Did you catch our four engaging podcast episodes in April? We explored fatherhood in various ways, from handling screen time to fostering workplace culture. Each discussion offered insightful views on being a purposeful and involved dad in the twenty-first century.
This week on the Good Dads blog, we’re recapping some of our favorite takeaways and lessons learned from our podcast hosts and guests. Let’s keep the conversation going!
Building Strong Communities One Dad at a Time
- Episode: Finding Community Champions
- Series: Good Dads Great Communities
- Guest: Aaron Swanson
- Hosts: Dr. Jennifer L. Baker & J. Fotsch
Aaron Swanson, General Sales Manager at Springfield Nissan & Kia, reveals how his values as a father extend into his workplace and how businesses can play a unique role in championing fatherhood in their communities. Aaron illustrates the ripple effect of supporting dads from hosting events to donating media space.
“Being a good dad impacts who you are at work… it builds better employees and stronger communities.” – Aaron Swanson
This episode highlights how one person’s leadership can initiate lasting change in both business and family culture.
Why it Matters: Businesses have always championed causes they care about, so you’d be remiss NOT to keep local businesses top of mind to support your responsible fatherhood initiative. What’s more, studies show that good dads are good for business!
Finding Balance in Chaos
- Episode: Starting Strong with Babies
- Series: The Intentional Dad
- Hosts: Jason Hynson & J. Fotsch
Parenting a newborn is equal parts exhausting and transformative. In this episode, Jason and J. Fotsch reflect on their earliest days as fathers, navigating sleepless nights, changing expectations and learning the power of presence. Through humor and humility, they offer support to fellow dads in the trenches.
“Your presence is the most loving thing you can give.” – Jason Hynson
From chiropractic visits to chaotic birth plans the duo reminds listeners that adaptability, grace and teamwork make all the difference during early parenthood.
Why it Matters: Let’s face it — most of the conversation around early parenthood centers on Mom and Baby. But let’s make sure Dad isn’t left behind. Plus, there’s plenty of evidence showcasing how important Dad is in the first year of his child’s life.
Dads, Safety & the Role of Trust
- Episode: Teaching Safety and Crime Awareness
- Series: The Difference a Dad Makes
- Guest: Springfield MO Police Chief Paul Williams
- Hosts: J. Fotsch & Diana Dudenhoeffer
With over four decades in law enforcement, Chief Paul Williams shares hard truths and hopeful wisdom about fatherhood’s impact on youth safety. He emphasizes that being present, not just as a disciplinarian but as a mentor, can alter a child’s path for the better.
“The number one thing that makes a difference in a kid’s life is a dad… present, engaged, involved.” – Chief Williams
From cyber safety to letting kids fail, the conversation offers practical tools for building trust, encouraging independence and disrupting generational cycles.
Why it Matters: The short answer? When fathers and father-figures are highly engaged in the lives of their children, those youngsters are less likely to be justice-involved. They have positive role models and can see examples of healthy relationships in the grown-ups around them. When Dad is in the picture, he plays a huge role in raising responsible citizens. The long answer? Tune into the full episode!
Leading Kids Through the Digital World
- Episode: Screen Time & Technology Balance for Kids
- Series: Hot Topics
- Hosts: J. Fotsch & Will Cox
- Guest: Dr. Leonard B. Horton III
Dr. Leonard Horton joins the show to discuss one of the most pressing issues facing modern parents: screen time. With experience in both media and fatherhood Horton offers candid advice on setting boundaries, understanding algorithms and staying actively involved in kids’ digital lives.
“You can’t just give a kid a device and tell them to figure it out.” – Dr. Horton
Why it Matters: It’s crucial it is for parents to model balanced behavior and use tools like content monitoring and goal-setting to build healthier tech habits at home. In today’s fast-paced and tech-heavy world, kiddos need Dad to take an active role with screen-time.
Final Takeaway for Dads
At first glance, our April podcast episodes are about four entirely different—and disparate—topics. But if you look closely, you’ll see that they unite under one main idea:
Being a good dad involves intentionality.
Whether you’re handling diaper changes, keeping an eye on social media usage or demonstrating leadership in your community, your steady involvement as a dad is vital. Perfection isn’t necessary; what matters is being present, open to learning and eager to grow with your children.
Keep Learning
Good Dads Podcasts brings real conversations to real fathers. Subscribe to stay connected and explore more resources right here on our website. Questions or feedback? Reach out any time at [email protected].
