In this episode of Good Dads Great Communities, J. Fotsch and Director of Communications Diana Dudenhoeffer sit down with Strong Schools Captains Joshua Rowlett and Ben Buschjost to hear firsthand how intentional father involvement is transforming schools, families, and communities. From the library to the manufacturing floor, Joshua and Ben share how dads—and other male role models—are stepping up through the Good Dads Strong Schools program to build stronger connections with their children.

Through simple activities like pipe cleaner monsters and water bottle flips, these fathers are creating moments that spark pride, improve behavior, and ripple far beyond the classroom. The episode emphasizes how low-cost, low-stress events can have a high impact when schools invite fathers to show up with presence and purpose. Whether you're a dad, grandfather, uncle, or caring male figure, Strong Schools offers a meaningful way to make a difference—one handshake, one breakfast, one memory at a time.

Episode Highlights

[03:42] "The hardest part was just standing in front of a room of people. But the Good Dads Strong Schools program makes it really easy."

[05:52] "The dads in the communities I've served are really waiting to be asked to be involved."

[09:07] "It gives me an outlet to connect with my daughter. We get to do something fun together—and I get to know her school and her friends."

[12:10] "One father told me his employer asked for the full list of Good Dads events so they could make sure he didn't miss any."

[17:53] "It's just being present in the present moment. That's all that matters."

[28:00] "He wasn't confident, his kids had behavior issues, and now? He was Good Dad of the Year."

Resources📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more about Good Dads Great Communities! 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at [email protected].