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
Thursday Sep 25, 2025
448. The Gift of Life Alison Bucklin's Living Kidney Donor Story
Thursday Sep 25, 2025
Thursday Sep 25, 2025
Right before her 50th birthday, Alison Bucklin gave the ultimate gift. She donated a kidney to a fellow teacher. It was the biggest rebirth of her life.
In this inspiring episode of Better Call Daddy, hosts Reena Friedman Watts and Wayne Friedman welcome Alison Bucklin, a woman of deep faith and transformation, who shares her remarkable journey of selflessness and healing.
Alison opens up about her experience donating a kidney to her friend Lori Raxenberg, detailing the emotional rollercoaster leading up to the surgery and the incredible bond that formed during their time together in the hospital.
She reflects on the challenges of recovery, the importance of listening to her body, and the lessons learned about accepting help from others.
Listeners will be moved by Alison’s insights on the impact of her donation not only on Lori’s life but also on her own, as she navigates her healing journey and embraces a newfound appreciation for her body. She discusses the power of community, the joy of giving, and the transformative nature of her experience, highlighting the importance of organ donation and the ripple effects it can create.
Join us for a heartfelt conversation that celebrates the spirit of generosity and the beauty of human connection. This episode is a powerful reminder of the profound impact one act of kindness can have on many lives!
(00:00) Reena Friedman Watts: Better Call Dream Daddy Show returns with more daddy drama
(01:38) Alison Bucklin donated a kidney to a fellow teacher right before turning 50
(02:02) It's been three weeks since I donated my kidney
(03:27) Alison chose to have a C section kidney transplant
(10:18) From the surgery to my daughter's birthday, I focused on healing
(16:00) You had to share a hospital room with your kidney donor
(18:14) My recipient won't go back until maybe November
(20:29) Do you feel different now, like towards your body after childbirth
(24:13) Alison was led to Reiki in preparation for major surgery
(28:13) Your podcast Spiritual Fertility has been out for almost two years now
(30:31) The percentage of donors that are friends versus relatives is high, Reena says
(36:52) We can only control the things that we have control over
(37:43) You have a before and after video of your kidney transplant experience
(39:40) Is there anything else that you would tell somebody that's considering donating a kidney
(45:10) I would encourage those who need organ transplant to be an organ donor
Connect with Alison:
https://www.facebook.com/alison.lorek.bucklin
Connect with Reena:
https://bettercalldaddy.com
https://linkedin.com/in/reenafriedmanwatts
https://instagram.com/reenafriedmanwatts
https://www.youtube.com/c/bettercalldaddy
Thank you for tuning in to Better Call Daddy—where wisdom and heart meet.

2 months ago
Absolutely loved having you on!
2 months ago
Reena .. thank you so much. I had so much fun. This was such an incredible interview Interview doing the Podcast with you. I had so much fun and thank you for letting me share my story and thank your dad for his amazing advice. 🙏🏼❤️