From Melanie Gath
In 2020, he published his book Mann, Baby, Mann – Wenn aus Männern Väter werden. Mark van Huisseling is a well-known Swiss journalist and author who became a father eight years ago. "I was a late bloomer," as he puts it. "Only at 50." But he believes that age doesn't make much of a difference anyway. Because for everyone, no matter how old they are, it's a first for all of us at some point.
When Franz asks him how he would describe himself as a father, he explains that he tries to take cues from his son and, above all, to be "a little fresh and unconventional – just like the child himself."
Mark says that while writing his book, he portrayed many different fathers. One of his biggest takeaways: "Broadly speaking, there are two types of dads." To put it simply: "One 'cares' and the other 'is involved'." One puts in the effort and worries, while the other is truly part of the action. In the interview, Franz and Mark explore which type they each belong to.
And, as always, they discuss how important "outdoor time" in nature is for their families. Describing the mood on a typical Sunday, Mark speaks of a "downward spiral" if his son hasn't been out in the fresh air by 10 a.m. at the latest. Mark remembers his own childhood and notes: "We were always outside as kids." Why is that no longer the case today? The two dive into that as well.
You can find the full interview here:
