All Pro Dad Podcast

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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:
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This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com.

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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!
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 Matters
Kids 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 Takeaways
1. 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