Meet Chad Vrla | Founder of TheIntentionalFather.com

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chad Vrla and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chad, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The Intentional Father was first a thought during the year 2020. In the midst of a global pandemic, daycares and schools closed, and my wife and I working from home meant an abundance of family time.

At the time we had a two year old son, my wife was a teacher trying to navigate distance learning, and I was an engineer. While this “extended spring break” was initially seen as a blessing, it quickly turned quality time into quantity time and turned fun unique days into the same day with the same compounding struggles, discussions, and arguments. Each day was a jigsaw, meticulously piecing activities together, both alternating from employee to parent awaiting nap or bedtime. Precious time in our son’s life went by while we were just trying to hold everything together.

As chaotic as it was, we realized then more than ever, the importance of being intentional with our child.

This is why I created TheIntentionalFather.com. To continually remind myself to be intentional with my children, but overall to Encourage and Equip all fathers (any parent really) to be purposeful in developing relationships with their children even in the most challenging moments.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As of this Shoutout, The Intentional Father is a passion project. My primary career is working for an Oil and Gas Service Company where I’ve been for 10 years. I’ve worn multiple hats, from an Engineer to Engineering Supervisor and now a Technical Product Manager. There are many products actively being used in the oilfield today I either designed or helped with. I am proud to say that along the way I have been granted 2 Patents with a few more pending. While there are ups and down, as in any career, I enjoy the work I do as it is continually challenging my technical abilities.

Starting The Intentional Father however, has been a completely different kind of challenge. Since it is a side project, the budget has been quite small from the beginning. Because of this, except for the Articles and Activities Jerod has contributed, I have done everything myself. From the website design, coding for specialized features, product design, creation and launch, marketing, social media, etc. While my work ethic, instilled from my parents, and desire to learn has paid off well in my career, it has done even more for me in this endeavor. I’ve watched countless YouTube videos, read many articles, took a few online trainings, and sought the wisdom of other small business owners to learn the skills required to accomplish the needs of this venture.

All this to say, The Intentional Father is a passion I greatly enjoy working on. While I do have plans to continue growing the site and mission, if nothing else comes of it, it has been worth the time, money, and effort for the growth I have personally experienced as a Man, Husband, and Father.

Be Present and Intentional with your family today!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Given that I grew up in Dallas, I’ll start there. Then we’ll venture over to Fort Worth and down to Granbury near where I live today.

No doubt, the trip would start with a #5 special at Keller’s Hamburgers! This has always been me and my friends go-to place for the best drive-in burger. Although, having gone to High School at Bishop Lynch, a close second would be the Dairy-Ette across the street. After Keller’s, for an afternoon coffee we would mosey down Northwest Hwy to White Rock Coffee (the original location). My good friend Joe and I spent many Tuesday nights playing music at the open mic night! (not sure if they still do this). While in the area, we would the stroll the paths of White Rock Lake that I rode my bike on with my family, when growing up, probably hundreds of times. In addition, my Wife and I were married at The Filter Building near the dam! Before leaving Dallas, we would spend at least a day visiting the Aquarium and the Perot Museum; two wonderful activities for the whole family!

Heading towards Fort Worth, the first stop would be Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington! Can’t wait for the days when my boys are tall enough to go thrill seeking with me on the Titan or Texas Giant! Perhaps that night, we will plan to see the World Series Champions, the Texas Rangers! While it won’t be the same experience I had growing up going to the Ball Park in Arlington, it will be memorable no doubt.

Now in Fort Worth, we would spend the afternoon sippin spirts at either the TX Whiskey Ranch or Trinity River Distillery (Where I spent a good portion of my 30th birthday). Next, a lovely seafood dinner at Waters Restaurant, then head over to the Stockyards for some two-steppin at Billy Bobs (also just happens to be where I proposed to my wife!).

Last, we would end the trip down 377 to Granbury where we would walk the historic downtown square, perhaps stop in at D’Vine Wine for a drink, indulge in a Prime Iowa Chop at 1890, then enjoy some cold brews, yard games, and live music at Revolver Brewing! If we are up for it, driving some backroads a bit further, spend the evening at Sledge Distillery in Tolar (Go Rattlers!).

In each area, we would have some downtime at the local parks. From White Rock Lake and Klyde Warren Park in Dallas, the Dream Park Playground in Fort Worth, to Jim Burks Firefighter Memorial Park in Granbury, there are many spots to enjoy each city and the outdoors!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I would like to thank and recognize my wife of 10 years, Jenna. From the time I met her, she has challenged me to continually push beyond my current realm of knowledge and understanding. To consider and hear voices unlike mine. To see events through multiple lenses. She encourages me throughout my endeavors to get uncomfortable, for no one grows in a state of ease. Without her, I would not be the Father, Husband, or Person I am today. Without her, The Intentional Father would not exist.

Next, I would like to thank my parents. They worked hard and sacrificed so my brother and I could have a wonderful childhood. A firm foundation of God, family, love, support, and so much more was laid that produced a solid and steady launch pad into life. They instilled incredible work ethic, confidence, and humility, and I am extremely thankful for them and all they have done and continue to do for me.

Last, I recognize Jerod Post. Jerod is a Contributor at TheIntentionalFather.com and is a large reason why the effort continues. He is encouraging, constantly reminding me to keep at it, that we are making the world a slightly better place. His Encouragement Articles continuously challenge me and our readers to be better for our children, and I am thankful for all he has contributed to the site.

Website: https://www.theintentionalfather.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theintfather/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theintentionalfather