Back Talk Battles: What’s Really Going On?
Back Talk Battles: What’s Really Going On?  
Podcast: All Pro Dad Podcast
Published On: Mon Jun 23 2025
Description: “No! I don’t want to!” How many times have dads heard something like this? Is it defiance, or something else? Kids talking back is part of growing up. Dads need to know how to react when their children get mouthy. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about keeping our cool when this happens in our homes.Why This MattersThere are different kinds of “talking back,” and handling them all the same could lead to friction in your relationship with your kids. Key TakeawaysTalking back, or being “mouthy,” is developmentally normal. Recognize that there are always reasons kids talk back. Practical Tools for DadsWhen your kids get mouthy, try these techniques to better understand their behavior:1. Stay calm. 2. Acknowledge their feelings. 3. Treat them with respect. 4. Remind them of the parent/child dynamic5. Focus on the message. Important Episode Timestamps00:00 – 00:55 | Introduction & Big Question of the Week00:55 – 03:13 | Personal Stories: Were You a Mouthy Kid?03:13 – 05:10 | Why Back Talk Pushes Our Buttons05:10 – 07:07 | Defiant vs. Dismissive: What Kind of Back Talk Is It?07:07 – 09:50 | Reacting vs. Responding: Fear-Based Parenting Doesn't Last09:50 – 13:36 | The Power of Curiosity: What’s Really Going On?13:36 – 15:15 | The Role of Imitation in Behavior15:15 – 17:58 | Practical Tools to Diffuse the Moment17:58 – 22:00 | Teach, Don’t Just Stop the Behavior22:00 – 28:00 | Pro Move of the Week:  Remember, mouthy kids are normal kids. They just need guidance. Sponsor:The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net.We love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter)Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox.This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store.Get great content for moms at iMOM.com