We love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!

In this heartfelt episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by Graham Barber and Mark Merrill to explore the transformative journey of fostering and adoption. Drawing from their personal experiences, the trio dives into the challenges, rewards, and emotional complexities of welcoming children in need into their homes.

Ted, Graham, and Mark share compelling stories, valuable insights, and practical advice for dads considering fostering or adoption. They highlight the importance of creating stable, loving environments for children, addressing challenges like trust issues, behavioral struggles, and the impact on family dynamics. This episode offers inspiration and guidance for parents navigating the foster and adoption process or supporting those who do. 

Important Episode Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome to the All Pro Dad Podcast
• (00:39) Introducing the Topic: Fostering and Adoption
• (01:26) Graham's Fostering Journey
• (02:47) Mark's Adoption Story
• (07:35) Ted's Adoption Experience
• (08:54) Challenges in Fostering and Adoption
• (15:44) Overcoming Trust Issues
• (17:49) Language and Identity in Foster Care
• (19:54) Unexpected Joys of Foster Care
• (21:41) Lessons Learned from Adoption
• (23:53) Parenting Challenges and Creative Solutions
• (27:12) Balancing Marriage and Parenting
• (29:50) Rapid Fire: Pause or Move Forward?
• (32:48) Supporting Foster and Adoptive Families
• (34:03) The Hope of Adoption and Fostering

APD Pro Move:
“ Pro Move of the Week, which we give you every week is to ask yourself, what is one thing you'd be willing to give up to change a life forever?.”

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. You can learn more at FamilyFirst.net.

Connect with Us:

• Connect with Graham Barber
• Connect with Mark Merrill
• Connect with Ted Lowe
• Learn more on our Fostering & Adoption Archives
• Questions to Connect
• The No More Foundation

Don’t forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast app!

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 show notes 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 love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!

In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe and co-host Bobby Lewis are joined by Dale Alexander, a financial expert passionate about empowering dads to lead their families toward financial success. The conversation dives into financial mistakes, the joy of giving, and the power of compound interest.

Key takeaways include understanding the difference between looking wealthy and being wealthy, the importance of teaching kids about money early, and actionable strategies for dads to avoid financial drift while building a secure financial future.

Important Episode Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome to the All Pro Dad Podcast
• (00:36) Meet Bobby Lewis
• (01:00) Introducing Dale Alexander
• (02:01) Worst Purchases and Financial Regrets
• (03:10) Lessons from Our Fathers
• (04:31) The Importance of Teaching Kids About Money
• (05:40) Dale's Passion for Financial Education
• (07:21) The Reality of Financial Stress
• (10:50) The Illusion of Wealth
• (12:21) Financial Awareness and Drifting
• (14:15) Smart Money Management Tips
• (14:53) Understanding Stock Market Risks
• (16:13) Getting Started with Mutual Funds
• (19:38) The Power of Compound Interest
• (22:22) The Joy of Giving
• (26:15) Teaching Kids About Money
• (28:44) Final Thoughts and Resources

APD Pro Move:
"Start modeling good financial behavior today by sitting down and setting a financial goal so you don't get set adrift."

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.

Connect with Us:

• Connect with Dale Alexander
• Connect with Ted Lowe
• Connect with Bobby Lewis

Don’t forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast app!

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 show notes 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 love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!

Dale Alexander: How Do We Teach Our Kids About Money? 

In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe and co-host Bobby Lewis are joined by financial expert Dale Alexander to discuss the critical topic of teaching kids about money. They explore actionable strategies, such as the 70/20/10 rule for financial success, teaching generosity, and combating consumerism, to help dads guide their children toward financial responsibility.

Dale shares his expertise as a certified financial planner, providing parents with practical tips for instilling lifelong money management skills in their kids. Whether it’s through modeling financial behavior, teaching budgeting, or encouraging giving, this episode equips dads with the tools to empower their children for a successful financial future.

Important Episode Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome to the All Pro Dad Podcast
• (00:33) Meet the Hosts: Ted and Bobby
• (01:18) Special Guest Introduction: Dale Alexander
• (01:40) Skateboarding Stories and Financial Expertise
• (03:17) Teaching Kids About Money
• (11:38) The 70/20/10 Rule for Financial Success
• (16:14) The Phone’s Deception
• (16:41) The Power of Giving
• (21:17) Teaching Kids About Money
• (23:26) Financial Advice for Young Adults
• (29:40) Modeling Financial Behavior
• (32:47) Conclusion and Resources

APD Pro Move:
 “Introduce the 70/20/10 rule to your kids: Spend 70%, save 20%, and give 10%. It’s a simple framework for building financial discipline and generosity.”

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.

Connect with Us:

• Connect with Dale Alexander
• Connect with Ted Lowe
• Connect with Bobby Lewis

Don’t forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast app!

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 show notes 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 love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!

Problems Middle Schoolers Run Into

In this insightful episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe, BJ Foster, and Jason Hood dive into the unique struggles of middle schoolers. From navigating awkward phases and shifting friendships to dealing with a culture of meanness and the challenges of social media, the hosts explore what makes this stage so complex for kids.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding, offering practical advice for dads to support their middle schoolers effectively. With actionable tips for managing the independence-dependence balance and fostering healthy communication, this episode is a must-listen for parents navigating these formative years.

Important Episode Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome to the All Pro Dad Podcast
• (00:40) Middle School Challenges: A Dad's Perspective
• (00:49) Tween Slang Trivia: Understanding Their World
• (05:16) Navigating Awkward Phases and Changing Friendships
• (12:22) The Culture of Meanness and Social Media
• (16:08) Feeling Alone in Groups and the Independence Paradox
• (20:01) Empathy and Pro Tips for Dads
• (22:36) Conclusion and Resources for Dads

APD Pro Move:
"Ask your middle schooler what the best and worst things about middle school are. Understanding their world—even if it feels unfamiliar—builds trust and shows them you care."

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.

Connect with Us:

• Connect with Ted Lowe
• Connect with Jason Hood
• Connect with BJ Foster

Don’t forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast app!

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 show notes 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 love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!

Merry Christmas from All Pro Dad
In this festive episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by Buck Buchanan and Bobby Lewis to explore how dads can make the holiday season truly memorable for their families. The trio reflects on personal Christmas memories, shares tips for managing holiday stress, and discusses balancing the commercial and meaningful aspects of the season.

From tackling Griswold-level decorations to embracing holiday traditions and movies, Ted, Buck, and Bobby provide practical strategies for creating lasting family memories. They emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, being prepared, and letting go of minor stresses to focus on the true spirit of Christmas. Whether it’s about making thoughtful gifts or cherishing quiet family moments, this episode is packed with inspiration for dads navigating the holiday season.

Important Episode Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome to the All Pro Dad Podcast
• (00:29) Handling the Holidays: Childhood Memories
• (01:34) Christmas Traditions and Funny Stories
• (04:53) The Stress of Christmas Preparations
• (06:56) Balancing Gifts and Meaning
• (09:41) Holiday Decorations: Griswold vs. Grinch
• (12:08) Helicopter Santa and Creative Decorations
• (12:47) Memorable DIY Decorations
• (14:04) Letting Go of Holiday Stress
• (15:13) Cherishing Modern Christmas Experiences
• (16:45) Debating Christmas Movies
• (19:06) Gift Giving and Making Memories
• (20:23) The True Meaning of Christmas
• (22:27) Final Thoughts and Holiday Wishes

APD Pro Move:
“Let go of the pressure to make Christmas perfect. Focus on one small but meaningful moment from the movies—like decorating as a family or simply enjoying time together.”

Sponsor:
The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to build strong families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net.

Connect with Us:

• Connect with Buck Buchanan
• Connect with Bobby Lewis
• Connect with Ted Lowe

Don’t forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast app!

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 show notes 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 love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!

AM I RAISING AN ENTITLED KID?

In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by Buck Buchanan and BJ Foster to explore the challenges of raising entitled kids and the steps parents can take to instill gratitude and responsibility. They discuss common signs of entitlement in children, share personal stories, and provide practical strategies to help parents combat this behavior.

The hosts dive into the importance of setting boundaries, saying “no,” and involving kids in responsibilities like chores and service projects. They emphasize how these actions not only teach kids the value of hard work but also help build strong character. Whether it’s making kids earn their privileges or modeling gratitude, this episode is full of actionable tips for parents committed to raising grateful, grounded children.

Key Topics Covered:

• What Does Entitlement Look Like in Kids? Learn the behaviors that signal entitlement and what may be causing it.
• Why Saying “No” Matters: How boundaries foster resilience and gratitude.
• Practical Tips for Combating Entitlement: From chores to service projects, discover actionable steps to encourage responsibility and appreciation.
• Character Development: How focusing on long-term values helps build stronger, more self-reliant kids.

Important Episode Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome to the All Pro Dad Podcast
• (00:19) Meet the Guests
• (01:12) Question of the Day: Raising Entitled Kids
• (01:30) Defining Entitlement in Kids
• (01:47) The Importance of Saying No
• (03:38) Personal Stories of Entitlement
• (08:11) Why Do Dads Struggle with Entitlement?
• (13:59) Teaching Gratitude and Responsibility
• (15:03) Practical Tips to Combat Entitlement
• (17:36) Encouraging Service and Hard Work
• (20:05) Final Thoughts and Pro Tips
• (21:17) Closing Remarks and Resources

APD Pro Move:
“Start small. Assign your kids simple chores, involve them in family responsibilities, and encourage them to give back through service projects. Teaching gratitude and responsibility begins with consistent, everyday actions.”

Sponsor:
The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to build strong families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net.

Connect with Us:

• Connect with BJ Foster
• Connect with Ted Lowe
• Connect with Buck Buchanan

Don’t forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast app!

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 show notes 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 love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!

Is It A Phase? Acting Out vs Rebellion?

In this powerful episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by Rodney Bussell and Buck Buchanan to discuss one of the toughest parenting challenges: dealing with rebellious children. They share personal stories of mischief and rebellion from their own childhoods, highlighting the struggles and lessons learned when setting boundaries.

The conversation centers on understanding the root causes of rebellion and implementing effective strategies rooted in grace, love, and relationship-building. Ted, Rodney, and Buck emphasize that true connection, rather than correction, is key to reaching a child’s heart during challenging moments. The episode wraps up with actionable advice for fathers to foster stronger bonds with their kids, even in the face of defiance.

Important Episode Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome to the All Pro Dad Podcast
• (00:19) Meet the Hosts: 
• (01:30) Question of the Week: Dealing with a Rebellious Child
• (01:56) Personal Stories of Rebellion
• (07:40) Understanding Rebellion in Children
• (19:17) Setting Boundaries with Love
• (24:14) Pro Move of the Week
• (25:03) Closing Remarks and Resources
  
  

APD Pro Move:
“Next time your child acts out, pause and connect with them. Ask what’s going on instead of jumping straight to correction. Listening first fosters trust and strengthens the relationship.”

Sponsor:
The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit committed to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net.

Connect with Us:

• Connect with Rodney Bussell
• Connect with Ted Lowe
• Connect with Buck Buchanan
• Subscribe to the All Pro Dad Podcast on Apple Podcasts
• Watch the Full Episode on YouTube

Don’t forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast app!

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 show notes 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 love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!

Attention-Seeking Behavior: Why Your Teen Wants Attention?

In this enlightening episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by Jason Hood and BJ Foster to uncover the secret wish of every teenager: the desire to feel noticed and valued. Together, they explore fascinating scientific insights about teens, including their unique body odor, lower dopamine levels, and heightened sensitivity to perceived hostility. This episode sheds light on the challenges teens face and offers practical advice for parents to better connect with their children during this critical stage of development. 

The conversation emphasizes the importance of giving tailored attention to teens, taking an active interest in their hobbies, and maintaining balance when engaging with multiple children. Ted, Jason, and BJ also highlight the broader issue of fatherlessness and how programs like the All Pro Dad chapter initiative empower dads to actively participate in their kids’ lives through school-based activities. The episode wraps up with actionable strategies for parents to ensure their teens feel seen, loved, and supported.

Important Episode Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome to the All Pro Dad Podcast
• (00:35) The Secret Wish of Every Teenager
• (01:05) Teenagers and Their Unique Challenges
• (05:10) Understanding Teenagers' Need for Attention
• (18:29) Practical Tips for Engaging with Teens
• (22:17) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

APD Pro Move:
“Great teens with enthusiasm every time you see them.”

Sponsor:
The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit committed to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net.

Connect with Us:

• Connect with Jason Hood
• Connect with Ted Lowe
• Connect with BJ Foster
• Subscribe to the All Pro Dad Podcast on Apple Podcasts
• Watch the Full Episode on YouTube
• Learn how to join an All Pro Dad Chapter Today!

Don’t forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast app!

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 show notes 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 love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!

In this thought-provoking episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by guests Buck Buchanan and Rodney Bustle to tackle an essential topic: the importance of unstructured play in childhood. Together, they explore what previous generations got right about playtime and where modern parenting might be falling short. The discussion emphasizes the benefits of tech-free, child-directed play and the significant impact it has on reducing anxiety in kids.

Drawing on insights from Jonathan Haidt's book The Anxious Generation, the episode delves into the challenges posed by today’s tech-saturated world and provides actionable advice for fostering unstructured playtime. Ted, Buck, and Rodney also encourage parents to reflect on the core memories they’re helping their children build and the lasting impact of those experiences.

Important Episode Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome to the All Pro Dad Podcast
• (00:27) The Big Question: What Are We Getting Wrong?
• (02:30) Unstructured Play: A Personal Reflection
• (04:10) The Impact of Technology on Playtime
• (07:46) Challenges and Solutions for Modern Dads
• (16:44) Creating Unstructured Play Zones
• (22:31) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

APD Pro Move:
“Create a dedicated, tech-free zone in your home or yard where your kids can engage in unstructured play. Simple, open-ended activities can spark creativity and reduce anxiety.”

Sponsor:
The All Pro Dad Podcast is brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit committed to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families.
Learn more at FamilyFirst.net.

Connect with Us:

• Connect with Rodney Bussell
• Connect with Ted Lowe
• Connect with Buck Buchanan
• Subscribe to the All Pro Dad Podcast on Apple Podcasts
• Watch the Full Episode on YouTube
• Read The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Don’t forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast app!

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 show notes 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 love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!

Colt McCoy: What Is Your Family Values Game Plan?

In this heartfelt episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe and co-host BJ Foster are joined by NFL quarterback Colt McCoy to discuss the significance of intentional fatherhood. Reflecting on his legendary football career and his most important role as a father of four, Colt highlights the importance of having a structured family game plan.

Colt shares his family motto, L3H3: Love God, Love Family, Love Others, and embody Humility, Honor, and Hard Work. This guiding framework has helped Colt and his family navigate life’s challenges with clarity and consistency. He offers practical advice on how these values strengthen family bonds and create a thriving environment for growth.

The conversation also explores balancing the demands of a professional football career with the responsibilities of parenting. Colt opens up about the joys and difficulties of raising young children while encouraging fathers to remain present and intentional in their leadership. The episode wraps up with actionable tips for dads and a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of fatherhood.

Key Episode Highlights:

• Colt McCoy's Family Life: Balancing professional football and parenting (01:31)
• The Importance of a Family Game Plan: How vision strengthens family bonds (04:38)
• Creating a Family Motto, L3H3: A framework for intentional parenting (05:53)
• Challenges and Rewards of Parenting: Managing demands and finding joy (09:03)
• Encouragement for Dads: Advice for being present and consistent (16:01)

APD Pro Move:
"Define your family’s game plan today. A clear set of values or a motto—like Colt McCoy's L3H3—provides a powerful framework for intentional parenting."

Sponsor:
The All Pro Dad Podcast is brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening families and enriching relationships. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net.

Don’t forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast app!

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 show notes 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