This month Good Dads podcast lineup explored vital areas of fatherhood—from raising financially responsible kids to building father-focused programs in rural communities. Each conversation offers a powerful reminder that intentional parenting and consistent presence can shape futures, families and even entire communities.
This week on the Good Dads blog, we’re featuring our favorite takeaways and insights from the latest podcast episodes. Let’s dive in!
Building Responsible Fatherhood Efforts in Rural Missouri
- Episode: How Good Dads Fits Your Community: Good Dads Great Communities
- Hosts: Dr. Jennifer L. Baker & J. Fotsch
- Guests: Shawn Vanderbeck & Jill Garrett
In this episode of Good Dads Great Communities, hosts Dr. Jennifer L. Baker and J. Fotsch discuss the achievements of Sean Vanderbeck from the Ava chapter and Jill Garrett from the Texas County chapter in rural Missouri. Both leaders (and two of our three winners for the Good Dads Great Communities of the Year Contest) share their experiences in promoting fatherhood in small towns.
“In smaller communities, dads often get overlooked—we’re showing that they matter too.” – Jill Garrett
We love this episode because Jill and Shawn do a great job of emphasizing the importance of personal connections, accountability and engaging local communities through initiatives such as parenting classes and church support. By sharing their stories, our chapter leaders are a shining example of how responsible fatherhood efforts can lead to cultural change while strengthening community ties.
The Power of Presence & Vulnerability
- Episode: Being a Father Figure: Hot Topics
- Hosts: Will Cox & J. Fotsch
- Guest: Zach Troutman
In the Hot Topics series, we’re always trying to get to the bottom of the latest buzz in parenting circles—while giving it a dad-focused spin! On the latest episode, our guest Zach
Troutman opens up about growing up fatherless, losing his best friend to suicide and why mentorship and emotional honesty are key parts of being a dad. Through his work with “Follow the Leader,” he helps men and boys find healing, purpose and real connection in a world that often discourages vulnerability.
“You can’t meet someone where they are if you don’t know where they’re at.” – Zach Troutman
Can you be a Good Dad and be a father figure to others? Zach’s answer is: Of course! We love this powerful episode because Zach’s experiences and achievements highlight the strength found in support networks, openness and simply showing up.
Discipline With a Purpose
- Episode: The Role of Discipline in Parenting: The Intentional Dad
- Hosts: Jason Hynson & J. Fotsch
- Guest: Jim Robinette
Being intentional and being disciplined are two sides of the same coin. And who better to talk about discipline than military veteran and attorney Jim Robinette. Jim joined the show with Jason and J to unpack what discipline really means in a parenting context. Drawing from personal experience and military structure, Jim shared his wisdom about giving children agency, fostering responsibility and modeling accountability through consistent expectations.
“Make good choices—that’s been my mantra for my kids from the start.” – Jim Robinette
We love this episode because it’s an honest look at what discipline actually is…not just what we imagine discipline ought to be. Jim’s insights really help redefine discipline as a tool for growth, not control.
Chore Charts & Saving Goals
- Episode: Teaching Financial Responsibility: The Difference a Dad Makes
- Hosts: Brian Mattson & J. Fotsch
- Guests: Crystal & Tobi Roberts
Good Dads executive board member Crystal Roberts and her husband, Tobi, gave us the inside-scoop on how financially literate parents can raise money-smart kids. The couple shares how their family uses a hands-on approach to teach kids about money, work and value. From early-age chore charts to envelope budgeting, their system emphasizes real-world financial literacy built on small, age-appropriate tasks. With this funny and relatable episode, we learned that saving money doesn’t have to be boring.
“Before you give them money, help them understand money.” – Tobi Roberts
We love this episode because we think that the Roberts’ story is a helpful blueprint for any family wanting to build practical life skills from the ground up.
Final Takeaway for Dads
June’s episodes remind us that being a Good Dad isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about being engaged, honest and willing to grow. Whether you’re teaching kids how to earn a dollar, helping your small town thrive or leading by example through discipline and compassion, your presence makes a difference!
Learn More
The Good Dads Podcasts brings real conversations to real fathers. Subscribe to stay connected and explore more resources at gooddads.com. Questions or feedback? Reach out anytime at [email protected].
