Good Dads Podcast

Latest Episodes:

The Intentional Dad Ep. 6 - The Role of Discipline in Parenting Jun 18, 2025

Show notes

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

Hot Topics Ep. 6 - Being a Father Figure Jun 11, 2025

Show notes

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

Good Dads Great Communities Ep. 6 - How Good Dads Fits Your Community Jun 04, 2025

Show notes

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 two of the three 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.

Hot Topics Ep. 5 - Burnout to Balance: Prioritizing Self-Care as a Dad May 27, 2025

Show notes

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

The Difference a Dad Makes Ep. 5 - Infant Health with Family Connects May 20, 2025

Show notes

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

The Intentional Dad Ep 5 - Handling Peer Pressure and Self-Esteem May 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Intentional Dad, hosts J. Fotsch and Jason Hynson sit down with guest Dyllan Dale, a New Pathways for Good Dads graduate. They 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

Good Dads Great Communities Ep. 5 - Connecting Your Identity in the Community with Your Goals May 06, 2025

Show notes

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.

Hot Topics Ep. 4 - Screen Time & Technology Balance for Kids Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

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

The Difference a Dad Makes Ep. 4 - Teaching Safety and Crime Awareness Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

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

The Intentional Dad Episode 4 - Starting Strong with Babies Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

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

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