In this season-shaping episode of Listings and Lullabies, Varun Varma and Vikas Sondhi get raw and real about what it means to be a modern-day girl dad while running a successful business. From breaking real estate records to diaper duty, they unpack how they balance family life, entrepreneurship, AI-driven workflows, and staying grounded in community. This is more than just a podcast—it’s a blueprint for intentional fatherhood, a support circle for ambitious dads, and a call to every man trying to show up better.

If you’re a dad who’s building something—for your family, your career, or your legacy—this one’s for you.

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
https://www.girldadspodcast.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/

Youtube:
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast

In this powerful episode, Varun and Vikas sit down with Christian Bradley to explore the raw, redemptive journey of fatherhood. From past mistakes to co-parenting challenges and the road to reconnection, Christian shares how accountability, forgiveness, and presence reshaped his relationship with his daughter. A moving conversation about second chances, emotional growth, and what it truly means to be a girl dad today.

Takeaways

• Christian Bradley shares his journey as a girl dad.
• He reflects on his past as a deadbeat dad.
• Building relationships takes time and effort.
• Forgiveness is essential in co-parenting.
• Redemption is a gradual process.
• It's crucial to prioritize the child's well-being.
• Intentional relationships add value to life.
• Christian's daughter has taught him about resilience.
• He emphasizes the importance of being present.
• The conversation highlights the struggles and triumphs of fatherhood. The importance of doing right by one's children.

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
https://www.girldadspodcast.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/

Youtube:
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast

In this episode, Varun Varma, guest Madeline Anderson, and producer Vikas Sondhi discuss the importance of fatherhood, focusing on how dads can connect with their daughters through inclusion and communication. They share personal stories, including Madeline's recent wedding and the emotional moments shared with her father. The conversation also touches on balancing work and life, exploring Cincinnati's culture, and the upcoming launch of Madeline's podcast. 

In this conversation, the speakers delve into the journey of creating a podcast and an audiobook, discussing the importance of personal storytelling and the challenges of publishing. They explore the significance of human connection, especially in the context of fatherhood, and the value of capturing moments through journaling. The discussion emphasizes taking actionable steps in creative endeavors and the impact of including family in one's journey.

Takeaways

• Dads should include their daughters in their activities to strengthen their bond.
• Communication is essential for building a strong relationship with children.
• Balancing work and family life is a common challenge for fathers.
• Inclusion helps daughters feel valued and understood.
• Personal experiences shape the way we connect with our children.
• It's important to set realistic expectations for family time.
• Daughters appreciate understanding the reasons behind their father's work.
• Creating memorable moments, like weddings, strengthens family ties.
• Exploring local culture can enhance family experiences.
• It's never too late to improve relationships with children. The process of creating an audiobook can be deeply personal.
• Breaking down large projects into smaller tasks makes them manageable.
• Self-publishing can be a valid choice for first-time authors.
• Networking and building relationships are crucial for success.
• In-person connections enhance the podcasting experience.
• Journaling can help capture precious moments in parenting.
• Including children in your world fosters better relationships.
• Every stage of a child's life is temporary and should be appreciated.
• Human connection is fundamental to all relationships.
• Taking action is essential to turning dreams into reality.

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
https://www.girldadspodcast.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/

Youtube:
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast

In this episode of Listings and Lullabies, host Varun Varma and co-host Vikas Sondhi welcome Hammad Siddiqi, a seasoned father and community figure, to discuss the unique experiences of being a 'girl dad.' The conversation explores the challenges and joys of parenting daughters, the influence of cultural backgrounds, and the importance of honesty and communication in fatherhood. Hamad shares insights from his own journey as a father, navigating dual cultures, and the lessons learned from his upbringing. 

The episode emphasizes the significance of being a positive role model for daughters and the impact of parenting styles on children's development. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the multifaceted aspects of parenting, emphasizing the importance of physical affection, the challenges of raising teenagers, and the legacy that parents leave through their children. They discuss the lessons learned from their daughters, the balance between work and family life, and the impact of social media on modern parenting. The dialogue highlights the need for patience, understanding, and open communication in nurturing healthy relationships with children. In this episode, the speakers delve into the complexities of parenting, emphasizing the importance of open communication between parents and children. They discuss the need for parents to express their intentions clearly, instill strong values, and provide core advice that children can carry with them throughout their lives. The conversation also touches on the societal dangers that children face today, the cultural perspectives on protection, and the necessity of raising awareness about these issues. 

Ultimately, the speakers highlight the evolution of parenting practices and the importance of adapting to new understandings of child psychology. In this episode, the conversation delves into the profound impact of parenting on children's development, emphasizing the importance of healthy habits and the influence of parental actions. The speakers reflect on the joys and challenges of parenting, sharing personal anecdotes and insights about cherishing childhood moments. They also discuss the significance of community engagement through a career in community development banking, the role of control in life and politics, and the value of authentic friendships. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal personal insights and aspirations, along with a reminder of upcoming community events.

Takeaways:

• Nobody's prepared to be a girl dad.
• Every day is different in parenting.
• Honesty in your relationship with your kids is crucial.
• You can pick the best of both cultures.
• Being present and available is key to fatherhood.
• You are the benchmark for every man she will ever see.
• Lead with love and understanding in parenting.
• Cultural differences can enrich parenting experiences.
• Open communication helps in understanding children's perspectives.
• Parenting is a journey of learning and growth. Kids need physical affection to feel secure.
• Parent

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
https://www.girldadspodcast.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/

Youtube:
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast

In this episode, Varun and Vikas discuss the challenges and joys of parenting, particularly focusing on the development of Varun's daughter Zyanna and the dynamics of having a new baby, Sahil. They explore the importance of educational choices, particularly Montessori, and the role of community support for parents, especially girl dads. The conversation also touches on cultural traditions, work-life balance, and the current state of the real estate market. In this episode, Vikas Sondhi and Varun Varma discuss the current state of the real estate market, focusing on rising property taxes, the role of real estate agents, and the importance of understanding representation agreements. They explore the shifting dynamics of buyer power, inventory issues, and the necessity for potential buyers and sellers to educate themselves about the market. Varun emphasizes the value of real estate agents as resources beyond transactions, encouraging open communication and transparency in client-agent relationships.

Takeaways

• Zyanna is starting to form sentences and communicate more clearly.
• Parenting dynamics shift with the introduction of a new sibling.
• The role of older siblings can shape the younger sibling's development.
• Community support is vital for parents navigating their journeys.
• Montessori education is seen as beneficial for child development.
• Parents aspire to provide better opportunities for their children than they had.
• Cultural traditions play an important role in family life.
• Work-life balance becomes more complex with multiple young children.
• Real estate market dynamics are influenced by economic changes.
• Building a supportive community can ease parenting challenges. Property taxes are rising significantly, impacting homeowners.
• Real estate agents can provide valuable resources beyond buying and selling.
• Understanding representation agreements is crucial for clients.
• Buyers currently have more power in negotiations due to market shifts.
• It's important to educate oneself about the real estate process.
• Life changes often necessitate moving, regardless of market conditions.
• Real estate agents should maintain open communication with clients.
• Market trends indicate a potential shift towards a buyer's market.
• Investors should be aware of off-market opportunities.
• Engaging with community forums can provide valuable insights.

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
https://www.girldadspodcast.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/

Youtube:
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast

Summary

In this episode of Listings and Lullabies, hosts Varun Varma and Vikas Sondhi welcome Madeline Anderson, author of 'The Girl Dad'. They discuss the unique perspective of a daughter on the father-daughter relationship, the journey of writing the book, and the valuable lessons learned from both dads and daughters. The conversation emphasizes the importance of connection, understanding love languages, and the role of mothers in shaping these relationships. Madeline shares insights on how fathers can positively impact their daughters' lives and the significance of being present and intentional in parenting. In this engaging conversation, Varun Varma, Vikas Sondhi, and Madeline Anderson delve into the complexities of social media's impact on mental health, the challenges of parenting in a digital age, and the importance of fostering strong father-daughter relationships. They explore personal anecdotes, future aspirations, and the mission behind the Girl Dad Network, emphasizing the need for intentional living and the nurturing of self-worth in children.

Takeaways

• The book 'The Girl Dad' offers a unique perspective from a daughter's viewpoint.
• Dads can learn valuable lessons from their daughters' experiences.
• The importance of being intentional in parenting is crucial for building strong relationships.
• Understanding a daughter's love language can enhance the father-daughter bond.
• Daughters often look to their fathers as role models for future relationships.
• The journey of writing the book was a fulfilling and purposeful experience for Madeline.
• Mothers play a significant role in the dynamics of father-daughter relationships.
• Dads should strive to be present and engaged in their daughters' lives.
• The impact of a father's actions can shape a daughter's expectations in relationships.
• Getting to know your daughter on a deeper level is essential for effective parenting. Social media can negatively impact mental health.
• It's crucial to create time away from technology for children.
• Building confidence in children helps them navigate social media.
• Fathers play a vital role in shaping their daughters' self-esteem.
• Intentional living is essential for meaningful relationships.
• Outdoor activities can strengthen family bonds.
• Understanding the impact of social media is important for parents.
• The Girl Dad Network aims to improve father-daughter relationships.
• Dads can learn from each other through shared experiences.
• Strong family units lead to a better society.

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
https://www.girldadspodcast.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/

Youtube:
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast

Summary

In this episode, the hosts discuss their experiences as parents and business owners, touching on the challenges of balancing family life with work, the impact of an ADHD diagnosis, and the importance of having a business coach. They reflect on the real estate market, share insights from their personal journeys, and emphasize the significance of planning, accountability, and self-care in both personal and professional realms.

Takeaways

• Feedback from listeners is invaluable for growth.
• Parenting challenges are universal, not limited to specific demographics.
• Time management is crucial for balancing work and family life.
• ADHD can be a challenge but also a source of strength.
• Having a business coach can provide necessary guidance and support.
• It's important to disconnect from technology to reconnect with family.
• The real estate market is stabilizing post-pandemic.
• Planning for the future is essential for family dynamics.
• Failure is a part of the learning process.
• It's never too late to seek help and improve oneself.
  
  

Sound Bites

"We're not talking that we're sitting on an island."
"You try to set like, okay, who's the audience for this?"
"ADHD is just a new path for me."
"It's never too late to get into therapy."
"Failure is a learning experience."
"Focus on time blocking and planning."
"Disconnect and reconnect."

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
https://www.girldadspodcast.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/

Youtube:
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast

In this episode of Listings and Lullabies, hosts Vikas Sondhi and Varun Varma kick off Season Two by discussing the arrival of Varun's second child, Sahil, and the challenges and joys of parenting two young kids. They reflect on the break they took from the podcast, the importance of mental health, and the personal growth Varun has experienced through therapy and self-reflection. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of the real estate market, with insights on current trends and strategies for buyers and sellers. The hosts emphasize the importance of authenticity, love, and support in both personal and professional lives as they look forward to a new season filled with engaging content.

Takeaways

This season is focused on the journey of parenting two kids.
Zyanna has shown great love and affection for her new brother, Sahil.
Taking a break was necessary for personal reflection and growth.
Mental health is crucial for navigating the challenges of parenthood.
Therapy has been a valuable tool for personal development.
The real estate market is shifting, requiring new strategies for success.
Authenticity in sharing personal struggles is important for connection.
The hosts plan to include more guests in future episodes.
2020-Thrive is the mantra for the upcoming year.
Love and support are essential in both family and business.

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
https://www.girldadspodcast.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/

Youtube:
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast

Summary

In this episode, the hosts welcome Jaydev Karande, the unofficial mayor of Cincinnati, as a special guest. They discuss the importance of relationships and connecting people, as well as the role of being a father. They emphasize the lifelong personal development program that comes with being a parent and the need to be present and authentic in parenting.

They also talk about the differences between raising a boy and a girl and the importance of instilling values like gratitude and compassion. The hosts reflect on their own parenting journeys and the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship and family life. In this conversation, Vikas and Varun discuss the process of waking up and becoming more present as fathers. They explore the importance of embracing difficult conversations and learning from them. They also discuss the role of ego and the need to let go of materialistic pursuits.

The conversation touches on the dynamics of being a girl dad and the importance of meeting children where they are. They emphasize the need for self-reflection, compassion, and continuous personal growth as fathers.

Takeaways

• Being a parent is a lifelong personal development program that requires self-reflection and authenticity.
• Instilling values like gratitude and compassion in children is important.
• Balancing entrepreneurship and family life can be challenging, but being present and supportive is key.
• The differences between raising boys and girls can be both challenging and rewarding.
• It's important to question and unlearn inherited beliefs and be open to growth and change. Waking up as a father involves embracing difficult conversations and learning from them.
• Letting go of ego and materialistic pursuits is essential for personal growth as a father.
• Being a girl dad means meeting your daughter where she is and empowering her with confidence.
• Self-reflection, compassion, and continuous personal growth are key to being a better father.
• Acknowledging and valuing the thoughts, words, and deeds of your children is important for their development.

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
https://www.girldadspodcast.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/

Youtube:
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast

Summary

In this episode of Listings and Lullabies, host Varun Varma interviews real estate investor Jordan Noble about his journey as a girl dad and his experience in the real estate industry. They discuss the challenges and joys of fatherhood, the importance of communication and teamwork in parenting, and the transition from engineering to real estate investing. They also touch on the complexities of the real estate market and the misconceptions surrounding real estate investing. The conversation revolves around the challenges and lessons learned in real estate investing. The hosts discuss their experience with a contractor who stole money and caused delays in a project. They highlight the importance of having a strong team and support system to navigate through difficult times. They also touch on different types of real estate investing, such as rental properties, flipping houses, wholesaling, and short-term rentals. The hosts emphasize the value of taking risks and the need for continuous learning and growth in the industry.

Takeaways

• Communication and teamwork are essential in parenting.
• Being present and enjoying each stage of your child's development is important.
• Knowing yourself and your strengths can lead to success in your career.
• Real estate investing requires careful analysis and understanding of the market.
• Social media can create misconceptions about the reality of real estate investing. Having a strong team and support system is crucial in navigating challenges in real estate investing.
• Different types of real estate investing include rental properties, flipping houses, wholesaling, and short-term rentals.
• Taking risks and being willing to learn and grow are essential in the industry.
• Real estate investing provides opportunities for financial success and building generational wealth.
• Having a positive outlook and resilience are key in overcoming obstacles.
• Building relationships and partnerships is important for success in real estate investing.

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
https://www.girldadspodcast.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/

Youtube:
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast