If that little ‘check engine’ light comes on while you’re driving, it can make your palms sweat. Nobody likes it when unexpected problems pop up with their car. The same is true with your family. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster to talk about checking our gauges as parents so we can understand our kids better and prevent breakdowns in our parent-child relationship.
Checking in with kids is even more important than getting a timely oil change. It’s what keeps the gears turning properly in your home. Dads must understand the challenges their kids are facing. Enjoy this thoughtful conversation all geared toward molding men into finely tuned dads.
Why This Matters
If we want our kids to thrive, we must be tuned in to what’s going on in their lives.
The 5 Gauges
- The Friend Gauge: Who are your kids hanging out with?
- The School Gauge: How are things going in the classroom?
- The Sports Gauge: how are extracurricular activities shaping your kids?
- The Feelings Gauge: Understanding their emotions is paramount.
- The Dad Gauge: To lead your family well, you must take care of yourself.
Important Episode Timestamps
00:00 - 00:54 | Introduction & This Week’s Big Question
01:54 - 03:15 | A “Parental Gotcha” Story That Sparked the Idea
03:15 - 07:07 | Gauge #1: The Friend Gauge
07:07 - 09:02 | Gauge #2: The School Gauge
09:02 - 14:09 | Gauge #3: The Sports & Activities Gauge
14:09 - 20:18 | Gauge #4: The Feelings Gauge
20:18 - 21:23 | Safe & Strong: What Kids Really Need from Dads
21:23 - 24:55 | Gauge #5: The Dad Gauge
24:55 - 26:04 | Progress Over Perfection: A Word of Encouragement
26:04 - 27:12 | Pro Move of the Week: Check Just One Gauge
APD Pro Move:
Choose one of the five gauges to check in on this week—with your child, your spouse, or yourself.
All Pro Dad Resources:
5 Kids Gauges You Need to Check Consistently
3 Ways to Become an Irrelevant Dad
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