Better Call Daddy

In this episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts sits down with Jey Young, a mental health counselor and podcaster, to talk about holding grief and joy at once. Just weeks before welcoming his baby boy into the world, Jey lost his father to suicide. Jey Young opens up about what it's like to process devastating loss while celebrating new life, sharing raw, unfiltered insight into that emotional whiplash. Together, Reena and Jey dig into the nuances of mental health, the power of open communication, and why community support matters most in moments of crisis. The conversation traces how Jey's experiences have reshaped his understanding of fatherhood and mental health, offering listeners real takeaways on resilience, connection, and the importance of checking in on the people we love. Reena and Jey also reflect on their own stories, underscoring how vulnerability and authenticity are what make relationships meaningful. It's also Men's Mental Health Month, and this episode is a reminder of why that matters: men are still far less likely to ask for help or talk about what they're carrying, even when it's costing them everything. Content note: This episode includes discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by call or text, 24/7. 🎙️ WHAT'S IN THIS EPISODE: Jey's experience with grief alongside the birth of his son Holding space for loss and new life at the same time Navigating mental health conversations, especially among men Why reaching out and showing up for each other matters Building real connection through vulnerability What podcasting has taught Jey about sharing stories 💭 MEMORABLE QUOTES FROM JEY: "Life is a lot emptier. My phone feels a lot heavier, and my call log feels empty." "Just to check on people, just to ask how they're doing, just to be there for them, just to show up for them." ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:(00:00) Introduction to Jey Young(05:15) Jey's journey through grief and fatherhood(15:30) Why mental health conversations matter(25:00) Supporting loved ones through difficult times(35:45) Vulnerability and the power of storytelling(45:00) Wisdom from Reena's dad on parenting and connection 🔗 CONNECT WITH JEY YOUNG:Instagram | Website 🔗 CONNECT WITH REENA FRIEDMAN WATTS:Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube Join us for this heartfelt conversation about sharing our stories and showing up for one another through life's hardest and most beautiful moments.

"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 Reena 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 StageDan 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 ParentingThroughout 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 CommunityDan 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 KeywordsBetter Call Daddy, Podcast, TEDx, Public Speaking, Mental Health, Parenting, Vulnerability, Advocacy, Community Building, Storytelling, Emotional Safety, Diversity and Inclusion, Personal Growth Connect with Dan RothSpeaker Bureau Connect with Reena Friedman WattsWebsite | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTubeThank 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!

"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 ChallengesG. 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 StorytellingAs 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 LegacyThroughout 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 KeywordsBetter 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 spir

"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 FearsMelissa 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 ParenthoodThroughout 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 ChangeAs 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 parentingEpisode 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 KeywordsBetter 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 missy@spacio.us or 832-532-6269. Connect with Melissa Graham Linkedin Connect with Reena Friedman WattsWebsite | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTubeThank you for tuning in to Better Call Daddy—where stories of resilience, love, and connection come together!

"Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change." — Brené Brown In this raw and insightful episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts and her dad, Wayne Friedman, sit down with the candid William Gray Jr. William opens up about his personal journey, sharing struggles and triumphs that many can relate to. He gets real about the importance of accountability, the challenges of past relationships, and how his experiences have shaped his mission to inspire others. Embracing VulnerabilityWilliam dives deep into the concept of vulnerability, discussing how it has played a pivotal role in his life and relationships. He reflects on his past struggles with addiction and the journey to sobriety, emphasizing the significance of being open and honest about one’s challenges. His story serves as a reminder that sharing our truths can empower not only ourselves but also those around us. Building Meaningful ConnectionsThroughout the conversation, William shares how he formed meaningful connections, particularly with Raul, his business partner. Their relationship exemplifies the power of mentorship, support, and the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who challenge and uplift you. William highlights the importance of community and the impact of having a strong support system.Lessons in FatherhoodAs a father of three daughters, William reflects on the lessons he wants to impart to his children. He emphasizes the value of showing love through actions and the importance of modeling healthy relationships. His commitment to breaking generational cycles of trauma shines through as he discusses the steps he takes to ensure his children grow up with a strong sense of self-worth and respect for others. Key Themes- The power of vulnerability and authenticity- Overcoming addiction and the journey to sobriety- Building supportive and meaningful relationships- The importance of accountability in personal growth- Parenting with intention and breaking generational cycles Episode Highlights(00:00) Welcome to the Better Call Daddy Show(01:20) Meet William Garay Jr.: A Journey of Vulnerability(10:30) The Impact of Sobriety on Personal Relationships(20:00) Building Connections: The Power of Mentorship(30:15) Parenting Lessons: Modeling Healthy Relationships(40:45) Wisdom from Wayne: The Essence of Accountability Episode Keywords Better Call Daddy, Podcast, Vulnerability, Military Experience, Leadership Training, Charlie Mike, Personal Growth, Addiction Recovery, Fatherhood, Accountability, Emotional Intelligence, Community Impact, Sobriety, Mentorship, Overcoming Adversity, Relationship Dynamics, Generational Trauma, Self-Awareness, Personal Stories, Inspirational Journey Connect with William Garay Jr. William's LinkedinConnect with Reena Friedman WattsWebsite | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTubeThank you for tuning in to Better Call Daddy—where vulnerability, community, and love converge!