Teaching kids how to fish. Throwing the baseball in the yard. Helping with homework. Dads do a lot, but there’s more to being a good dad than just offering life lessons and perfectly grilled hot dogs. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by Bobby Lewis to talk about what makes a good dad.

If you’re struggling with finding the right combination of discipline and encouragement, you’re not alone. Dads must wear many hats while raising kids. How do we know if we’re doing it well? Check in with trusted people who will tell you the truth. Who are they? Ted and Bobby discuss.

Why This Matters

The importance of a dad’s role in the life of his kids can’t be overemphasized. Dad impact every area of their kids’ lives, so being involved matters.

When Dad is involved in his kids’ lives:

1. His kids have greater emotional well-being,
2. His kids usually perform better in school,
3. His kids usually have fewer behavioral issues.

Being a good dad matters. If you want to know how you’re doing with your kids…

• 1. Check in with them. “What am I doing that’s great. What’s one thing I could change as a dad?” These questions can provide great insight directly from the source.
• 2. Check in with the people who know you best. Ask your wife. Ask your friends. Get a truthful response from them to guide your actions as a father.
• 3. Check in with yourself. Track where you’ve been as a dad and what has worked and what hasn’t.
• 4. Check in with coaches or teachers. These people see you through your kids’ eyes.
• 5. Sometimes, check in with a pro. There is no shame in talking with an outside voice, like a counselor or therapist, to figure out how you’re doing as a dad.

Important Episode Timestamps

00:00 – 00:54 | Introduction & Big Question of the Week
Ted and Bobby kick off the episode with the central question: How am I ranking as a dad?

00:54 – 02:34 | A Snapshot of Fatherhood Today
The hosts reflect on parenting across age groups and how kids change your role over time.

02:34 – 04:11 | Why Dad Involvement Matters—Big Time
Research-backed ways dads shape kids’ emotional, academic, and social development.

04:11 – 07:09 | The Check-In Hack: Asking Your Kids
How simple questions and one-on-one moments reveal how you’re doing as a father.

07:09 – 09:28 | Ask Your Spouse or Trusted Friend for Feedback
Tips for getting honest insight from someone close—without getting defensive.

09:28 – 11:05 | Self-Check: Journaling, Prayer & Pausing
Using reflection and spiritual discipline to track your growth as a dad.

11:05 – 12:53 | Don’t Just Assume You’re Crushing It
Encouragement for dads to stay humble and open to growth, even if you feel confident.

12:53 – 14:34 | Teachers & Coaches: Valuable Outside Perspective
Why the other adults in your child’s life may see things you don’t—and how to ask.

14:34 – 16:13 | Talk to a Pro: Counseling Is a Power Move
When to get expert insight for your child—or yourself—to improve parenting connection.

16:13 – 17:18 | Pro Move of the Week: Pick One Check-In

APD Pro Move:
Choose one of the five check-ins to evaluate how you’re doing as a dad this week.

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.