Better Call Daddy

"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
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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!

"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

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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

"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

"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

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Thank you for tuning in to Better Call Daddy—where stories of resilience, love, and connection come together!

"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/