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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! Some days your kids are motivated and ready to take on the world. Other days, they can’t figure out where to begin. What gives? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about how dads can help their kids become self-starters by letting them make mistakes and own their responsibilities. Why This Matters Our goal as dads isn't simply to raise kids who do what they're told. We want to raise adults who can recognize what needs to be done, take responsibility, solve problems, and take the first step without waiting for someone to push them. Self-starting is not just a personality trait—it's a skill kids can develop through practice, responsibility, appropriate freedom, and learning from failure. Key Takeaways · Kids learn initiative partly by watching us. Before asking whether our kids are self-starters, we should ask whether we're modeling initiative, perseverance, and responsibility ourselves. · Kids need increasing control and ownership. When we constantly remind kids, solve their problems, or do things for them because it's faster and cleaner, we may unintentionally prevent them from developing initiative. · Kids need room to fail, learn, and try again. Mistakes and natural consequences aren't necessarily problems to eliminate; they can become opportunities for kids to develop grit, self-control, problem-solving skills, and confidence. Practical Tips for Dads 1.    Give your kids something to own. Instead of assigning individual tasks that require constant reminders, give your child responsibility for an area of family life. Don't just say, “Take out the trash.” Give them ownership of making sure the trash doesn't overflow. 2.    Give them control—even when it makes your life harder. Let kids make age-appropriate decisions, solve problems, and experience the natural consequences of their choices. A little mess, inconvenience, or failure today can help build independence for tomorrow. 3.    Focus on what they learn, then gradually step back. Ask what your child learned from a challenge rather than focusing only on the result. Teach them how to manage the task, stand beside them while they learn, and then gradually stop being the person who starts them. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] How Can I Help My Kid Become a Self-Starter? [00:38] Are the Guys Self-Starters — and Were They Growing Up? [04:07] Why Modeling Matters — and Why None of Them Are Perfect at It [07:31] Why Raising Self-Starters Actually Matters for Your Kids' Future [11:50] The Marshmallow Study [15:33] Give Kids Control and Then Get Out of the Way [18:27] Let Kids Make Mistakes and Resist the Urge to Step In [22:30] The Contract That Changed Ted's Son Overnight [27:41] Training Kids for Self-Starting: Chore Charts, Ownership, and Natural Consequences [32:26] This Week's Pro Move: Give Your Kid Something to Control Ted wraps up by challenging dads to identify one thing they currently control that they can hand off to their kid this week — and trust them to own it. 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 48 – How Do We Inspire Motivation in Our Kids? Episode 71 - Tony Dungy: Am I Building My Children’s Autonomy? 4 Things Kids Learn When We Do Things for Them 5 Questions to Ask When Your Child Won’t Act Responsibly How to Raise a Fragile Child 5 Things That Kids Can Do for You Fathering Your School Aged Child 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

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! Sports gambling is no longer relegated to casinos in Las Vegas or Atlantic City. It’s in your pocket, available to everyone—including kids—through apps, websites, and even online video games. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to discuss the potential impact of early exposure to gambling and what dads can do to help their kids understand the risks. Why This MattersKids need to understand how gambling works, why the odds favor the house, how gambling can become compulsive, and why hiding gambling or chasing losses can damage trust and relationships. Key Takeaways1. A study from Common Sense Media found that 36% of boys ages 11–17 reported gambling in the past year. 2. Early exposure can normalize gambling and make risky behavior seem like harmless entertainment. 3. Dads can help by talking openly about gambling, teaching how the odds work, paying attention to what kids are doing online, and creating an environment where kids can tell the truth. Practical Tips For Dads 1. Start the conversation before there's a problem. Don't wait until you discover your child has placed a bet. Ask questions like: “Have you ever seen a sports betting ad?”“Do any of your friends talk about betting?”“What do you think about sports gambling?”“Have you ever seen gambling in a video game?”The goal isn't to interrogate your child. It's to make sure they know they can talk to you. 2. Teach your kids how gambling actually works. Explain probability, odds, and the fact that gambling companies are designed to make money. 3. Pay attention to what your kids are doing online. Know what games they play, what apps they use, what they're watching, and what their friends are talking about. 4. Create an environment where your kids can tell the truth. Your child needs to know that if they make a bad decision, they can come to you. Important Episode Timestamps:[00:00] Are We Raising a Generation of Gamblers? [00:57] How Accessible Gambling Has Become [04:31] Kids’ Developing Brains Make Gambling Especially Dangerous [07:16] Where Are Kids Actually Gambling and Do Dads Even Know? [09:35] The Real Consequences: Financial Damage, Shame, and Secrecy [13:40] Gambling Rewires the Brain and Even Losing Becomes a Hook 15:43] Why Shame and Secrecy Are the Hidden Dangers Behind the Addiction [17:07] Start the Conversation Before It's a Problem [20:42] The House Always Wins [23:51] This Week's Pro Move: Have a 10-minute conversation with your kids about gambling this week. Don't make it a lecture. Ask what they've seen, what their friends are doing, and what they think about sports betting. Then tell them: “You will never be in trouble for coming to me and telling me the truth.” 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. If you or your child has a gambling problem, call or text 888-Admit-It (236-4848) for help.  Gambling Help All Pro Dad Resources Are We Raising a Generation of Gambling Addicts? Do You Have a Gambling Problem? Common Sense Media – Betting on Boys: Understanding Gambling Among Adolescent Boys Gambling Commission – 2025 Headline Statistics Journal of Gambling Studies – Predicting Problem Gambling in Young Men 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

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! Whether it's the demands of work, the responsibilities of fatherhood, marriage, or simply facing a situation that feels too big to handle, every dad will eventually find himself overwhelmed. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about what dads should do when they become an overwhelmed parent. WHY THIS MATTERS Feeling overwhelmed can become an opportunity. Dads can learn to slow down, acknowledge when they're struggling, and gain new wisdom when parenting gets hard.  KEY TAKEAWAYS 1: When you're overwhelmed, relax and slow things down so fear doesn't take over your ability to think clearly. 2: Admit when you're in over your head. Acknowledging reality isn't weakness, and failure isn't the end. 3: Face the challenge, learn what you need to learn, and ask others for help and wisdom. PRACTICAL TIPS FOR DADS Relax. Take a breath, step away from the situation, exercise, pray, or do something that helps calm your nerves and restore perspective. Admit it. Be honest when you're overwhelmed. You don't have to maintain an image of invincibility or pretend you can fix everything yourself. Face it. Ask, “What am I going to do about this?” Take responsibility for the situation and determine what you may need to change—or say no to. Learn. Study the problem. Seek information and learn from people who have successfully navigated similar situations. Ask for help. Seek advice, support, and wisdom from people who have experience. Asking for help isn't weakness; it can help you become a better dad. IMPORTANT EPISODE TIMESTAMPS [00:00] What Should I Do When I'm In Over My Head as a Dad? [00:26] Times When the Dads Have Felt Completely In Over Their Heads [04:18] When Your Kids' Struggles Make You Feel In Over Your Head as a Dad [05:22] Step 1: Find a Way to Relax [11:49] Step 2: Actually Face What's Going On [13:02] Step 3: Admit You're Struggling [16:33] Step 4: Learn From Others [18:22] Step 5: Ask for Help [24:30] This Week's Pro Move: Identify Your People and Reach Out Ted wraps up with one simple challenge — the next time you feel in over your head, think about who your people are and reach out, even if it's just "Hey, can I ask you a question?" 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 124 – Am I Handling My Anger Well? Dan Orlovsky: 5 Times Dads Must Battle Through Yes, Parenting is Harder Now and What to Do About It 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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