**From Text Chain to Global Community: The Success Story of Dad Gang**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Dad-Gang-091626-02-931eb238e2834727a0d7aea1539bf41b.jpg)
A friendship rooted in support and camaraderie has blossomed into a thriving brand known as Dad Gang, showcasing the power of community among fathers. Founded by three friends—Bart Szaniewski, Ejay O’Donnell Jr., and Grant Eastey—this initiative began as a simple texting group before evolving into a global movement that now connects over one million dads.
The trio’s friendship has deep foundations. Szaniewski and Eastey both graduated from Washington State University, with O’Donnell Jr. joining later to complete their social circle. Regular discussions about their experiences as fathers dominated their conversations in the chat, which quickly became a safe space for emotional support, advice, and shared experiences. “We would just talk to one another and look for support,” Szaniewski recounted, noting that they often ended their conversations with the phrase, “Dad Gang.”
With the encouragement of their shared camaraderie, the friends decided to bring this phrase to life by producing hats that bore the Dad Gang logo. Initially, there was no comprehensive business plan; they merely sought to create a physical representation of their community. The venture quickly became a surprising success, with an initial order of just 100 hats selling out in less than 36 hours. “The response was insane,” Szaniewski said.
Responding to this demand, the trio began sharing their journey through various social media platforms, focusing on authentic storytelling surrounding fatherhood rather than the light-hearted memes often associated with parenting online. Their second batch of 300 hats also sold out promptly, laying the groundwork for a burgeoning brand that resonated deeply with parents.
As Dad Gang’s popularity soared, the founders ensured that their growing community remained at the centre of their business. Eastey explained that they have fostered a supportive environment, with around 15,000 members joining a private Facebook group that features fathers from diverse backgrounds. “It’s just dads from all walks of life all over the world now that are supporting each other,” he stated, adding that their community has expanded to include mothers, partners, and grandparents.
The sentiment behind the brand is palpable, captured most simply in the phrase “If You Know, You Know” that is emblazoned on the side of their hats. This inscription speaks to the indescribable bond many fathers feel upon holding their child for the first time—a universally relatable experience that drives their mission forward. The brand has resonated deeply with this feeling, helping fathers connect over shared experiences while embracing the diverse realities of parenting.
Now fully committed to the brand, all three founders have transitioned to working on Dad Gang full-time. O’Donnell Jr. was the last to join them full-time this past May, and he remarked on how the change has energized their efforts. “Once we all went full-time, it just turned this electricity on,” he said, noting the significant advancements they’ve made in the past several months compared to previous attempts.
The transition into full-time roles has gifted them with the opportunity to be more involved in their families’ lives. O’Donnell Jr. expressed his joy at being able to work closer to home and participate in his children’s daily routines, such as school drop-offs and family dinners. “It’s the coolest feeling,” he reflected, illustrating how their career decisions have been influenced by their experiences as parents.
Through the growth of Dad Gang, Szaniewski emphasised that the flourishing community has had a profound impact on his own parenting journey. “It has made us seek advice more, seek help more, and connect with other parents,” he explained, showcasing how the sense of community drives them to be better fathers. This shared support encourages participation among members, reinforcing the importance of active parenting.
Eastey further elaborated on the brand’s ethos, noting how wearing a Dad Gang hat instils a sense of pride and community among fathers. “I think there’s just this natural presence that this hat brings dads,” he stated. He suggested that the act of wearing the cap empowers fathers to strive for personal growth and connection with their children, fostering an environment where they can be the best versions of themselves.
Through the simple act of wearing a hat and rallying around an empowering slogan, the founding trio has inadvertently built a robust community that celebrates fatherhood. Dad Gang exemplifies how connections made in ordinary moments can lead to extraordinary movements, inspiring fathers everywhere to embrace their roles and support one another in this most rewarding journey.