Fathers And Sons Talk
Building strong fathers, developing strong sons, and creating strong legacy.
Fathers And Sons Talk (FAST) is a mentorship and development initiative that strengthens the relationship between fathers and sons while guiding young males into responsible, disciplined, purpose-driven men.
A community program by Bernard P. Waller.
About FAST
Built from lived experience, not theory.
Raised in a single-parent home, Bernard understands the challenge of growing up without consistent male guidance. Through adversity, discipline, and faith he built the principles behind FAST.
With 30+ years of leadership including the Federal Bureau of Prisons and U.S. Marine Corps service, and, above all, 35+ years married and father to three sons, he created FAST so no young man has to figure out manhood on his own.
Mission
Strengthen relationships between fathers and sons through mentoring and coaching rooted in faith, guiding males to become positive, productive men who build a lasting family legacy.
Vision
Fathers actively leading their sons with faith and purpose, producing positive, productive men who build lasting legacy.
Motto
“You are born a male, but becoming a man requires discipline, responsibility, and purpose.”
Core values
What we stand on.
Faith
Responsibility
Integrity
Relationship
Legacy
The five pillars
The framework that shapes a man.
Spiritual responsibility
Taught: Identity rooted in God, prayer, and discipline.
Outcome: A strong moral foundation and a clear sense of identity.
Sexual responsibility
Taught: Self-control, respect, and understanding consequences.
Outcome: Managing desires with discipline and integrity.
Financial responsibility
Taught: Work ethic, budgeting, and stewardship.
Outcome: Skills to provide and make wise decisions.
Emotional responsibility
Taught: Emotional awareness, self-control, responding instead of reacting.
Outcome: Handling anger and pressure in a healthy way.
Social and relational responsibility
Taught: Communication, respect, and accountability.
Outcome: Strong relationships and leading by example.
Rite of passage
From male to man.
A defining experience guiding young males into manhood with intention, responsibility, and purpose, more than a ceremony, a commitment.
Each young man prepares a personal Commitment to Manhood, receives affirmation from a father or mentor, publicly declares his values, and takes a symbolic step into who he is choosing to become.
In the know
Let's connect.
Meeting dates and locations
FAST meets monthly, with some sessions virtual. Dates and locations coming soon, join the interest list to be notified first.
Donations
Support scholarships, materials, and Rite of Passage events for young men who need them most. Contact us to give.
Community volunteerism
Mentors, speakers, and event volunteers wanted. If you can pour into the next generation, we have a place for you.
Recommended reading
A curated list of books on faith, manhood, discipline, and leadership, shared with members and posted here soon.
Step into the work of raising men.
Fathers, sons, mentors, and supporters, add your name and we'll be in touch as meetings, events, and the next Rite of Passage open up.
Join the FAST interest list