The Dad & Daughter Connection

Chris Lewis
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Weekly

The Dad & Daughter Connection is the podcast for fathers who want to build a strong, meaningful relationship with their daughters while empowering them to become confident, independent women. Hosted by [Your Name], this show brings you real conversations, expert insights, and inspiring stories from dads, daughters, and professionals who understand the unique challenges and joys of fatherhood. Whether you're navigating the early years, the teen phase, or beyond, The Dad & Daughter Connection is here to support you with practical advice, heartfelt discussions, and encouragement for the journey. Because being a dad isn't just about being present—it's about truly connecting. Join us as we learn, grow, and lead together—one conversation at a time. Subscribe now and start building the connection that lasts a lifetime!

  1. Sep 21

    Building Stronger Bonds: Matt Haviland and his Daughter Olivia's Father-Daughter Journey

    At the heart of The Dad and Daughter Connection, featured in this week's episode, is the steadfast belief that the strongest father-daughter relationships are built one intentional moment at a time. In a conversation brimming with honesty and warmth, Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with Matt Haviland and his 20-year-old daughter, Olivia Haviland, to explore what it truly means to connect, support, and empower our daughters to become confident, independent women. Listening With Intent One of the most powerful themes from this episode is the importance of truly listening. Olivia Haviland reflects on her high school years, sharing how her dad's willingness to listen without judgment made her feel seen and valued. Rather than resorting to harsh discipline, Matt Haviland chose to open a dialogue, striving to understand Olivia's perspective and guide rather than simply correct. This practice, inspired by a national survey in which teens wished their dads would "listen more," is a reminder for all fathers: be present, and let your daughter's voice be heard. Meaningful Moments Big and Small Connection isn't always about the grand gestures. Matt Haviland and Olivia share memories ranging from epic squirt gun battles to heartfelt college essays, and even "loud and obnoxious" declarations of love at McDonald's. Whether it's a shared joke, a drive together, or simply showing up at a dance recital, these moments accumulate into a reservoir of trust and comfort. As Olivia Haviland puts it, time spent together outweighs any material gift. Guidance and Independence Balancing guidance with independence is a recurring theme. Matt Haviland, a former single dad, emphasizes being intentional with the time he shared with Olivia, supporting her dreams while encouraging self-reflection and growth. For Olivia, this support translated into confidence in her career and life decisions—bolstered by her dad's encouragement to think long-term and his faith-based guidance. Real Advice for Real Dads This episode wraps with practical wisdom: prioritize time with your kids, apologize for your mistakes, and let your actions reflect your family values. Both Matt Haviland and Olivia Haviland urge dads everywhere to listen deeply and value presence over presents. Ready to strengthen your bond with your daughter? Listen to this heartfelt episode of The Dad and Daughter Connection and discover how every day can be an opportunity to connect, grow, and become the dad she needs. If you enjoyed this episode we ask you to take a moment to take our Dad and Daughter Connection Survey to let us know more about you as a dad. You can also sign up to get our newsletter to stay connected to our community and we will send items of interest to you to help you to be the dad that you want to be. Feel free to follow me on the following social media platforms: Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, X. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:02]: Welcome to The Dad and Daughter Connection, the podcast for dads who want to build stronger bonds and raise confident, independent daughters. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:12]: If you're looking to build a stronger bond with your daughter and help her grow into a confident, independent woman, you're in the right place. I'm Dr. Christopher Lewis, and The Dad and Daughter Connection is the podcast where we dive into real stories, expert advice, and practical tips to help you navigate the incredible journey of fatherhood. In every episode, we'll bring you conversations that inspire, challenge, and equip you to show up as the dad your daughter needs. So let's get started, because being a great dad isn't just about being there. It's about truly connecting. Welcome back to the Dad and Daughter Connection, where every week we have a great opportunity to be able to work together to build those connections that we want to have with our daughters one day at a time. You know, I love it that you come back every week because that shows a lot about who you want to be as a father, but also who you want to be and what type of relationship you want to have, relationship that you want to have with your daughter. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:16]: And it takes time, it takes effort, and it takes work. And we have to keep showing up. And it is so important for us to be able to put the work in for ourselves, but also put in the work with our daughters to be able to have that solid relationship that we wanna have. And that's why this podcast exists. Every week, I love being able to bring you different people with different experiences that allow for you to be able to learn, to grow, to get some tools for your toolbox, and to be able to take those and use them for the future. So I am really excited today to have a, I'm gonna say a return guest. It's not really a return guest on this show, but Matt Haviland, is with us. And Matt and his daughter are with us today, his daughter Olivia. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:02]: And Matt is a past guest of a past podcast that I did called Dads with Daughters about 4 years ago. And I'm really excited to be able to have Matt on, but also this time his daughter Olivia, to be able to talk about the relationship that they've been able to build together and also what they've learned along the way to share that with you. Matt, Olivia, thanks so much for being here today. Matt Haviland [00:02:26]: Yeah, Chris, thanks again for having me back. And this is a really It's a really special moment to have Olivia with me today. So say hi. Olivia Haviland [00:02:33]: Hi. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:33]: I'm really excited to have you both here. And I want to go back a little bit because I know, Olivia, you're 20. You know, you're an adult now. You're doing the life thing. You're doing the work thing. You're out there. And as you think back to the relationship that you've been able to build with your dad, what's one thing that your dad did for you that helped you and made you feel truly seen, heard, and valued as a daughter? Olivia Haviland [00:03:02]: Um, I would say in high school, I was struggling a lot with my mental health. And then I was getting myself into a little bit of trouble. And he didn't ground me. Well, there was like boundaries where he grounded me a little bit, but he was more open to like listening as of like why I did the things that I did, instead of just like not hearing me out and just screaming at me, taking my phone, not letting me hang out with my friends and everything. So that meant a lot to me. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:03:32]: And Matt, I guess, take me back to that point for you, because I know you had your own journey as a youth and went through your own stuff. And we talked about, we talked about a lot of that in the first interview that we did. So talk to me about that for you and hearing that from Olivia and how you had to be able to kind of take what you learned to be able to help her? Matt Haviland [00:03:57]: Yeah, I was very grateful for a lot of the experiences that I had, not only personally but also professionally or through mentorship as well. I guess where I can go with that, Chris, is Olivia was born when I was 30 years old, so I wasn't super young. So by the time she's in high school, you know, I'm in my mid-40s. I would like to say I've learned a few things over those 14 or 15 years of parenting her, but I also Just like a lot of people, either parents or— I, I work with fathers also in a professional setting. You know, we learn a lot from our own previous experiences. So the things my own parents did or did not do, so learning how to correct that and apply that as much as possible. Plus working in a fatherhood field for so long, I've obviously picked up tips, either again things that I've taught guys or other men have taught me as well. But it really becomes a lot different instead of me just telling a dad what to do when I actually have to live this out. Matt Haviland [00:04:54]: But I think I could attribute a lot of it to— I was at a conference many years ago, probably 2010, 2012, and they revealed a survey result, a national survey, and they said all these teen kids wish their dad would fill in the blank. And the number one answer was listen more. And that was something that, just like Olivia just said, instead of flying off the handle, telling her how much trouble she's in, let me hear her out first. Olivia Haviland [00:05:18]: Yeah. Matt Haviland [00:05:19]: And then we can go from there. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:05:20]: Now I know that a lot of times, Matt, we as fathers are trying to build those moments, those meaningful moments that connect us with our kids. And what is one of the most meaningful moments that you've been able to share with Olivia and what made it so special? Matt Haviland [00:05:35]: Okay, she said the water fight, so clearly that must have been one. It was April Fool's Day, probably about 4 or 5 years ago. She pranked me in the house and that turned out to a full-blown squirt gun war in the house, actually Super Soakers in the house. Olivia Haviland [00:05:49]: Well, I pranked him once and then he forgot to take the tape off the faucet and pranked himself again. Matt Haviland [00:05:55]: Yeah, she did the old, you know, she tied the rubber band around the sprayer on the kitchen sink. So when I turned on the kitchen sink faucet, it hit me, and then I shut it off and hit myself again. And yes, that is a very— we're gonna remember that forever, having a squirt gun fight in the house. Not recommended. My wife had something to say about it when she got home, but it was very meaningful. Another really meaningful moment on a more emotional level was a couple years ago, Olivia wrote a paper for college, and they were to choose somebody that's inspired them inspired them, and she wrote the paper about me. And it starts out with the words, I am who I am today because of my dad. And I don't th

  2. Sep 7

    Building Lasting Bonds: Intentional Fatherhood with John Azoni

    If you're a dad on a mission to forge a lasting, meaningful bond with your daughter, "The Dad and Daughter Connection" should be your next podcast download. In a recent episode, host Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with John Azoni, a father of two daughters (ages 9 and 11), who opens up about the real joys and sometimes messy challenges of raising confident, independent girls. Intentionality and Presence From the very start, Dr. Christopher Lewis sets the tone: fatherhood isn't about achieving perfection, but about truly connecting and learning as you go. Each week, the podcast dives into stories and practical advice to help dads show up with intention. As John Azoni shares, "There's no one right way to father our daughters," but we can always add new tools to our toolbox by learning from each other. Creating Meaningful Memories A standout theme of this episode is making memories, both big and small. John Azoni recounts an unforgettable trip to Japan with his daughter for her 10th birthday—a tradition inspired by a parenting book. But the heart of the conversation reveals that it's often the simplest moments, like cooking together or going for wonton soup every Thursday, that mean the most. One-on-one time, even a half hour at bedtime, can become the foundation for lifelong connections. Honesty, Growth, and Mistakes Both John Azoni and Dr. Christopher Lewis candidly discuss the challenges—especially during difficult times like COVID or navigating questions around faith. John Azoni is honest about making mistakes, from losing patience to not always having the answers. The key lesson? "I make a lot of mistakes and I've learned to be okay with that… I want my kids to grow up and know their dad was crazy about them." Encouragement to Other Dads The episode wraps with powerful advice: Be intentional. Don't let stress distract you from what really matters. As John Azoni puts it, "The grass is greener where you water it"—the relationships you invest in now will shape the future. If you're a dad, or know someone who is, this episode is a must-listen. It's a heartfelt reminder that showing up, being present, and embracing imperfection are the real keys to building an unbreakable bond with your daughter. Listen to the full episode of The Dad and Daughter Connection to get inspired and start your journey toward a stronger relationship today! If you enjoyed this episode we ask you to take a moment to take our Dad and Daughter Connection Survey to let us know more about you as a dad. You can also sign up to get our newsletter to stay connected to our community and we will send items of interest to you to help you to be the dad that you want to be. Feel free to follow me on the following social media platforms: Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, X. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:02]: Welcome to The Dad and Daughter Connection, the podcast for dads who want to build stronger bonds and raise confident, independent daughters. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:12]: If you're looking to build a stronger bond with your daughter and help her grow into a confident, independent woman, you're in the right place. I'm Dr. Christopher Lewis, and The Dad and Daughter Connection is the podcast where we dive into real stories, expert advice, and practical tips to help you navigate the incredible journey of fatherhood. In every episode, we'll bring you conversations that inspire, challenge, and equip you to show up as the dad your daughter needs. So let's get started, because being a great dad isn't just about being there, it's about truly connecting. Welcome back to the Dad and Daughter Connection, where every week we have a great opportunity to be able to connect with one another and work on building those that we want with our daughters one day at a time. I love that you come back every week because all of us are on a journey. Whether you have toddlers, whether you have a baby at home, whether you have teenagers at home, whether you have adult kids, we all are on this continuum of being a father to a daughter. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:19]: And we can always learn more. We can always learn more to help us to be able to be better in the role that we have. We're gonna stumble, we're gonna fall, That's okay. All of us do it. There's no one right way to father our daughters. But what we can do is we can learn from other dads what's working for them, what's not working for them, and build some tools for our own toolbox, add some tools for our own toolbox, and be able to get just that much better every day because that's what we need to be doing. to be able to be there for our daughters. That's what we need to be doing to be able to be present. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:59]: And I am really excited to have another new guest this week. John Azoni is with us today, and John's a father of 2 daughters who are 9 and 11. And we're gonna be talking about the journey that he's been on with his daughters. And I'm really excited to have him here today. John, thanks so much for being here. John Azoni [00:02:15]: Thanks for having me. It's great to be here. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:17]: You know, it's really, I'm really excited to be able to have you here today and to be able to talk to you about the journey that you have been on thus far with your daughters. And I guess one of the things that I always think about when it comes to raising our daughters is we're always running after those moments. We want those moments with our kids. And as you think back to the years that you've had with your daughters thus far, what's one of the most meaningful moments that you've been able to share with them and what made it so special? And one thing I'll add is they could be separate moments as well. John Azoni [00:02:49]: So I read this book a number of years ago called Love Does. The author is Bob Goff and it's a faith-based book. And in it, he talks a lot about parenting. parenting. And he told the story of taking his kids when they turned 10 on a trip anywhere in the world they want to go to, really leaning into what is it that they are becoming, what is it that they're interested in, and, and where can we go in the world to kind of deepen that. And so I always thought that that was a cool idea. And my daughter, when she turned 10 last year, my daughter Ellie, in my mind I was kind of like maybe somewhere in the United States. I don't remember explicitly saying anywhere in the world. John Azoni [00:03:25]: So when my daughter was like, I want to go to Japan, I was like, oh, okay. Well, so after a lot of hemming and hawing, I talked to my wife. She's like, just do it. It's like once in a lifetime. We're like, all right, we're going to Japan. So, so we went to Tokyo last May and it was so cool just to learn about another culture together, to really press into, you know, the stuff that she likes. She's really into K-pop. It's obviously not in Korea, but somewhere over there. John Azoni [00:03:54]: She's into that kind of Asian culture and Hello Kitty. And they have the biggest Hello Kitty store in the world there, uh, video games and arcades where she can and do all the— she loves playing those claw games, which are really popular in Asian countries. So, so it was great. I mean, we just traveled around, we ate good food, we went to Paris Disney, um, and just spent a week together. That— and, and even just like, it was a pretty short trip, but— and people were like, well, you're just going for like 5 days? Like, aren't you gonna be— I mean, like, a big part of that is just traveling, you know? By the time you get there, I think we had 3 full days there. And I was just like, you know, it's, it's the adventure. It's like traveling is, is part of it. We're gonna learn how to do the airport together. John Azoni [00:04:30]: So on the way there, I kind of led the charge, but on the way back I was like, All right, where do you think we should turn to get to baggage claim or stuff like that? Or where do you think we should go to get our bags checked? So that was fun. And, you know, I've had other special experiences with my youngest daughter, Ryland. Currently though, we're planning her trip. She wants to go to Paris. So we're planning on going to Paris next year. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:04:50]: Those will be experiences that they will never forget. And definitely you don't have to do these huge moments. They can be small moments as well. But I had an experience like that last year with my oldest who is in college, but she was out in Colorado and I picked her up from a camp she was working in and we spent a week going to all the national parks all around in that area. So we went to Zion and Bryce and Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest, all kinds of places. And we hiked and we just had an amazing experience. And I think when you have those opportunities, not only are they great opportunities to be able to have to build memories, but you have time one-on-one. And I think that's even more important. John Azoni [00:05:32]: Yeah, one-on-one time is really special. So last weekend, my oldest daughter went to Florida with my wife because she does dance, and her dance group went to go perform at Disney in the parade. And so that was just a life dream of hers. And she got this one-on-one time with my wife. And previously, we were kind of like, all right, we're Disney'd out. We've been to Disney World. We've been on a Disney cruise. I took Ellie to Disney in Tokyo. John Azoni [00:05:58]: And we've been to Disneyland when we went to California last year. And my wife was kind of like, all right, this is the last time I got to go to Disney. And then I get a text from her in the middle of it. She's like, this is so great. It's such a different experience being one-on-one with Ellie and we're just having the best time. And at the same time, I'm home with Ryland and we had our own special weekend. We,

  3. Aug 24

    How to Let Go and Let Grow: Encouraging Independence in Daughters

    Are you a dad searching for practical ways to foster a stronger bond and raise your daughter to be capable, resilient, and self-assured? The latest episode of The Dad and Daughter Connection is a must-listen. Host Dr. Christopher Lewis welcomes Lenore Skenazy, journalist, author, and founder of the Free-Range Kids movement, for a timely, inspiring discussion on balancing love, trust, and independence in parenting. Challenging the Culture of Fear One of the episode's powerful themes is how today's parents are conditioned to overprotect. Lenore Skenazy recounts the story that ignited her movement: letting her nine-year-old son navigate the New York City subway alone, only to face national backlash and probing "what ifs" from the media. As Lenore Skenazy explains at 10:01, our culture fixates on the rarest tragedies—like stranger abductions—despite statistical evidence showing how unlikely they are. This fear loop not only restricts children's experiences but also saps much of the joy and pride of seeing them grow. The Power of Trust and Letting Go Dr. Christopher Lewis and Lenore Skenazy discuss the essential "trust loop," where letting children try things on their own—whether it's walking to the store or making pancakes—builds both competence and confidence. As Lenore Skenazy beautifully puts it at 30:28, "When adults step back, kids step up." True confidence, she explains, grows from real experiences and problem-solving, not empty reassurance. Practical Steps for Parents The episode offers actionable advice for dads: let your kids help (even messily) when they're small, encourage them to do things by themselves, and support their social independence with unstructured play. Check out the suggestions at 27:18—like organizing Free Play Fridays or starting your own "let grow" experiences. Not only will your children blossom, but you'll also rediscover the pride that comes from witnessing their real-world triumphs. Join the Movement This episode isn't just for dads. Anyone who wants to see children thrive in today's anxious, scheduled world should tune in. Lenore Skenazy shares hope, humor, and evidence-based insights that will inspire you to let go—and let grow. Ready to break the cycle and raise the confident daughter you know she can be? Listen to the full conversation now at dadanddaughterconnection.com and join a community of dads committed to showing up, connecting, and empowering the next generation. If you enjoyed this episode we ask you to take a moment to take our Dad and Daughter Connection Survey to let us know more about you as a dad. You can also sign up to get our newsletter to stay connected to our community and we will send items of interest to you to help you to be the dad that you want to be. Feel free to follow me on the following social media platforms: Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, X. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:02]: Welcome to The Dad and Daughter Connection, the podcast for dads who want to build stronger bonds and raise confident, independent daughters. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:12]: If you're looking to build a stronger bond with your daughter and help her grow into a confident, independent woman, you're in the right place. I'm Dr. Christopher Lewis, and The Dad and Daughter Connection is the podcast where we dive into real stories, expert advice, and practical tips to help you navigate the incredible journey of fatherhood. In every episode, we'll bring you conversations that inspire, challenge, and equip you to show up as the dad your daughter needs. So let's get started. Because being a great dad isn't just about being there. It's about truly connecting. Welcome back to the Dad and Daughter Connection, where every week we have a great opportunity to be able to connect with not only one another, but But to be able to work and grow, to be able to become those dads that we wanna become and to be able to build the relationships and the connections that we want to build with our daughters. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:11]: I love it that you come back every week because every week there is something new that you can learn, some new tools you can add into your toolbox and things that you can do to be able to move yourself just maybe a little bit, maybe a lot, to be able to help you to be that dad that you want to be To your daughters. And that's why this podcast exists. Every week I bring you different people. We have different conversations, all in alignment to help you to be able to move forward one step at a time. It's not always gonna be easy. Being a father is not always gonna be easy, and that's okay. That's why I love being able to walk with you on this journey. You know, I'm a father of 2 daughters. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:52]: There are times that I stumble and fall and make mistakes just like you, but we all can learn. One step at a time. And today we've got another great guest. Lenore Skenazy is with us today, and I'm really excited to be able to have Lenore on because if you've ever wondered whether kids are being overprotected or whether parents are under more pressure than ever, then you're going to enjoy today's conversation because Lenore Skenazy, who is a journalist, she's an author, she's founder of the Free-Range Kids Movement, is with us today. Now, she's often called America's worst mom after allowing her 9-year-old son to ride the subway alone, Lenore turned that experience into a national conversation about raising capable, confident children. Today, through the nonprofit Let Grow, she continues to help families and schools foster independence, resilience, and real-world confidence in kids. Lenore, thanks so much for being here today. Lenore Skenazy [00:02:49]: Well, thank you. Thanks for having me. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:51]: I'm really excited to have you here today. And I always start these conversations with just an opportunity to be able to get to know you and get to know your relationship with your own father, because all of us have fathers, that have helped us to become the people that we've become. And I guess as you think back to your dad, and I know as we, we talked at the very beginning, your dad's been gone for a number of years, but as you think back to the relationship that you had with your father, what's one of the things that your father did that made you truly feel seen, heard, and valued as a daughter? Lenore Skenazy [00:03:21]: Well, I'll tell you one of the things he didn't do, and I think that was the most significant, which is that he didn't expect me or my sister— my dad had 2 daughters just like you— to be anything in particular. We didn't have to be doctors, lawyers. We almost didn't have to be successful. We just had to be ourselves. And ironically, he was so into sports. He was so into sports that he started a tennis club. That was his job for the last 30 years of his life. He built one of the first indoor tennis clubs in the suburbs of Chicago where we grew up. Lenore Skenazy [00:03:51]: Beautiful place. He was the president of it until the day he died. Ran tennis clinics and tennis parties and tennis tournaments. And my sister and I never had to play tennis. And I thought, that is pretty amazing. You know, it's not like my kid has to be a mini-me. We didn't have to be mini-anythings. And I was really grateful for that because I was never interested in any sport. Lenore Skenazy [00:04:14]: And that didn't bother him as much as he loved sports. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:04:17]: As you think back on your dad, how did he encourage you to be confident and independent in the things that you were doing and to support you in the passion and the dreams that you had? Lenore Skenazy [00:04:29]: Well, here's the deal. He always believed in me and my sister that anything we were ready to do, that was fine. And as he got older, the thing that, that we would have the most fun with is he would call up and, and he ended up in a wheelchair for like the last 12 years. So he's looking for fun. And it was always, Laura, tell me a joke, because we just love jokes. It was the era when people did tell whole long jokes. You know, a guy walks into a bar, a man's, uh, you know, guys on a golf course, whatever it was. And I don't say that he turned me into a public speaker, but he certainly realized the value of good timing and trying to get that, nail that punchline. Lenore Skenazy [00:05:09]: And knowing that part of, I just read the book A Gentleman in Moscow by, I guess, Amor Towles. And one sentence he said in there struck me as so profound. It's the novel of a guy confined to a luxury hotel since the beginning of the Russian Revolution until he's very aged. And he adapts to the fact that he'll never be able to leave this hotel. And at first, he's just a rich guy, and then he ends up getting a job there. And he's— everything he does, he does with incredible aplomb and tact and kindness. And towards the end, he said, a cheerful demeanor, which is the hallmark of an intelligent person, blah, blah, blah. And I thought, being cheerful is— it's an obligation, right? And you can rise to it. Lenore Skenazy [00:05:52]: And it is the mark of somebody smart, not somebody silly and goofy, because it means that you're putting somebody else's emotions sometimes ahead of your own. Speaker D [00:06:01]: Yeah. Lenore Skenazy [00:06:01]: And also recognizing that the sort of the more cheerful you are, certainly the more you try to put yourself out there, it pays you back. And so everybody, it's the rising tide for all the boats, all those glum boats out there. And my dad was always trying to do that. You know, he would ask the waitress, honey, what's your name? Oh, okay, Samantha. I would love a cup of coffee. And he had a way of trying to bring things up. And he expected that of me. And I am grateful for that. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:06:32]: Now, I know you said yo

  4. Aug 17

    A Change In Our Format

    Hey everyone, I wanted to take a few minutes to share a little change that's coming to The Dad & Daughter Connection. For the past several years, I've been bringing you a new episode every single week, and I am incredibly grateful for everyone who listens, shares an episode, recommends the podcast to a friend, or simply takes the time to tune in. This podcast means a lot to me, and getting to have conversations with amazing dads, daughters, authors, experts, and people who have something meaningful to teach us about fatherhood has been an incredible journey. But I've also been reminded of something that I talk about on this podcast all the time: being present matters. As much as I love doing this podcast, I'm also a dad, a husband, and someone with a lot of other responsibilities and commitments. And I've realized that trying to maintain a weekly schedule can sometimes mean I'm stretching myself a little too thin. So, beginning today, The Dad & Daughter Connection will be moving from a weekly podcast to an every-other-week schedule. Now, I want to be very clear: this isn't about slowing down or giving you less. In fact, it's about making sure I can continue giving you the kind of conversations and content you've come to expect from this podcast. I want to have the time to find great guests, ask thoughtful questions, have meaningful conversations, and produce episodes that are worth your time. And just as importantly, I want to make sure I'm protecting time for the people who matter most to me—my family. Because if I'm going to spend my time talking about the importance of being present for our daughters, I need to make sure I'm practicing what I preach. So, you're still going to hear the stories, the conversations, the laughs, and hopefully a few things that make you think differently about being a dad and raising strong, confident, independent daughters. You'll just hear them every other week instead of every week. I hope you'll stick with me for the journey. And if you've been listening all along, thank you. I truly appreciate you being part of The Dad & Daughter Connection community. Until next time, keep connecting with your daughters, keep having those important conversations, and most importantly, keep showing up.

  5. Aug 10

    Trust, Growth, and Connection: A Father's Journey with a Non-Binary Child

    This week's episode of "The Dad and Daughter Connection" delves into the evolving journey of fatherhood, offering a heartfelt conversation with author and workplace culture expert Ed Frauenheim. Through candid storytelling and honest reflection, the episode explores what it really means to support our children—especially when their paths unfold in ways we never expected. Dr. Christopher Lewis opens with his signature warmth, reminding listeners that the core of fatherhood isn't perfection, but presence. The conversation quickly pivots to Ed Frauenheim's personal growth as a father to Skyla, his strong-willed, non-binary child. Their story is not just about adjusting to pronouns or grappling with change, but about learning the art of persistent, trusting connection. One major theme running through the conversation is trust. Ed Frauenheim candidly shares early struggles trying to control Skyla, only to discover the power of letting go—of giving space, listening deeply, and trusting his child's autonomy. He admits the journey wasn't always smooth, referencing honest and sometimes painful moments of conflict that led to growth. It's the small shifts—choosing to draw beside Skyla instead of insisting on homework—that became turning points, building a deeper bond rooted in respect. The episode masterfully unpacks the challenges of moving past parental expectations when faced with a child's evolving identity. Ed Frauenheim reflects on the initial mourning and adjustments after Skyla came out as non-binary, and the courage it took to support them fully, even in spaces steeped in traditional notions of masculinity. Through his vulnerability, listeners are offered a blueprint for embracing discomfort as a catalyst for connection and understanding. Additional highlights include practical tips for other dads: creating a home where listening is prioritized, learning together about new concepts, and bringing levity to sensitive journeys through shared experiences. Ed Frauenheim emphasizes the value of apologizing, modeling openness, and never giving up on the pursuit of genuine connection. If you're a parent, caregiver, or anyone seeking to better support the young people in your life, this episode is a must-listen. It's a tribute to adaptability, unconditional love, and the transformative power of trust. Tune in for actionable wisdom, moving anecdotes, and inspiration to keep showing up, even when the path is uncertain. Catch the full episode at dadanddaughterconnection.com, and remember—the journey isn't about being perfect. It's about being present, persistent, and ready to grow. If you enjoyed this episode we ask you to take a moment to take our Dad and Daughter Connection Survey to let us know more about you as a dad. You can also sign up to get our newsletter to stay connected to our community and we will send items of interest to you to help you to be the dad that you want to be. Feel free to follow me on the following social media platforms: Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, X. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:02]: Welcome to The Dad and Daughter Connection, the podcast for dads who want to build stronger bonds and raise confident, independent daughters. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:12]: If you're looking to build a stronger bond with your daughter and help her grow into a confident, independent woman, you're in the right place. I'm Dr. Christopher Lewis, and The Dad and Daughter Connection is the podcast where we dive into real stories, expert advice, and practical tips to help you navigate the incredible journey of fatherhood. In every episode, we'll bring you conversations that inspire, challenge, and equip you to show up as the dad your daughter needs. So let's get started. Because being a great dad isn't just about being there. It's about truly connecting. Welcome back to the Dad and Daughter Connection, where every week we have a great opportunity, we have a great opportunity to be able to come together to and grow together to be able to work on those relationships that we want to have with our daughters, to help us to be able to create those solid relationships, those solid bonds that are going to help our daughters to become the people that they are becoming in their lives. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:15]: That's why, that's why every week I love being able to introduce you to people with different experiences, people from all different types of walks of life that have had different experiences that'll help you to be able to, I guess, in a way, reframe and to think about How are you fathering? Because not every father will father in the same ways, and that's perfectly fine. What's important is that we learn along the way. We take those bits that make sense. Maybe we adjust those things that don't work for our family, and we help ourselves to become just a little bit better every day. Because by us becoming a little bit better, our kids are going to be better, and we're going to be able to have those relationships and those— and build those connections that are going to last a lifetime. This week, we got another great guest. Ed Frauenheim is with us. And Ed is an author, a researcher, a speaker, and a workplace culture expert whose work explores how redefining masculinity can help men lead healthier, more connected, and more fulfilling lives. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:19]: He's a co-author of Reinventing Masculinity: The Liberating Power of Compassion and Connection, a book that examines the shift from outdated restrictive ideas of manhood toward a more compassionate and emotionally healthy vision of masculinity. And in addition to his work on masculinity, he's also, also a father of 2. We're going to talk about his own journey as a father. And we're going to be able to talk a little bit further about what he's had to go through in this journey that he's been on as well. So I'm really excited to have him here. Ed, thanks so much for being here today. Ed Frauenheim [00:02:53]: Thanks, Christopher. It's a real pleasure to be with you here. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:56]: It's my pleasure having you here today. And I, I'm going to be very honest with Everyone that Ed has been on a podcast with me before, he and I did a podcast on my past podcast, Dads with Daughters. And on that podcast, we talked a lot more about Reinventing Masculinity. We're not going to talk as much about the book this go around. So I encourage you that if you want to learn a lot more about Reinventing Masculinity, I talked to Ed right when that book came out. So I encourage you to go over, I'll put a link in the notes today where you can find that other podcast. And you can listen there and learn even more. And but Today what we're going to do is first we're going to start off by chatting a little bit more about being a father. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:03:38]: And we're going to talk about some of the journey that you've been on. And I know you have 2 kids, you have a son, and then you have a non-binary child that at birth was a daughter and now is non-binary. And we're going to talk about that journey as well. So I always start off with a few questions that just to get a little bit of a sense about you as a dad. Ed Frauenheim [00:03:56]: Okay. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:03:56]: And one of the things that I love being able to delve a little bit into is as fathers, one of the things that we try to do is we try to create those moments, those moments where we can really bond with our kids, really be able to share special times and special moments with our kids as well. What's one of the most meaningful moments that you've been able to share with your youngest and what made it so special? Ed Frauenheim [00:04:20]: Thanks for that great question, Christopher. The one that comes to mind with my child Skyla, as you mentioned, Skyla was born in a female body and now identifies as non-binary. Maybe when Skyla was 9 or so, we were butting heads a lot. We were in conflict in, in part because Skyla is quite strong-willed and I can be a little bit controlling as well, or especially back then as a dad. And I remember this moment where I was in charge of making sure the kids, and Skyla in particular, got started on their homework. And I said, Skyla, time to do your homework now. And Skyla had been doing something with like cutouts and, and making some drawings, and they said, I'm, I'm, I'm almost done. Why don't you draw with me. Ed Frauenheim [00:05:02]: And I did. I kind of let down my kind of controlling guard, if you will, and immersed myself a bit in Skyla's world. And they were making these interesting characters, cartoon characters. I can't remember the name right now, but I learned how Skyla was drawing them, and I drew my own, and it was a loving experience. And then after we did that for maybe 20, 30 minutes, Skyla happily went on to her homework. their homework. And I say her there, Christopher, because you and I were talking before the podcast started about how it's— I'm still struggling to get the pronouns right, even though I'm trying to honor as best I can Skyla's non-binary identity. But many years of calling Skyla by female pronouns are still hard to shake sometimes. Ed Frauenheim [00:05:43]: And Skyla, to their credit, gives me a lot of grace, a lot of room for growth there, and does not jump down my throat when I throw out a she or her. So anyways, to me, it was a moment of connection, a moment of realizing I could trust my child. I could trust that I didn't have to be this disciplinarian and give more space in the relationship and really kind of honor Skyla's will to chart their course and figure out what they want to do and when. And yeah, I had some boundaries to set, but being a little flexible in that moment really made a difference and I think helped us to repair a bond that wasn't so strong and has gotten stronger ever since in a lot of ways. Dr. C

  6. Aug 3

    Empowering Daughters: Alan Mallory on Guiding with Adventure and Trust

    This week on The Dad and Daughter Connection, Dr. Christopher Lewis welcomed adventurer and performance coach Alan Mallory for an inspiring conversation on what it means to truly connect with your daughters. If you're a dad seeking real-world advice, heartfelt stories, and strategies to build stronger family ties, this episode is a must-listen. One of the most impactful themes that emerged is the importance of quality time and shared adventures. Alan Mallory talked passionately about how he's embraced experiences with his two daughters, from spontaneous ski trips to months traveling across the country in a fifth wheel trailer. These journeys provided special opportunities, not just for fun, but for deep conversations and growth. "When it's just the two of us, you can connect on a deeper level," he shared, highlighting the magic of one-on-one time. But beyond the adventures, Alan Mallory emphasized the vital balance between guidance and independence. He champions a parenting style rooted in mentorship rather than control: "You can't dictate the direction… you have to give them that latitude". This philosophy was shaped by his own experiences, like summiting Mount Everest alongside his family—and by seeing how trust and empowerment forge the strongest bonds. Another powerful thread: fostering communication and emotional growth. Mallory admitted to struggling at times, especially when it comes to connecting on the emotional level, teaching us all that vulnerability makes for better dads: "I could probably think of a few times where I should have been more empathetic… and just listened". It's a message that resonates—sometimes the greatest gift we can offer is our presence and our ears. For dads supporting daughters' passions or mental health journeys, this episode is rich with wisdom: encourage experimentation, be the gentle guide, and above all, show up—time is fleeting, and investing those hours pays lifelong dividends. The Dad and Daughter Connection is a source of community and inspiration for fathers everywhere. Whether you're seeking reassurance or a nudge to start a new adventure, tune in—this conversation with Alan Mallory will remind you that being a great dad is about being present, facing the adventures together, and empowering your daughter to blaze her own trail. Ready to strengthen your bond? Listen to the episode now and start building those lasting connections! If you enjoyed this episode we ask you to take a moment to take our Dad and Daughter Connection Survey to let us know more about you as a dad. You can also sign up to get our newsletter to stay connected to our community and we will send items of interest to you to help you to be the dad that you want to be. Feel free to follow me on the following social media platforms: Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, X. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:02]: Welcome to the dad and Daughter Connection, the podcast for dads who want to build stronger bonds and raise confident, independent daughters. If you're looking to build a stronger bond with your daughter and help her grow into a confident, independent woman, you're in the right place. I'm Dr. Christopher Lewis, and the dad and Daughter Connection is the podcast where we dive into real stories, expert advice, and practical tips to help you navigate the incredible journey of fatherhood. In every episode, we'll bring you conversations that inspire, challenge, and equip you to show up as the dad your daughter needs. So let's get started, because being a great dad isn't just about being there. It's about truly connecting. Welcome back to the dad and Daughter Connection, where every week we have a great opportunity to be able to talk about, but also work on those relationships that we want to build with our own daughters one step at a time. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:04]: And I'm so excited that you come back every week because we're all on a journey. We're all on a journey of trying to be the best dads that we want to be and the best dads that we can be. But to get there, we've got to put in the time. We got to put in the effort. We got to learn from other dads around us and see what they're doing, see what makes sense and what works for them. But maybe, maybe that will work for you as well, and that's why this podcast exists. This podcast exists to help you to be able to connect with other dads, but also to learn from some other dads that have different experiences. And I love being able to bring you different people with different experiences every week that can do just that. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:39]: Today we got another great guest. Alan Mallory is with us. And Alan is a dynamic speaker. He's an author, he is a performance coach. But I saw him at a recent conference, and he was really talking about some of the things that he's done in his life to push himself beyond who he thought he was and who he thought he could be. He. In his presentations, he gives kind of a unique blend of psychology, engineering, project management, and some artistic flair to be able to make the presentations really a dynamic one. And in the conversation that he gave to the Rotary group that I was with, I loved the message that he gave because he really rooted his messages in his experiences, both as an adventurer, a mountaineer, but really talking about the things that he's done with his family, to be able to keep them, to bring them together and seeing that he is a father. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:33]: Of two daughters. I wanted to bring him on to talk a little bit about his own experience in being a father to daughters. So, Alan, thanks so much for being here today. Alan Mallory [00:02:41]: My pleasure. Looking forward to it. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:42]: Well, I'm really looking forward to talking to you today. And as I said, even before we started, I said this is kind of a topic that's a little bit different than ones that probably you talk about all the time. And I always start the interviews with an opportunity because I know that you have two daughters yourself, 12 and 8. And all of us as fathers want to create those moments, those meaningful moments, those things that we can share with our daughters that they'll remember but also will remember and that bring us closer together. What's one's, what's, what is the most meaningful moment that you've been able to share with your daughters and what made it so special? Alan Mallory [00:03:15]: I don't know if I could boil it down to one meaningful moment, but I mean, I've kind of emulated what my father did with me and my siblings and that spend a lot of quality time, especially out doing adventures with. With my kids. And so in many ways, I'm kind of blessed in the vocation I've chosen. I because I'm traveling all over the place, often I' bring one of my kids along and both my daughters always spent some amazing quality time. Even this past winter, different ski trips, for example, where it's just kind of a dad daughter ski trip, or when I have events in Hawaii or in kind of tropical locations, often they put their heads up to come along with those. And I found those particularly special when it's just the two of us and you can kind of connect on a deeper level and just have fun as well. It's not a chore if you're doing things that you would normally like to do anyway and that they'll like to do. And so we go kayaking or stand up paddleboarding or do some sort of adventure. Alan Mallory [00:04:11]: And I found those are the most special moments. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:04:14]: Now your daughters are getting older and you've got that daughter that's a pre tween now and another daughter following not too far behind. And as they get older, they definitely push to get more independence. How do you balance guiding your daughters while still giving them that independence that they need to be able to grow into the people that they're bec. Alan Mallory [00:04:34]: Yeah, I mean, that's the balance that's hard to strike. And we, all of us, that are parents really go through that. One of my programs I share kind of A curve between. It's a parabolic relationship in that you have a mentor role that you want to kind of nudge your daughters in the right direction or what you believe is the right direction, but you can't dictate that direction. And that's what's almost makes the parenting journey such a roller coaster. They're their own people and sometimes they make. They need to learn through decisions that are made. And, you know, that's how we learn. Alan Mallory [00:05:03]: If we kind of prevent them from discovering and innovating and all of that, then they just end up with bigger problems down the road. And so it's through small. Allowing them the independence to make small mistakes in many ways, while providing that father mentor role that I think allows them to develop healthily. And it's a difficult balance to get. And I would say in many ways it's a balance that our society has really gone one way on. And that's this kind of, you know, over controlling, bubble wrapping our children rather than allowing them to make mistakes in life, for example. But if you want them to be strong, independent people, you have to give them that latitude. I'd say that's another thing that I learned from my father, for good or bad. Alan Mallory [00:05:46]: You know, he was always a very empowering person. We climbed Mount Everest in 2008, and this was with my father, brother, sister and I. And so also I was kind of learning from how he treated all of us, especially my sister in this case. There was one instance where basically we were in the death zone above 26,000ft. And he empowered her to kind of make her own decision, whether she wanted to continue on or not. And she was all by herself at that point because she had the altitude weakens your immune system. And so she had these awful sicknesses and she had

  7. Jul 27

    Jared Mees on Fatherhood, Vulnerability, and Connection

    If you're a dad searching for practical wisdom and heartfelt inspiration on building stronger connections with your daughter, you won't want to miss the latest episode of the Dad and Daughter Connection podcast. Host Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with Jared Mees, father, creative, and co-founder of Tender Loving Empire, for a candid conversation about the joys, challenges, and real-life lessons of fatherhood. This episode dives deep into what meaningful connection really looks like between dads and daughters. Jared Mees shares his biggest bonding moments, like the summer road trips he's taken with his daughters since they were little—unstructured adventures that have become cherished family memories. Whether braving uncomfortable camping trips or hours on the road, these simple, unplugged experiences spark genuine connection, laughter, and character-building for all. As daughters grow up, the balancing act for dads shifts. Jared Mees opens up about learning to give his daughters independence as they get older—recognizing when to lean in, when to back off, and how to be present even when they aren't seeking attention. For his younger daughter, it's about reading and drawing together. For his teen, it's understanding late-night chats and respecting her space. One of the most powerful parts of the episode centers on vulnerability. Jared Mees shares honestly about a mental health crisis he faced and how it affected his family. Learning to admit mistakes, say "Daddy was wrong," and seek real support reshaped his relationship with his daughters. His openness models strength and resilience—and shows that kids benefit deeply from witnessing their parents' growth and recovery. Other themes include the importance of encouraging kids' passions without taking over, calling out the specific things that make them unique, and navigating the emotional transitions as daughters become teens. Dr. Christopher Lewis and Jared Mees also discuss letting go of ego, embracing imperfection, and being consistent in small, everyday ways. If you're ready to hear authentic stories and actionable advice about being the dad your daughter needs—through life's ups, downs, and transitions—be sure to tune in. Head to dadanddaughterconnection.com, catch the latest episode, and start building those lifelong bonds, one day at a time. Don't miss this uplifting and honest look at fatherhood—listen now! If you enjoyed this episode we ask you to take a moment to take our Dad and Daughter Connection Survey to let us know more about you as a dad. You can also sign up to get our newsletter to stay connected to our community and we will send items of interest to you to help you to be the dad that you want to be. Feel free to follow me on the following social media platforms: Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, X. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:02]: Welcome to the dad and Daughter Connection, the podcast for dads who want to build stronger bonds and raise confident, independent daughters. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:12]: If you're looking to build a stronger bond with your daughter and help her grow into a confident, independent woman, you're in the right place. I'm Dr. Christopher Lewis, and the dad and Daughter Connection is the podcast where we dive into real stories, expert advice, and practical tips to help you navigate the incredible journey of fatherhood. In every episode, we'll bring you conversations that inspire, challenge, and equip you to show up as the dad your daughter needs. So let's get started, because being a great dad isn't just about being there. It's about truly connecting. Welcome back to the dad and Daughter Connection, where every week we have a great opportunity to be able to work together, to work on identifying ways in which we can build those relationships that we want to have with our daughters one day at a time. It is going to be a journey. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:09]: Having those perfect relationships is going to come in ebbs and flows. It's not always going to be easy, but there are things that you can do to make it a little bit better one day at a time. And that's why this show exists. This show exists to be able to give you some tools for your toolbox, for you to be able to learn, to grow and to be able to be that dad that you want to be showing up for your daughter every day. That's why every week, I love being able to bring you different dance with different experiences to help you to be able to see fatherhood in a little bit of a different way and to be able to see how they are fathering their own daughters, to be able to help you in your journey. Today we got another great guest. Jared Mees is with us today, and Jared is someone I've known for a number of years. Jared was on another podcast that I used to have called Dads with Daughters. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:01]: And at that time, it was about four years ago, we were chatting about some music that he was making with his daughters, and his daughters keep growing as they always do. So I'm excited to be able to have him back, to be able to talk about how things are going today and be able to check back in. Jared, thanks so much for being here today. Jared Mees [00:02:20]: Thanks so much, Chris. Appreciate it. Excited to be here. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:23]: Well, I'm really excited to have you here today, and I always loved starting the conversation because this show is all about connection and how you build those meaningful connections with your daughters. And I. I know you have two daughters yourself. What would you say is one of the most meaningful moments that you've been able to share with your daughters thus far and what made it so special? Jared Mees [00:02:41]: Yeah, I have two lovely daughters. Piper is 8 and she's almost 9. And July is 14 going on 24. So we're. I'm super blessed to have them in my life. And I always thought I'd be a dad of a son or something before I had kids. But then, now that I have two daughters, I wouldn't have it any other way. Of course, they're definitely lights of my life. Jared Mees [00:03:03]: They're both totally individual, different human beings, and they both need completely different things. And I try to provide it every day, whether I feel like it or not. And, you know, some days I succeed better than others, as we all do. But I would say, to answer your question, the biggest things that we do together are these road trips that we take every summer. Ever since COVID when Piper was two or three, two and a half, and July was eight, we've taken summer road trips to my hometown in Colorado from Oregon, where I live. So just driving around with them and exploring, mostly the western United States and just seeing things, camping. A lot of the. The funnest times are just when there's no real plan and we just get into something. Jared Mees [00:03:53]: We're on the beach or we're having a conversation around a fire, or just all the little things that happen along the way. But the road tr. Definitely, we've taken one every summer since 2020, and they're definitely a way to connect. And when I look back, I'm like, those are precious times. And, you know, they can be challenging. And sometimes the challenges, when you're away from your home and you're uncomfortable, you know, camping, they think they don't like camping, but every time we go camping, they have a great time. They can be, you know, character building. And so I remember those fondly. Jared Mees [00:04:29]: We're going on one this summer. This summer is going to be easy going. We're just going to go down the Oregon coast. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:04:34]: Those moments are so important, and they're going to be things that your daughters are going to think back on, remember fondly as they get older. Whether it's the. The fun times or the squabbles in the car, the moments where you pull off the road to be able to see something cool, you know, it's going to be those memories that they're going to relate to. So it's. It's so exciting to hear those things. Now, I know you said your daughters are getting older and, and as your daughters do get older, as all of us that have daughters get older, there is the struggle that we go through as dads, which is allowing for us to be able to help our daughters to find that balance, that balance in having independence while still being who they are. How do you balance guiding your daughter while also giving her the independence to grow into her own person? Jared Mees [00:05:26]: That's a great question. And I don't know that I really think about it as it's happening, but there's a lot of connection that I feel like I try to foster every day that just kind of lets them know that I'm there and that I'm around and present for them. I try to be there every day when they get home from school, there when they leave for school. And I think just the presence allows me to be just plugged into what they're going through on a hour to hour, day to day, week to week basis that I don't know, there's. That ends up. It makes it where I don't really get in their way so much. I would say we have a lot of things going on and so trying to just make space for the small things that they want to do. Like my 8 year old wants to play and you know, you don't always want to play, but you get down on the floor with them for 20 minutes and it means the world to them. Jared Mees [00:06:20]: And then my 14 year old wants space. And so sometimes that's just like coming in, saying hi and being like, I love you, what are you up to? And then if they don't want to talk, then just letting them have that moment and then eventually they come around and they want to talk. I noticed that my 14 year old really gets talkative right before bed and right before she goes to sleep, which is kind of like the time you want them to be winding down. And so just being around for the moments that they

  8. Jul 20

    Building Unbreakable Bonds: Chris Singleton on Fatherhood and Love

    In the latest episode of The Dad and Daughter Connection, host Dr. Christopher Lewis welcomes an extraordinary guest: former professional athlete, best-selling author, and inspirational speaker Chris Singleton. This heartfelt conversation dives deep into fatherhood, resilience, and the profound ways dads can nurture strong, confident daughters, even amidst life's toughest challenges. Chris Singleton opens up about the joy and responsibility of raising his young daughter, sharing intimate stories—like their first daddy-daughter dance—that remind us how essential it is to be present and cherish each moment. He emphasizes intentional fathering, recognizing that quality time matters more than quantity and that even simple routines, like reading together or affirming your child's beauty, play a vital role in building self-esteem and resilience. As Chris Singleton says, "Your presence, it matters. Even when you think they don't see you there… your presence, it matters" 28:18. A powerful part of the conversation addresses difficult topics: teaching compassion, navigating conversations about differences, and helping children process a sometimes divided world. Inspired by his personal journey through tragedy and the loss of his mother, Chris Singleton shares how he uses children's books and open dialogue to foster empathy and curiosity in his children. He encourages dads to model respect for all, even when encountering different beliefs or backgrounds, and to proactively address hard questions rather than shying away from them. Other highlights include practical advice for approaching conversations about race, mistakes Chris Singleton made early in fatherhood, and strategies for raising compassionate, curious kids in the age of social media. Vulnerability plays a central role; letting children see emotion and grief, he explains, not only builds trust but also reassures them that it's okay to feel and share openly. Ultimately, the episode offers a hopeful message: embracing love, forgiveness, and open-mindedness at home can prepare the next generation to lead with unity and understanding. To every dad looking to grow deeper connections with his daughter—and to anyone seeking inspiration in today's world—this episode is a must-listen. Hear the full story and practical tools by tuning in to The Dad and Daughter Connection—it may just change the way you parent, and the way you see the world. If you enjoyed this episode we ask you to take a moment to take our Dad and Daughter Connection Survey to let us know more about you as a dad. You can also sign up to get our newsletter to stay connected to our community and we will send items of interest to you to help you to be the dad that you want to be. Feel free to follow me on the following social media platforms: Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, X. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:02]: Welcome to the dad and Daughter Connection, the podcast for dads who want to build stronger bonds and raise confident, independent daughters. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:12]: If you're looking to build a stronger bond with your daughter and help her grow into a confident, independent woman, you're in the right place. I'm Dr. Christopher Lewis and the dad and Daughter Connection is the podcast where we dive into real stories, expert advice, and practical tips to help you navigate the incredible journey of fatherhood. In every episode, we'll bring you conversations that inspire, challenge, and equip you to show up as the dad your daughter needs. So let's get started. Because being a great dad isn't just about being there. It's about truly connecting. Welcome back to. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:53]: Welcome back to the dad and Daughter Connection, where every week we have a great opportunity to be able to talk together, to work together to help you to be able to make those meaningful connections with your daughters one step at a time. It's not always going to be easy. It takes time, it takes effort, and you do have to work at it. But it is so important to put in that work and to know that putting in that work is you are going to be able to build those connections and build those true bonds with your daughters that you want to have every week. I love being able to bring you different people with different experiences that are offering you an opportunity, an opportunity to be able to learn, to grow and to put some, I'm going to say, tools in your toolbox that you can take with you. And you may not take everything, but my hope is that you have an opportunity to be able to take something, whether it's one thing, five things, 10 things that you're like, ah, that's something that I'm connecting to. And, and today we got another great guest. Chris Singleton is with us. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:55]: And Chris is a former professional athlete who played for the Chicago Cubs. And following the loss of his mother in a racially motivated mass shooting, Chris has now become a nationally renowned inspirational speaker and best selling author. And he travels all over the United States and beyond to be able to spread a message of love, of compassion, and of really helping others to be able to think, think differently about the world around us and how we talk to one another, work with one another. But even beyond that, he's a father of three and he's got one daughter. So we're going to be talking about his own experience in being a father to a daughter. And we'll also talk about some of the journey that he's been on and some of the things that he has been doing with his own kids to be able to help them to live in the world that we're in today. So I'm really excited to have him here. Chris Singh, thank you so much for being here today. Chris SIngleton [00:02:53]: Absolutely, man. I'm grateful to be on talking about my baby girl. Girl, love it. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:57]: Well, I'm really excited to be able to be here today and to talk to you. I know we just saw each other at a recent conference that you were speaking at, and this is a topic that you don't always get to talk a lot about. You mentioned your daughter in your speech, but I love it when we get to delve into fatherhood. And I guess first and foremost, I wanted to ask you about that relationship with your daughter. And I know she's still young, but in her life so far and in your life with her so far, what's one of the most meaningful moments that you've been able to share with your daughter thus far and what made it so special? Chris SIngleton [00:03:28]: Yeah, I think one of the most meaningful moments thus far is the first daddy daughter dance we did. You know, she's almost three. And so at two years old, that daddy daughter dance and she was actually dancing. I was like, oh, it's just going to be just her standing around and no, she was getting after dancing and wiggling and we had a great time. And there was a point where, you know, one of the older girls at their school started dancing with her and I just saw her. I was getting like a little emotional. Like, man, this is what a blessing it is that I get to be her dad and not only protect and provide for, but just be her friend. As she grows older and I'm looking at her, I just started getting emotional. Chris SIngleton [00:04:06]: So that was probably a moment where I actually stopped and just felt the moment. Because so frequently you have these experiences with your kids and you're just like, oh, it's an experience. You don't really stop and just take it all in. And that's one that I know in 20 years I'm going to remember that first daddy daughter dance that we did and how I was getting emotional. Like, man, how cool is that? I get to be her dad. So that was one so far. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:04:27]: And like you said, your daughter is still young, but I'm sure that there are some ways in which some intentional things that you're trying to do to be able to strengthen your bond with your daughter. So talk to me about some of those things that you tried to do intentionally with your daughter to be able to build that Unique bond with her versus what you're doing with your sons. Chris SIngleton [00:04:46]: Yeah. And I think it's super important because my boys, I coach them in baseball, I coach them in sports. And so she sees me doing this. We know. Even when we do bedtime, sometimes we'll take the boys to bed first, and they'll be talking about me coaching them. They'll be talking about something baseball. And then my dad said. Then my daughter says something about, hey, Daddy, what about me with ballerina? Or what about me with this? And I'm like, you know, daddy loves that too, sweetie. Chris SIngleton [00:05:09]: And, you know, I can't wait for you to go to your ballerina class on Friday. And so we have those same moments where it's like, yes, I have my time with my boys, and I kind of combine the time with the boys sometimes, but I need to do a little better about splitting them up. Hey, older son get some time. Younger son gets some time. And most of the time, it's like, hey, Daddy, with the boys. And then it's like, daddy with baby girl. And whether it's just reading with her the other night, I noticed it because I didn't notice this with my boys. How. Chris SIngleton [00:05:33]: And I don't know if you know, the stereotype is girls learn so much quicker. They're so much smarter than boys when they're young. But my daughter was literally sitting down in her. In the rocking chair that we usually sit in before bedtime, and she was flipping through this book as if she knew exactly what she was doing at 2 years old, and she's pretending like she's reading, and I'm sitting there smiling at her, and it was a beautiful moment. I've got this nickname for my daughter, and of course, I told you guys at the conference that I call her Chocolate Chip. And so every time I'll say, hey, who's my Chocolate Chip? And she's li

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The Dad & Daughter Connection is the podcast for fathers who want to build a strong, meaningful relationship with their daughters while empowering them to become confident, independent women. Hosted by [Your Name], this show brings you real conversations, expert insights, and inspiring stories from dads, daughters, and professionals who understand the unique challenges and joys of fatherhood. Whether you're navigating the early years, the teen phase, or beyond, The Dad & Daughter Connection is here to support you with practical advice, heartfelt discussions, and encouragement for the journey. Because being a dad isn't just about being present—it's about truly connecting. Join us as we learn, grow, and lead together—one conversation at a time. Subscribe now and start building the connection that lasts a lifetime!

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