Good Dads Podcast

In this episode of The Difference a Dad Makes, hosts J. Fotsch and Brian Mattson welcome elementary PE teacher and dad, Myles Wilson, for a fun and practical discussion about helping kids develop healthy habits for school success. From the importance of routines and physical activity to managing screen time, Myles shares how movement, emotional regulation, and positive social skills set the stage for better learning. Drawing from his experience as both a teacher and parent, Myles emphasizes that kids thrive when they have consistent routines, opportunities to move, and encouragement to see activity as enjoyable. He explains how modern PE focuses less on competition and more on fostering cooperation, confidence, and lifelong healthy habits—both in the gym and at home. Episode Highlights [03:27] “If I’m teaching them to get along with other people and then like moving… I did a good job.” [05:40] “If your body is doing what it’s supposed to be doing, it helps your mind… it all works together.” [08:10] “All of school is a routine… the quicker that you can get into the routine, the better.” [12:31] “Most kids don’t really like competitive games where there’s a winner… they just want to play with their friends.” [19:28] “We are routine people. I think we turned him into a routine person.” [30:22] “Your body is meant to move. Your body is not meant to sit.” Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

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 info@gooddads.com.

In this episode of The Difference a Dad Makes, hosts J. Fotsch and Brian Mattson are joined by Jason Hinson from Victory Mission for a lighthearted yet deeply practical conversation about raising children to be independent. From toddler chore charts to the complexities of launching adult children, the trio explores what age-appropriate responsibility looks like across different life stages. The conversation emphasizes the importance of knowing each child’s personality, offering guidance without micromanaging and modeling life skills like financial literacy, technology use and emotional regulation. Jason shares stories of parenting kids ranging from preschool to post-high school, highlighting that developing independence is not about pushing kids out but preparing them thoughtfully for what’s next. Episode Highlights [01:22] “We have a chore chart… they get $5 if they’ve done their chores for the month… give, save, spend.” [06:00] “I watched my son… it took him five minutes to take out the trash, but I feel like he had a sense of accomplishment.” [08:12] “Be curious about behavior… you're trying to understand what they’re doing and guide them.” [12:23] “Over the course of your days, you did a part-time job on your phone.” [17:26] “What if you’re coming back at 24 now because you forced them out and they weren’t ready for that independence?” [20:18] “Just because you’re 18 doesn’t mean I quit caring… things change.” [28:11] “Think of yourself as a guide… you get a front row seat to watching that human become the best version of themselves.” Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this episode of Good Dads Great Communities, Dr. Jennifer L. Baker and J. Fotsch sit down with Strong Schools Coordinator Jim Millsap and Strong Schools Facilitator Dr. Mike Dawson to explore how simple interactions between dads and their kids can build stronger families and schools. Drawing on their decades in education and personal experiences as fathers, Jim and Mike explain how the Strong Schools initiative helps fathers—and father figures—connect meaningfully with their children while transforming school culture. The conversation shows how simple, low-cost activities like making paper airplanes or sharing donuts can create ripple effects in the community. The guests share heartfelt stories and strong reminders that showing up, being present, and engaging in even small activities can leave a lasting impact. Whether it’s dads building trust, showing vulnerability, or just sharing a laugh with their kids, this episode powerfully demonstrates the everyday strength of intentional fatherhood. Episode Highlights [05:25] “It’s superhero day. I mean like, hey, Dad’s here … It’s just such a powerful impact.” [06:15] “You have another ripple effect then with the moms … they’re boasting and bragging that their dad’s involved.” [10:18] “I just need permission, a place and the time guidelines. It’s purposely made to maximize positive interactions.” [13:54] “You just open that can—curriculum is very low tech. Just be present and so much fruit will come out of it.” [16:13] “Children who are growing up in a home without a dad don’t even have a male role model at school.” [18:37] “Here’s an easy way for a grandpa to have another structured opportunity to connect.” [27:07] “You could be the best advocate for adding that to your school—more so than we can.” 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 info@gooddads.com.

In this candid episode of Hot Topics, hosts J. Fotsch and Will Cox speak with Missouri State Representative Alex Riley and government consultant Ryan DeBouf about the challenge of navigating politics as parents. Both guests bring not only their professional insights but also their personal experience as dads—Alex with a growing young family and Ryan with children spanning from elementary to adulthood. The discussion emphasizes the importance of age-appropriate conversations, modeling respectful discourse and cultivating political understanding at home. The guests share how to introduce basic concepts like government roles and civil disagreement early on and why it’s vital for parents to lead these conversations before others do. They also discuss how their careers shaped their parenting, the impact of blended families and the tension between public service and private life. Whether it’s navigating school communications or handling political threats, both fathers reinforce that being present, engaged and full of grace makes all the difference. Episode Highlights [04:55] – “I think it’s critically important for us as dads to be talking to our kids about those issues… if we’re not, somebody else is going to fill that void.” [06:35] – “I started having those conversations with my kids when they were three and four years old.” [08:51] – “You have to do it because they’re going to hear it first—and here’s why we believe what we believe.” [12:00] – “You're better off being able to sit back as a parent, as a dad, and wait for them to come to you for the advice as opposed to forcing it onto them.” [23:29] – “When you are home, be present at home… they know when you’re not really listening.” [42:48] – “The most important thing… is to be present—in any way, shape or form that you can.” Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this episode of The Intentional Dad, hosts J. Fotsch and Jason Hynson welcome guest Brian Mattson from The Downtown Church for a heartfelt discussion on fostering trust and openness in family conversations. The dads explore how honesty, humility and consistency are crucial for building emotional safety at home—especially when discussing hard topics or addressing mistakes both theirs and their children’s. The conversation emphasizes the power of modeling honesty and vulnerability, especially when parents admit they’re wrong. The trio shares personal stories about navigating difficult questions from their kids, handling lies with grace and keeping communication age-appropriate while still truthful. They stress that maintaining an open-door policy—no matter the topic or time of day—lays the foundation for long-term trust. Their message is clear: being an intentional dad means creating space for honest conversations even when it’s uncomfortable. Episode Highlights [02:02] "Being able to say I was wrong… I went up and I apologized for the 10% I missed. Did he say, 'You're right, I was wrong'? No. But I wanted to keep that door open." [03:21] "The more times that door gets shut incrementally, that’s going to be a big deal a decade later." [08:06] "If my daughter comes to me with real questions, that lets me know she’s old enough for a real answer." [18:00] "You don’t necessarily get in trouble for the act… but if we find out that you're not truthful with Mom and Dad, that’s when we’re upset." [21:11] "When he's been told he’s done wrong… that just shatters him. So you have to be tender, especially when you do catch him in a lie." [24:17] "I don’t believe in trickle-down economics but I believe in trickle-down emotions." Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this episode of The Difference a Dad Makes, hosts J. Fotsch and Brian Mattson sit down with Crystal and Tobi Roberts to discuss how parents can teach kids about money from a young age. The Roberts, parents of a blended family with three children, share practical ways they’ve used to teach financial responsibility—from chore charts and envelope budgeting to teen credit cards and monthly family budget meetings. The conversation highlights the importance of starting early, setting consistent expectations, and using real-life experiences to teach financial principles. Crystal, a CPA and Tobi, a Chief Marketing Officer, guide listeners through their family’s journey with budgeting apps, CDs and planning for emergencies as well as future college costs. The episode delivers a clear message: financial literacy isn’t about wealth—it’s about wisdom, consistency and communication. Episode Highlights [03:03] “I think it starts a little before that with not being afraid of having financial conversations with them.” [06:39] “They had three envelopes. They had a fun envelope, a church envelope and a savings envelope.” [08:19] “They ended up paying for their entire flight to and from Florida for a vacation that they wanted to take.” [10:31] “We told every single person in that line… the kids bought their own tickets and they did chores and saved up their money.” [30:58] “We go through that as a family every single month… here's how that's going to impact the future.” Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this episode of The Intentional Dad, hosts J. Fotsch and Jason Hynson, with Victory Mission, welcome guest Jim Robinette to explore what discipline really means in parenting. Drawing on his military background and years of fatherhood, Jim reframes discipline as more than just consequences—it’s about leadership, personal responsibility and helping kids build self-awareness. The trio emphasizes that effective discipline is rooted in consistency, fairness and modeling behavior. Jim reflects on how different approaches worked for his two children, highlighting the importance of understanding each child’s temperament. Discipline, they argue, should be less about punishment and more about guiding kids to make good choices, fostering agency and creating structure where children feel both safe and free. They also discuss the need for parents to discipline themselves and the power of open communication, accountability and humility in family dynamics. Episode Highlights [07:59] "You are responsible for your own actions… think about what you're doing and what's going to be the result." [09:20] "Giving the kids agency… they are going to live their lives. We as parents cannot live our kids' lives." [12:50] "You're just deciding in these circumstances you're going to check your brain… parenting has to be tailored to the kid." [14:25] "They expect their parents to be fair." [15:44] "Things are caught not taught… they're going to do what you do not what you say." [21:29] "They’re responsible for what they think and what they do and what they do reflects what they think." Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this heartfelt episode of Hot Topics, hosts J. Fotsch and Will Cox sit down with Zach Troutman—coach, community leader and founder of Follow the Leader—to discuss the impact of intentional fatherhood, mentorship and vulnerability. Zach opens up about growing up without his dad, losing his best friend to suicide and how these experiences shaped his mission to provide stability, openness and support for his children and others. Key points include the power of transparency in fatherhood, how grief can be channeled into advocacy and mentorship and why dads must model emotional awareness for their kids. Zach also shares how his approach to parenting—screen-free weekdays, consistent structure and honest conversations—helps build strong, emotionally resilient sons. Through his coaching and suicide prevention work, he inspires others to love deeply, lead intentionally and step in as father figures where needed. Episode Highlights [02:56] – “Being their dad has opened me up because I don’t want any of the dirtiness inside of me to get on them.” [05:57] – “I wanted to keep Adam’s name alive… to create safe spaces for students, adults, businesses.” [10:39] – “Sometimes people don’t understand—like, I can’t meet you where you’re at if I don’t know where you’re at.” [17:58] – “God, if they make a mistake today, let it be their mistake and not because they followed someone.” [25:23] – “I don’t want my kids to ever think their Blackness is a handicap. I’m like, no—it’s a superpower.” [30:54] – “It is literally set up for us to be mediocre parents... but being a great father, you gotta be intentional.” Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this inspiring episode of Good Dads Great Communities, Dr. Jennifer L. Baker and J. Fotsch speak with two outstanding leaders in rural Missouri: Sean Vanderbeck from the Ava chapter and Jill Garrett from the Texas County chapter. As winners of the Good Dads Great Communities of the Year Contest, these chapters are recognized for their commitment to fatherhood in small towns often overlooked by larger initiatives. Sean and Jill reflect on their challenges, share their triumphs and describe the creative ways they’ve engaged dads across their regions. From providing home-cooked meals to building trust through personal connections these leaders showcase how local relationships, accountability and perseverance can spark cultural change. Whether it’s organizing parenting classes or rallying church support, the episode offers a heartfelt look at how Good Dads flourishes in tight-knit communities with big hearts and bigger dreams. Episode Highlights [00:28] “They’re key figures in their great community. Ava, Missouri won our first place contest … and Texas County won $2,500.” [04:43] “I just noticed that it was always moms that came … and I thought, where are the dads?” [05:20] “We haven’t even in our larger communities including Kansas City had that many people show up the first night.” [11:24] “ There was a time when I just wanted to be a good dad … and then the joy that comes from it is nothing compared.” [18:00] “A lot of times people just overlook those challenges … and yet you do. I mean, 29 men showing up—that’s something.” [18:48] “By the time church was over, all 16 [weekend meal slots] were full. That got the community behind us.” [27:42] “Even if each home doesn’t have a good dad, if you have more good dads they’ll mentor those kids.” [29:27] “Every community has people that want to love on others—they're just scared to do it. 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 info@gooddads.com.

In this episode of Hot Topics, hosts J. Fotsch and Will Cox welcome Dr. Shelby Smith, a family physician and father of three, to explore the essential yet often neglected topic of self-care for dads. With honesty and warmth, Dr. Smith shares how his personal and professional experiences have transformed his understanding of burnout, mindfulness, and the importance of being present—mentally and emotionally—for his family. From engaging in early morning exercise and guided meditation to establishing digital boundaries and learning to say no to overcommitments, he provides practical strategies for achieving balance amid the chaos of parenting. Key points include how situational stress affects both mind and body, why parents must protect their presence as much as their provision, and how saying “no” is an essential part of family wellness. The conversation underscores that while balance may never be perfect, intentionality, vulnerability, and supportive friendships can help dads shift from reactive to reflective parenting. Episode Highlights [03:08] – “We’re never going to get this thing right… but we’re trying to do the best we can.” [07:12] – “Tell me what happened between then and now… and inevitably there’s going to be some change in a situation.” [10:54] – “You have to take care of yourself first before you can be there for everyone else.” [18:28] – “Our kids aren’t going to remember the toys we got… they’re going to remember this time.” [20:13] – “Each Friday I put on an auto-reply… I don’t check my email on the weekend.” [27:36] – “You only say yes if it’s a ‘hell yes.’” [31:59] – “If I can think about mindfulness every morning when I wake up, it’ll be an okay day.” [33:18] – “It just takes more effort to cultivate friendships… but it’s so important.” Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

Infant Health with Family Connects In this episode of The Difference a Dad Makes, hosts J. Fotsch and Brian Mattson talk with Jordan Coiner from the Springfield-Greene County Health Department about the crucial role dads play in infant health. Jordan shares personal stories from his own parenting journey and introduces the Family Connects program, a home-visiting initiative offering support from registered nurses to every new family in Greene County. The conversation centers on how dads can stay curious, ask questions and get involved early in their child's life—especially when navigating sleep deprivation, changing family dynamics and emotional overwhelm. The discussion also highlights the overlooked mental health needs of new fathers. Jordan opens up about the postpartum challenges his family faced and encourages dads to prioritize self-care and emotional openness. Resources like Mental Health 417 and peer support are emphasized, as well as using reputable sources like the American Academy of Pediatrics to navigate conflicting parenting advice. The episode sends a strong message: Dads matter deeply and seeking help is a strength—not a weakness. Episode Highlights [06:32] “It’s okay to not know the answer… being willing to ask the question is the biggest thing.” [07:13] “Every newborn in Greene County has access to our nurses… they’ll come visit you in the home.” [14:37] “Talk to another friend of mine who is a dad as well… you realize you’re not alone.” [17:10] “If I’m not taking care of myself, I can’t fully take care of my family.” [18:39] “Health outcomes improve when dads are involved… for mom and baby.” [19:48] “Don’t just trust what someone says on TikTok—go do your own research.” [25:17] “Hey man, you good? Let’s have a conversation. Let’s talk about our mental health.” Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this episode of The Intentional Dad, hosts J. Fotsch and Jason Hynson sit down with guest Dyllan Dale to unpack the challenges dads face when helping their kids navigate peer pressure and self-esteem. Through honest conversation and real-life stories, the trio explores how intentional parenting means being present, empathetic and proactive—especially when kids are influenced by their peers or struggling with their own worth. They discuss the cultural pressure on dads to provide, the emotional weight of comparison fueled by social media and the importance of saying "no" with love. Whether it’s confronting unrealistic expectations, teaching kids it's okay to be different or reflecting on their own adolescence, the hosts highlight the value of listening, guiding and building trust through tough conversations. Episode Highlights [01:01] "This is some hard stuff. I've got to do this… the intentional part is the actual actions." [04:44] "I have to be intentional… say, 'I'm going to pick you up and we're just going to go hiking—nothing else.'" [07:27] "The culture nowadays pressures us dads to be such providers… if we can’t give our kids everything we feel like we’ve failed." [9:55] "Going back to your family goals… sometimes that means the one-off outliers don't get the phone." [13:50] "That fear rises back up in me… but I have to say, 'That was a whole other lifetime ago.'" [21:41] "You're dealing with fear, anger… but you're also trying to remember what you needed at that age." [26:10] "I always tell them: it’s okay to be different. You’re going to grow up and be your own person." [30:49] "Maybe the goal with peer pressure is just to be available… to be a listening voice and a guide." Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this heartfelt episode of Good Dads Great Communities, Dr. Jennifer L. Baker and J. Fotsch welcome longtime friend and original Good Dads board member Paul Windisch. Together, they reflect on the organization's 10-year evolution from a vision to a community-wide movement supporting fatherhood. Paul shares how being part of the early days—and watching the mission grow—shaped his perspective as a father and community member. The conversation highlights the importance of starting where you are, engaging dads from all walks of life, and seeking out “spark plugs”—people who carry the vision forward. Whether you're building a new initiative or rethinking community involvement, this episode is a guide to aligning personal identity, passion, and purpose in ways that make lasting impact. Episode Highlights [02:11] "We decided on the logo. We decided on the name. It was amazing. But I could not have envisioned ten years down the road at doing what it's doing." [05:51] "Sometimes we live inside our own little circles and don't really think about the things that affect others. That opened my eyes." [10:58] "That’s kind of the vision of Good Dads—just to pause. Because our kids are always watching." [13:35] "I was talking with dads and learning how I could slow down. It was convicting, honestly." [15:20] "We need all kinds of voices—media people, finance, construction. Everyone brings a unique way to connect with dads." [25:44] "It’s not about checking boxes. It’s about passion. It’s the heart that moves the needle." 📩 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 info@gooddads.com.

In this episode of Hot Topics, the hosts, J Fotsch and Will Cox welcome Dr. Leonard B. Horton III, assistant professor of journalism at Missouri State University, to explore how fathers can foster healthy screen time habits in the digital age. With humor and honesty, the conversation spans early parenting decisions to teen technology use, revealing both the risks and the opportunities that screen-based media present for families. Key points include the importance of modeling healthy tech behavior, understanding the hidden algorithms behind social media and recognizing the emotional vulnerabilities children face in digital spaces. Dr. Horton emphasizes intentional parenting and consistent communication, sharing practical tools like monitored phones, weekly check-ins and family goal-setting to keep kids grounded and connected. Episode Highlights [05:03] – “You give them something to do... and what that does is it goes from 15 minutes and it turns into an hour.” [06:42] – “You can’t just give a kid a device and tell them to figure it out. You’ve got to be hands-on with it.” [12:46] – “Algorithms influence our choices and what we see on social media.” [16:27] – “When you're not included in that group, you're really not included.” [21:16] – “I would get an alert… so I could have a conversation.” [29:53] – “Every Sunday night… no TVs, no phones… what is one goal you have for this week?” Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this episode of The Difference a Dad Makes, hosts J. Fotsch and Diana Dudenhoeffer sit down with Chief Paul Williams to talk about how dads play a vital role in raising safe, responsible kids. With 45 years in law enforcement and personal parenting experience, Chief Williams highlights how an involved father figure profoundly shapes a child’s choices and future. He stresses that being a good dad means more than just enforcing rules—it’s about being present, playful and supportive. They also tackle modern challenges like cyber safety, helicopter parenting and building independence. Chief Williams offers practical tools including using apps like Life360 and encouraging open dialogue. His “retractable leash” analogy captures the balance of freedom and protection. Above all, the episode delivers a hopeful message: it’s never too late to break the cycle and start a legacy of strong fatherhood. Episode Highlights [04:29] “The number one thing that makes a difference in a kid’s life is a dad… present, engaged, involved.” [06:48] “Being a good dad is not just being the bad guy… Talk to any of my kids—they’ll say their best memories are of dad being the fun dad.” [10:26] “We’re seeing that generational impact… I didn’t have a father figure, so I’m not a father figure.” [17:22] “Your kids are your responsibility. They need to realize that. If you don’t give me access to everything, you’re not going to have it.” [20:31] “Parents that take the helicopter approach… are doing their kids a disservice. Kids need to fail, screw up, get better.” [27:13] “We’re exposed to more [news] now. Use that knowledge for good—but don’t go overboard and lock them up ‘til they’re 20.” [32:51] “Think of life as a retractable leash… You give them space but when danger’s there, you can reel them back in.” Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this episode of The Intentional Dad, hosts Jason Hynson and J. Fotsch talk candidly about the early days of fatherhood—from sleepless nights to adapting plans and embracing support. With stories from their own experiences raising newborns, the duo highlights the importance of flexibility, presence and being teachable as new dads. They share laughs over chaotic moments, practical tips for managing colicky babies and the reality of emotional ups and downs for both parents. The episode encourages intentional parenting by focusing on teamwork, selflessness and community support, especially during the challenges of raising a baby. Episode Highlights [01:13] "You're just so delusional. You don’t know what’s going on, and you’re like a walking zombie." [07:35] "Tip number one… be teachable. Don’t act like you already know it all." [11:07] "Sometimes my needs have to go out the window… showing up is different." [12:59] "Support could be just taking the six-year-old to the circus while mom gets a break." [22:19] "Love is always in the present. Your presence is the most loving thing you can give." [23:59] "You’ll sleep eventually. It’ll come. All these things pass." Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Jennifer L. Baker and co-host J. Fotsch sit down with Aaron Swanson, General Sales Manager at Springfield Nissan & Kia. More than a business leader, Aaron is a husband and father who understands the power of leading by example. He shares how his workplace has embraced the Good Dads mission—not just financially but through hands-on support and community involvement. Whether you’re launching a fatherhood initiative or looking to partner with local businesses, this episode explores how meaningful partnerships begin with genuine relationships and shared values. Episode Highlights [01:12] "I have twins that are 19… and a 12-year-old. They're the reason why I do all of this." [02:34] "Being a good dad impacts who you are at work. The full circle is great—it builds better employees and stronger communities." [04:08] "Businesses want people who aren’t dealing with chaos at home. Supporting fatherhood makes good business sense." [06:12] " We use our commercials to spotlight causes like Good Dads—it shows we’re part of something bigger than just selling cars." [16:01] "You only need one person to get started. Then build from there—one dad, one conversation, one step at a time." 📩 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 info@gooddads.com.

In this episode of Hot Topics, hosts Will Cox and Dr. Jennifer L. Baker discuss the importance of allowing children to experience failure as a tool for growth. They explore how overcoming setbacks builds resilience, decision-making skills and long-term success. Will shares a personal story about his son procrastinating on a school assignment and his initial instinct to step in and "fix" the situation. Dr. Baker provides insights on why failure is a crucial learning experience and how parents can balance support with accountability. They also discuss how financial literacy, responsibility and discipline are best taught through firsthand experience. This episode is a must-listen for parents struggling with when to intervene and when to step back helping their children become strong independent individuals. Episode Highlights [00:46] "Allowing them to fail is more difficult than teaching them to succeed." [02:46] "I stopped and thought—oh my gosh, I'm allowing my child to commit plagiarism. Why am I doing this?" [05:12] "I had to pay for the repairs of my car when I was 16 years old. That changed how I saw responsibility." [11:08] "Give them the chance to fail when the price tag is small." [14:48] "My husband said, ‘Wow, they got places that can do that. You should call and figure it out.’ So my son had to solve the problem himself." [16:33] "Years later, my son knew how to handle a snowstorm because he had to learn the hard way before." [22:24] "Children can adjust to different rules in different households—just like they do at school." [24:17] "Michael Jordan, Abraham Lincoln, Winston Churchill—what motivated them? Failure." [25:40] "You're not always going to be there. Let them make mistakes now while it's safe, before they enter the real world." Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com

In this episode of The Difference a Dad Makes, hosts Brian Mattson and Dr. Jennifer L. Baker welcome Paul Baker, an experienced educator and former school principal, to discuss practical ways to build confidence in children. Paul shares insights from his career in education and his experiences as a father, offering real-life examples of how responsibility, chores and perseverance help instill confidence in kids. The conversation explores the value of allowing children to experience challenges, learn from failures and develop independence through everyday tasks. Whether you're a parent looking for strategies to encourage self-reliance or just hoping to understand how confidence is built over time, this episode provides meaningful stories, practical advice and engaging discussions on the importance of resilience in childhood. Episode Highlights [01:49] "I think you have to let them experience things. You have to require things of them. Jennifer and I were always very big on chores and it was a battle, but we stood together." [04:52] "We felt that it was good for children to sweat, to do something boring because there are a lot of things in life that are not fun but have to be done." [08:11] "We let our kids cook. There were some disasters but learning happens in those mistakes." [14:09] "The first time Jack buttoned his shirt by himself, he cried, Jessica cried and I cried. He worked hard for it and that was such a proud moment." [15:39] "There are winners and losers in competition. Not everything ends in a tie and not everybody gets a trophy. Understanding that is part of growing up." [22:07] "It's better to crash and burn in fourth grade than to wait until you're 18 and realize you're not the best at everything." Resources 📩 Sign up for the Good Dads Newsletter and never miss a podcast! 🌐 Learn more at gooddads.com 📧 Questions or comments? Reach out to Good Dads at info@gooddads.com