“Freedom isn't permanent, and it depends on who's willing to fight for it.” Abteen Vaziri

“The biggest victims of radical Islam are Muslims.”

“I have a duty not only to save America, but to save Germany, because Germany saved me.”

"Iranians are not going to be quiet."

 

In this powerful episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts sits down with political commentator, entrepreneur, and activist Abteen Vaziri for an eye-opening conversation about escaping Iran, confronting radical ideology, finding faith, and fighting for the American Dream.

Born into a family fleeing the oppressive Islamic regime in Iran, Abteen shares the sacrifices his parents made to build a life in America. In one of the episode’s most emotional moments, he reflects on his father — a man who rarely used his voice — and the powerful “why” behind leaving everything behind in search of freedom.

From growing up Muslim to converting to Christianity, Abteen opens up about identity, faith, censorship, political activism, and why he believes more Iranian Americans must speak out against radicalism.

He also discusses immigration, entrepreneurship through the EB-5 visa industry, cancel culture, and the dangers of extremism both abroad and in the United States.

This episode dives deep into freedom, resilience, family legacy, and what it truly means to protect the American Dream.

In This Episode:

• Escaping Iran and starting over in America

• The emotional story behind Abteen’s father’s silence

• From Islam to Christianity: Abteen’s faith journey

• Fighting radicalism and political extremism

• Iranian-American identity and cultural pressure

• The American Dream and why freedom matters

• Immigration, entrepreneurship, and political activism

• Why more Iranian Americans are entering politics

Episode Highlights:

• (00:00) Welcome to Better Call Daddy

• (05:15) Abteen Vaziri’s journey from Iran to America

• (15:30) Why Iranian Americans need political representation

• (25:00) The story behind his father’s sacrifice and silence

• (35:45) Radicalism, free speech, and the political climate

• (45:00) Faith, freedom, and final thoughts on the American Dream

If you’ve ever wondered what people risk for freedom — or how one family’s escape from Iran shaped a new generation of outspoken activists — this is an episode you won’t forget.

Connect with Abteen Vaziri

Instagram | Twitter

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube

In this episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts speaks with Leron Rodgers, a father of four and Uber driver, whose story begins with a chance encounter while Reena was traveling for a Hollywood Demons shoot.

What starts as a simple conversation turns into a deep discussion about fatherhood, mental health, addiction, and breaking generational cycles.

Leron opens up about growing up with a father who struggled with addiction and how that shaped his approach to parenting. Now raising four children, he reflects on the challenges of single fatherhood, the importance of community support, and what it takes to heal and build a different future for his children.

This episode explores vulnerability, forgiveness, and the resilience required to rebuild family patterns and create lasting change.

Key Topics
Uber driver father of four life story
Chance meeting during Hollywood Demons shoot travel
Single fatherhood and raising four children
Growing up with addiction in the family
Mental health and emotional resilience
Breaking generational cycles
Community support and “it takes a village”
Forgiveness and personal healing

Episode Highlights
How Leron’s childhood shaped his parenting style
The realities of raising four kids as a single father
Lessons learned from addiction, absence, and resilience
Why communication and emotional honesty matter in families
Reframing pain into purpose and growth

Why This Episode Matters
This conversation is a reminder that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. Through honesty and reflection, Leron shares how he is building a new legacy for his children rooted in awareness, love, and intention.

Listen now for a conversation about fatherhood, resilience, and rewriting your story.

Connect with Reena instagram.com/reenafriedmanwatts https://youtube.com/@bettercalldaddy linkedin.com/in/reenafriedmanwatts  

Jon Waldman is a Winnipeg-based writer, TEDx speaker, and advocate for infertility awareness. His book 100 Things Jets Fans Should Know and Do Before They Die was shortlisted for the Winnipeg Book Award. His work has appeared in the Winnipeg Free Press, The Hockey News, and The Toronto Sun, and he’s been featured by CBC and HuffPost.

After a six-year infertility journey with his wife Elana, Jon became a leading voice in the conversation around male infertility. Their daughter, Kaia, was born in 2015. Today, he serves as a spokesperson for Fertility Matters Canada, using storytelling to break stigma and build community.

In this episode of Better Call Daddy, Reena Friedman Watts sits down with TEDx speaker Jon Waldman for a conversation most men aren’t having but should be.

After six years of infertility, Jon opens up about the emotional toll, the silence surrounding male infertility, and how it reshaped his identity, marriage, and sense of legacy.

This episode drops during National Infertility Awareness Week—a reminder that 1 in 6 couples face this reality, yet men are often left out of the conversation.

From collecting sports memorabilia to confronting one of life’s hardest challenges, Jon shares how storytelling became his way through—and why speaking up matters.

This isn’t just about infertility. It’s about fatherhood, identity, and what we leave behind.

What We Cover

• Why male infertility is rarely talked about—and why that needs to change
• The emotional impact on men, relationships, and self-worth
• How Jon turned pain into purpose through his TEDx talk
• The surprising connection between sports memorabilia and legacy
• Using humor to navigate heavy conversations
• Building support and breaking isolation

 

Episode Highlights:
- (00:00) Welcome to the Better Call Daddy Show
- (05:30) Introduction of Jon Waldman and his TED Talk
- (15:00) The statistics of infertility and its impact on men
- (25:00) Jon’s journey in the sports memorabilia world
- (35:45) The importance of storytelling in personal experiences
- (45:00) Wayne’s insights on legacy and compassion
- (55:00) Closing thoughts and reflections

Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that encourages listeners to embrace their stories and foster connections. Tune in and discover how vulnerability can lead to strength and understanding in the journey of fatherhood and beyond.

Connect with Jon Waldman

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonwaldman/

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:
Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube
(00:00) The Better Call Dream Daddy Show features interviews with influential and controversial fathers
(01:54) Jon Waldman did a TED talk on the subject of infertility
(07:26) Talk to me about how you started becoming a collector
(11:29) In high school, in grade 10, I took our journalism program
(13:02) Have you written any favorite pieces? Um, funny question
(15:12) There are many people who you dream of interviewing as a sports fan
(20:49) Comedian discusses his fertility journey in a new podcast
(23:23) The world of infertility, especially around males, is vast
(28:05) Is there anything that didn't make it into the book
(29:37) Are there any organizations or people like books that you read, anything that helped you
(32:17) Have you ever spoken up at all in the Jewish community
(38:17) How do you instill the enjoyment of collecting in the next generation
(42:37) Jon Waldman says collecting things can be part of your legacy

This episode is part of National Infertility Awareness Week, helping raise awareness around male infertility, IVF, and the emotional impact on families.

 

More info on National Infertility Awareness

https://www.asrm.org/advocacy-and-policy/take-action/national-infertility-awareness-week/

Join host Reena Friedman Watts and her dad, Wayne Friedman, for another captivating episode of the Better Call Daddy Show as they dive into the life and stories of Dean, known as 904 Dad Life. This episode is packed with humor, heart, and raw honesty as Dean opens up about his journey through sobriety, the challenges of fatherhood, and the complexities of family relationships.
From delivering his daughter on the bathroom floor to navigating a complicated relationship with his own father, Dean shares his experiences with candidness and wit. He discusses the impact of his upbringing on his parenting style and how he strives to break the cycle of dysfunction.

The conversation touches on:
- The challenges of being a dad while managing personal struggles
- How music became a creative outlet for healing
- Insights into sobriety and the importance of support systems
- The complexities of family dynamics and the influence of past relationships
- Lessons learned from navigating difficult conversations with children
Listeners will resonate with Dean's story of resilience and the importance of creating a positive legacy for future generations.

As always, Wayne shares his wisdom, offering insights into the nature of family and the importance of setting boundaries.
Episode Highlights:
- (00:00) Welcome to the Better Call Daddy Show
- (05:15) Introduction to Dean and his journey
- (15:30) The story of delivering his daughter
- (25:00) Navigating sobriety and family life
- (35:45) The impact of Dean's father on his parenting
- (45:00) Wayne's thoughts on family dynamics
- (55:00) Closing remarks and reflections
Don't miss this engaging episode filled with laughter, tears, and valuable life lessons. Tune in and discover how Dean is redefining fatherhood and creating a brighter future for his family.
🔗 Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:
Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube
(00:00) Each week I interview a guest, share the stories with my dad
(03:30) Had a friend pass away from a fentanyl overdose
(05:54) When you're getting sober, your mind is going crazy, so
(07:22) Wife had a natural childbirth that was easier than planned
(10:28) How'd you guys meet? How did you reconnect on MySpace
(11:42) Can I ask, like, what makes you drink? That is the ultimate question
(15:54) The question about how it affect my marriage, it didn't start affecting it until
(17:38) So what is sobriety look like for you? It looks good so far
(22:40) Dean uses medical marijuana for back pain after two back surgeries
(25:37) Did you watch the Jerry Springer show? Of course
(26:59) Dean's father has a history of being a predator 

Amma Primicino is a confidence coach and transformation guide for high-achieving women navigating career transitions.

With over 20 years of experience in marketing and public relations, she now helps women rebuild unshakable self-trust, step into visibility, and turn their experience into meaningful, profitable work.

Known as “Your Favourite Confidence Coach, Amma blends deep identity work with strategic clarity to help her clients reinvent themselves and lead with confidence in their next chapter.

 

In this throwback episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts welcomes fellow daddy's girl, Amma Primicino, for a candid conversation about family, creativity, and the unique bonds we share with our parents.
The episode kicks off with Reena and her dad, Wayne Friedman, setting the stage for a season filled with stories that inspire and entertain. As they delve into their personal experiences, they reflect on the importance of cherishing time with loved ones and how those moments shape our identities.
Amma shares her journey as a fellow daddy's girl, exploring the significance of storytelling and the connections we forge through our family histories. The discussion touches on:
- How family influences shape our paths and identities
- The beauty of vulnerability and emotional connections
- The challenges of balancing creativity with motherhood
- Lessons learned from navigating relationships and generational wisdom
- The power of storytelling in understanding ourselves and others

Listeners will be treated to heartfelt anecdotes that highlight the special relationships between parents and children, the importance of resilience, and the wisdom that can be passed down through generations. Reena and Amma emphasize the value of time spent with loved ones, reminding us that every moment is precious.
Episode Highlights:
- (00:00) Introduction with Reena and Grandpa Vinnie
- (10:15) Amma's journey as a daddy's girl
- (20:30) The importance of storytelling in family dynamics
- (30:45) Balancing motherhood and creative pursuits
- (40:00) Reflections on vulnerability and emotional connections
- (50:00) Closing thoughts and wisdom from Wayne
Join us for this touching episode that celebrates family, creativity, and the lessons we learn from those we love. Don't miss out on the opportunity to reflect on your own relationships and the stories that shape your life.
🔗 Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:
Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube
(00:00) Reena Friedman Watts interviews Wayne Friedman for the Better Call Daddy podcast
(02:41) Reena says her podcast began as a way to connect with everyday people
(05:18) Your father passed away two years ago; you have recordings of his voice
(06:36) You grew up with all four of your grandparents in Kentucky
(11:48) You were born and raised in Kentucky and went to college in West Virginia
(14:29) Are Jewish people not considered white? That is such a great question
(20:21) Who is Reena right now? And what does happiness mean to you
(23:33) My favorite part of church is the praise and worship
(24:07) Tell me what you've learned about motherhood from reality TV
(28:44) What has been the rescue mission that you've taken from your children
(32:56) I want to talk about your dad because that's the thing that appeals
(40:03) Tell your dad he has a raving fan in England
(40:22) Amma says time is our most valuable commodity
(43:43) You don't have to be the bad guy to stay the good guy
(48:42) To spend special time with your dad is what all dads should be doing

Samantha Elizabeth’s journey into stress management began with an unexpected discovery a mass on her left adrenal gland. Though not cancerous, the mass caused her body to produce excess cortisol, leaving her in a constant state of stress.

Facing the daily challenge of managing her own stress, especially with the demands of work and parenthood, Samantha realized how difficult it can be to simply “not stress” when life gets overwhelming.

 

Determined to find effective solutions, she turned her experience into purpose by becoming a stress management coach and starting "The Stress Mess Podcast." Through her coaching and podcast, Samantha now helps others learn to manage stress and find balance in their own lives.

Samantha Elizabeth is known as The OG Stress Mess, not because she has life perfectly figured out, but because she absolutely doesn’t, and she’s willing to say it out loud.

She’s a chronic overthinker, professional feeler, and someone who has spent years navigating stress, relationships, big life pivots, and the occasional “what am I doing with my life” spiral with honesty and humor. Instead of pretending to have it all together, she leans into the mess, learns from it, and brings people along for the ride.

She’s the voice behind Stress Mess: A Stress Less Podcast, where real conversations replace perfection, and mindset shifts come with a side of sarcasm and truth. Whether she’s talking about burnout, breakups, or just trying to function like a normal human on a Tuesday, Samantha keeps it unfiltered, relatable, and refreshingly real.

If you’ve ever felt like a beautiful disaster figuring it out as you go, you’ll feel right at home with her.

 

Connect with Samantha

https://samanthaelizabeth.com/

How do you control your emotions and communicate effectively in a distracted, fast-paced world?

In this episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts sits down with podcaster and emotional storyteller Paula Sima for a powerful conversation on emotional intelligence, communication skills, relationships, and personal growth.

Recorded live in Houston, this episode marks their second in-person meeting after years of online connection, bringing an authentic and energetic dynamic you will not want to miss.

Paula shares her journey as a self-described “government kid,” opening up about identity, resilience, and the lasting influence of her father. Together, Reena and Paula explore:

• How to understand and regulate your emotions

• Why vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness

• The truth about modern friendships and relationships

• How to communicate clearly and hold attention

• The role of storytelling in healing and connection

This episode blends mental health insights, real-life stories, and humor, including a memorable surprise moment you will not expect.

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Emotional intelligence tips for everyday life

• How to express your feelings without losing control

• Communication strategies that actually work

• How to build deeper, more meaningful relationships

• Why storytelling is key to connection and growth

Episode Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome to Better Call Daddy

• (02:15) Paula Sima’s story and “government kid” upbringing

• (15:00) Emotional vulnerability and self-awareness

• (25:30) Friendships, support systems, and relationships

• (35:00) Storytelling as a tool for healing

• (45:00) Surprise prank call to Paula’s dad

About the Guest, Paula Sima:
Host of Talk Shi+ with P, Paula Sima creates meaningful conversations around emotional well-being, personal development, and authentic storytelling.

About Better Call Daddy:
Hosted by Reena Friedman Watts and her dad Wayne Friedman, Better Call Daddy features real conversations about entrepreneurship, family, mental health, relationships, and life lessons, blending humor, honesty, and unforgettable perspectives.

🔗 Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:
Website | LinkedIn | Instagram |

Connect with Paula Sima

Linkedin

 

“We want to improve lives and it starts with real stories, notable musicians, and meaningful solutions. As a music journalist for over 30 years, I’ve seen how deeply mental health impacts the people behind the music.” Mari Fong

“The empath wants to heal, while the narcissist wants to take.”

In this Podcasthon episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts is joined by Mari Fong, the host of the Check Your Head podcast, to explore the intricate dynamics of empathy, mental health, and the music industry.

As they discuss the challenges faced by empaths and the toll of narcissistic relationships, Mari opens up about her personal journey through depression and the transformative power of music.

This Podcasthon special episode is dedicated to raising awareness for mental health, particularly in the context of the arts. Mari Fong shares her experiences with her family, including the emotional weight of supporting loved ones during crises, and how she found healing through music and connection. Together, they delve into the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and the necessity of seeking help when navigating the complexities of mental health.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into:
- The emotional toll of empath-narcissist dynamics
- How music can serve as a healing force
- Practical strategies for self-care and finding the right support
- The significance of vulnerability in our relationships
- How to recognize and break free from toxic patterns

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to the episode
(02:15) Mari’s personal journey with mental health
(15:30) The healing power of music
(25:00) Navigating family crises and emotional challenges
(35:00) Understanding the empath-narcissist dynamic
(45:00) Finding support and resources for mental health
Join us for this heartfelt conversation that emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and the collective responsibility we share in supporting one another.

Don't forget to check out Mari's Check Your Head podcast for more resources and stories that inspire change.
00:00 This is a special episode for Podcasthon
01:15 You had your grandmother in the ICU and your sisters are in Israel
08:34 As an empath, you feel other people's emotions, good or bad
11:54 You talked about how you learned to be an empath from your own dad
20:23 Mental health is about our relationships with ourselves, with other people
21:35 What would your dad say if someone asked him for help with mental health issues
28:37 You're from a family of hoarders. Yes. Do you know what I mean
32:20 Now that your kids are adults, you get to spend more time together
34:24 You fell into a depression at a time where you were really happy
38:03 Check your head podcast focuses on mental health and addiction issues
44:08 How did you take stephs when you were at 93 pounds
52:15 There are certain people that want to help people and they get emotionally involved

About Better Call Daddy
The Better Call Daddy podcast, hosted by Reena Friedman Watts and her dad Wayne Friedman, features real conversations about entrepreneurship, life lessons, relationships, and resilience with fascinating guests and candid father-daughter wisdom.

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
YouTube

Connect with Mari Fong
Check Your Head Podcast

“Know the law and the numbers but be willing to sleep on the floor.”

Entrepreneurship can be exciting, rewarding and incredibly lonely.

In this episode of the Better Call Daddy podcast, host Reena Friedman Watts and her dad Wayne Friedman welcome real estate professional Vinnie Enriquez to talk about the reality of building a business, navigating entrepreneur loneliness, and developing the mindset needed for long-term success.

Vinnie shares how he transitioned from construction into the competitive world of real estate, and how understanding homes from the ground up allows him to guide clients through one of the most emotional financial decisions of their lives.

Instead of chasing transactions, Vinnie focuses on relationships, communication, and trust a philosophy that has helped him build a sustainable business and a loyal client base.

Throughout the conversation, he also reflects on the challenges entrepreneurs face behind the scenes, including loneliness, perception, and the responsibility that comes with running your own business.

For anyone building a company, selling a service, or navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, this episode offers powerful lessons about grit, leadership, and perspective.

Key Quotes from Vinnie Enriquez

“In any business, if you're chasing money, you're already out.”

“Perception becomes reality.”

“You want to be the hardest working person in the room.”

“People are doing the best they can with the tools they have.”

“Know the law and the numbers—but be willing to sleep on the floor.”

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• Why entrepreneurship can feel lonely and how to navigate it
• The importance of building relationships in real estate and business
• How perception and communication shape client trust
• Strategies for educating clients throughout the home buying process
• Why successful entrepreneurs focus on long-term reputation over quick sales

Episode Timeline

00:00 Welcome to Better Call Daddy
02:30 Vinnie Enriquez: From construction to real estate
15:00 Why relationships matter more than transactions
25:00 Navigating loneliness in entrepreneurship
35:00 Communication strategies that build trust
45:00 Hard work, resilience, and legacy

Guest: Vinnie Enriquez

Real estate professional focused on relationship-driven sales, client education, and long-term success in the housing market.

About Better Call Daddy

The Better Call Daddy podcast, hosted by Reena Friedman Watts and her dad Wayne Friedman, features real conversations about entrepreneurship, life lessons, relationships, and resilience with fascinating guests and candid father-daughter wisdom.

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts

Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
YouTube

Connect with Vinnie

Linkedin

TheEnriquezGroup.com

 

"Marketing is about showing people what it is I do and presenting it in a way that brings them into that world."

"You want to learn how to grow your business and overcome adversity? Find the people who learn with you, laugh with you."

"Take the class, go somewhere new, make a friend, find an encourager, because those are the ingredients for getting unstuck."

In this episode of Better Call Daddy, join host Reena Friedman Watts and her dad, Vinnie Friedman, as they dive into the world of creative entrepreneurship with the inspiring Priscilla Mensah, founder of Super Power Soap. Together, they reflect on their experiences at a local Creative Entrepreneurship Bootcamp at Houston Community College, discussing the nuances of marketing and sales in the creative realm.

From soap making workshops to the importance of connection, Priscilla shares her journey of transforming personal struggles into a thriving business that fosters community. This episode highlights the significance of understanding your audience, crafting meaningful experiences, and the power of vulnerability in both marketing and personal growth.

Key Takeaways:
• The art of marketing: How to engage your audience authentically
• The role of storytelling in sales and connection
• Building a supportive community through creative endeavors
• Embracing vulnerability and sharing personal journeys
• The importance of understanding your worth and pricing your services

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Welcome to the Better Call Daddy Show
(01:30) Priscilla’s journey into soap making
(15:00) The power of connection in workshops
(25:45) Marketing strategies for creative entrepreneurs
(35:00) Wisdom from Wayne: Building relationships through shared experiences
(45:00) The importance of community and support in entrepreneurship

Episode Keywords:
Better Call Daddy, Podcast, Creative Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Soap Making, Community Building, Vulnerability, Personal Growth, Storytelling, Sales Strategies

Connect with Priscilla Mensah

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:
Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube
Thank you for tuning in to Better Call Daddy where stories of creativity, resilience, and connection come together! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

What happens when you put yourself in a room full of creatives and actually commit to building something?

In this episode of Better Call Daddy, I’m joined by Priscilla Mensah and my dad, Wayne Friedman, to talk about what we learned from our Creative Entrepreneurship Bootcamp at Houston Community College.

We didn’t just talk about ideas — we talked about execution.

Sales.
Contracts.
Insurance.
Separating personal and business finances.
Sustainability.
Mindset.

The stuff people don’t always glamorize.

Priscilla Mensah and I share what it feels like to test your ideas in real time — and why showing up (even when you’re unsure) is what really moves the needle.

We talk about:
• Why creativity without sales doesn’t scale
• The power of being in community with other builders
• Learning from setbacks instead of hiding from them
• Why every entrepreneur has to get comfortable with vulnerability

And of course, Dad weighs in with wisdom about surrounding yourself with creative people who push you forward.

If you’ve been sitting on an idea… this one’s for you.

Because you don’t need to be famous to be powerful.

You need to show up.