"Sometimes it takes a little spark and compassion to help others."

"I feel like I have to get these stories out there."

"There are good things that can come out of any situation."

In this shell shocking episode of Better Call Daddy, hosts Reena Friedman Watts and Wayne Friedman welcome Thomas Craig, a resilient survivor who transformed his life after a devastating plane crash.  Given just a 10% chance of survival and having endured over 50 surgeries, Thomas now shares a powerful message of hope and resilience.

Thomas shares his incredible journey from aspiring commercial pilot to navigating the harrowing aftermath of a traumatic accident that changed everything.

As he recounts the fateful day of the crash, Thomas takes us through the emotional and physical challenges he faced, including the painful recovery process and the profound impact on his relationships. His candid reflections on the support of his family, especially his wife, highlight the importance of love and connection during life's darkest moments.

Listeners will be inspired by Thomas's determination to turn his pain into purpose as he embarks on a new chapter by launching his own podcast. He emphasizes the power of storytelling and community, encouraging others to find hope and meaning in their struggles. This episode is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the potential for growth that can emerge from adversity. Join us for an uplifting conversation that explores resilience, healing, and the importance of sharing our stories with the world.

(00:00) The Better Call Daddy Show features stories from influential fathers and controversial people

Connect with Thomas Craig of the Sick Burn Podcast

Connect with Reena

https://bettercalldaddy.com

https://linkedin.com/in/reenafriedmanwatts

https://x.com/reenareena

https://instagram.com/reenafriedmanwatts

https://instagram.com/bettercalldaddypodcast

Me and my dad would love to hear from you, Drop us a review, reviews help more people find the show, and let us know what you like and what you'd like us to change, Please share the show with one friend who you think would be helped by the show 

https://ratethispodcast.com/bettercalldaddy

https://podchaser.com/bettercalldaddy

Castmagic is the AI tool I use for show notes and podcast title ideas, it has helped save me tons of time. I talked about it in this episode.  Please use my affiliate link if you sign up.

https://get.castmagic.io/bettercalldaddy

"It takes a village to raise a child. It literally takes almost a country to solve a complex disease like this one."

"The will to act is everything. If you want to change a very complex disease with very little resources, you have to keep going."

"It’s not just about fighting; at some point, you have to transition to more of a logic."

"Time is our most valued and precious resource, and for that reason, we’re not able to wait."

In this inspiring episode of Better Call Daddy, hosts Reena Friedman Watts and Wayne Friedman welcome Mazi Keyghobadi, a dedicated father and advocate battling muscular dystrophy. Mazi's journey is akin to flying through turbulence, filled with grit, heart, and the unwavering love for his son. He draws a powerful parallel between his experiences and the iconic film Top Gun, emphasizing the importance of courage and teamwork in the face of adversity.

Mazi shares the emotional moment he discovered his son's diagnosis and the subsequent journey of becoming an expert in muscular dystrophy. He discusses the complexities of the disease, the challenges of navigating medical conversations, and the critical role of collaboration within the muscular dystrophy community.

With a focus on action and determination, he highlights the necessity of building a support network, working with scientists, and advocating for research that could lead to breakthroughs for rare mutations. Listeners will be captivated by Mazi's insights on resilience, the importance of awareness, and the drive to make a difference, not just for his son but for others facing similar challenges.

His story is a testament to the power of community, the significance of open communication, and the relentless pursuit of hope in the fight against muscular dystrophy.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation that underscores the essence of fatherhood, the quest for knowledge, and the transformative power of love. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and motivation in the face of life's toughest battles.

(00:00) Reena Friedman Watts interviews Mazi Keyghobadi about battling muscular dystrophy

Don't miss this enlightening episode that reminds us all of the strength found in community and the impact of relentless advocacy. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who needs a dose of inspiration!

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

"Not everybody can say they work there. There's a lot of people who work there, but not everybody can say it."

"You either have to date somebody that's a coworker because it's the only time you're going to see them."

"The show would never last today. It just wouldn't."

In this captivating episode of Better Call Daddy, hosts Reena Friedman Watts and Wayne Friedman sit down with the charismatic Jimmy the Hat, a former producer from the iconic Jerry Springer show.

Jimmy takes us on a wild ride through his unforgettable journey in the world of television, sharing hilarious and shocking behind-the-scenes stories that only someone who lived it could tell.

From his eclectic collection of Jerry Springer memorabilia to the unique dynamics of his immigrant family, Jimmy reflects on his upbringing and the pivotal moments that shaped his life.

He recounts his early days of working on the show, the quirky guests he encountered, and the outrageous situations that unfolded both on and off the stage.

With a blend of humor and candor, he reveals the challenges of booking guests, the unexpected friendships formed, and the chaotic environment that defined the Springer experience.

Listeners will be enthralled by Jimmy's tales of navigating the entertainment industry, his encounters with unforgettable characters, and the lessons learned from a career that was anything but ordinary. As he reminisces about the absurdity of some episodes and the genuine connections made with guests, he also candidly discusses the impact of the show on people's lives and the fine line between entertainment and exploitation.

Join us for a rollercoaster of emotions as Jimmy the Hat shares his unique perspective, offering insights into the world of reality television and the friendships that endure long after the cameras stop rolling.

This episode is a must-listen for fans of the show and anyone curious about the untold stories behind one of television's most controversial programs.

(00:00) You have about 50 Jerry Springer T shirts. What else do you have

Don't miss this entertaining and insightful episode that bridges the gap between nostalgia and the realities of the television landscape. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who needs a good laugh and a dose of inspiration!

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

"The more you do it, the more comfortable you are, the more you learn."

"A good story was like, some shock and awe!"

"You need positive projects."

"I try not to yuck anyone's yum."

In this special rebroadcast episode of Better Call Daddy, hosts Reena Friedman Watts and Wayne Friedman flip the mic as they take a turn in the hot seat.

The Daddies podcast, Greg and Erik, and I have a candid conversation about the intricacies of podcasting, personal branding, and the evolution of our shows.

Reena shares her journey from interning with Jerry Springer to building a platform that showcases the wisdom of her father, Wayne, while also interviewing a diverse range of guests.

The duo discusses their unique approach to selecting guests, the challenges of early podcasting, and how their experiences have shaped their storytelling. With humor and authenticity, they reminisce about their first guest experiences, the learning curve of editing, and the importance of finding one's voice in the podcasting realm. Wayne provides his signature insights, emphasizing the value of open communication and the beauty of evolving perspectives through shared stories.

Listeners will enjoy the light-hearted banter, personal anecdotes, and the relatable challenges faced by podcasters at every level.

This episode is a celebration of growth, connection, and the power of storytelling in the digital age. Join us for this engaging episode that reminds us all to embrace our journeys and, of course, to Better Call Daddy!

(00:00) Reena Friedman Watts is getting interviewed by the Daddies Podcast

Episode with Lunden Roberts (Hunter Biden's ex) episode 400

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1nuSqr1wUUhipfcfff0FRo?si=U32YFvEUQAm5iLPBmfhGuA

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs a dose of inspiration and wisdom! Connect with Reena and Wayne on social media to follow their journeys and stay updated on future episodes.

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

"Celebrities are just people too."

"Don't let anyone tell your story in a way that you don't agree with."

"It's important to be honest with yourself. I could be harsh at times, but that's because for so long, I was too tender with myself."

"The journey is far from just being about gigantism. It's about mental health, it's about physical health, it's about fitness, it's about circumstance."

In this heartfelt episode of Better Call Daddy, hosts Reena Friedman Watts and Wayne Friedman engage in a profound conversation with Zach Strenkert, who opens up about his journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the complexities of life after his experiences with the Jerry Springer show.

Zach shares his reflections on the recent documentary about Jerry, discussing the nuances of celebrity culture, the challenges of public perception, and the importance of authentic storytelling. He candidly reveals how sensationalism often overshadows genuine narratives, emphasizing that people are multifaceted and should not be defined by singular moments or actions.

As the discussion unfolds, Zach dives deep into his personal struggles, including the impact of his father's passing and his battle with body image and eating disorders.

He highlights the importance of reframing one's story, understanding mental health, and embracing vulnerability as a pathway to healing. Listeners will be inspired by Zach's commitment to self-improvement and his journey toward balance, as he navigates the complexities of life with a unique perspective.

His insights into the importance of communication in relationships, especially with his fiancée, offer a glimpse into the power of love and support in overcoming life's challenges. Join us for this enlightening episode that not only explores the depths of personal struggle but also celebrates the triumph of the human spirit.

Zach's story is a testament to resilience, growth, and the ongoing journey of self-acceptance. Don't miss this opportunity to hear a truly inspiring narrative that encourages us all to find our own voice and share our stories.

(00:00) I reached out to you because the Jerry Springer documentary just came out

Connect with Zach and follow his journey as he continues to inspire others through his story. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear a tale of resilience and hope!

If you liked this episode check out the first episode Zach and I did

https://youtu.be/5K0QvNuAwL0?si=w-N-XEPtc9ww6pic

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

"You need to have somebody that's going to give you the truth even if you can't handle it."

In this exciting rebroadcast interview, hosts Reena Friedman Watts and Wayne Friedman dive into the dynamic world of podcasting with special guest Coach Scott Ferguson, the founder of Time to Shine.

Scott shares his journey from veteran to podcast pro, discussing the power of gratitude and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. As they explore the challenges and triumphs of launching a podcast, Scott emphasizes the significance of having a strong 'why' behind your work, and how that can fuel your success.

Reena and Scott discuss the common pitfalls aspiring podcasters face, including the struggle to market their shows and the tendency to overthink their content.

With practical advice on how to connect with guests and create engaging conversations, listeners will gain valuable insights into what it takes to stand out in the crowded podcasting space.

Grandpa Wayne also weighs in with his timeless wisdom, reminding us of the importance of sincerity and compassion in every interaction.

This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone looking to elevate their podcasting game or simply seeking inspiration to pursue their passions. Join us for a lively discussion that will leave you motivated to level up your life and storytelling skills!

Connect with Fergie

timetoshinetoday.com

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

- Website: bettercalldaddy.com

- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts

- Twitter: @reenareena

- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts

- YouTube: Better Call Daddy

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear a story of resilience and hope!

(00:00) - Reena Friedman Watts: Better call Daddy interview with coach Fergie

Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with insights and inspiration. Tune in now!

"Sometimes, through all of your failures in life, you can learn the greatest of lessons."

"You can monetize anything. People have monetized Canadian air."

"You build a brand by focusing on one person and building a lighthouse way up into the sky."

In this vibrant episode of Better Call Daddy, hosts Reena Friedman Watts and Wayne Friedman welcome dynamic duo Cyn and Jay, who share their journey of overcoming imposter syndrome and navigating the world of content creation together.

From their unique bond to their experiences in the OnlyFans and kink communities, Cyn and Jay dive deep into the challenges and triumphs of their intertwined lives.

As they explore the nuances of self-worth, external validation, and the importance of practice in overcoming fears, listeners will gain valuable insights into the creative process and the significance of supportive relationships.

With candid discussions about their pasts, including struggles with addiction and the pursuit of self-love, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of the power of connection and understanding.

This episode is packed with laughter, tears, and profound lessons that resonate with anyone seeking to find their place in the world.

Connect with Cyn and Jay

Youtube

Facebook

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

- Website: bettercalldaddy.com

- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts

- Twitter: @reenareena

- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts

- YouTube: Better Call Daddy

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear a story of resilience and hope!

If you’ve ever been curious about twins, nature vs. nurture, or how our closest relationships shape who we are, you’ll want to dive straight into our latest conversation with Dr. Nancy Segal.

From nature versus nurture debates to the unique bonds that connect twins, Dr. Segal shares her groundbreaking research and personal stories that reveal just how much twins can teach us about human behavior, relationships, and even ourselves.

You’ll hear incredible insights into the genetics of twinning, the emotional intensity of twin loss, and the surprising science behind topics like IVF, surrogacy, and even doppelgängers.

Get ready for heartwarming stories, real-life drama including a remarkable court case about citizenship and twin brothers born through surrogacy to gay fathers—and plenty of wisdom from both Dr. Segal and Grandpa Wayne.

Whether you’re a parent of twins, know a set of twins, or have ever wondered what life would be like with a carbon copy of yourself, this episode is packed with unforgettable tales, expert advice, and thought-provoking discussions you won’t want to miss.

Stay tuned—these are stories you truly have to hear to believe!

Nancy L. Segal is a distinguished researcher whose work explores the unique bonds between twins. In her studies, she discovered that twins whether identical or fraternal tend to grieve the loss of their twin sibling even more deeply than the loss of a parent. This remarkable finding highlights the profound kinship twins share.

Segal's curiosity extends to the complex web of genetics and relationships, noting that identical twins share all their genes, which might, in theory, make their grief even more intense compared to losing a child, with whom they share only half their genes.

While she has yet to study how the loss of a child compares to the loss of a twin, Segal continues to ask thought-provoking questions about family, genetics, and the human experience of loss.

Dr. Nancy Segal is a distinguished professor of psychology, developmental psychologist, director of the Twin Studies Center, and published author.

Dr. Nancy Segal is an American evolutionary psychologist and behavioral geneticist, specializing in the study of twins. She is the Professor of Developmental Psychology and Director of the Twin Studies Center, at California State University, Fullerton.

Dr. Segal has studdied twin relationships for her entire career and continues to the is day, whe has developed facsinating takes on the topic of twin relationships. Dr. nancy Segal was a recipient of the 2005 James Shields Award for Lifetime Contributions to Twin Research from the Behavior Genetics Association and International Society for Twin Studies.

Dr. Nancy Segal has published nine books on twins, with the latest book detailing a high-profile lawsuit against the US State Department that almost reached the US Supreme Court, appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show and countless others, and is a twin herself. Dr. Nancy Segal is a board certified expert in her field.

Studying the unique twinship helps shape our understanding of genetics, our own relationships with ourselves and others, and the nature of genetic predisposition. Join us as we dive into the inner thoughts of Dr. Nancy Segal and the attributes she has given on this subject.

(00:00) Twin Grief vs. Parental Grief

(07:45) Twins in Schools: Separation Myth

(11:43) Girls Mature Faster Than Boys

(18:08) Immigration Lawsuit Victory

(25:21) "Record-Breaking Twin Separation Surgery"

(30:54) Twin Studies: Genes vs. Environment

(36:35) Twins' Cheating Case Victory

(37:25) Public Policy and Genetic Testing

(42:52) Holocaust Twins Reunion Journey

(50:26) "Influences in Partner Attractions"

(53:54) Oldest Holocaust Twin Survivor's Memoir

(58:33) Exploring Doppelganger Similarities

(01:07:38) Twin Cloning and Family Bonds

(01:10:01) Family Dynamics and Shared Traits

(01:14:34) Subscribe and Follow Our Channels

Connect with Nancy

drnancysegaltwins.org

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

- Website: bettercalldaddy.com

- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts

- Twitter: @reenareena

- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts

- YouTube: Better Call Daddy

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear a story of resilience and hope!

Robert J. Wolf grew up hearing the powerful stories of his father, who was once a spoiled only child until his world and the world of his parents was drastically changed overnight.

Wolf’s family history is marked by profound loss; his grandparents perished at Auschwitz, victims of atrocities that stripped countless people of even the most basic freedoms, like voting or owning a radio.

These experiences shaped Robert’s perspective, leading him to write about the lessons we can learn from the past—especially how easily lives of comfort can change and the importance of appreciating and defending the freedoms many take for granted today.

On this powerful episode of Better Call Daddy, hosts Reena Watts and Wayne Friedman are joined by Dr. Robert J. Wolf, author and son of Hungarian Holocaust survivors.

Dr. Wolf shares the extraordinary story behind his book, "Not a Real Enemy," chronicling his family's harrowing escapes from Nazi-occupied Hungary, their resilience through the Holocaust, and their search for safety and freedom.

Together, they explore the enduring impact of antisemitism, the miracles that shaped his father's survival, and the universal lessons about courage, humility, and hope.

Tune in as Dr. Wolf opens up about what it means to carry on his family's legacy, the importance of educating future generations about the dangers of hatred, and the ongoing fight against antisemitism in the modern world.

With reflections from Reena’s own father, you'll hear how the lessons of the past can help light the way forward, not just for the Jewish community—but for anyone who values tolerance, compassion, and the fight for freedom. This is a deeply moving conversation about memory, identity, and the power of storytelling to inspire change.

Robert Wolf M.D., grew up as the only child of Ervin and Judit Wolf. Their stories of their escape from communist Hungary, and his father's tragic history of escaping the Nazis twice but having his own parents deported to Auschwitz, inspired Robert to document his parents' tales and share those stories with Jewish groups and others throughout the United States. In "Not a Real Enemy," Robert shares his family saga-and the forgotten history of the nearly half million Hungarian Jews who were deported and killed during the Holocaust-through an epic and inspiring tale of daring escapes, terrifying oppression, tragedy, and triumph. 

(00:00) "Dad's Impressive Medical Achievement"

(09:07) Gratitude for Free Opportunity

(11:10) Putin's Ukraine War Comments

(17:07) Escape from Oppressive Regimes

(24:29) Navigating Criticism and Competition

(27:07) Humiliation, Hope, and Integrity

(32:12) Hope for Unity and Peace

(38:37) Confronting Hate Through Stories

(44:31) Survivor's Redemption Story

(49:16) Pursuing Speaking Engagements Globally

(56:02) Preserving Jewish Stories and Awareness

(58:28) Jewish Legacy and Overcoming Adversity

(01:02:59) Fatherly Advice

Connect with Robert

https://robertjwolfmd.com/

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

- Website: bettercalldaddy.com

- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts

- Twitter: @reenareena

- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts

- YouTube: Better Call Daddy

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear a story of resilience and hope!

"We believe everyone has the capacity to create, and our goal is to demystify the process and expand the boundaries of what it means to be creative."

How can we expand the boundaries of what it means to be creative?

Today's episode is a rebroadcast of a special episode with the host of the Syncreate Podcast featurning Melinda Rothouse.  She loves to explore creativity, pyschology, and spirituality.

In today's episode, get ready to dive into an inspiring conversation as Reena Watts chats with fellow podcaster and creativity enthusiast Melinda Rothouse.

We explore everything from storytelling and spirituality to the delicate balance between creativity and life's big questions.

Whether you've got a daddy drama story or just love hearing heartfelt tales, this one’s for you. Tune in and enjoy the ride!

(00:00) Exploring Creativity: Syncreate Show

(06:25) Universal Connection in Personal Stories

(07:22) Finding Common Ground in Conversation

(12:04) Secular Upbringing, Ecumenical Dialogues

(13:32) Religion: A Window into Life

(18:34) Divine Timing and Connections

(22:04) Better Call Daddy Podcast Concept

(22:52) Shocking Stories to Everyday Voices

(27:40) Embracing Curiosity in Beliefs

(29:48) Seeking Spirituality After Crisis

(34:31) Dad's Dry Humor and Advice

(37:36) Personal Growth and Parental Approval

(39:24) Dad's Retirement Woodworking Passion

(44:23) Creative Brainstorming Pro Tip

(46:17) Podcast Collaboration Brainstorming Session

Connect with Melinda Rothouse

https://www.melindarothouse.com/

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

- Website: bettercalldaddy.com

- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts

- Twitter: @reenareena

- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts

- YouTube: Better Call Daddy

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear a story of resilience and hope!