Internet’s ‘Dad, How do I…’ – encouraging and empowering young viewers to try something new

Rob Kenney grew up without a dad, but having raised two children of his own, he decided to help others by becoming a virtual father-figure through his YouTube channel, “Dad, how do I?”

Fatherly advice and bad jokes for those who don’t have dad to turn to

Many dads are seen as handymen by their children, on-call 24/7 for any unexpected challenges whenever something breaks down. But not everyone is fortunate enough to have such a father-figure on speed dial. Luckily, a man named Rob Kenney is helping to solve this issue and more with his YouTube channel, “Dad, How Do I?” On his wholesome channel, Kenney doles out fatherly wisdom to his viewers, tells them he’s proud of them, and regularly cracks cringeworthy dad jokes for added authenticity.

Rob Kenney offers “Dadvice” for Everyday Tasks and Successful Living

It’s been said that you can find just about anything on YouTube. Maybe even the dad you never had – or at least the fatherly advice and affirmation.

That’s where Rob Kenney comes in. His popular Dad, How Do I? YouTube channel is full of practical advice, how-tos, as well as dad chats and stories that will help people grow and learn—and maybe even feel like they have a father figure in their life. (Even if it’s only for five minutes.)

Kenney’s own father walked out of his life when he was just 14 years old and he had to deal with the aftermath of that abandonment. Kenney was angry and confused, but one thing became crystal clear: he would never let his kids go through the same type of pain that he did.

When he became a dad himself, Kenney’s goal was to raise them into good adults. He did that, raising a daughter and a son, but he still felt like he had more to give. That was the impetus for Dad, How Do I? Kenney began it during the start of the pandemic, showing viewers how to tie a tie, unclog a sink, put up shelves, or change a tyre. Today, his channel has ballooned into more than 4 million subscribers who like his wholesome, authentic style. 

Source: MyModernMet

Kenney wants to encourage, empower and instil confidence in his audience

In a sea full of “How To” videos, Kenney’s rises to the top because of the underlying warmth and simplicity. While some creators try every trick to get viewers to subscribe to their channel, Kenney doesn’t even mention it. He records on his Samsung Galaxy phone and uses the free version of a video-editing software. His daughter, meanwhile, helps handle his Facebook and Instagram pages, manages his P.O. box and helps plan different ideas for the videos.

To Kenney, perhaps the most notable differentiator is his holistic approach: He’s less concerned about people possessing specific skills and more interested in teaching his audience how to learn. He aims to encourage, empower and instil confidence in his viewers. “There’s so much more to being a dad or a mom than just fixing things,” he says. “You have to share your heart with your kids.”

Last Father’s Day, his followers mailed him scores of cards (some handmade, many heartfelt). 

Source: WashingtonPost 

Where to find the internet’s Dad

In addition to his YouTube channel, and two popular websites, Kenney has written a new book, "Dad, How Do I?: Practical Dadvice for Everyday Tasks and Successful Living”. It’s part life-story, part advice and part-DIY, with 50 practical guides and helpful line drawings. He also has product endorsements and possibly a TV show in the works. You can email to dadhowdoi@gmail.com