On this episode of The Imperfect Dads Podcast, Devon sits down with Ben Mench-Thurlow, a booking agent who helps artists plan tours and the creator of the Emo Orchestra—the live concert experience that combines iconic emo and pop-punk songs with a full orchestra.
Content Note: This episode contains an honest conversation about child loss and grief.
Ben courageously shares the story of becoming a father to triplets and the heartbreaking reality that two of his children never came home from the NICU. He opens up about navigating unimaginable grief, supporting his family through loss, and why he wanted to share his experience in the hope that other dads facing similar circumstances know they are not alone.
The conversation also explores Ben's career in the music industry, how he found his way to Nashville, what it's like booking tours for bands, and the inspiration behind creating the Emo Orchestra with his daughter in mind. Ben also talks about raising a daughter who knows more opening bands than headliners, balancing a demanding career with fatherhood, the team that helps bring Emo Orchestra to life, and the emotional experience of watching his daughter graduate from pre-K.
This episode is an honest discussion about fatherhood, grief, resilience, music, and finding purpose after profound loss.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Becoming a father to triplets
- Life in the NICU and coping with child loss
- Grief, healing, and supporting your family
- Why sharing difficult stories can help other dads
- Moving to Nashville and building a career in music
- Working as a booking agent for touring artists
- Creating the Emo Orchestra
- Balancing fatherhood with a demanding career
- Parenting, milestones, and the emotions of watching your kids grow
If you've experienced pregnancy loss, infant loss, or know someone who has, we hope Ben's story reminds you that you are not alone.
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This podcast is part of the Never A Phase Network, follow them on instagram at @neveraphasenetwork and check out their podcasts like Emo Kids Anonymous Wasting Time Podcast Certified Fangirl and The Ska Mailman
