAnimation (https://www.youtube.com/c/SurvivingAnimation)
Website: https://www.captaincalderon.com (https://www.captaincalderon.com)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captain_calderon (https://www.instagram.com/captain_calderon)
💛 Connect with Cat Bradshaw
Website: https://www.catbradshaw.com (https://www.catbradshaw.com)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catbradshawtraining/ (https://www.instagram.com/catbradshawtraining/)
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5e84UnK1PIvuiveJQM9YdG (https://open.spotify.com/show/5e84UnK1PIvuiveJQM9YdG)
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-cat-bradshaw/id1868393329 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-cat-bradshaw/id1868393329)
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast — and share it with someone navigating a season of growth. Your support helps this show continue to evolve.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your individual circumstances.