As kids grow, schedules fill up, friendships expand, and the hours we spend together begin to shrink. Dads can’t waste time. We must intentionally raise them. 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 make the most of the limited time they have with their children.

Why This Matters
We only get a short window of opportunity to shape our kids’ character, strengthen our relationship, and influence who they become.

Key Takeaways

· Time equals influence: There is no substitute for spending time with your child. Dads spend about 59 minutes per day with their kids, up from 16 in 1965. (Per UC Irvine.)

· Kids prefer connection over lessons: Do the things that draw you closer.

· Small moments add up: Create opportunities to make memories and build trust with your child.

Action Steps for Dads

1: Don’t get discouraged by the clock.

2: Look for teachable moments.

3: Don’t pull back, push in.

4: Schedule 1-on-1 time.

5: Embrace your traditions.

Important Episode Timestamps

00:02:13 – Time Starts Flying Right Away

00:03:30 – The Shocking Math of Time With Your Kids

00:05:04 – Are You Raising Your Kids or Just Around Them?

00:05:39 – Dads Are More Involved Than Ever

00:07:43 – Why Kids Turn to Mom First

00:08:26 – Modeling Matters More Than Lecturing

00:10:38 – Don’t Panic About the Clock

00:12:42 – Be Present Instead of Living in the Past

00:15:14 – Use Teachable Moments

00:17:53 – Push In, Don’t Pull Back as Kids Get Older

00:19:50 – Be the Steady Anchor in Emotional Storms

00:23:13 – Schedule One-on-One Time With Your Kids

00:24:09 – Small Moments Create Lasting Memories

00:25:21 – Build Traditions Your Kids Will Remember

00:27:33 – Enjoy the Moment

APD Pro Move:
Build a calendar, or get a shared calendar on your phones, and schedule time together with your kids this week.

All Pro Dad Resources:

One-on-One Time for Kids With Dad

4 Small Decisions Your Kids Will Love

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Finances. Sex. Laundry. Fights happen over all kinds of things and can drive husbands and wives apart. It always takes two to keep a cycle going, but sometimes one can stop it. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster to talk about how we should handle fights with our wives.

Why This Matters
How we handle conflict helps determine the strength, happiness, and longevity of our relationships.

Key Takeaways

· Fights are happening all the time: According to YouGov, 30% of couples argue once per week or more.

· Silly fights can cause serious damage: Fights are almost always about something deeper than what started them.

Steps to Handle Fights

1. Get curious.

Ask yourself, “What is this really about?”

2. Own your part.

Acknowledging your part in conflict doesn’t mean blaming yourself or taking full responsibility.

3. Forgive.

Go ahead and give the forgiveness today that you will most likely need tomorrow.

4. Circle back.

Don’t let the fight go unresolved. Circle back and let your wife know you love her more than you love being right.

Important Episode Timestamps
00:00:34 – 00:01:57 | A Marriage Fight Ted Still Regrets

00:01:57 – 00:06:17 | Most Marriage Fights Aren’t About the Real Issue

00:06:17 – 00:07:30 | The Fear and Shame Cycle in Marriage Conflict

00:07:30 – 00:09:47 | Why Men Shut Down and Women Escalate in Arguments

00:09:47 – 00:11:40 | One Way Dads Can Break the Conflict Cycle

00:11:40 – 00:14:05 | The Danger of Rumination in Marriage Arguments

00:14:05 – 00:15:24 | A Real-Life Example of Misreading Intentions

00:15:24 – 00:16:38 | The Simple Power of Forgiveness in Marriage

00:16:38 – 00:19:40 | Taking Space Without Making Your Spouse Feel Abandoned

00:19:40 – 00:22:07 | The Pro Move: Ask If You’re Making Her Feel Safe

APD Pro Move:
The next time you are feeling conflict with your wife, ask, “Am I making her feel safe or afraid?”

All Pro Dad Resources:

4 Things to Do After an Argument With Your Wife

5 Traps to Avoid in an Argument With Your Wi

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Ask a teacher if his or her job is getting harder. Most will tell you student behavior is their biggest professional hurdle. Can dads play a role in fixing things at school? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about how bad student behavior has gotten and how the solution starts at home.

Why This Matters

If we want our kids to excel in the classroom, we should focus on promoting good behavior.

Key Takeaways

· Mental health impacts behavior: Increased anxiety, stress, and frustration make it hard for kids to focus.

· COVID still lingers: The impact is still felt socially and academically.

· Screens have changed kids’ brains: Constant visual stimulation makes paper and books "boring."

Practical Tips to Help Improve Student Behavior

1. Stop Passenger Parenting (see Episode 106).

2. Deal With Anxiety.

3. Relieve Stress Away From School.

4. Start an All Pro Dad Chapter.

Important Episode Timestamps
00:02:07 – 00:03:42 | Are Student Behavior Problems Getting Worse?

00:03:42 – 00:05:18 | What’s Driving the Spike in Classroom Issues

00:05:18 – 00:07:06 | The Self-Regulation Crisis in Kids

00:07:06 – 00:09:11 | Screen Time, Dopamine & Attention Problems

00:09:11 – 00:11:04 | The Disappearing Authority of Teachers

00:11:04 – 00:13:02 | Parents vs. Schools: Who Owns Behavior?

00:13:02 – 00:15:14 | Why Kids Struggle With Boundaries Today

00:15:14 – 00:17:26 | Emotional Regulation Starts at Home

00:17:26 – 00:19:41 | Supporting Teachers Instead of Undermining Them

00:19:41 – 00:22:58 | Raising Kids Who Can Function in the Real World

APD Pro Move:
Do one of these things:

· Talk to your kids about anxiety and work on coping mechanisms

· Do something fun and crazy this week to reduce stress

· Check out an All Pro Dad Chapter

All Pro Dad Resources:

Episode 106 – What is a Passenger Parent and Am I One?

Episode 95 – What Challenges Is Gen Alpha Facing?

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Remember when you were a kid and there was Breaking News on TV? The avalanche of images. The wave of emotions. The same thing happens today, every time we start doomscrolling. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about the dangers of doomscrolling, how it impacts us, and how dads can help their kids stop the cycle.

Why This Matters
Doomscrolling reportedly leads to worse mental health outcomes, more anxiety, and higher rates of suicide.

Doomscrolling is looking through an endless feed of negative content.

Can Dads Stop the Cycle?

1. Talk to your kids about doomscrolling

2. Teach kids to think of good things

3. Fuel their optimism

Important Episode Timestamps

00:02:20 – 00:04:46 | What Is Doomscrolling and Why It’s So Addictive

00:04:46 – 00:06:11 | Doomscrolling at Work and Before Bed

00:06:11 – 00:08:01 | The Brain Science Behind Phone Addiction

00:08:01 – 00:10:26 | How Doomscrolling Fuels Pessimism and Anxiety

00:10:26 – 00:12:14 | Negativity Bias: Why Bad News Sticks

00:12:14 – 00:14:09 | Teen Mental Health, Suicide Risk & Screen Time

00:14:09 – 00:17:22 | 24/7 Breaking News in Your Child’s Pocket

00:17:22 – 00:20:19 | How Dads Can Talk to Kids About Doomscrolling

00:20:19 – 00:24:41 | Fighting Doomscrolling With Optimism and Good News

APD Pro Move:
Have your kids tell you something good. Find a positive or funny story to share with your kids every day. If your kids are teenagers, ask them to find a good story to share with you.

All Pro Dad Resources:

Episode 93 – How Do I Make the Social Media Algorithm Work For Me?

Episode 109 – Should I Let My Kid Be An Online Influencer?

Study on optimism during COVID pandemic

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A father’s words can build his kids up or tear them down. They are powerful, and can stick with kids for the rest of their lives. That’s why we have to watch what we say. 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 we (even accidentally) say the wrong thing and what uplifting things we should be saying instead.

Why This Matters
The words we use with our kids can build up or tear down. We must choose them wisely.

Things to Stop Saying to Sons

1. “You can’t do it.”

2. “You’re not strong enough.” Or “Don’t be a wimp.”

3. “I’m disappointed in you.”

4. “I’m working on something important. You’ll have to wait.”

Things to Stop Saying to Daughters

1. “Have you gained/lost weight?”

2. “Stop being so dramatic.”

3. “You’re just like your mother.”

4. “Oh, but you’re so pretty.”

5. “If you had done ______, you could have done even better.”

Things to START Saying Instead

1. “I love you.”

2. “I’m grateful to be your dad.”

3. “I believe in you.”

Important Episode Timestamps

00:00:48 – 02:41 | Why Your Anger Isn’t Really About Your Kids

02:41 – 05:12 | The Hidden Triggers Behind Dad Reactions

05:12 – 07:36 | The Difference Between Discipline and Control

07:36 – 10:18 | Parenting From Pressure vs. Parenting From Purpose

10:18 – 12:44 | How Stress Leaks Into Your Tone and Body Language

12:44 – 15:03 | The 5-Second Pause That Changes Everything

15:03 – 17:29 | Repairing After You Lose Your Cool

17:29 – 19:58 | Teaching Kids Emotional Regulation by Modeling It

19:58 – 22:11 | Breaking the Generational Pattern of Anger

22:11 – End | The Dad Challenge: Lead Yourself First

APD Pro Move:
Give your kids a new affirmation every day this week.

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?

Episode 87 – How Can I Connect With My Kids?

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What do kids fear most? Research shows they’re terrified of bullies. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about why kids bully, how it impacts them, and what to say if your kid becomes the bully.

Why This Matters

Bullying hurts kids and dads need to know how to console them when it happens.

Why Do Kids Bully?

1. They’re seeking power and control.

2. They want attention.

3. They show a learned behavior.

4. They have emotional problems.

5. They lack social skills and empathy.

Common Types of Bullying

1. Verbal – This is common with, but not exclusive to, younger age groups.

2. Physical – This should not be tolerated. Alert teachers or coaches if this is happening to your child.

3. Emotional – The impacts of bullying on mental health can be devastating.

Action Steps for Dads

1: Be a support person for your child.
Create a safe space for them to talk and share their pain, struggles, and failures. Say things like, “I will help you stay positive when things are hard.”

2: Talk about bullying and what it looks like.
Kids are more likely to talk about bullying if you ask them questions about others, like “how do the people at school treat each other?” Eventually, move the conversation to them.

3: Model empathy.
Show your kids how to treat people with kindness, care, and empathy.

Important Episode Timestamps

00:01:05 – 03:04 | Could Your Kid Be the Bully?

03:04 – 05:16 | Why We Assume Bullying Is Always Someone Else’s Kid

05:16 – 09:00 | Why Do Kids Bully?

09:00 – 11:22 | The Difference Between Teasing and Bullying

11:22 – 13:58 | How Parents Accidentally Enable Bullying

13:58 – 16:14 | Teaching Empathy Instead of Just Punishment

16:14 – 18:41 | How To Handle a Bully

18:41 – 21:03 | Taking Responsibility and Making It Right

21:03 – End | Raising Kids Who Use Strength the Right Way

APD Pro Move:
Ask your kids about how people treat one another at their school. Have a conversation about bullying this week and see what you can uncover about their world.

All Pro Dad Resources

Episode 102 –

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When a story resonates across generations, it’s usually because it touches something deeply human. Tim Timmons has that kind of story. He’s the focus of
I Can Only Imagine 2, a movie focusing on redemption, relationships, and the impact of people who choose to show up when it matters most. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by Tim to talk about the movie and his role as a dad.

Why This Matters
The on-screen lessons from the movie can be implemented in your home today.

Who is Tim Timmons?

· Christian singer, songwriter, and worship leader known for joyful, authentic storytelling

· Best known for hit songs like “Cast My Cares” and “All About You”

· Built a strong following through music that blends faith, humor, and real-life honesty

· Passionate advocate for intentional faith, family, and meaningful connection

· Diagnosed with terminal cancer of unknown origin in 2000. Doctors told him he had just five years to live

Why Intentional Fatherhood Matters:
In the film, Tim’s character (played by Milo Ventimiglia) embodies themes of perseverance, grace, and transformation. These aren’t just cinematic ideas; they’re the building blocks of healthy families. Every dad, at some point, faces moments when he has to decide whether to disengage or lean in, react or respond with wisdom, or drift or lead with intention.

Tim Timmons’s voice—both in the film and beyond it—invites dads to rethink what influence really looks like. It’s not about control; it’s about connection. It’s not about having all the answers; it’s about being willing to walk alongside your kids as they grow.

Quotable Moment
Tim told Ted this powerful line: “I get drunk on worry all the time. I get drunk on worrying about my finances all the time. I get drunk on scarcity going, “I’m not going to have enough.” I get drunk on trying to work for God all the time. And I want to be more sober this year than I was last year.”

Enjoy this conversation and the movie, which hits theaters on February 20, 2026. I Can Only Imagine 2 is based on the heartfelt true story behind the hit single “Even If.” The aim is to “Inspire the next chapter of faith, family, and finding God in the fire.”

Important Episode Timestamps

00:00:42 – 01:39 | How Hard Season

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Caribbean vacations are great, but that’s not where our marriages get strengthened. It’s the everyday affections and moments of connection that keep our relationships strong. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about ways to show our wives we love them every day.

Why This Matters
Husbands should aim to make their wives feel loved every day.

Key Takeaways

· Love is a basic human need.

· Everyday affection beats infrequent, grand gestures

· Connection is built in small, consistent moments.

Practical Tips for Husbands

1. Handle conflict with kindness.

2. Respond to her bids for connection.

3. Celebrate her wins.

4. Laugh together.

5. Show love through non-sexual touch.

Important Episode Timestamps

00:03:11 – 04:10 | Why Small Acts Matter More Than Big Gestures

04:10 – 05:09 | Radical Selflessness Builds Strong Marriages

05:57 – 06:47 | How You Start Conflict Predicts Marriage Health

06:47 – 07:41 | Handling Conflict With Gentleness Instead of Negativity

11:48 – 12:11 | Responding to Your Wife’s Bids for Connection

12:11 – 12:59 | The “Stop and Drop” Rule for Husbands

14:09 – 15:21 | Celebrating Your Wife’s Wins Builds Intimacy

18:00 – 19:04 | Why Non-Sexual Touch Is So Important in Marriage

19:04 – 19:39 | The Power of a 20-Second Hug

21:37 – End | Choosing Daily Connection Over Autopilot

APD Pro Move:
This week, choose to do one of the five actions steps with your wife.

All Pro Dad Resources

Episode 91 – Is There a Secret to Balancing Marriage and Fatherhood?

Episode 101 – How Does Having Kids Change Your Marriage?

Episode 105 – How Do I Keep Fighting For My Marriage?

How 4 Minutes 4 Times a Day Can Protect Your Marriage

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