Good Dads Podcast

In this episode of The Intentional Dad, hosts Jason Hynson and J. Fotsch sit down with Herb Cody, a dedicated father from Nixa, Missouri, to discuss how life’s challenges shape empathy, resilience and intentional fatherhood. Herb shares his personal journey of navigating fatherhood through life-altering experiences, including his own near-fatal accident and his wife’s traumatic brain injury. He explains how he balanced being both a father and caretaker, how his community stepped in to support his family and how he instilled resilience and compassion in his children. This episode is a powerful look at overcoming adversity, staying present as a dad and fostering emotional strength in your children. Episode Highlights [02:39] "I had to be mom and dad while taking care of my wife’s recovery. I don’t even remember how I did it—I just knew I had to." [05:36] "The community really stepped in. Other parents, friends, even teammates’ families—it reminded me that none of us have to do this alone." [07:06] "You never

In this episode of Good Dads, Great Communities, Dr. Jennifer L. Baker, founder and Executive Director of Good Dads, and co-host J. Fotsch discuss how to build fatherhood initiatives and strengthen communities through engagement, collaboration, and leadership. Dr. Baker shares how Good Dads started with a simple idea and grew into a multi-chapter organization supporting thousands of fathers. She and Fotsch highlight the importance of identifying community champions, creating safe spaces for dads to connect, and fostering conversations that promote strong family involvement. If you're looking to start or grow a fatherhood initiative in your community, this episode provides practical steps, success stories, and motivation to get started. Episode Highlights [03:08] "Every child has a father, whether or not that child lives with him. But too often, fathers are invisible in community programs." [04:55] "If you look around, you’ll likely find that most programs for dads exist only in faith-based communities or pr

In this episode of The Difference a Dad Makes, hosts Brian and J Fotsch welcome Rudy Martinez, Director of the Springfield Conservation Nature Center, to explore the role of curiosity, outdoor exploration, and lifelong learning in parenting. Rudy shares how his love for the outdoors influenced his parenting style and how exposing kids to nature sparks curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The conversation highlights why hands-on experiences matter, how fathers can foster curiosity in their children, and simple ways to get outside—even for families new to outdoor activities. Whether you’re an avid outdoorsman or just looking for ways to connect with your child, this episode is packed with practical tips, personal stories, and inspiration for raising curious, resilient kids. Episode Highlights [01:42] "You can see in the eyes of your child when they learn something new—from the moment they’re born through their teens." [10:07] "If you just provide the opportunity to be outside, people will start

In this episode of Hot Topics, hosts J Fotsch and Will Cox sit down with Dr. Kyle John, Medical Director at Arc of the Ozarks, to explore neurodiversity, inclusivity, and early intervention for autism and other developmental disorders. Dr. John explains what neurodiversity is, how early diagnosis impacts long-term outcomes, and why dads often struggle more than moms when their child receives a diagnosis. The discussion also highlights the importance of inclusive education, breaking stigmas, and advocating for neurodiverse children at home, school, and in the community. This episode is a must-listen for parents looking to better understand neurodiversity and how to support children with unique learning needs. Episode Highlights [05:00]"The earlier you diagnose, the better the outcome." [06:56]"Your brain may be structured and function differently, but that’s not something to feel bad about." [08:06]"Men struggle to see their kids as flawed... They think, ‘He’s just being a boy.’" [14:33]"If I learn about you

In this episode of The Intentional Dad, hosts Jason Hynson and J. Fotsch welcome guest David Anderson, a school counselor, father of three and 2024 Dad of the Year honoree. Together they dive into what it means to instill kindness, responsibility and teamwork in children both at home and in the community. David shares how his experience in the Peace Corps shaped his family's commitment to service, including taking each of his children on a mission trip before they graduate. The conversation highlights how leading by example, fostering gratitude and encouraging responsibility through everyday actions help shape the next generation. Join us for an insightful discussion on how small intentional steps can create a lasting impact on children, families and communities. Episode Highlights [01:50] "My wife is pretty special. She submitted an essay for me, and somehow I got selected as a 2024 Dad of the Year. She probably made me look way better than I really am." [03:41] "When you live in a third-world country for

Episode 2: Getting Started - Six Essential Sectors In this episode of Good Dads Great Communities, Dr. Jennifer Baker and cohost J. Fotsch explore the six essential sectors needed to build and sustain a strong Good Dads initiative in any community. As Good Dads expands into new locations, the question arises: How do we bring Good Dads to our town? Dr. Baker shares the key components of a successful community launch and how collaboration across different sectors ensures long-term success. Listeners will learn about the importance of business, faith communities, government, justice systems, social services and education in supporting fathers and strengthening families. With real-world examples from communities already implementing Good Dads, this episode offers insights into how local leaders can take action to make fatherhood a priority. Join us for this informative discussion on creating lasting change and building stronger communities through engaged fatherhood. Episode Highlights [0:46] "We have learned o

In the first episode of Hot Topics, Dr. Jennifer Baker and cohost J. Fotsch welcome Will Cox, a father of two, coach, entrepreneur and self-proclaimed "mediocre dad trying to be good." Will shares his experiences raising two sons with distinct personalities, navigating fatherhood and balancing family life with his career as a solar company owner. This episode dives into why affection matters in fatherhood, particularly in families where open emotional expression may not come naturally. Will reflects on lessons learned from his upbringing, the challenges of showing vulnerability and the importance of building confidence and self-worth in children. Together, the hosts and Will explore how fathers can balance toughness with empathy, ensuring their children feel loved and supported. Join us for this engaging conversation about the joys and struggles of fatherhood as well as practical advice for fostering emotional connection with your children while preparing them to face the world with resilience. Episode Highli

In the premiere episode of The Difference a Dad Makes, Dr. Jennifer Baker and cohost J. Fotsch welcome Brian Mattson, lead pastor at the Downtown Church and father of two, to discuss the critical role of fathers, mentors and role models in shaping lives. This engaging conversation explores the profound impact dads have on their children not just in their presence but through their actions, stability and support. Brian shares personal experiences of fatherhood, the challenges and rewards of parenting young children and the importance of being an active and intentional father. The episode also highlights how mentors and male role models can step in to fill gaps for those without a father figure, offering guidance, accountability and a positive example. Listeners will gain insights into the unique contributions dads make to their children’s emotional, social and developmental well-being as well as practical advice for fostering meaningful relationships. Whether you're a dad, mentor or simply curious about the di

In the first episode of The Intentional Dad, Dr. Jennifer Baker and cohost Jason Hynson dive into what it means to be an intentional father. Jason, a father of seven children ranging from toddlers to teenagers, shares his journey of fatherhood, balancing the chaos and joy of parenting, and his role as the leader of Victory Mission. Together, they explore the importance of showing up, being present, and embracing the imperfections of parenting. This episode sets the stage for a series focused on fostering meaningful connections, navigating challenges, and modeling intentionality as a father. Jason reflects on lessons learned, the power of apology and vulnerability, and the impact of being a mindful and engaged dad. Listeners will gain practical insights, hear relatable anecdotes, and be encouraged to grow in their role as fathers. Join us for this inspiring conversation that celebrates fatherhood and lays the foundation for the series. Episode Highlights ·       [02:53] "Celebrating kids and people where they

In the inaugural episode of Good Dads Great Communities, Dr. Jennifer Baker, founder and director of Good Dads, and host J Fotsch introduce an inspiring vision for 2025, starting with the first module, “Why Good Dads Are Important to a Great Community.” This episode lays the foundation for a transformative yearlong exploration of how engaged fathers can create safer communities, stronger schools, and a robust economy. Discover how Good Dads empowers fathers to overcome challenges, foster meaningful connections with their children, and take action to drive positive change. Dr. Baker shares the powerful origins of the organization, highlights the gaps in resources available for dads, and discusses how local communities can uplift their fathers through practical initiatives and collaboration. Tune in to experience the profound impact of fatherhood on individuals, families, and communities, and find out how you can join in making a difference in 2025 and beyond. Episode Highlights ·       [05:16] "I'm going to a

We continue talking to Frank Tristan about parent involvement and how having humility can go a long way in any situation in life. Frank has been teaching and coaching for the last 20 years and loves the opportunity to invest in young people. He and his wife Natalie were married in 2008 and have two children, Hays and Taylor. They are regularly involved in church and love experiencing new adventures with their family. As a dad and an educator, it is easy to see how important the role of a father is in raising successful young people. When dads lead well, generations are impacted. This passion has led Frank to work with the Good Dads organization to see more families and communities impacted for good. Show Notes (5:10) I’m creating a culture of family    (5:54) I’ve gotta give your wife a break. You’re a parent just as much as she is.    (11:04 ) Kids will really respect when they know that you care about them and they know that you’re genuine.    (12:17) There was a new connection when I apologized to h

Frank Tristan, head football coach at Glendale High School, father, and husband, talks about the balance of being a coach and a parent in this Part One episode. Frank has been teaching and coaching for the last 20 years and loves the opportunity to invest in young people. He and his wife Natalie were married in 2008 and have two children, Hays and Taylor. They are regularly involved in church and love experiencing new adventures with their family. As a dad and an educator, it is easy to see how important the role of a father is in raising successful young people. When dads lead well, generations are impacted. This passion has led Frank to work with the Good Dads organization to see more families and communities impacted for good. Show Notes   (1:32) Parents are great, they are. Most of them just want their kid to be successful.   (4:26) What my kids respond to is giving them honest praise on things they can control.   (5:05) I just tell my kids that “if you want to stop playing sports now, I still love y

Frank Tristan, head football coach at Glendale High School, husband, and father, talks about the rewarding aspects of coaching and his "ABC" technique (Ask, Balance, and Competitive). Frank has been teaching and coaching for the last 20 years and loves the opportunity to invest in young people. He and his wife Natalie were married in 2008 and have two children, Hays and Taylor. They are regularly involved in church and love experiencing new adventures with their family. As a dad and an educator, it is easy to see how important the role of a father is in raising successful young people. When dads lead well, generations are impacted. This passion has led Frank to work with the Good Dads organization to see more families and communities impacted for good.   Show Notes (1:16) Guest Introduction  (3:00) In high school and college both my coaches were influential. My dad was obviously so important, but those guys cemented who I wanted to be in life, and I was like ‘Man, I could do that, that would be awesome and r

Join us this week in the Good Dads studio as founder and director Dr. Jennifer Baker and J Fotsch jump into the third installment on the challenges and joys of parenting a 4- and 5-year-old children.  Preschool-age children do not have the capacity to regulate their emotions as grown-ups, and some children throw more tantrums than others. One of the best way to avoid the potential meltdown is for dads to give choices: It offers leeway to strong-willed children so they can feel they have some control over their situation. By negotiating and getting down on your child's level, parents can teach their children to manage their behavior. In fact, managing children is far more about teaching parents to manage their own behavior above all else. Show Notes (3:08) If you know a tantrum is likely to happen in the grocery store ... where they want something and you're not going to get that thing for them, then I would say, first of all, avoid taking them to the store. (4:26) Try to forestal those tests of the will, e

Join us this week in the Good Dads studio as founder and director Dr. Jennifer Baker and J Fotsch talk about the challenges and joys of parenting a 4- and 5-year-old children.  This period of life is marked by inquisitiveness and unfiltered honesty. It's certainly true that they say the darndest things! These youngsters are at their peak of innocence, but they're also very in tune with potential tensions between Mom and Dad. Your kids are always watching and listening. They're absorbing what their parents say and do, so we talk about the important ways that dads can lead by example. Show Notes (1:35) By the time children are 4 and 5 years old, you can relax a little. (8:39) That's when you hear parents talking about, "Oh man, it's so hard, and I'm so tired, but it's worth it." And you're like, "Really?" And before, when I didn't have kids, I'm like, "Is it? It doesn't sound worth it." (9:09) Write down what your kids say. Write down those little moments because later on, you'll want to remember those. (1

Are children master manipulators, or just trying to get their way? Is it okay to have night-time snacks? What's a dad to do when his child disobeys, turning on the TV after bedtime? Join us this week with J Fotsch and Dr. Jennifer Baker as we cover common questions for dads of four- and five-year-olds, including bedtimes, sugary snacks, discipline, pretend-crying and more.   Show Notes (2:14) I try to tell (my daughter) when I know she's fake-crying, or fake-whining. She does that very, very good. I tell her, I say, "Do you know something? I know when you're not really crying—that you're fake crying—and I also know when you're pouting and you're trying to get something. So let's not do that." (3:38) Many times adults make the mistake of thinking a child thinks the way they do. And they don't! A child (who's) maybe 4 or 5 has very concrete thinking. (6:08) Let's say that you want a cookie ... There's no reason you shouldn't get that cookie. And you're gonna try to figure out any way that you can to get that

We welcome back Bre Tyger, Community Alignment Specialist from Family Connects, a program new to Springfield, MO. We cover the difference between "baby blues" and postpartum depression, and how it affects both Mom and Dad. A phenomenon of ongoing sadness in the days after your bundle of joy arrives is common and normal, but in general medical experts say the "baby blues" might begin to be classified as post-partum depression if the feelings persist beyond 2-3 weeks. Dads can get some form of post-partum depression, too, in as many as 10% of new dads.   CORRECTION:  After the recording concluded, Bre asked us to tell our listeners that post-partum depression occurs somewhere between 1 in 5 OR 1 in 3 new moms; that's between 20% and 33%.   Our Guest: Bre Tyger Bre Tyger is a Registered Nurse and serves as the Community Alignment Specialist for Springfield Greene County Health Department’s Family Connects program. Family Connects is a free universal nurse home visiting program with a goal of providing support fo

This week on the podcast, we welcome to the studio Bre Tyger, a public health nurse and Community Alignment Specialist with Family Connects, an international program new to the area. Join us as Bre discusses how she helps new parents, observant youngsters, the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) nutritionist program, and encouraging new, first-time dads to be involved in the lives of their infants.    Our Guest: Bre Tyger Bre Tyger is a Registered Nurse and serves as the Community Alignment Specialist for Springfield Greene County Health Department’s Family Connects program. Family Connects is a free universal nurse home visiting program with a goal of providing support for families of newborns. Bre has worked in community and public health and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit most of her career and loves helping set families up for success. She has been married to her husband for 15 years and together they have two wonderful children.   Show Notes  (4:13) As a public health nurse with the health department, w

Dana and Christina Ford have a full house with a teenager, elementary schoolers and preschoolers. Join us for a conversation originally recorded in 2021 with the Fords as the blended family navigates the important transitions inherent in father-son relationships as Dana entered his step-son's life when he was 8 years old. Dana and Christina give advice for step-parents and differentiate their approaches to parenting versus step-parenting. We also talk about the first-baby nerves, anticipating your partner's needs and raising un-selfish children.   Our Guests: Husband and Wife Dana and Christina Ford Christina Ford is the president and founder of Rebound Foundation, a nonprofit whose mission is to end the cycle of abuse through safe transitional ​housing for women and children, and educating youth to prevent violence. Dana Ford has been the men's head baseketball coach at Missouri State University since 2018. He transitioned from Bachelor to Husband and to Father quickly. The Fords are parents to five, and one

This week we're happy to welcome Tim Lewis to the studio, a first-time dad to a four-month-old. Join us as Tim shares the scary story of when baby Ophelia got sick with RSV around the end of last year. After initially going to Mercy in Springfield, doctors later needed to airlift Ophelia to an ER in Kansas City. Tim also provides his wisdom for new parents and discusses the importance of being on the same page to work collaboratively with your partner.  Our Guest: Tim Lewis  Tim Lewis is a barber by occupation and is a new dad to Ophelia, who was born in September 2023. Tim, his wife, Chelsea, Ophelia and Boone the dog live in Rogersville, MO. For a long time, Tim and Chelsea never imagined wanting kids, but their attitudes changed in their early 40s.   Show Notes (4:28) My advice to younger people is: If you're not sure, enjoy your youth a little bit. Your freedom is minimized once you have a child. (6:10) She developed a little bit of a cough, and we just kept an eye on it. And then it was, like, 'Nah, s