All Pro Dad Podcast
On average, men switch jobs every four years, but one role guys will never outgrow, is dad. It’s a serious responsibility that lasts a lifetime and comes with highs, lows, and a ton of questions. It’s okay not to have all the answers… but the most committed dads are always chasing them.
The All Pro Dad podcast helps men navigate their toughest parenting problems. Experienced dads discuss what has worked for them, tackle scary topics, and learn to love their kids well. We do it all with a combination of humor and humility. If you have more questions than answers, this is the place to be. Today’s the perfect day to become an All Pro Dad.
All Pro Dad Podcast
Are Your Expectations Crushing Your Teen?
Expectations can lead to pressure, which grows into stress, anxiety, and a diminished sense of self-worth for kids. This is a problem dads can help with. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about how expectations are crushing our kids, especially our teens. They dive into the unique challenges kids are facing and how parents don’t always make things easier.
Key Takeaways
- Brain Development: Teen brains are still developing, particularly the frontal lobe responsible for executive function. This can make it difficult for teens to plan, prioritize, and remember future tasks.
- Sleep Patterns: Teenagers naturally have different sleep-wake cycles than adults, often leading to difficulty falling asleep early and waking up for school.
- Creating a Safe Environment: Parents should strive to create a safe and supportive environment for their kids, focusing on guidance and encouragement rather than constant pressure to achieve.
Practical Tools for Dads
Engage in a meaningful conversation with your kids. Ask them to identify the biggest source of pressure they are currently experiencing, then follow these steps:
1. Let your kids share their perspective.
2. Verbalize your support.
3. Offer guidance.
Important Episode Timestamps
· (00:00 - 02:15) Introduction & Hosts' Backgrounds
· (02:15 - 03:04) The Big Question: Are Parental Expectations Crushing Teens?
· (03:04 - 04:46) Understanding Teen Brain Development
· (04:46 - 06:36) Why Teens Argue & How It Benefits Them
· (06:36 - 10:36) The Pressure of Expectations vs. The Power of Guidance
· (10:36 - 14:08) Boundaries vs. Expectations: What’s the Difference?
· (14:08 - 18:17) Curfews, Consequences & Real-World Lessons
· (18:17 - 20:55) The Identity Crisis: How Teens Navigate Different Worlds
· (20:55 - 23:22) How Dads Can Reduce Pressure & Create a Safe Space
· (23:22 - 25:30) Pro Move of the Week
APD Pro Move:
Ask your child, “What is the biggest source of pressure you are currently experiencing?”
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The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit
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