Tossing the football in the yard. Working on cars in the driveway. Reviewing how to be a gentleman on a date. There are so many cool moments dads and son share that it’s hard to pick the best ones. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about the joy of being a dad to sons.

Why This Matters

Sons often grow up to be mini versions of their dads. Building a strong bond today can have generational impact.

Key Stat

• In a Gallup survey, boys are more likely than girls to report having a strong, loving relationship with their parents (77% versus 61%).

“Get To,” Not Have To
Here are a few things dads get to do with their sons:

1. 1. Pass down “dad stuff”
   There’s something special about teaching your son things you grew up doing—sports, grilling, fixing things, shaving, tying a tie, and so on. It’s all about tradition, mentorship, and bonding.
2. 2. Be rough.

Boys are aggressive, usually, and tend to have more energy than girls. They don’t sit still well. They need to run. Dads can nurture that side of boys and let them just be boys in a shared experience. Be their wrestling partner.

3. Be real.
Bluntness works well with boys. A matter-of-fact approach works better with boys, and that can help us get our message across to sons efficiently and effectively.

4. 4. Be buddies.

Males get along better with males, according to research. You are the most influential male in your son’s life, so lean into this calling. Make it your mission to bond with your son.

5. 5. Be a mentor and example.

You’ve lived the life your son is trying to figure out. Steer him toward good choices. Teach him right from wrong. Push him toward using his skills productively. You get the chance to raise a kind, emotionally intelligent man who knows it’s strong to be gentle, confident to be vulnerable, and cool to be respectful. That’s legacy-level stuff.

6. 6. Get a future best friend.

This is when it gets deeper. They won’t be living in your house forever, but someday, hopefully, they still want to come back and hang out with you. You’re laying that groundwork today.

Important Episode Timestamps

00:00 – Intro & Welcome
Who doesn’t want to cook ham outdoors?

02:02 – Recreating Childhood Memories
BJ shares the story of surprising his son with a trip to a Phillies game and Ted talks about bike rides at the beach with is boys.

06:58 – Passing Down “Dad Stuff”
Dads get to share knowledge and experience with their boys that they can practice now in your home and carrying into their future.

10:15 – Being Rough is a Beautiful Pastime
Reflecting on playful traditions that evolve as kids grow older.

12:25 – The Science Behind Physical Play
Dads bond with their kids on a chemical and hormonal level when they play with their kids.

13:25 – Being Blunt is Easier with Boys
BJ used this approached during a potentially awkward conversation about masturbation.

16:35 – Dads Get Build-in Buddies  
Shared interests come easier with sons and daughters most of the time, which can lead to strong, long-lasting bonds.

19:11 – The “I Get To” Approach
Dads “get to” model, mold, and shape their kids into the best version of themselves.

22:00 – Pro Move: Set aside 1-on-1 time this week with each of your sons. Let them set the agenda and just enjoy being with your boy.

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.