Better Call Daddy

"Your life is sending you wake-up calls, and they'll just keep getting louder until you finally listen."

"I think that people who have been through adversity are a lot more equipped to change the world."

In this extremely vulnerable episode of the Better Call Daddy podcast, host Reena Friedman Watts welcomes Matt Gerlach, a man who made the bold decision to walk away from a million-dollar paycheck in pursuit of a more fulfilling life.

Matt opens up about his transformative journey, navigating through panic attacks, mental health challenges, and the quest for self-acceptance.

Matt shares the harrowing experience of living in fear while driving in Los Angeles, the panic attacks that led him to confront his mental health, and the pivotal moment when he received the diagnosis of anxiety.

He reflects on his childhood struggles, including feelings of abandonment and the challenges of coming to terms with his identity as a gay man. Through therapy and self-discovery, Matt has learned the importance of vulnerability, setting boundaries, and the power of community.

As the conversation unfolds, Reena’s dad, Wayne, offers his insights, emphasizing the significance of self-validation and the journey of healing. Together, they discuss the generational differences in dealing with trauma, the importance of open communication, and the value of personal growth.

Matt’s story is one of resilience and hope, showcasing how he is now channeling his experiences into helping others navigate their own challenges. With exciting plans for surrogacy on the horizon, Matt is ready to embrace fatherhood and create a legacy built on love and understanding. Join us for an inspiring episode filled with heartfelt reflections, valuable lessons, and the reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your story.

(00:00) The Better Call Daddy Show features interviews with influential fathers and controversial people

Connect with Matt Gerlach:

- Website: Matt's Website

- Instagram: Matt's Instagram

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 values personal growth and the power of vulnerability!

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

"You can only know yourself to the expanse that you allow yourself to live into."

"Your legacy is what you give to the world. It doesn't matter if it's attached to your name."

In this captivating episode of the Better Call Daddy podcast, host Reena Friedman Watts welcomes Brady McLean, also known as Brady Til Death.

Brady shares his unique journey of self-discovery, exploring the impact of his upbringing and the lessons learned through his experiences with music, motorcycles, and the art of storytelling.

He reflects on his past as a punk rocker and how that culture shaped his perspective on community and acceptance.

As the conversation unfolds, Brady discusses the transformative power of motorcycles in his life, not just as a mode of transportation but as a tool for meditation and clarity.

He emphasizes the significance of embracing one’s calling and the importance of storytelling in connecting with others.

Reena’s dad, Wayne, joins the discussion, offering his insights on parenting and the complexities of raising children. He shares his belief that love and patience are at the core of successful parenting, and how our flaws can often teach valuable lessons to the next generation.

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of life’s ups and downs, the beauty of vulnerability, and the importance of living authentically. Join us for a conversation that promises to inspire and resonate with anyone navigating their own journey of self-discovery.

Thank you Shauna 

Song by Mike Posner mentioned in episode "I Took A Pill In Ibiza"

https://youtu.be/foE1mO2yM04?si=HAjkqLV3krq3yuOM

Connect with Brady McLean:

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who values connection and the art of storytelling!

"I joke that I would rather be around animals than people most days."

"Miniature ponies are small, but they make up for it in personality."

Elissa Craig, a true daddy's girl and Kentucky native, joins Reena Friedman Watts on the Better Call Daddy show to share her journey from growing up on a horse farm to making waves in the world of marketing.

Working for the app she loves, Headliner, Elissa dives deep into her experiences, the life lessons learned from her equine friends, and how they shaped her path in brand marketing. Discover how patience, adaptability, and creativity have been her guiding principles, not only in handling horses but in navigating the professional world.

Elissa reflects on her transition from the vast landscapes of her family farm to the close quarters of college life and beyond. She shares her insights into the dynamic world of podcast marketing, the power of audio, and how Headliner is revolutionizing the way podcasters promote their content.

From SEO tips to the importance of transcripts, Elissa offers invaluable advice for podcasters looking to grow their audience. Join us as Elissa opens up about her close-knit relationship with her parents, the challenges of being an only child, and the unique bond she shares with her beloved miniature pony, Penelope.

With a passion for communication and a drive to connect with people across the globe, Elissa is on a mission to break barriers and build bridges through language and storytelling. Reena's dad, Wayne, weighs in with his timeless wisdom, emphasizing the importance of independence, the value of learning from mistakes, and the power of love and support from family. He highlights Elissa's journey of self-discovery and her unwavering commitment to helping others succeed.

(00:00) Each week I interview a guest, share the stories with my dad

Elissa Craig is the Head of Marketing at Headliner. She is passionate about helping podcasters find attainable solutions for podcast growth and audience engagement. When she's not working, Elissa is currently trying to perfect her bread recipe and training for her 4th half marathon. 

Connect with Elissa Craig:

- LinkedIn: Elissa Craig

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

- Website: bettercalldaddy.com

- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts

- Twitter: @reenareena

- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts

- Instagram Podcast: @bettercalldaddypodcast

- Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@BetterCallDaddy

Join us for an episode filled with heartwarming stories, practical advice, and the joy of connecting with others. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who appreciates the power of perseverance and the beauty of family ties.

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

"Growing up with that name, I always felt like my destiny was to be famous in some way."

"Organization is like a huge strength of mine."

"I do want to scale this business into more sustainable alternative energy."

Kirti Chintalapudi joins Reena Friedman Watts in an insightful episode of the Better Call Daddy podcast, where they explore the intersections of engineering, family legacy, and personal growth.

Kirti, an engineer and Purdue alumna, shares her unique journey from working in the semiconductor industry to joining her father's oil and gas business. Her story is one of adaptability, passion for sustainability, and the drive to expand her family's business into new realms.

In this episode, Kirti opens up about her experiences at Purdue University, where she found her voice and passion for sustainability, even leading the Boiler Green Initiative. She reflects on her transition from semiconductors to oil and gas, highlighting the cultural and industry-specific adjustments she's made along the way. Kirthi also discusses the importance of organization in her work and how her upbringing and educational background have shaped her career path.

The conversation delves into the differences between Silicon Valley's fast-paced environment and the more traditional, relationship-focused oil and gas industry. Kirti shares her aspirations to expand her family's business into sustainable energy and pharmaceuticals, while also exploring her cultural roots through a potential podcast on Hindu mythology. Reena's father, Wayne Friedman, adds his wisdom, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, communication, and the legacy of father-daughter collaboration. He praises Kirti's ambition and her ability to blend personal and professional interests, highlighting the show's core message of family connection and personal growth.

(00:00) Reena Friedman Watts hosts the Better Call Daddy podcast with her dad

Connect with Kirti on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirti-c/

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

- Website: bettercalldaddy.com

- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts

- Twitter: @reenareena

- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts

- Instagram Podcast: @bettercalldaddypodcast

Join us for an episode filled with inspiration, cultural exploration, and the powerful bond of family. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who values personal growth and the wisdom of family connections.

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

"It's a big job raising children. It's a big job teaching them everything." - My dad

Today's guest J.D. Murgolo is a father, podcaster, and teacher. Join Reena Friedman Watts and her dad, Wayne"Big Daddy" Friedman, as they delve into J.D.'s journey of being a stay-at-home dad, the power of storytelling, and the delicate balance of tradition and modern parenting.

In this episode, J.D. shares his perspective on the importance of using names to create personal connections, the joys and challenges of being a stay-at-home dad, and the influence of his Montessori background on his parenting style.

Discover how J.D. navigates the complexities of family dynamics, traditions, and the decision to embrace fatherhood in a unique way. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as J.D. reflects on his podcasting journey, exploring the stories that shape us and the courage it takes to share them. With three podcasts under his belt, J.D. reveals how storytelling has become a tool for personal growth and connection.

Reena's dad, Wayne, weighs in with his wisdom on the role of storytelling in education and the balance between homeschooling and socialization. He shares his own experiences with family traditions and the legacy of storytelling passed down through generations.

(00:00) Each week I interview a guest, share the stories with my dad

Connect with J.D.

fragilemoments.org

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

- Website: bettercalldaddy.com

- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts

- Twitter: @reenareena

- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts

- Instagram Podcast: @bettercalldaddypodcast

- Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@BetterCallDaddy

Join us for an episode filled with laughter, introspection, and the timeless wisdom of storytelling. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who values the art of storytelling and the beauty of family connections.

New Year of Better Call Daddy kicks off with a heartfelt exploration of father-daughter bonds, the power of gratitude, and the journey to having it all.

Join Reena Friedman Watts and her dad, Wayne"Big Daddy" Friedman, as they welcome Cathy Christen, an entrepreneur inspired by her father's unwavering support and love. Cathy shares how her dad's influence shaped her life, instilling values of gratitude and resilience while growing up in a modest two-bedroom apartment with six family members. Her father's encouragement and belief in her abilities led her to start her own business at 19, a venture she still runs today. Cathy's story highlights the importance of recognizing each child's unique qualities and nurturing them to flourish. In this episode, Cathy opens up about her journey through personal challenges, including a difficult relationship and the decision to have an abortion. Her candidness offers listeners a chance to connect with the struggles and triumphs of finding one's path while maintaining authenticity and growth. Cathy also discusses the transition from not wanting children to embracing family life, emphasizing the importance of designing a life that balances business success with personal fulfillment. Her strategies for achieving this balance include building a supportive team and prioritizing time with her husband and children. Wayne Friedman weighs in with his wisdom, reflecting on the significance of structure in life and the lessons learned from mistakes. He praises Cathy's journey of self-discovery and her willingness to share her experiences to help others. Don't miss this inspiring episode filled with stories of love, resilience, and the pursuit of a life well-lived.

(00:00) Better Call Daddy Show returns with more daddy drama

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

- Website: bettercalldaddy.com

- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts

- Twitter: @reenareena

- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts

- Instagram Podcast: @bettercalldaddypodcast

Connect with Cathy Christen:

Website: https://cathychristen.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathy-christen/

Join us for this episode that celebrates the power of family, the impact of mentorship, and the courage to live authentically. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who values the wisdom of a loving parent.

Closing out 2024 with a banger!

Join Reena Friedman Watts and her dad, Wayne "Big Daddy" Friedman, as they welcome Erik and Greg from the Daddies Podcast. These two hosts are redefining brotherhood in fatherhood, sharing podcasting tips, and keeping it real about life in Delaware and beyond.

Discover what it's like to grow up in the "drive-through" state, the quirks of tax-free shopping, and the unique charm of Delaware's small-town vibe.

Erik and Greg share their adventures, from a memorable trip to California and the highs and lows of legalized cannabis to the gritty reality of Hollywood and the unexpected warmth of a Lyft driver's advice.

As podcasting veterans, Erik and Greg dive into their journey from fast-food live streams to meaningful conversations with fascinating guests. From the hilarious missteps of early episodes to landing interviews with big names like William Hung and Jared from Bowling for Soup, they've learned the art of storytelling and the importance of authenticity.

Reena's dad, Wayne, offers his wisdom on keeping content fresh and engaging, emphasizing the joy of unscripted storytelling and the power of camaraderie.

Whether it's switching up formats, collaborating with others, or simply being yourself, the key is to keep the passion alive. Join us for an episode filled with laughter, insights, and a reminder that sometimes the best stories come from the most unexpected places.

Don't miss out on the camaraderie, the laughs, and the wisdom that only Better Call Daddy can deliver!

(00:00) Reena Friedman Watts welcomes Big Daddy Wayne Friedman on the Better Call Daddy Show

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

- Website: bettercalldaddy.com

- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts

- Twitter: @reenareena

- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts

- Instagram Podcast: @bettercalldaddypodcast

Connect with Erik and Greg:

- Instagram: @daddiesthepodcast

Join us for this lively episode that celebrates the bonds of friendship, the art of podcasting, and the joy of storytelling. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who loves a good story!

Special thanks to Greg for mixing this podcast episode!

Initially aspiring to become a doctor like his parents and later venturing into the business world, Mazi Keyghobadi experienced significant failures and personal confusion.

This led to an awakening five years ago, where he realized that external achievements did not bring him true happiness. Instead, he found his purpose within nonprofit work, driven by his son's Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy diagnosis.

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of the Better Call Daddy Show! I'm your host, Reena Friedman Watts. Today, we dive deep into the transformative world of magic mushrooms, meditation, and muscular dystrophy with our special guest, Mazi Keyghobadi. As always, our insightful co-host, Wayne "Big Daddy" Friedman joins us.

In this episode, Mazi shares his profound experiences with magic mushrooms, describing them as a "laxative for the soul," capable of sweeping away inner negativity and trauma.

We'll hear how these natural substances have not only improved his mental clarity but also enhanced his roles as a father and nonprofit founder of Hope for Luka.

Mazi likens the impact of psychedelics to the intriguing effects shown in the movie "Limitless" and discusses the significance of preparation and meditation when using these powerful tools.

We'll also explore Mazi's mission to introduce the benefits of magic mushrooms to the muscular dystrophy community, his journey from aspiring doctor to impactful nonprofit leader, and how a life-altering "awakening" helped him find true happiness and purpose.

Plus, Mazi will share inspiring anecdotes about thought leaders like Paul Stamets and Eckhart Tolle, as well as his commitment to authenticity and societal betterment.

Stay tuned as we unravel Mazi Keygohbadi's story of self-discovery, emotional healing, and unwavering dedication to meaningful change. This is an episode you won't want to miss!

Unfortunately, I don’t have the exact timestamps for this episode. Instead, I'll provide a suggested timeline breakdown for "Better Call Daddy: Mazi Final Audio" based on the key facts discussed. You can adjust as needed when you have the precise timing from the episode.

(00:00 - 01:00) - Introduction

(01:00 - 05:00) - Mazi's Background

(05:00 - 10:00) - Personal Awakening

(10:00 - 15:00) - Magic Mushrooms and Self-Healing

(15:00 - 20:00) - Healing Through Psychedelics

(20:00 - 25:00) - Application of Personal Healing

(25:00 - 30:00) - Societal and Personal Impacts

(30:00 - 35:00) - Psychedelics and the Brain

(35:00 - 40:00) - Practical Advice and Reflections

(40:00 - 45:00) - Nonprofit Fundraising and Advocacy

(45:00 - 50:00) - Final Thoughts

Connect with Mazi and support his mission at hopeforluka.org, and be part of the movement that champions the extraordinary lives of children like Luka.

We'd 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 explore next. Share this episode with someone who could be inspired by Mazi's story and help spread hope for Luka and many others facing similar challenges.

If you liked this story check out my first episode with Mazi here

https://youtu.be/4FMsFkJ3UAQ?si=wqunjY8NJscrdkZA

Connect with Reena

instagram.com/reenafriedmanwatts

linkedin.com/in/reenafriedmanwatts

twitter.com/reenareena

https://www.youtube.com/@BetterCallDaddy

https://www.facebook.com/groups/BusinessLaughsandLinkedin

Special Shoutout to the Daddies Podcast for editing this episode!

"It's amazing to watch kids overcome... Give a young person a challenge and watch them rise to the challenge right front of your eyes." Henry Robertson

Music is a universal language that connects generations, and today's episode of the Better Call Daddy Show is a testament to that truth.

Join Reena Friedman Watts as she dives into a soulful conversation with the dynamic father-son duo, Adam Emil and Henry Robertson.

From R&B rhythms to family harmonies, this episode explores the profound influence of music on personal and familial bonds.

Discover how Adam's upbringing, filled with melodies and rhythms, shaped his path in the music industry. Listen as Henry recounts his own musical memories and the joy of watching his son flourish in a field they both love.

The episode also touches on the challenges and triumphs of the music industry, as Adam discusses working with Grammy-winning producers and the evolution of music promotion in the digital age. From the magic of live performances to the camaraderie of a band, Adam and Henry offer insights into the art of collaboration and the importance of a supportive family in pursuing one's dreams.

Shout out SleevieG79 on IG for the intro!  

Connect with Adam Emil:

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

Join us for this heartfelt episode that reminds us of the power of music, the strength of family bonds, and the courage to pursue one's dreams. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who loves music and the stories behind the songs.

"When you give somebody their first experience of anything, you have to be careful in how you do that."

"I was born in India and raised in a certain way. But I was reborn in the United States."

"The first thing is special any part of your life."

Saurabh Gupta says he is someone who's literally 'all over the place.' He learns from one place and applies it somewhere else. If something piques his curiosity and offers a learning opportunity where he feels he can do it justice, he tries it.

Professionally he is a lifelong technologist in cybersecurity.  Beyond his chaotic life, he's a husband, dad, musician, runner, hiker, real estate investor, and consultant, usually not in that order. Yeah, he finds excuses to stay outdoors...LOL. His personal philosophy is, 'How you do one thing is the way you do everything.' He strives to embody this spirit in his podcast, where conversations range from technology to personal development. Why? Because life is full of nuances, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Make efforts, create your own story, and pursue fulfillment. 

Reena Friedman Watts welcomes Saurabh Gupta to the Better Call Daddy Show for an inspiring conversation about embracing new experiences and the transformative power of stepping out of one's comfort zone. Saurabh, a first-time podcast guest, shares his journey from a pampered child in India to a marathon-running real estate professional in Florida. Discover how Saurabh’s adventures, from college band days to scaling Mount Whitney, have shaped his perspective on life and the importance of gratitude. Saurabh’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity and the courage to explore uncharted territories. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to discover his love for music, running, and podcasting, each experience adding a new layer to his evolving identity. Learn how Saurabh overcame self-doubt to launch his own podcast, Let’s Tok, and the joy he finds in giving others their first opportunity to share their stories. Join Reena and Saurabh as they delve into the nuances of cultural heritage, parenting, and the significance of language in preserving one's roots. This episode is a reminder that life's journey is enriched by the risks we take and the connections we make along the way. Saurabh shares insights on fatherhood, tradition, and personal growth offer valuable lessons for anyone seeking to live a life full of purpose and adventure.

(00:00) The Better Call Daddy Show features interviews with influential fathers and controversial people

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:

- Website: bettercalldaddy.com

- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts

- Twitter: @reenareena

- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts

- Instagram Podcast: @bettercalldaddypodcast

We love hearing your feedback. Leave us a review, share your thoughts, and spread the word about this inspiring episode. Share it with someone who values personal growth, storytelling, and the beauty of life's adventures.

Find Saurabh on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cybersaurabh/ , YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTokPodcast/ & Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cHjhM1bw2cyo8dXzbSieg?si=dea31f27859042ee