We’ve all done it. You click on one little photo, and the social media algorithm starts to study you. It starts suggesting things it thinks you’d like. It starts pushing you in new directions. It’s trying to serve you, but also trap you. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about that pesky social media algorithm and how to make it work for you, not against you as a dad.

Why This Matters
Algorithms try to keep your attention and steal your time away from what matters most.

Define It
The social media algorithm is the behind-the-scenes brain that sorts through all the noise and tries to deliver a personalized feed of content it thinks you’ll like.

Things Social Media Algorithms Do

• -Explore your potential interests: They analyze popular trends and feeds them to you in an attempt to broaden your horizons.
• -Move you beyond your immediate network: By suggesting posts from accounts you don’t follow, platforms help content “go viral.”
• -Steer you toward high-engagement content: If a post is getting a lot of likes, shares, and comments in a short amount of time, the visibility gets boosted to a wider audience.
• -Use “People You May Know” logic: Sometimes, you’ll see content liked or shared by people you follow on the platform.

How To Train Your Algorithm

1. 1, Only engage authentically.
   Only like, share, and comment on content you genuinely care about.
2. 2. Follow intentionally.
   Be mindful of who you follow, because algorithms assume you like similar things.
3. 3. Explore mindfully.
   Using ‘Explore’ or ‘For You’ search aids collects data about your interests.
4. 4. Watch the clock.
   The longer you spend viewing content, the more social media algorithms assume you’re interested. Don’t linger.
5. 5. Use platform features.
   Block, mute, or hit ‘not interested’ to refine your online experience.

Action Steps For Today

1. 1. Audit Your Feed
   Look at what you’re viewing and cut out anything that is a toxic influence.
2. 2. Communicate
   Talk to your spouse or a friend about the role social media plays in your life.
3. 3. Have accountability
   Talk to someone about how you’re using social media.

Important Episode Timestamps

00:00 – 00:21 | Kicking Off the Conversation
The hosts introduce themselves with humor and set the stage for today’s discussion.

00:21 – 02:20 | Instagram and Pornography
Bobby shares a story about how subtle Instagram feeds led a friend down an unhealthy path.

02:20 – 05:23 | What Are Algorithms Really Doing?
The guys break down how social media algorithms work and what they’re designed to accomplish.

05:23 – 07:45 | Algorithms Get Smarter Every Year
From hockey tutorials to sourdough bread, algorithms are getting increasingly more precise.

07:45 – 09:35 | Screen Time by Generation
Statistics reveal just how much time different age groups spend daily on their phones.

09:35 – 11:13 | Problems with Social Media Algorithms
Major concerns: echo chambers, harmful information, and mental health impact.

11:13 – 14:40 | Personal Reflections on Algorithm Impact
Exploring how algorithms affect time, focus, and creativity.

14:40 – 19:13 | Training the Algorithm to Work for You
Action steps for liking authentically, following intentionally, and using platform features wisely.

19:13 – 23:59 | Boundaries, Self-Discipline, and Accountability
The guys compare algorithms to a “bad influential friend” and emphasize the need for discipline and community.

24:00 – End | Pro Move of the Week
Mute or block content when you notice it has the potential to lead you to a place you don’t want to go online.

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.