Better Call Daddy

Reena Friedman Watts

Better Call Daddy Podcast

  • 49 minutes 25 seconds
    477. You Can’t Run From Your Emotions | Paula Sima Calls Her Dad

    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

     

    25 March 2026, 2:28 pm
  • 57 minutes 56 seconds
    476. It Can Happen to Anyone: Mental Health & Trauma | Check Your Head Podcast (Podcasthon Special) ft. Mari Fong

    “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

    19 March 2026, 12:59 am
  • 1 hour 1 minute
    475. Vinnie Enriquez on Road to Growth: Family and Real Estate

    “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

     

    11 March 2026, 9:18 pm
  • 53 minutes 40 seconds
    474. How to Price Your Creative Services: Lessons from a Creative Entrepreneurship Bootcamp with Priscilla Mensah

    "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!

    3 March 2026, 2:55 pm
  • 1 hour 2 minutes
    473. Showing Up Is What Counts: Lessons from a Creative Entrepreneurship Bootcamp With Priscilla Mensah

    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.

    26 February 2026, 6:39 am
  • 1 hour 3 minutes
    472. Breaking the Silence Takes a Heck of a Lot of Work | TEDx Speaker Dan Roth

    "The journey to understanding starts with asking better questions." — Dan Roth

    "If I can enlighten others and show how we can actually create a better system, a better world, in spite of how hard it may be, then I can go to sleep at night knowing I've done everything I can for my daughters."

    "I made a promise to God and my daughters that I would spend every hour of every day fighting to create a better world for them to grow up in."

    "This is about legacy. This is about them and looking at the world that we live in and saying, hey, we need to be better because our maga, he sure as hell ain't helping."


    In this reflective episode of Better Call Daddy, host Rena Friedman Watts and her dad, Wayne Friedman, sit down with the dynamic Dan Roth, a thought leader and TEDx speaker who challenges the status quo. Dan shares his transformative journey from social anxiety to delivering a powerful TED Talk, revealing how he reshapes the narrative around parenting and mental health.

    From the Streets to the Stage
    Dan opens up about his experience preparing for his TEDx talk, detailing the emotional rollercoaster of public speaking and the self-doubt that often accompanies it. He discusses how his personal struggles with body dysmorphia and eating disorders shaped his message, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability in creating meaningful connections with others.

    Empowering Change Through Parenting
    Throughout the episode, Dan explores the impact of parenting on mental health, advocating for a shift in how we approach discussions around emotional safety within families. He shares heartfelt anecdotes about his daughters, highlighting his commitment to creating a better world for them and all children.

    Building Bridges and Community
    Dan reflects on the importance of mentorship and community support, discussing how his experiences have led him to create initiatives that empower others. His passion for advocacy and social change shines through as he emphasizes the need for open conversations about difficult topics, from mental health to diversity and inclusion.

    Key Themes
    - The power of storytelling and vulnerability
    - Navigating the challenges of public speaking
    - The role of parenting in shaping mental health dynamics
    - Empowering communities through advocacy
    - The importance of asking better questions to foster understanding

    Episode Highlights
    (00:00) Welcome to the Better Call Daddy Show
    (01:20) Dan Roth: A Journey to TEDx
    (10:30) Overcoming Social Anxiety and Embracing Vulnerability
    (20:00) Parenting and Mental Health: Creating Safe Spaces
    (30:15) Building Community and Empowering Others
    (40:45) Wisdom from Wayne: The Balance of Personal and Professional Values

    Episode Keywords
    Better Call Daddy, Podcast, TEDx, Public Speaking, Mental Health, Parenting, Vulnerability, Advocacy, Community Building, Storytelling, Emotional Safety, Diversity and Inclusion, Personal Growth

    Connect with Dan Roth
    Speaker Bureau

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

    24 February 2026, 9:39 pm
  • 1 hour 5 minutes
    471. Hearing the Echoes: Writing, Daughters & Sermons for Days Alex Parkview

    "My dad was one of the only people who could get through to me."

    "The strongest thing I ever did was ask for help." — Alex Parkview

    "You can't pour from an empty cup."

    "Even a shattered reflection can still show the way forward."

    "Love people, no matter how difficult it may seem to you."

    On today's reflective Better Call Daddy episode we reconnect with the thoughtful Alex Parkview, a veteran turned author who shares his journey of healing, resilience, and self-discovery.

    Alex Parkview opens up about the profound impact of his military service on his life and writing, sharing how his experiences shaped his identity and fueled his passion for storytelling.

    Veteran Reflections
    Alex reflects on the complexities of being a veteran, discussing the challenges of PTSD and the echoes of war that linger long after service. He candidly shares how writing became a vital tool for coping, allowing him to process his experiences and connect with others through his books. His journey of healing emphasizes the importance of seeking help and finding purpose in the midst of struggle.

    Life Lessons Through Writing
    As a prolific author, Alex Parkview discusses his various works, including his memoirs and sermon compilations that tackle themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning.

    He highlights the significance of vulnerability in his writing and how sharing his story has fostered connections with readers who resonate with his experiences. His commitment to helping others through his words is both inspiring and impactful.

    Fatherhood and Legacy
    Throughout the episode, Alex shares heartwarming anecdotes about his daughters, emphasizing the importance of open communication and honesty in their relationship. He reflects on how his struggles have shaped his parenting style, allowing him to be a source of support and guidance for his children as they navigate their own paths.

    Key Themes
    - The journey of healing and resilience as a veteran
    - The transformative power of writing and storytelling
    - Navigating the complexities of fatherhood
    - The importance of vulnerability and seeking help
    - Creating meaningful connections through shared experiences

    Episode Highlights
    (00:00) Welcome to the Better Call Daddy Show
    (01:20) Alex Parkview: A Veteran's Perspective
    (10:30) The Impact of PTSD and Healing Through Writing
    (20:00) Navigating Fatherhood and Open Communication
    (30:15) Sharing Stories: The Power of Vulnerability
    (40:45) Wisdom from Wayne: The Strength in Asking for Help

    Episode Keywords
    Better Call Daddy, Podcast, Veterans, PTSD, Healing, Writing, Fatherhood, Resilience, Personal Growth, Storytelling, Emotional Connection, Life Lessons, Mental Health, Trauma

    Connect with Alex Parkview
    Author Website

    Alex Parkview's GoFundMe

     gofund.me/a12ed1285

     

     

    Connect with Reena Friedman Watts
    Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube

    Thank you for tuning in to Better Call Daddy where stories of resilience, love, and connection come together!  Me and my dad would love to hear from ya!

     
    18 February 2026, 12:32 am
  • 1 hour 8 minutes
    470. Learning to Be a Better Father After Loss: Bestselling Author G. Michael Hoff

    "Life is for the living." — G. Michael Hoff

    In this heartfelt episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts and her dad, Wayne Friedman, reconnect with the talented G. Michael Hoff, a bestselling author and master communicator. G. Michael shares his journey through the ups and downs of the creative process, revealing the importance of resilience and adaptation in both life and storytelling.

    Facing Challenges
    G. Michael opens up about the hurdles he faced while trying to adapt his novella into a film, including the impact of the Screen Actors Guild strike. He candidly discusses the emotional rollercoaster of raising funds and the lessons learned from setbacks, emphasizing the need to keep moving forward despite adversity.

    The Power of Storytelling
    As a two-time guest on the show, G. Michael dives into his passion for storytelling and how he leverages AI to enhance communication without sacrificing creativity. He shares insights on the evolving landscape of content creation and the importance of embracing new technologies to stay relevant in a fast-paced world.
    Life Lessons and Legacy
    Throughout the conversation, G. Michael Hopf reflects on the profound impact of personal loss and how it has shaped his perspective as a father. He offers wisdom on mourning, resilience, and the significance of being present for loved ones, encouraging listeners to focus on the beauty and opportunities life has to offer.

    Key Themes
    - Navigating challenges in the creative industry
    - The transformative power of storytelling
    - Embracing technology and AI in content creation
    - The importance of resilience and adaptation
    - Finding fulfillment and purpose in life after loss

    Episode Highlights
    (00:00) Welcome to the Better Call Daddy Show
    (01:20) Catching Up with G. Michael Hoff
    (10:30) The Journey of Adapting a Novella into Film
    (20:00) Leveraging AI for Enhanced Communication
    (30:15) Life Lessons from Personal Loss
    (40:45) Wisdom from Wayne: Life is for the Living

    Episode Keywords
    Better Call Daddy, Podcast, Storytelling, Resilience, AI in Writing, Creative Process, Personal Growth, Life Lessons, Fulfillment, Fatherhood, Overcoming Adversity, Emotional Healing, Technology in Content Creation

    G. Michael Hopf is a multifaceted individual whose life experiences have significantly contributed to his career as a USA Today bestselling author. He describes himself modestly as "just a guy stringing words together," but his background tells a story of adventure and dedication. Hopf is not only a writer but also a devoted father, husband, and a veteran, underscoring his diverse life experiences and perspectives.

     

    Before venturing into the world of writing, Hopf served in the U.S. Marine Corps, which provided him with a rich tapestry of experiences that would later influence his writing. His service as a combat veteran has imbued his works with a sense of realism and depth, particularly in themes related to survival, resilience, and the complexities of human nature in challenging circumstances.

     

    Following his military service, Hopf worked as a bodyguard and commercial diver, further diversifying his life experiences. This role likely exposed him to a variety of situations and individuals, broadening his understanding of human interactions and the many facets of society.

     

    Now residing in San Diego with his family, Hopf has fully embraced his passion for writing and publishing. He is best known for his New World series, which delves into post-apocalyptic scenarios, exploring how humanity might respond to cataclysmic events. His works often intertwine elements of action, adventure, and political intrigue, capturing the imaginations of readers who are drawn to speculative and survivalist narratives.

     

    Hopf's commitment to his craft and his ability to draw from his life experiences have made him a prominent figure in the genres of post-apocalyptic fiction and westerns. His works not only entertain but also provoke thought about the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    Connect with G. Michael Hoff
    Website

    Connect with Reena Friedman Watts
    Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube
    Thank you for tuning in to Better Call Daddy where stories of growth, resilience, and understanding come together!
     
    If you enjoyed this episode, check out the previous one with Scott Ferguson for more insights on creativity and storytelling.
    Leveling Up Your Life

    10 February 2026, 3:48 pm
  • 1 hour 7 minutes
    469. Forgiving Your Parents How Letting Go of Resentment Can Change Your Life Eric Rogell

    "Forgiveness is not about letting someone off the hook; it's about freeing yourself from the chains of resentment." — Eric Rogell

    In this deeply reflective episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts and her dad, Wayne Friedman, engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Eric Rogell. Eric shares his powerful journey of understanding and forgiving his parents, revealing how compassion can transform our perceptions of those who raised us.
    Understanding Our Parents
    Eric candidly discusses the complexities of his upbringing, shedding light on the struggles he faced with his mother’s protective nature and his father’s absence. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing that parents are human too, navigating their own challenges while trying to raise their children. His insights encourage listeners to reflect on their own parental relationships and the power of forgiveness.
    The Weight of Resentment
    Throughout the episode, Eric explores the concept of holding grudges and how it can be detrimental to our well-being. He shares a poignant quote about resentment being like drinking poison, highlighting the need to let go of past grievances in order to move forward. His journey towards forgiveness serves as a reminder that liberation often comes from within.
    Building Meaningful Connections
    As Eric discusses his experiences with mentorship and the importance of community, he underscores the value of open communication in relationships. He shares how his own journey has led him to create spaces for men to connect, share their vulnerabilities, and support one another, fostering a sense of brotherhood and understanding.
    Key Themes
    - The journey of forgiveness and understanding
    - The complexities of parental relationships
    - The impact of resentment on personal growth
    - The importance of community and mentorship
    - Embracing vulnerability as a source of strength
    Episode Highlights
    (00:00) Welcome to the Better Call Daddy Show
    (01:20) Meet Eric Rogel: A Journey of Forgiveness
    (10:30) Understanding Parental Challenges
    (20:00) The Dangers of Holding Grudges
    (30:15) Building Community and Meaningful Connections
    (40:45) Wisdom from Wayne: The Value of Open Communication

    Episode Keywords
    Better Call Daddy, Podcast, Forgiveness, Parental Relationships, Personal Growth, Resentment, Community Building, Mentorship, Vulnerability, Emotional Healing, Life Lessons, Family Dynamics, Self-Awareness, Inspirational Stories

    Connect with Eric Rogell
    Lions Raised as Lambs

    Connect with Reena Friedman Watts
    Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube
    Thank you for tuning in to Better Call Daddy—where stories of growth, love, and understanding come together!

     

    If you liked this episode listen to the one with Scott Ferguson who connected us 

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-call-daddy/id1525296416?i=1000708177145

    4 February 2026, 12:59 am
  • 21 minutes 1 second
    468. Motherhood Doesn’t End It Evolves Melissa Graham

    "Public speaking absolutely terrifies me." — Melissa Graham


    In this heartfelt episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts and her dad, Wayne Friedman, welcome the brave Melissa Graham, who confronts her fears head-on by sharing her journey on the podcast.
    As a mother of two boys and an entrepreneur, Melissa opens up about the challenges of parenting and the bittersweet excitement of watching her children prepare for college.

    Facing Fears
    Melissa candidly discusses her struggles with public speaking, revealing how she pushes past her nerves to share her story. Her journey resonates with many, especially those who find themselves navigating the complexities of motherhood while managing their own aspirations and fears.

    Bonding Over Parenthood
    Throughout the conversation, Reena and Melissa bond over their experiences as mothers, discussing the joys and challenges of raising teenagers. From planning college visits to navigating the emotional rollercoaster of impending empty nests, their relatable anecdotes highlight the universal aspects of motherhood.

    Embracing Change
    As Melissa reflects on her transition from being a stay-at-home mom to entering the workforce, she shares her feelings of guilt and the adjustments she made to find balance. Her story serves as a reminder that change can be daunting but also rewarding, especially when it leads to personal growth and fulfillment.

    Key Themes
    - Overcoming fears and embracing vulnerability
    - The joys and challenges of motherhood
    - Navigating the transition to college for children
    - Finding balance between work and family life
    - The importance of support and connection in parenting
    Episode Highlights
    (00:00) Welcome to the Better Call Daddy Show
    (01:20) Meet Melissa Graham: Facing Public Speaking Fears
    (10:30) The Emotional Journey of Parenting Teens
    (20:00) Transitioning from Stay-at-Home Mom to Working Mom
    (30:15) Bonding Over Family and Shared Experiences
    (40:45) Wisdom from Wayne: The Legacy of Parenting and Support

    Episode Keywords
    Better Call Daddy, Podcast, Public Speaking, Motherhood, Parenting, Emotional Growth, College Preparation, Work-Life Balance, Vulnerability, Personal Stories, Family Dynamics, Support Systems, Entrepreneurial Journey, Navigating Change, Life Lessons

    Melissa Graham was born and raised in South Louisiana, met her husband, David during their college years in 2000, and together they’ve built a wonderful family with their two amazing boys—one currently studying at LSU and the other a high school senior. After dedicating 16 years to being a stay-at-home mom, she’s now the proud owner and operator of Spacio.us Coworking in Pearland, TX. She loves being an active part of the Pearland community, supporting her tenants, and forming meaningful connections with them.
    She can be reached at [email protected] or 832-532-6269.

     

    Connect with Melissa Graham

    Linkedin

    Connect with Reena Friedman Watts
    Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube
    Thank you for tuning in to Better Call Daddy—where stories of resilience, love, and connection come together!
     

    27 January 2026, 5:55 pm
  • 1 hour 3 minutes
    467. Prepared for War, Not for Home: A Soldier’s Mental Health Battle | Raul Moreno

    "Charlie Mike, continue the mission."

    "Life is a journey filled with second chances." — Raul Moreno

    "I hid behind a smile."

    In this powerful episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts and her dad, Wayne Friedman, dive deep with the inspiring Raul Moreno, a veteran and entrepreneur who has turned his struggles into a story of resilience and hope. Raul opens up about his journey through sobriety, the heart-wrenching loss of his son, and the transformative power of being a present father.


    Facing Adversity
    Raul's candid reflections on his battle with addiction reveal the darkness he faced and the pivotal moment that led him to seek help. He shares his experience with Veterans Court and how he learned to embrace vulnerability, ultimately leading to a life of purpose and connection. His story is a testament to the strength found in acknowledging one’s struggles and the importance of mental health awareness.

    Creating a Legacy
    As a father of three daughters, Raul discusses the lessons he’s learned about parenting and the significance of being present. He emphasizes the difference between material gifts and the true gift of time, love, and attention. His heartfelt anecdotes about his daughters showcase the joy and responsibility of fatherhood, as well as his commitment to breaking the cycle of trauma in his family.


    Building Community and Connection
    Throughout the episode, Raul highlights the importance of community support, whether through his podcast or his clothing brand, Charlie Mike. He discusses how sharing stories and uplifting others can create a ripple effect of positivity and encouragement, particularly within the veteran and first responder communities.

    Key Themes
    - The journey of recovery and the importance of mental health
    - The impact of loss and the power of second chances
    - The significance of being a present and engaged parent
    - Building a supportive community and lifting others up
    - Embracing vulnerability as a source of strength

    Episode Highlights
    (00:00) Welcome to the Better Call Daddy Show
    (01:20) Meet Raul Moreno: A Journey of Resilience
    (10:30) Overcoming Addiction: The Path to Sobriety
    (20:00) The Importance of Presence in Parenting
    (30:15) Creating a Community of Support and Connection
    (40:45) Wisdom from Wayne: The Power of Love and Guidance

    Episode Keywords
    Better Call Daddy, Podcast, Sobriety, Fatherhood, Mental Health, Resilience, Community Building, Veteran Support, Addiction Recovery, Parenting, Second Chances, Emotional Healing, Personal Growth, Inspirational Stories, Family Legacy, Vulnerability, Life Lessons

    Connect with Raul Moreno

    Connect with Reena Friedman Watts
    Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube
    Thank you for tuning in to Better Call Daddy—where love, resilience, and community come together!

     

    Resources and disclaimer this episode talks about suicide

    https://988lifeline.org/

     

    21 January 2026, 5:42 pm
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