Reena loves a story, and she‘s fascinated by the people behind them. She loves to bring stories to life. Her appetite for storytelling has taken her from the Jerry Springer Show to the legal drama of the courtroom. From influential players to reality stars, nothing is censored here. Reena interviews people whose stories haven‘t been told, at least not through her unique lens, and then gets daddy‘s advice afterward like a good daughter does. Whether you have daddy issues or a father who‘s inspired your path, you will be able to tap into my daddy‘s wisdom, wit, and humor at the end of every episode. My daddy has been a guiding light my whole life and there‘s not much he doesn‘t know, as an entrepreneur for forty-plus years, a husband, a loyal son, and my number one supporter. He has learned lots of life lessons along the way and is here to share them with you. It‘s time to reminisce and reflect on the conversations you‘d like to have with your daddy and learn from mine. Come share in some good old-fashioned family bonding and help us up our wisdom rating. There is wisdom from four generations and I’m addressing what happens from childhood to adulthood!
Episodes
5 days ago
5 days ago
"If you feel like something is wrong, trust your intuition. You’re not wrong. You’re not crazy."
In this compelling episode of the Better Call Daddy podcast, host Reena Friedman Watts sits down with Katya B. Karlova, a passionate advocate for endometriosis awareness and body positivity. Katya shares her harrowing journey of living with endometriosis, a condition that affects 1 in 10 women yet remains shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. She opens up about the challenges she faced in the medical community, including being dismissed and misdiagnosed for over two decades.
As the conversation unfolds, Katya recounts her experiences with wildfires in California, drawing parallels between the devastation of natural disasters and the invisible struggles of those living with chronic illnesses. She emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself in the healthcare system, especially for women whose pain is often minimized or misunderstood.
Katya also discusses the emotional toll of her diagnosis, including the impact on her fertility and the journey to self-acceptance. With her husband by her side, she navigated the complexities of treatment options and the societal pressures surrounding body image. Together, they explore the significance of supportive partnerships in overcoming life's challenges.
Reena's dad, Wayne, adds his wisdom to the conversation, reflecting on the broader implications of women's health issues and the need for greater awareness and compassion in the medical field.
This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the power of storytelling, connection, and the importance of speaking one’s truth.
Join us for an enlightening discussion that not only raises awareness about endometriosis but also inspires listeners to embrace their journeys, advocate for their health, and support one another in times of need.
(00:00) Reena Friedman Watts: Better Call Daddy Show returns with more daddy drama
(01:38) Katya says California wildfires were sparked by drought, no rain
(08:42) I just, like, at this point, I just go into evacuation bag
(09:47) Instagram uses AI to monitor all of your content, which is frustrating
(17:02) During COVID, you started a workout routine and became more confident
(22:59) Union was diagnosed with endometriosis last year and underwent four surgeries
(29:09) You have to push and advocate for yourself in the healthcare system
(35:21) Your husband was supportive of you dealing with endo
(39:18) Has endo caused weight gain for you? Absolutely. So weight gain. Has it caused any gastro issues
(44:27) Were you passed around the medical community and made to feel crazy
(49:26) Someone asked you if birth control affects your fertility and you answered yes
(53:29) Moldova is one of the few countries that never recovered from the Soviet Union
(01:00:49) Katya is working on a book about endometriosis
(01:05:52) Botox can be used for a whole range of pelvic conditions
(01:09:35) Better Call Daddy podcast features parenting advice from Alexa's famous dadConnect with Katya:
- Instagram: katya.b.karlova
Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:
- Website: bettercalldaddy.com
- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts
- Twitter: @reenareena
- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts
- Instagram Podcast: @bettercalldaddypodcast
- YouTube: Better Call Daddy
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who values connection and the importance of advocacy in health!
Show notes created by https://headliner.app
Monday Mar 17, 2025
Monday Mar 17, 2025
"Once the word cancer is connected to your name, you don't remember anything else."
"The more that I have been doing this... it was just real obvious that this was a huge need."
"Women need to realize they are the value. They are that glue for the family."
In this much needed episode of the Better Call Daddy podcast, host Reena Friedman Watts welcomes Dorothy Gibbons, the co-founder of The Rose Houston, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing essential breast cancer screenings and support to women in need. Today's episode is part of Podcasthon, a charitable event bringing together a large number of podcasters.
Dorothy shares her inspiring journey in the healthcare field, detailing how her personal experiences, including the loss of her mother to cancer, fueled her passion for advocating for women's health.
With over 38 years of experience, she discusses the evolution of breast cancer awareness and the importance of early detection, emphasizing that every woman deserves access to preventative care. The conversation dives deep into the challenges women face when it comes to healthcare, particularly the barriers that uninsured women encounter.
Dorothy highlights the innovative mobile units that The Rose utilizes to bring screenings directly to communities, ensuring that women have the opportunity to prioritize their health without the burden of logistical hurdles. Reena's dad, Wayne, joins the discussion, offering his heartfelt reflections on the emotional toll of supporting a loved one through cancer treatment. He shares his personal insights on the importance of being present for family during vulnerable times, reinforcing the message that love and support are crucial in the face of adversity.
As the episode unfolds, listeners will gain valuable knowledge about the significance of regular screenings, the impact of community support, and the relentless dedication of individuals like Dorothy who are making a difference in the fight against breast cancer. Join us for this impactful episode that encourages everyone to advocate for their health and the health of those they love.
(00:00) This is the better call daddy show. Each week I interview a guest, share stories with my dad
(01:38) Today's guest is Dorothy Gibbons of the Rose houston
(04:36) Dorothy wants to make sure women understood importance of mammograms
(08:43) Do you think losing your mom at a young age was a turning point for you
(14:04) Going through cancer is probably the hardest thing to do
(19:09) The Rose has mobile mammograms that cover 45 counties in Southeast Texas
(26:44) The Rose helps uninsured and even insured women pay medical bills without insurance
(32:42) The podcast that you're putting together with people going through it really spoke to me
(33:14) What was the most difficult part about caring for your mother during breast cancer
(34:51) Dorothy asked you what was your biggest challenge dealing with breast cancer
(37:05) Dorothy has seen the adversity of breast cancer and has dedicated herself
(39:22) David Hirsch says he was diagnosed with prostate cancer three years ago
(40:51) Reena tries out her first podcast on Podcastthon
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who values the importance of health advocacy and community support!
Connect with Dorothy Gibbons:
- Website: therose.org
Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:
- Website: bettercalldaddy.com
- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts
- YouTube: Better Call Daddy
Tune in for more heartwarming stories and invaluable wisdom on the Better Call Daddy podcast!
Show notes created by https://headliner.app
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Monday Mar 10, 2025
"America still, even though we still have prejudices and we still have ups and downs, is a great nation of freedom." - Wayne Friedman
"I think it’s nice to be part of the chase, but we also want to be able to do things family-oriented." - Wayne Friedman
In this family orientented episode of the Better Call Daddy podcast, host Reena Friedman Watts invites Tony Berardo, a passionate podcaster and dedicated father, to share his transformative journey through fatherhood and health challenges.
Tony recounts his recent trip to Italy with his one-year-old daughter, revealing how the experience not only deepened their family bonds but also allowed his daughter to connect with her roots and learn to walk on the cobblestones of Rome.
He discusses the joys of traveling with a toddler and the unexpected culinary adventures they embarked on, from pasta to gelato, all while highlighting the affordability and richness of Italian culture. The conversation takes a poignant turn as Tony reflects on his health struggles, including a significant lung surgery and the emotional toll of infertility treatments he and his wife faced.
Through these challenges, he gained a new perspective on life, prompting him to reconsider what truly matters. Tony’s insights on the American healthcare system, the importance of healthy living, and the pressures of societal expectations provide a thought-provoking backdrop to their discussion.
Reena's dad, Wayne, joins the conversation, offering his wisdom on the value of family, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness in America. Together, they explore the contrasts between American and European lifestyles, emphasizing the importance of finding balance and appreciating the simple joys in life.
Join us for this heartfelt episode that inspires listeners to reflect on their own journeys, embrace their experiences, and cherish the moments that truly define what it means to be a family.
(00:00) The Better Call Daddy Show features interviews with influential fathers and controversial people
(01:57) Tony and his wife went to Italy with their infant daughter
(06:21) Reena went to Italy in 2002 and had a very good time there
(09:34) Are you raising your daughter differently than your father did? I think so
(15:02) Do you remember any of your dad's funny responses
(15:53) When you went to Italy, did you expect it to be different than America
(20:24) You can buy two houses in Italy for less than what you would spend in Florida
(24:36) You've been trying to get pregnant for a couple years now
(29:16) When they told me I had a tumor, I thought it was harmless
(32:22) You didn't take pain meds for that operation, right
(35:51) When you go to other places, your perceptions change drastically
(42:10) Some people think giving daughter processed food is unfair to her
(47:13) We spend the most on healthcare than any other country on the planet earth
(50:10) What if there was an option where you kind of do a reset
(56:00) Going to Europe really changes you, Tony says
(01:01:15) How can people listen to your podcast about these things
(01:01:54) America is a great nation of freedom. So America still, even though we still have prejudices
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who could use a dose of inspiration and wisdom!
Connect with Tony
https://www.youtube.com/tonyberardo
https://www.instagram.com/theberardo/
Connect with Reena
https://www.instagram.com/reenafriedmanwatts
instagram.com/bettercalldaddypodcast
https://www.youtube.com/@BetterCallDaddy
linkedin.com/in/reenafriedmanwatts
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
"If I can do it, you can do it."
"This is my year. I'm gonna do me."
"You have to find something to hold on to and don't let go."
In this emotionally charged episode of the Better Call Daddy podcast, host Reena Friedman Watts reconnects with Cher Holt, a remarkable individual whose journey began over 20 years ago on the Jerry Springer Show.
Together, they dive into the complexities of Cher's past, including her experiences with domestic violence, trauma, and the long road to self-discovery and healing. Cher shares her candid reflections on the misconceptions surrounding the Jerry Springer documentary and how her own experience on the show was a pivotal moment in her life.
She discusses the importance of facing one's demons head-on and how that confrontation ultimately empowered her to break free from an abusive relationship. The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as Cher opens up about her struggles with self-worth, the challenges of being a single mother to a child with health issues, and the profound love she has for her son.
Reena and Cher explore the themes of resilience, the significance of community support, and the transformative power of sharing one's story. Cher's unwavering spirit shines through as she encourages listeners to embrace their own journeys, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.
With wisdom from Reena's dad, Wayne, they reflect on the importance of understanding and compassion in the face of adversity. Join us for this inspiring episode that serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the belief that it’s never too late to reclaim your life.
(00:00) Reena Friedman Watts: Better Call Daddy is back with more daddy drama
(01:38) Cher met Reena on the Jerry springer show 20 years ago
(05:44) So it sounds you might have found a narcissist. Yeah, he was 100% narcissist
(09:17) Has it helped your relationships with your kids? With my oldest. It was so bad a couple years ago
(11:55) Jamaica says she enjoyed her experience on the Jerry Springer show
(15:49) Toby says domestic violence was taboo back in the early 2000s
(20:10) After what they played on Netflix now, they need to have some positive stories
(23:06) Did you ever imagine you'd end up on the show
(26:03) Tell me about the new gig. It's called Expressed Wellness Urgent Care
(28:02) I'm curious what you would say to other women in an abusive relationship
(30:44) Spencer has a very high risk of sudden epileptic death
(34:56) My son had a tonic clonic seizure last night
(37:02) God makes us or breaks us. You truly are. Conversations with God encompass a wide range of emotions
(40:36) So should I take this challenge or should I just say, nah, I deserve better
(43:21) Someone needs to pick us up and tell some good stories about Jerry Springer
(46:36) Cher says her brain is recovering from domestic violence
(50:34) Cher recalls turbulence on flight from Jamaica to Chicago
(53:39) Smoke was everywhere when we first landed in Jamaica
(54:20) Toby asked me to do an extra segment called Bizarre America
(56:24) I know firsthand of domestic violence. I had battle scars
(59:16) Love you Thank you so much for your support
(59:25) Cher says the Jerry Springer show helped her face her demons
Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:
- Website: bettercalldaddy.com
- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts
- Twitter: @reenareena
- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts
- YouTube: Better Call Daddy
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear a story of resilience and hope!
Show notes created by https://headliner.app
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
"You always need to ask for help, and it's not something to be embarrassed about."
"Guilt will kill us."
"It's okay to not be okay. It's how you get from point A to point B that matters."
In this deeply moving episode of the Better Call Daddy podcast, host Reena Friedman Watts welcomes Amy D. Post, a true warrior who has faced unimaginable challenges and emerged with a powerful message of resilience and hope.
Amy shares her story of growing up with a brother who struggled with addiction, navigating a strained family dynamic, and her relentless pursuit of help and understanding.
The conversation dives into the importance of asking for help and how Amy's upbringing shaped her perspective on support and advocacy. She recounts her journey through the medical system as a mother to a daughter diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, detailing the battles she fought to advocate for her child's health and well-being.
Amy's candid reflections on guilt, self-care, and the transformative power of community highlight the importance of being present and living authentically.
Reena's dad, Wayne, joins the discussion, offering his insights on the beauty of intergenerational relationships and the importance of sharing stories.
Together, they explore the significance of vulnerability, the necessity of open dialogue, and the strength found in connection.
This episode is a heartfelt reminder that we are not alone in our struggles, and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Join us for an inspiring conversation that encourages listeners to embrace their journeys and advocate for themselves and others.
(00:00) The Better Call Daddy Show features interviews with influential fathers and controversial people
(01:59) One thing I wanted to talk about today is how hard it is to ask for help
(08:12) When I moved away from my small town, it spurred something in me
(10:18) Have you ever asked for help and then somebody wanted money for it
(11:25) Have you tried to work on difficult relationships in your life
(14:21) Your daughter was diagnosed with liver cancer and hepatoblastoma 10 years ago
(22:13) God took a job from me that was totally toxic
(26:30) Amy has a rare genetic gene that predisposes her to multiple cancers
(33:50) FAP Familial adenomatous polyposis was diagnosed with cancer with a rare genetic gene
(42:10) Your podcast advocating for others has been meaningful and helpful to you
(49:12) You say now you live in the present with your daughter
(55:18) Your daughter was diagnosed with cancer eight and a half years ago
(59:22) Let people know how they can get some hope and some advocacy
(01:00:57) Is there anything you'd like to ask my dad
(01:02:51) Amy Post says she feels like she's a gallant warrior after overcoming adversity
(01:06:26) Amy Post talks about the importance of advocacy and asking for help
Connect with Amy D. Post:
https://www.instagram.com/thereal_amypost/
Shout out to David Hirsch for the additional daddy reaction!
https://21stcenturydads.org/about-the-special-fathers-network/
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 resilience and the power of advocacy!
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
"I would rather find what makes us similar than what makes us different."
"What would it take for you to feel confident in the work that you're doing?"
In this long overdue episode of the Better Call Daddy podcast, host Reena Friedman Watts reunites with her old friend Jaime Cohen for a candid discussion that transcends the ordinary.
Jaime, a passionate communicator and advocate, opens up about her journey through the complexities of identity, trauma, and the search for connection in an increasingly polarized world.
As they dive into the nuances of being neurodivergent, Jaime shares her experiences with bullying and the impact of anti-Semitism throughout her life.
She reflects on the transformative power of community, recounting how her time at a summer camp in Wisconsin helped her embrace her true self in a world that often felt hostile.
The conversation takes a poignant turn as they explore the recent events surrounding October 7th, a day that shook Jaime to her core, leading her to reassess her relationships and the importance of empathy in times of crisis.
Reena and Jaime also discuss the significance of open dialogue, highlighting the need for curiosity and understanding in conversations about differing perspectives. Jaime emphasizes the value of vulnerability and the strength that comes from sharing one's story, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the legacies they wish to create.
With a sprinkle of humor and heartfelt insights, this episode is a beautiful reminder that true connection lies in our shared humanity, regardless of the labels we carry.
Join us for an inspiring conversation that challenges us to embrace our differences while finding common ground.
(00:00) The Better Call Daddy Show features advice from Big Daddy Wayne Friedman
(02:00) I think there's value in being on a podcast
(07:46) We went to nonprofit events and just started filming
(10:12) Mihran Kirakosian has millions of followers on YouTube
(11:18) You went through an experience that everyone else knows is traumatic
(16:10) You coming out of college and getting amazing job is not the classic story
(20:37) Growing up in the Midwest, I was bullied for being Jewish
(27:13) How did you get to Israel and did you feel at home there
(32:22) You said you have a hard time believing in God
(33:30) October 7th shook me to my core, you say
(40:53) Jaime says she never stopped feeling empathy for the Palestinian people
(44:55) Do you feel comfortable talking about the fact that you've dated someone Palestinian
(49:47) You met your dad at the Light Fair
(53:51) What were you looking for in a husband before you met Ben
(01:01:36) What can you find in common with your staff, with your manager
(01:02:26) Is there anything that you want to ask my dad? Oh, gosh
(01:04:29) A lot of businesses are feeling insecure right now
(01:05:38) What is the legacy that you want to leave when you reach midlife
(01:06:30) You should be worried about how m. you should be making based on experience
(01:09:38) Do you have any perspective on approach to getting new customers
(01:11:46) Will wants to know if you have seen any alien UFO sightings in Colorado
(01:14:51) Grandpa says friendship is where time is irrelevant between close friends
(01:19:50) She asked me a question of what does it take to really be a good boss
(01:21:44) You and your father both moved from the east coast to the South
Connect with Jaime Cohen:
- LinkedIn: Jaime Cohen's LinkedIn
Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:
- Website: bettercalldaddy.com
- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts
- Twitter: @reenareena
- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts
- Instagram: Better Call Daddy Podcast
- YouTube: Better Call Daddy
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who values connection and the power of understanding!
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
"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
(01:38) Matt Gerlach walked away from a million a year paycheck to focus on mental health
(03:28) Matt says he thought he had a brain tumor during his first panic attack
(07:49) You've been in therapy for 20 years and working on a memoir
(12:10) Matt says it's important for people to normalize talking about emotions
(17:29) I think you learn to work with adversity, to answer your question
(19:26) Do friends really matter? What does your friend group look like now
(23:41) Let's talk a little bit about your career journey. It's super interesting because you did the nine to five
(29:15) Every year for the past 20 years, I've looked at the success
(30:37) Matt says his parents taught him a lot about responsibility and integrity
(32:12) You never told your dad about being gay, but your brother did
(37:06) We do need validation, I think, and a lot of
(40:18) Tell me about some of the exciting changes that you're looking forward to
(41:20) Glennon Doyle says she never thought she'd be a parent
(42:51) What did you learn about surrogacy that you had no idea about
(48:13) I'm writing a memoir about my journey from panic attacks
(48:49) You've gotten feedback from people of your dad's generation on how to handle this
(50:38) You work with men that have had trauma and help them get over it
(52:13) Matt Gerlach is looking for validation from his father through therapy
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
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
"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.
(00:00) Reena Friedman Watts: Better Call Daddy is back with more daddy drama
(01:38) - Batman has joined
02:49 - Shauna It's been so long since you were on the podcast
05:39 - Who taught you how to ride a bike when you were young
07:51 - Have you ever seen anybody teach themselves on a motorcycle
12:16 - I was married for five years before 2017. We together for eight years before that
16:17 - Brady was born in Sheridan, Wyoming, which is still home
21:17 - The thing that we valued was individual expression. And if you're not showing up as yourself, you're failing
26:34 - You went from modeling for Kmart to punk rock shows
29:57 - Descendants, punk rock depends on where you were born
33:47 - What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail
34:24 - My big belief on success is that we all have a calling in life
38:12 - My grandpa died about a month ago now, which is crazy
42:42 - I really, really love sunsets. Most people wouldn't put that on their resume
45:34 - Have you thought about your legacy being tied to someone else's
48:53 - You can ask my dad any question you want, and he'll respond
49:06 - I would love to hear him talk about what makes a successful parent
53:13 - Brady: I love podcasts because no other platform offers better communication
54:43 - Brady McLean discusses what it takes to be a good parent
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:
- Instagram: @BradyTilDeath
Connect with Reena Friedman Watts:
- Website: bettercalldaddy.com
- LinkedIn: Reena Friedman Watts
- Twitter: @reenareena
- Instagram: @Reena Friedman Watts
- Instagram Podcast: @bettercalldaddypodcast
- YouTube: Better Call Daddy
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who values connection and the art of storytelling!
Show notes created by https://headliner.app
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
"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
(02:15) You grew up on a horse farm, and what life lessons have you learned
(05:19) Have you taken on any other animals? We had goats for a period
(10:33) My dad just thinks it's very interesting. So he's worked on golf course, he's done construction
(11:04) Transition from horse farm to college was definitely weird
(14:59) Do you want to talk a little bit about how you landed at Headliner
(17:15) Eddy is Headliner's free transcription tool for podcasting
(18:55) You've been at Headliner for a year and a half now
(22:09) Having your transcript helps boost your podcast's searchability
(26:34) Eddy helps you boost your search results for your podcast
(29:44) Disco is a free way to connect your podcast to the web
(31:10) Now that you've been doing the podcast and you have access to all of these analytics
(36:22) You lean on your parents a lot when starting out in your career
(40:38) When I first started here, it was pretty daunting
(43:19) How are you going to incorporate your horse back into your brand? There was a joke about 3D printing
(44:01) What do you still want to learn professionally
(44:57) I'm sure your kids will be calling your dad for advice soon
(47:09) The easiest way to connect with Headliner is through its app
(47:54) What advice do you have for parents about raising their children
(53:37) Better Call Daddy is a weekly podcast featuring parenting advice
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.
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Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
"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
(02:10) Is there any story behind your name or significance? Yes, there is
(04:39) You went to Purdue and worked on some interesting projects
(07:08) Organization is a huge strength of mine as an industrial engineer
(14:08) There are a low number of women engineers in Purdue's graduating class
(19:55) There's a huge emphasis on relationship building in oil and gas
(24:54) Working with my dad has been very interesting. We have a very close relationship
(29:00) Despite being focused on oil and gas, Al is passionate about sustainability
(34:01) How did you pick Purdue? That is such a good question. I'd applied to a bunch of schools
(40:19) Going back to Purdue is a special place for me. It's changed so much
(43:32) Do you think Purdue alumni connections could help your business in Texas
(46:21) You were born in Dubai and grew up in Oman
(48:16) Flying back from India to Oman was such a culture shock
(48:41) What did you learn on your trip to India about Hindu festivals
(54:36) What do you think your dad's favorite part about working with you is
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