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All Pro Dad Podcast

All Pro Dad

On average, men switch jobs every four years, but one role guys will never outgrow, is dad. It’s a serious responsibility that lasts a lifetime and comes with highs, lows, and a ton of questions. It’s okay not to have all the answers… but the most committed dads are always chasing them. 

 

The All Pro Dad podcast helps men navigate their toughest parenting problems. Experienced dads tackle tough topics, share what's worked for them, and discuss how to love your kids well. We do it all with a combination of humor and humility. If you have more questions than answers, this is the place to be. Today’s the perfect day to become an All Pro Dad.

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  • 22 episodes
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  • S1 · E145
    Monday · 21 min

    Your Kids Know You Love Them—But Do They Know You Like Them?

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Do your kids know you love them? Probably a safe bet that they do. But do they think you like them? That’s a much different question. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about the difference between like and love and why dads must make it their mission to ensure their kids know they’re liked. Why This Matters Most dads would say they love their kids. But love and like can feel different to a child. Kids need to know that Dad doesn't simply provide for them, correct them, or show up for their activities—they need to feel that Dad genuinely enjoys being with them. Key Takeaways –Loving your kids and liking your kids are not always communicated in the same way. –Kids experience our attention more than our intentions, so distraction and exhaustion can weaken connection even when we mean well. –Curiosity, laughter, and listening are simple ways dads can communicate, “I like you.” Practical Tips for Dads 1. Create connection-only time. Choose a moment in the day when the goal is not to correct, teach, or fix—just enjoy your child. 2. Like them out loud. Tell your kids specific things you like about them, such as “I like how your brain works,” “You're really fun to be around,” or “I like hanging out with you.” 3. Be intentional with your facial expressions. Let your face communicate that you're glad to see your child when they walk into the room, come home, leave for the day, or do something they love. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] Do Your Kids Know You Like Them? [01:26] Why You Can't Fake Liking Your Kids and They Know It [03:34] The Hockey Tryout Embarrassment [05:09] BJ's Best Dad Moment Followed by His Worst [07:35] Your Kids Will Go Find “Being Liked” Somewhere Else [08:26] What Gets in the Way of Kids Feeling Liked [11:17] Heaping Pressure on Kids Makes Them Feel Liked When They Perform [12:07] How to Help Kids Feel Liked: Start With Curiosity, Laughter, and Listening [16:13] Carve Out a Daily Five-Minute Window to Just Like Your Kid [19:30] This Week's Pro Move This week, tell your kid one specific thing you genuinely like about them. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources 5 Ways to Make Sure Your Kids Know You Like Them 3 Ways to Make Sure Your Kids Know You Love and Like Them 5 Ways to Love Your Tees When You Don’t Like Them 4 Things About Your Child That You Need to Know Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E144
    August 31 · 31 min

    What Changes When Dads Are Involved with Kids Schools? Everything.

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! School-related things have traditionally been handled by Mom, but the research is clear—when dads get involved in a kids’ education, those kids thrive in the classroom. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by National Director of Chapters for All Pro Dad, Jason Hood, and Pasco County (FL) School Superintendent Dr. John Legg, to talk about why everybody wins when dads get engaged with their children’s schooling. Why This Matters Kids whose dads are involved in the education process have more success in school, are typically more confident students, and exhibit fewer behavioral problems. Key Takeaways ·Dads Are Welcome: Dads don’t always plug in at school because they feel uncomfortable, awkward, or uninvited. But dads don't have to be education experts to make a difference. Simply showing up tells your kids that their education matters. ·Presence Creates Connection: Something as simple as driving your kids to school can give dads valuable one-on-one time to listen, tell stories, ask questions, and build a relationship. Consistency matters because those everyday conversations can eventually open the door to deeper conversations. ·Dads Must Be Intentional: Whether it's attending parent-teacher conferences, meeting teachers, helping with school projects, or joining or starting an All Pro Dad Chapter, dads can find simple ways to become a consistent presence in their kids' education. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Start by showing up. Take your kids to school or pick them up when you can, meet their teachers, attend conferences, and look for opportunities to be physically present at school. 2. Use the time you have to build connection. Don't turn every car ride or school conversation into an interrogation. Tell stories about your own experiences, ask natural questions, listen, and be consistent enough that your kids learn that Dad is genuinely interested in their lives. 3. Find a way to plug in. Look for an All Pro Dad Chapter at your child's school, or ask the school administration about starting one. You don't have to have everything figured out—just take the first step toward becoming more involved. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] What Actually Happens When a Dad Shows Up at His Kid's School? [00:50] Why So Many Dads Step Out of Their Kids' Education [03:20] What Happens to Kids When Dads Do Show Up [06:51] The Simple Act of Taking Your Kid to School and Why It Changes Everything [09:53] How to Actually Make the Most of That Car Ride [11:49] Why Dads Need to Share the Mental Load of Education With Mom [13:39] How Jason Uses His Own ADHD to Connect With His Son on the Way to School [17:22] What the All Pro Dad Chapter Program Is and How It Works [20:16] What Dr. Legg Has Seen the Chapter Program Do for Schools [26:38] This Week's Pro Move: Find out if your kids' school has an All Pro Dad chapter. If it does, join it. If it doesn't consider starting one. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: Learn More about the All Pro Dad Chapter program Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E143
    August 24 · 35 min

    Should Dads Be Thinking Differently About Bedtime?

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! The most important part of your child’s day is often the way it ends. Bedtime can easily become rushed. Not because it doesn’t matter but because dads get tired or have other things on their minds. How can we make those final few minutes memorable? In this episode of the All Pro Dad podcast Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to explain why the bedtime routine matters so much and how dads can make those moments count. Why This Matters Kids may not remember everything that happened during the day, but they'll remember how they felt when Dad said goodnight. Key Takeaways 1. Bedtime is an emotional landing strip. This part of the day offers children the chance to process emotions, feel secure, and strengthen their connection with Dad. 2. Connection matters more than efficiency. Rushing bedtime may get kids to sleep faster but slowing down builds memories they'll carry for years. 3. Intentional routines create lasting impact. Simple, repeatable bedtime traditions communicate safety, consistency, and unconditional love. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Slow things down. Build in an extra 10 minutes, put your phone away, and avoid treating bedtime like another task to complete. 2. Create one repeatable connection point. Read together, pray, ask one meaningful question, develop a special handshake, or create a family tradition your kids will anticipate every night. 3. Let older kids talk when they're ready. Teenagers often open up late in the evening. Even if they're too old to be tucked in physically, they still need to be tucked in emotionally. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] How Can I Make Bedtime Matter? [00:42] Did You Have a Bedtime Routine Growing Up? [04:32] What Bedtime Looks Like in the Dads' Homes Right Now [08:37] When Bedtime Gets Hard: An Honest Confession About Getting It Wrong [13:55] Why Bedtime Is One of the Most Important Moments of the Entire Day [16:35] The Science Behind Bedtime Routines [20:45] What Dads Get Wrong at Bedtime [26:48] Why the Goal of Bedtime Is Connection, Not Efficiency [30:37] Practical Steps to Make Bedtime Matter Starting Tonight [34:07] This Week's Pro Move Tonight, don't leave your child's room feeling rushed; sit down, slow your breathing, and stay an extra two minutes after the routine ends. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources Meaningful Bedtime Routines With Your Kids 15 Statements to Encourage Your Kids at Bedtime Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E142
    August 17 · 18 min

    Why Kids Stop Listening to Their Parents

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Have your kids ever ignored you? Disobeyed you? These can be challenging moments for dads. We all want our kids to listen to us. What happens if they stop? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to dive into how dads can become the kind of people their kids trust and listen to consistently. Why This Matters Kids are far more likely to embrace a father's wisdom when they trust his character. Key Takeaways 1. Credibility is built through consistency. Kids notice when our actions don't match our words. Living out what we teach earns trust, while hypocrisy quickly destroys it. 2. Influence grows when we listen more than we lecture. Children are much more receptive when they feel heard. Asking thoughtful questions and genuinely listening often teaches more than lengthy speeches. 3. Trust is strengthened by honesty, humility, and conviction. Being truthful, admitting when we're wrong, holding healthy boundaries, and respectfully engaging differing viewpoints make dads the kind of leaders kids naturally want to follow. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Listen before you teach. Ask questions, seek to understand your child's perspective, and resist the urge to immediately lecture or solve every problem. 2. Live what you believe. Be consistent, tell the truth—even in small matters—and admit mistakes quickly. Authenticity builds long-term influence. 3. Hold firm convictions with humility. Maintain clear boundaries, stay open to learning, and disagree respectfully without dismissing your child's thoughts or concerns. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] How Do You Become Someone Your Kids Actually Want to Learn From? [00:34] What Teens Think About Journalists and What That Means for Dads [02:35] Thing to Avoid #1: Being Inconsistent [04:37] Thing to Avoid #2: Being Dogmatic [08:22] Thing to Avoid #3: Lecturing More Than You Listen [09:35] Thing to Avoid #4: Not Holding Boundaries [11:00] Thing to Avoid #5: Being Dismissive [13:36] Thing to Avoid #6: Lying to Your Kids [14:44] What to Do Instead: Listen, Learn, and Disagree With Respect [18:07] This Week's Pro Move Ask your kids their opinion on something important this week. Listen without correcting or lecturing and see what you learn from them. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: Episode 61 – What Problems Do Kids Face Today That We Didn't? Episode 95 – What Challenges Is Generation Alpha Facing? Dustin Colquitt: 5 Lessons Our Kids Should Learn From Us 7 Things Your Daughter Needs to Learn From You 5 Reasons Your Kids Should Learn From Your Mistakes Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E141
    August 10 · 24 min

    How to Raise Kids Who Think for Themselves

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Kids aren't dumb—they're developing. But in a world of endless stimulation, many children never slow down long enough to think past the next TikTok craze or YouTube short. In this episode of the All Pro Dad podcast, Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about why thinking deeply matters and how dads can intentionally develop that skill through critical thinking activities for kids. Why This Matters Kids who learn to think critically become wiser decision-makers, better problem solvers, and more thoughtful adults. Key Takeaways 1. Critical thinking develops over time. Kids naturally think about what's directly in front of them. Development plays a major role, but dads can help move them from simply reacting to actually reasoning through situations. 2. Today's world makes deep thinking difficult. Constant stimulation, shorter attention spans, fewer kids reading for fun, and the disappearance of boredom all work against developing thoughtful children. 3. Dads can intentionally teach kids to think. Critical thinking isn't just an academic skill. It helps kids consider consequences, understand different perspectives, solve problems, and make wise decisions throughout life. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Create a slow-thinking environment. Reduce constant stimulation, allow boredom, limit screens, and introduce activities like chess, books, and uninterrupted conversations that naturally develop deeper thinking. 2. Ask better questions. Instead of giving answers, ask open-ended questions like: "Why do you think that?" "What do you think happened?" "What would you do differently?" Follow-up questions teach kids how to think, not just what to think. 3. Stretch your child's time horizon. Help kids connect today's decisions with tomorrow's outcomes. Talk about future goals, long-term consequences, and the kind of person they want to become. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] Why Don't Our Kids Think Critically and What Can Dads Do About It? [00:30] Chicken on the Table and Other Signs Your Kids Aren't Thinking [03:17] Why Kids Aren't Wired to Think Critically Yet [04:12] The Difference Between Parroting and Actually Thinking [08:41] What Critical Thinking Actually Means in Kid Terms [09:36] Teaching Kids to See From Other Angles and Think Things Through [12:55] What's Getting in the Way of Kids Thinking Critically Today [16:35] Why Dads Need to Show Kids That the World Is Bigger Than Their Bubble [19:44] Practical Ways to Build Critical Thinking Into Everyday Life [23:12] This Week's Pro Move: Ask your child one thoughtful question this week—and resist the urge to answer it for them. Give them time to think. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources Episode 123 – How to Teach Your Kids Values: 4 Practical Steps for Parents 5 Ways to Prepare Your Teen for an Unpredictable Future Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E140
    August 3 · 24 min

    Kids Benefit From Difficult Experiences. Here Are a Few.

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Not making the team. Getting a poor grade. Going through a breakup. All of these things are hard experiences for kids. But, there is value in navigating difficult things. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to discuss how kids benefit from hardship and how dads should resist the urge to rescue them. Why This Matters Kids don't develop resilience by avoiding hardship—they develop it by learning to overcome it. Key Takeaways • Difficult experiences often become our greatest teachers and shape character. • Waiting, boredom, failure, and struggle help children develop patience, perseverance, and emotional maturity. • Dads should walk alongside their kids through hard moments instead of trying to eliminate every obstacle. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Practice gratitude by helping your family recognize the growth that can come from difficult seasons. 2. Empathize with your child's struggles without immediately trying to solve every problem for them. 3. Offer wisdom and encouragement while allowing your child to work through challenges on their own. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] What Are Some Things That Are Surprisingly Good for Kids? [00:51] Difficult Seasons That Changed the Dads for the Better [05:14] Heartbreak and Sadness Benefit Kids [07:07] Painful Experiences Prepare Kids for Life [09:27] Waiting Is One of the Most Underrated Things Kids Do [13:28] Boredom Is Good for Kids and Over-scheduling Robs Them of It [16:03] Struggles Build Kids the Same Way Resistance Builds Muscle [18:10] How to Intentionally Introduce Struggle in a Safe and Fun Way [20:33] Failure Is One of the Greatest Teachers Your Kids Will Ever Have [22:55] This Week's Pro Move Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: Episode 93 – How Do I Make the Social Media Algorithm Work For Me? Anxiety and Depression Study Anxiety in Teen Girls 5 Ways to Feed Your Teen’s Anxiety Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E139
    July 27 · 34 min

    What About You Will Your Kids Repeat Or Reject?

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Remember those things your dad did that you didn’t like? How about what you enjoyed? Have you repeated them now that you’re a parent? Or did you make a change? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to discuss our parenting habits, what they mean to our children, and think through the things about us our kids will emulate or eliminate. Why This Matters Every interaction with your kids is shaping the kind of parent they'll become someday. Key Takeaways · Children naturally imitate far more of our parenting than we realize, both the good and the bad. · Harshness, absence, and constant pressure often become the behaviors kids intentionally reject later in life. · Listening well, showing up consistently, and apologizing when we're wrong create a legacy worth repeating. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Identify one parenting habit your kids may someday want to eliminate—and begin replacing it with a healthier response. 2. Prioritize presence by showing up consistently for everyday moments, not just major milestones. 3. Model humility by listening carefully and apologizing when you've handled a situation poorly. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] What Are Your Kids Going to Copy From You and What Will They Cut? Ted frames an honest conversation about the habits, traditions, and behaviors dads are passing down right now. [00:30] Why Bobby Started Thinking About What He Copied From His Own Dad Bobby connects Sunday roast beef at grandma's house to his own family rhythms today, realizing he's replicated far more of his upbringing than he ever thought. [02:11] What the Guys Have Emulated From Their Dads The dads share the things they consciously carried forward from their fathers. [04:44] What the Guys Have Eliminated From Their Dads Bobby opens up about his biological dad walking out when he was five and the decision he made in first grade never to break his own family apart, while Ted reflects on unconsciously repeating his dad's habit of driving away when frustrated. [09:55] Why We End Up Doing the Very Things We Swore We Never Would Ted shares a Michigan State study showing children copy adult actions with up to 90% accuracy, and the guys get honest about catching themselves repeating patterns they promised themselves they'd leave behind. [14:07] Things Dads Are Doing Right Now That They Hope Their Kids Will Eliminate The dads walk through the behaviors they most want to cut and why each one quietly chips away at the relationship. [18:41] Presence Over Perfection is the Goal Physical presence without emotional presence is its own form of absence, and why small intentional moments matter more than dads often realize. [22:31] Things Dads Are Doing Right Now That They Hope Their Kids Will Copy The dads urge others to listen well, prioritize presence, and model the kind of engaged fatherhood that kids will carry into their own families someday. [27:57] Why Dads Who Apologize Have Better Relationships Apologizing quickly and genuinely is one of the most powerful things a dad can model and research backs it up. [32:05] This Week's Pro Move: Identify One Thing You Want to Eliminate as a Dad Intentionally replace a parenting habit this week that you think your kids may eventually eliminate. Replace it with a habit you'd be proud for them to emulate. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: 5 Ways Dads Make Things Harder on Themselves 3 Mistakes Parents Make With Well-Behaved Kids Emulate or Eliminate on Instagram Emulate or Eliminate on YouTube Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E138
    July 20 · 24 min

    8 Things Dads Should Never Say to Their Kids

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! We've all said something we thought would be helpful only to later regret the harm we caused. We had good intentions, but still messed up. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to discuss the lasting impact a father's words can have on his children. They unpack common phrases dads often say without realizing the damage they can cause and offer healthier, more encouraging alternatives that build confidence in kids. Why This Matters A father's words often become a child's inner voice, making it critical to speak truth, encouragement, and love with intention. Key Takeaways · Avoid labels, comparisons, and discouraging statements that attack your child's identity instead of addressing their behavior. · Encourage effort, growth, and resilience without offering false praise or unrealistic promises. · Sometimes the most powerful message isn't a perfect speech—it's consistently reminding your children they're loved, believed in, and never alone. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Replace criticism of your child's identity with coaching about their choices or behavior. 2. Follow through when you promise your child your time, showing them they are a priority. 3. Make encouragement a daily habit by telling your children you believe in them, you're proud of their effort, and you love them unconditionally. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] What Should Dads Stop Saying to Their Kids? [00:50] The Night BJ's Son Wrote His Article for Him [03:50] “Why Can’t You Be More Like Your Brother?” [05:49] "I Don't Have Time Right Now.” [09:03] "I Don't Think You Can Do It.” [12:04] "You're Such a Disappointment.” [15:08] "Don't Be Such a Wimp.” [16:47] The Danger of Labels — Even the Ones Said as a Joke [18:19] "You Can't Do Anything Right.” [19:40] “Why Didn’t You ____?” [22:12] Nothing. [23:28] This Week's Pro Move: Ask your kids, “Have I ever said anything that hurt you?” Listen to their response and own it. Quotable: “I don’t think dads have bad hearts. I think we have bad habits.” - Ted Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: Episode 8 – What Are 7 Things A Son Needs From His Dad? Episode 9 – What Are 7 Things A Daughter Needs From Her Dad? Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E137
    July 13 · 21 min

    The Parenting Advice AI Can't Give You

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to discuss whether dads should trust AI for difficult parenting questions. They explore where AI can be helpful, where it can mislead parents, and why wisdom from experienced people still matters most when raising kids. Why This Matters AI can provide information, but it can never replace the wisdom, discernment, and personal knowledge that great parenting requires. Key Takeaways AI is a helpful research tool, but it shouldn't become your primary parenting advisor. Your child is unique, and no AI can understand your family's history, personality, or circumstances the way you can. The best parenting advice comes from trusted relationships, experienced parents, qualified professionals, and proven research, not algorithms alone. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Before asking AI, talk with someone who knows you and your family personally. 2. When AI gives advice, verify the original research and sources before acting on it. 3. Build a circle of trusted mentors, experienced parents, and professionals you can turn to for life's biggest parenting questions. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] Is It Wise for Parents to Turn to AI for Tough Parenting Questions? [00:49] How Confident Are Dads in AI-Generated Answers — and Should They Be? [02:47] Why Bobby Doesn't Trust AI — and Why That's Actually a Smart Instinct [04:21] The Hallucination Problem: When AI Gets It Wrong With Total Confidence [06:16] AI Doesn't Know Your Kid — and That's a Bigger Problem Than Most Dads Realize [07:47] The Sycophancy Problem: AI Is Designed to Tell You What You Want to Hear [09:15] The CEO and the Intern: Why Dads Shouldn't Let a Machine Run Their Family [13:21] Where Dads Should Actually Go for Parenting Advice [16:46] Why Trusted Friends and Real Counselors Will Always Outperform Any Algorithm [19:17] This Week's Pro Move: Before asking AI your next big parenting question, ask one trusted parent or mentor who knows you and your child personally. Compare the two answers—and let wisdom from someone who truly cares carry the most weight. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: 12 Ways Dads Can Lead Their Children 3 Character Traits to Affirm in Your Kids 5 Reasons Dads Should Be Ready for Teachable Moments Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E136
    July 6 · 31 min

    How Do I Raise Kids Who Learn From Failure?

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Is your daughter struggling to tie her shoes? Did your son strike out to end the game? Did they fail the big driver’s test? Kids are going to fail throughout life. What will you say in the moment? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to discuss why failure is an essential part of childhood. They explore why dads naturally want to protect their kids from failure, how failure builds resilience and wisdom, and offer practical ways to help children grow stronger through disappointment instead of rescuing them from it. Why This Matters Every child will fail. The question isn't whether it will happen—it's what happens after it does. Learning from failure is the first step to embracing it. Key Takeaways Normalize failure. Failure isn't a reflection of your child's worth—it's evidence they're learning, growing, and taking healthy risks. Encourage healthy risk-taking. Kids develop resilience when dads create safe environments where trying, failing, and trying again are celebrated. Respond better than you rescue. The goal isn't to remove failure but to walk with your child through it, affirming their value while helping them reflect and grow. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Separate identity from performance. Remind your kids they're loved regardless of success or failure. 2. Praise effort, courage, and character. Celebrate the willingness to try more than the outcome itself. 3. Process failure together. Listen first, acknowledge emotions, ask thoughtful questions, and help your child discover what they learned before moving on. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] How Do We Help Our Kids Learn From and Embrace Failure? [00:46] Striking Out and Running and Wrong Way [04:04] What J.K. Rowling's Story Teaches Dads About Failure and Success [05:30] How Do Your Kids Actually Handle Failure and Where Did They Learn That? [11:38] The Danger of Failure Becoming an Identity Instead of an Experience [13:38] Why Dads Should Read the Room After Failure [17:02] Remove the Stigma: Failure Is a Byproduct of Ambition [18:07] Encourage Failure on Purpose — Give Kids Low-Stakes Chances to Fail [21:37] Affirm Their Worth, Applaud Their Effort, and Redefine Success [26:54] This Week's Pro Move: This week, ask your child, "What did you fail at today?" Then tell them about one of your own failures and what it taught you. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: Episode 36 – Mike Norvell: How Do I Help My Kids Through Success and Failure? Episode 32 – Dan Orlovsky: How Should Dads Behave in the Bleachers? 10 Things to Teach Your Kids About Failure 7 A’s to Help Your Kids Overcome Failure Giving Your Teenager the Freedom to Fail Instagram: @thetedshed Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E135
    June 29 · 24 min

    How to Stop Being a Controlling Parent

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! It’s very easy for dads to start correcting and slip into controlling. It almost always backfires. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to wrestle with the harsh truth that dads like to control things, and that could be harming our kids. Why This Matters While control may produce short-term compliance, it often leads to long-term resistance or dependence. Key Takeaways Control often grows out of fear. Fear of embarrassment, failure, disrespect, or what a child's behavior might become years down the road can cause dads to overcorrect in the moment. You can influence your children, but you cannot control them. Boundaries, consequences, and guidance matter, but manipulation, intimidation, and guilt ultimately undermine growth. Influence is more powerful than force. Force may change behavior temporarily, but influence shapes character and maturity over time. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Identify your parenting triggers. Know the situations that consistently cause you to overreact and prepare healthier responses ahead of time. 2. Replace control with choices. Give clear options and clear consequences rather than relying on threats, pressure, or raising your voice. 3. Choose your battles wisely. Focus your energy on issues that truly matter, such as character and respect, while allowing room for age-appropriate mistakes and independence. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] Why Control Backfires With Your Kids and What Actually Works Long Term [00:23] You Can't Make a Kid Do Anything [04:39] The Line Between Teaching and Controlling [06:45] Fear Is What's Really Driving Controlling Behavior in Dads [09:18] When Dads Perform for Others Instead of Parenting Their Kids [11:16] You Can Influence Your Kids But You Can't Control Who They Become [13:46] Knowing and Responding to Your Triggers [18:58] Be More Realistic — You Can't Expect Kids to Know What You Never Taught Them [19:42] Choices, Consequences, and Slowing Down [22:11] This Week's Pro Move The next time you're tempted to control your child's behavior, pause and offer a clear choice with a clear consequence instead. Then calmly follow through and let responsibility do the teaching. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: 4 Kinds of Parental Control Dads Use Episode 100 – What Phrases Should Dads Stop Using? Episode 34 – How Can I Stop Being So Controlling? Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E134
    June 22 · 28 min

    Sleepovers: Harmless Fun or Hidden Risk?

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Staying up late, eating junk food, and hanging out with friends. Sleepovers are the source of so many good memories for many people. But they aren’t danger-free. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to ask if sleepovers are good for kids, if the upsides outweigh the risks, and what dads need to know about overnight stays. Why This Matters Today’s parents are thinking about sleepover safety more than ever. Dads are considering supervision, peer influence, pornography exposure, and emotional readiness before automatically saying yes to sleepovers. Key Takeaways • Just because sleepovers are common doesn’t mean they are automatically wise for every family. • Sleepover can be fun, but also offer prime environments for sexual assault, pornography exposure, and pressure to use drugs or alcohol. • There are healthy alternatives to traditional sleepovers, like “late overs” instead of overnight stays. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Ask intentional questions before sending your child to a sleepover. Ask the host family about supervision, the presence of older siblings, phone access, house rules, and whether you have common values. 2. Prepare your kids ahead of time. Talk openly about unsafe situations, pornography exposure, inappropriate behavior, and create a code word or phrase they can use if they want to come home immediately. 3. If you host sleepovers, set clear boundaries. Keep kids in common areas, establish a smartphone curfew, secure firearms, and check in throughout the night. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] Are Sleepovers Good for Kids? Ted frames a conversation about approaching sleepovers not from fear but from wisdom, helping dads make intentional decisions for their own families. [00:51] Sleepover Stories From the Guys — From Innocent to Eye-Opening The dads share their own childhood sleepover memories, ranging from sleeping bags at the Jersey Shore to an unexpected discovery in an older brother's room. [03:44] Sleepover Regrets Ted reflects honestly on how his own middle school sleepovers introduced him to alcohol, pornography, and tobacco. [07:28] Real Benefits of Sleepovers That Make Them Worth Considering The dads walk through the genuine upsides of sleepovers — deeper friendships, independence, shared memories, unstructured fun, and the social inclusion kids naturally crave — and why most parents still view them positively. [10:32] Why More Parents Are Starting to Question Sleepovers Bobby shares YouGov research showing a growing shift in parental concern over sleepovers, with worries about lack of supervision, bullying, gun access, and exposure to drugs and alcohol driving a more cautious approach. [11:24] Sobering Statistics Every Dad Should Know Before Saying Yes Research shows that 90% of child sexual abuse is committed by someone the child already knows, and that a significant portion of abuse involving children is actually carried out by other juveniles. The dads discuss sleepover safety concerns. [15:47] The Most Important Thing To Do Before Letting Your Kid Sleep Over BJ makes the case that preparation matters more than prohibition. Dads should have ongoing, honest conversations with their kids about what's appropriate, what to do if they feel unsafe, and what they might be exposed to. [19:22] The Code Word Strategy That Gives Kids a Safe Exit Without Losing Face Bobby and Ted explain the code word system they both use with their kids. [22:00] Smart Alternatives to Traditional Sleepovers and Tips for Hosting Safely Bobby walks through practical alternatives like the "late-over" or "sleep-under" concept and shares specific child sleepover safety guidelines. [26:04] This Week's Pro Move Make a pros and cons list for your family about sleepovers and create clear rules for any future overnight stays. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: 7 Ways to Host an Awesome Sleepover iMOM: The Pros and Cons of Sleepovers. Should You Say Yes? For a mom's perspective on this topic, check out Episode 76 of the iMOM Podcast: Sleepovers: Yes or No? Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E133
    June 15 · 20 min

    The Hidden Pressure Teens Are Carrying

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! “There’s a big exam on Friday. Will I get invited to the party? Will I even get into college?” There are so many things bouncing around our teens’ heads. No wonder anxiety is at an all-time high. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to discuss why anxiety and depression are affecting so many teens today. Why This Matters Teens today are carrying enormous emotional pressure, often silently. Dads play a critical role in helping teens feel safe, understood, and supported as they navigate anxiety, stress, and emotional struggles. Key Takeaways Teen girls often feel intense pressure around appearance, relationships, and perfection. Teen boys frequently hide anxiety because they fear looking weak or vulnerable. Doomscrolling and nonstop exposure to negative content can increase anxiety and emotional stress. Emotional struggles are not always obvious, especially in quiet or high-performing kids. Dads need to prioritize listening, empathy, and emotional safety over simply “fixing” problems. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Listen and empathize first. Don’t minimize your teen’s feelings, even if their worries seem small to you. Their experiences are real to them. 2. Create emotional safety. Let your kids know they can talk honestly without fear of judgment or shame. 3. Teach that stress is normal. Help teens understand that challenges, pressure, and setbacks are part of life and can build resilience. 4. Avoid rescuing too quickly. Support your kids through struggles without solving every problem for them. 5. Pay attention to hidden anxiety. Quiet kids and boys especially may hide emotional struggles behind silence, anger, or withdrawal. 6. Limit unhealthy influences. Monitor social media, doomscrolling, and comparison-heavy content that increases emotional pressure. 7. Teach healthy coping mechanisms. Encourage exercise, sleep, deep breathing, positive thinking, outdoor activity, and face-to-face relationships. 8. Reinforce value outside performance. Help your teens know they are loved for who they are, not just what they achieve. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] Why Are So Many Teens Struggling with Anxiety and Depression? Ted introduces the episode's central question and sets up a practical conversation for any dad raising an anxious child. [00:40] Did You Struggle with Anxiety Growing Up? BJ, Bobby, and Ted share their own middle and high school anxiety stories. [02:54] What the Research Says About Anxiety in Teen Boys vs. Girls Pew Research found that anxiety and depression rank as the top struggle for both boys and girls, making it vital dads learn how to help kids with anxiety. [04:22] Girls and Boys Experience Anxiety Differently Girls face unique pressures around appearance, comparison, and performance, while boys deal with anxiety in other areas. [08:19] Why Dads Must Create a Safe Space for Sons to Talk About Anxiety Ted shares how he discovered his son's anxiety through a family friend and makes the case that dads must know how to help sons with anxiety. [09:28] Social Pressure, Bullying, and the Peer Comparison Trap BJ and Bobby break down how fitting in, physical and social bullying, and the pressure to keep up with peers quietly fuel anxiety. [11:25] How Doomscrolling Is Making Teen Anxiety Worse BJ explains why Harvard Health research shows girls are hit harder by doomscrolling than boys. [13:17] The Chemical Reality: Why Teen Girls Can Become Anxious About Being Anxious Bobby shares research from the Child Mind Institute explaining how puberty and emotional sensitivity can cause girls' anxiety to compound while boys' tend to bottle things up. [15:03] Listen, Empathize, and Normalize Anxiety Instead of Trying to Fix It The dads walk through what it actually looks like to show up for an anxious kid. [19:22] The Pro Move Ask your teen, “What gives you the most anxiety right now, and how do you usually deal with it?” Then listen carefully, empathize honestly, and resist the urge to immediately fix the problem. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: Episode 2 – How Can I Help My Anxious Kid? Episode 111 – What Should I Do When My Kids Are Scared? 5 Ways Parents Cause Their Teens Anxiety Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E132
    June 8 · 26 min

    The Power of Words: Teaching Kids to Use Language Well

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! We’ve all been there. You hear your kid use a four-letter word for the first time. Or belittle someone else. Do your kids understand the power of their words? In this episode of the All Pro Dad podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about how often our kids use words without thinking about the consequences and what dads can do to shape kids’ language. Why This Matters The words we use shape relationships, build trust, and influence how kids see themselves and others. Key Takeaways Kids learn the power of language primarily by listening to the adults around them. Compliments and encouragement often have a longer-lasting impact than we realize. A child’s language often reveals deeper heart issues, influences, or emotional struggles. Parents should pay attention to the influences shaping their kids’ communication, including friends, music, movies, and online content. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Model the language you want your kids to use. Praise your spouse, encourage others openly, and speak respectfully even when frustrated. 2. Practice “reverse gossip.” Speak highly of people behind their backs and let your kids hear it regularly. 3. Build gratitude into family rhythms. Use moments like dinner conversations to encourage thankfulness and affirmation. 4. Address hurtful language quickly. Teach kids the difference between joking around and attacking someone’s dignity. 5. Talk about the “why” behind words. Ask questions that uncover the heart posture behind the language your kids use. 6. Monitor influences carefully. Pay attention to the friends, media, music, and online content shaping your child’s communication habits. 7. Teach honesty as a core family value. Help kids understand that trust is built through consistent truthfulness. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] How Can We Teach Our Kids the Power of Language? Ted frames a conversation about how the words dads model at home shape the way their kids speak for years to come. [00:49] The Words We Wish We Could Take Back: Honest Stories From the Guys BJ, Ted, and Bobby share cringe-worthy moments when their words caused unintended harm. [04:12] The Surprising Power of the Right Word at the Right Moment The dads reflect on times a well-timed compliment or word of affirmation made a lasting impact on someone. [06:01] Why Kids Already Know 42 Taboo Words by Age Five Ted shares unsettling research about how early children absorb harsh language. [07:23] How to Model the Power of Language at Home Every Day The dads discuss practical ways dads can demonstrate uplifting language in action. [10:17] Reverse Gossip, Doug Compliments, and Other Ways to Build People Up Bobby introduces the concept of reverse gossip, Ted shares the Doug Compliment tradition, and BJ explains why passing along praise is one of the most powerful things a dad can do. [13:11] How Careless Words at Home Become Bullying Behavior Everywhere Else Ted and BJ connect the dots between the language kids use with siblings at home and the bullying behavior that shows up at school. [14:48] Cursing, Tone, and What Really Tears People Down BJ offers a nuanced take on cursing, arguing that tone, posture, and dehumanizing language do far more damage than any particular word. [19:01] Why Lying Is the Most Damaging Language of All The dads explain why dishonesty is the most common way to destroys trust, and why creating a home where kids feel safe to tell the truth is one of the most important things a dad can do. [21:30] This Week's Pro Move: Ask your kids why they think some kids use curse words. Talk about where language comes from, how words affect others, and what kind of people your family wants to be through the way you speak. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources Mark Merrill on CBS News: What To Do When Your Kid Starts Swearing Episode 3 – What Are The Words My Kids Long to Hear? Episode 8 – What Are 7 Things A Son Needs From His Dad? Episode 9 – What Are 7 Things A Daughter Needs From Her Dad? Episode 118 – What Do Dads Need to Stop Saying to Their Kids? Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E131
    June 1 · 21 min

    Dad Advice I'd Give My Younger Self

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! All dads are a work in progress. We've yelled when we shouldn't have. We've been impatient and overreacted. If you could go back and tell your younger self something, what would it be? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about most dad wisdom comes through experience and giving yourself grace is a must. Why This Matters Many dads carry pressure they were never meant to carry. We think we have to get everything right, fix every problem, and shape every detail of our kids’ futures. But parenting is less about control and more about presence, consistency, and connection. Looking back on fatherhood helps dads identify what truly mattered—and what didn’t—so they can parent with more peace, wisdom, and intentionality today. Key Takeaways · Parenting gets healthier when dads learn to respond instead of react. · Kids do not need constant entertainment or problem-solving from parents in order to grow. · Empathy helps children process emotions without removing accountability. · Dads often underestimate how quickly childhood passes. · Consistency, humility, and apologizing to your kids build trust and security. · Bringing kids into your world creates lasting memories and deeper relationships. · Kids are born with unique temperaments that dads are meant to nurture, not completely reshape. · Choosing family over work and distractions pays lifelong dividends. Practical Steps for Dads 1. Pause before reacting when your kids frustrate you. Create space for wisdom instead of responding emotionally. 2. Let your kids experience boredom and manageable problems instead of rescuing them immediately. 3. Practice empathy by helping your kids identify and process emotions calmly. 4. Be intentional about enjoying the current season of parenting instead of rushing toward the next stage. 5. Apologize when you fail. Humility strengthens your relationship with your children. 6. Prioritize your family over unnecessary work, distractions, and commitments. 7. Create one-on-one experiences with your kids by bringing them into your world whenever possible. 8. Focus on nurturing your child’s personality instead of trying to force them into someone they are not. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] What Would You Go Back and Tell Younger You as a Dad? [00:37] Relax and Stop Rushing to the Next Season of Parenting [05:15] It's Okay for Your Kids to Be Bored — and You Don't Have to Solve All Their Problems [06:52] Pause Before Responding and Lead With Empathy [08:24] Kids Come Out a Way — Stop Trying to Completely Reshape Them [10:10] Keep Being Real and Keep Being Fun — Your Kids Need Both [13:35] Keep Apologizing When You Fail — It Models More Than You Know [15:06] Embrace Failure — Good Dads Fail Their Way Into Wisdom [17:47] Embrace the Hard — Raising Kids Is the Most Important Thing You'll Ever Do [18:14] This Week's Pro Move: Write a Letter to Your Younger Dad Self Take five minutes this week and write down what you would tell your younger self as a dad—both wisdom and encouragement—and keep it somewhere you will see regularly. All Pro Dad Resources: Episode 22 – What Do I Wish I Had Know Sooner as a Dad? Dan Orlovsky: 4 Things I’d Tell My Younger Self About Being a Dad Tony Dungy: What Advice Would You Give Your Younger Self? 5 Things I Wish I Knew in My 30s and 40s Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E130
    May 25 · 27 min

    Rites of Passage Are Critical for Kids: Here's How to Create One

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Hunting lions. Camping outdoors alone. Whatever happened to rites of passage? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about why creating milestone moments matters for kids as they mature into adulthood. Why This Matters Modern kids may be missing out on meaningful transitions into adulthood. Key Takeaways • Rites of passage help kids develop identity, courage, responsibility, and belonging. • Modern milestones often happen passively, but meaningful growth usually requires challenge and intentionality. • Kids build confidence when they overcome hard things and are recognized for their growth and maturity. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Ask yourself what kind of adult you want your child to become when they leave your home. 2. Create intentional experiences, challenges, or ceremonies that help shape courage, resilience, and responsibility. 3. Celebrate growth and maturity when your child overcomes something difficult or reaches a new stage of life. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] Should Dads Be Intentional About Rites of Passage for Their Kids? [00:38] The Most Extreme Rites of Passage Around the World [07:47] Why American Kids Have Lost Their Rites of Passage [08:05] What a Real Rite of Passage Looks Like — and Why It Has to Be Personal [11:43] The Emotional Cost of Never Being Told You've Become a Man [15:46] What a Navy SEAL Taught Us About Why Rites of Passage [19:45] Ushering Kids Into Adulthood: Doing It With Them vs. For Them [21:40] The 3 Things Every Meaningful Rite of Passage Should Include [25:39] How to Start Building a Rite of Passage for Your Kid Right Now [26:20] This Week's Pro Move: Think about a rite of passage you can create for your child and take a step toward making it happen. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: Crafting a Rite of Passage For Your Son Susan Merrill: Sons’ Rites of Passage Mark Merrill: The Blessing Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E129
    May 18 · 18 min

    Taking Initiative in Your Marriage: Step Up Before You Are Asked

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! He thinks he’s helping. She feels like she’s carrying everything. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster to unpack why so many couples miss each other when it comes to initiative—and what dads can do to step up in ways that actually build connection. Why This Matters When dads take initiative at home, it strengthens partnership, reduces stress, and builds deeper connection with both their spouse and kids. Key Takeaways • The real issue isn’t just physical tasks—it’s the unseen mental and emotional load many wives carry. • Initiative isn’t about doing more—it’s about communicating presence, awareness, and partnership. • Small, consistent actions—like emotional check-ins and owning responsibilities—can transform the tone of a home. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Check in intentionally: Slow down, ask meaningful questions, and listen without trying to fix everything. 2. Own a lane: Take full responsibility for a part of family life—don’t just “help,” lead it. 3. Go first in repair: After conflict, take initiative to reconnect and reset the relationship. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] What Does It Look Like to Take Initiative With Your Wife and Kids? [00:51] Why Good Intentions Without Initiative Leave Your Wife Feeling Alone [02:27] Why So Many Marriages Fall Apart After the Kids Leave Home [04:04] The Power of Emotional Check-Ins [05:17] Taking Initiative With Date Nights, Vacations, and the Decisions Your Wife Is Tired of Making [06:44] Pick a Lane: How Owning Household and Kid Logistics Changes Everything [09:49] Stop "Babysitting" Your Own Kids: What Real Parenting Initiative Looks Like [12:42] How Taking Initiative With Your Kids Relieves Stress and Strengthens Your Marriage [13:48] Repair and Reconnection: Why the Stronger Person Always Goes First [15:56] This Week's Pro Move Pick one area at home and take full ownership—don’t announce it, just do it consistently and let your actions speak. Quotable: “Good intentions with low initiative makes her feel really alone.” –BJ Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources: Episode 106 – What is a Passenger Parent and Am I One? Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E128
    May 11 · 32 min

    Am I Sharenting?: The Dangers of Oversharing Online

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Posting photos of your kids feels harmless—but what if there’s more at stake than we realize? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about “sharenting,” why we do it, and how to know if we’ve gone too far. Why This Matters How dads share their kids’ lives online shapes their children’s privacy, identity, and future relationship with social media. Key Takeaways • “Sharenting” is common—most parents do it—but few stop to consider their true motivation. • Sharing can build connection and preserve memories, but it can also risk privacy, safety, and future embarrassment. • Kids are watching how we post, and our habits will shape how they use social media someday. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Pause before posting and ask: “Why am I sharing this—and who is it really for?” 2. Protect your child’s privacy by limiting identifiable details like location, school, or routines. 3. Involve your kids in conversations about what should and shouldn’t be shared online. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] What Is Sharenting and Are You Doing It? [00:48] How Much Do Dads Actually Share About Their Kids Online? [06:21] What Is Sharenting? The Origin of the Term and Why It Matters [09:11] Why Parents Share Their Kids Online — and When the Reasons Are Good [11:23] The 5 Reasons Parents Overshare About Their Kids on Social Media [13:06] The Privacy Problem: What Happens When Everything About Your Kid Is Public? [15:47] The Real Privacy Risks of Posting Your Kids Online [19:58] Are Your Kids Your Content? Questions Every Dad Should Ask Before Posting [25:35] How to Share More Safely: Practical Tips for Protecting Your Kids Online [30:58] This Week's Pro Move: Have a conversation with your kids about sharing information online—then decide together who you want your family to be online. All Pro Dad Resources: Episode 95 – What Challenges is Generation Alpha Facing? Episode 110 – Should Kids Be Social Media Influencer? Episode 119 – How Dangerous is Doomscrolling? Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E127
    May 4 · 29 min

    How to Raise Kids Who Can Do Hard Things

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Are we raising resilient kids—or accidentally making life harder for them later? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about whether today’s parenting trends are helping kids thrive or quietly coddling them. Why This Matters Dads play a critical role in preparing kids to handle real-world challenges with confidence, resilience, and independence. Key Takeaways • Kids today experience connection, independence, and challenges very differently than previous generations. • Overprotecting and over-helping can unintentionally weaken a child’s ability to handle adversity. • Building resilience requires letting kids face discomfort, failure, and responsibility. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Create space for independence—let your kids solve problems, make decisions, and even fail. 2. Resist the urge to step in too quickly—coach instead of control. 3. Introduce responsibility early and consistently hold your kids accountable. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] Are We Coddling Our Kids? What Dads Need to Know About Raising Resilient Children [00:38] How Kids Today Experience Childhood Differently Than Their Dads Did [04:01] What Social Psychologist Jonathan Haidt Says About Coddling [05:30] When Labels Like "Triggers" and "Trauma" Help and Hurt Kids [09:17] What the Dead Poets Society Reaction Reveals About Generation Z [11:39] How to Spot Coddling in Your Own Home [16:42] The 4 Ways Dads Coddle Without Realizing It [20:31] How to Coach Your Kids Up and Then Let Them Go [23:59] Why Free Play and Boredom Are Actually Good for Kids [27:19] This Week's Pro Move" Give your child at least one responsibility this week that they can fully own—then step back and let them handle it. Quotable: "If they can do it, let them do it, and they can probably do more than we think that they could." - Ted All Pro Dad Resources: Episode 98 – How to Build Resilient Children 4 Ways to Raise Resilient Kids Dan Orlovsky: 5 Ways to Teach a Daughter to Have Grit Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

  • S1 · E126
    April 27 · 22 min

    How to Respond Better to Your Kids: 5 Habits That Are Hurting Your Connection

    We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Most dads focus on what they say—but what if the real impact comes from how they respond? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to explore what AI surprisingly gets right about responding—and how dads can use those insights to build stronger, more connected relationships at home. Why This Matters The way a dad responds in everyday moments sets the tone for connection, trust, and emotional safety in his home. Key Takeaways • Slowing down your response communicates value and builds stronger relationships. • Not taking things personally helps you stay steady and keeps the door open with your kids. • Small shifts—like staying present, not escalating, and adjusting over time—can transform connection. 5 Dad Habits That Hurt Connection 1. We rush. 2. We take things personally. 3. We hijack the moment. 4. We escalate. 5. We don’t adjust. Practical Tips for Dads 1. Pause before responding: Even a few seconds can shift you from reacting to connecting. 2. Stay in their moment: Resist the urge to fix, teach, or redirect too quickly. 3. Adjust as they grow: Stay curious about who your child is today, not who they used to be. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] How to Respond Better to Your Kids Every Day [00:48] What AI Gets Right About Responding That Dads Often Get Wrong [01:38] Poor Habit #1: We Rush [05:14] Poor Habit #2: We Take Things Personally [06:17] Poor Habit #3: We Hijack the Moment [12:53] Poor Habit #4: We Escalate [16:11] Why Staying Steady as a Dad Is a Skill [17:38] Poor Habit #5: We Don’t Adjust [20:31] This Week's Pro Move Before you respond this week, silently ask: “Is this building connection—or just proving a point?” All Pro Dad Resources: Episode 87 – How Can I Connect With My Kids? How To Be A Better Listener to Your Kids 5 Thing To Do When You're Struggling to Connect With Your Kid Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com

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