The Dad & Daughter Connection

Chris Lewis
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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!

  1. 4D AGO

    The Power of Being Present: Fatherhood Lessons with Mitesh Khatri

    What does it really mean to be a great dad to a daughter? The latest episode of The Dad and Daughter Connection digs deep into this all-important question. Host Dr. Christopher Lewis, joined by guest Mitesh Khatri—Melbourne father, writer, and corporate strategist—explores the daily challenges, triumphs, and small yet powerful moments that shape our relationships with our daughters. A central theme of the conversation is the importance of being truly present. As Mitesh Khatri candidly shares, simply being in the room is not enough; it's about showing up emotionally and giving your attention, especially during routines like bedtime or unstructured play. One meaningful moment he describes is when his young daughter told him to "stop rushing me." This wake-up call led him to rethink how often stress and distraction rob us of precious connection—and how even "routine" moments can become the foundation of trust and closeness. The episode also explores the challenge of balancing professional ambitions with family life. Mitesh Khatri discusses how corporate careers often offer clear metrics of success—promotions, projects, and accolades—whereas fatherhood can feel less measurable. The takeaway? We must create our own scorecards within our families: counting moments of connection, presence, and patience as real victories. Perhaps most powerfully, the episode underscores the need for vulnerability. Mitesh Khatri opens up about his struggles with stress, his journey to calm his nervous system, and his realization that anger often masks deeper feelings like disappointment or sadness. He introduces practical strategies—like pausing before reacting and honest journaling—to help break generational cycles and model healthier emotional regulation for our daughters. For dads who worry about not getting it right, Mitesh Khatri says it's not about perfection, but about trying. He advocates for intentionality, ongoing learning, and talking openly with other dads. As host Dr. Christopher Lewis reminds listeners, "being an engaged dad isn't about being perfect. It's about being present." If you're searching for practical insight and heartfelt stories on building meaningful father-daughter relationships, this is one episode you shouldn't miss. Tune in to The Dad and Daughter Connection for real conversations that will leave you inspired to show up, connect, and be the dad she needs. Listen now and start building your own toolkit for intentional, loving fatherhood. 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 delve a little bit deeper and into the relationships that you want to build with your kids. And I love that you're here. Every week you're here, you've rolled up your sleeves. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:08]: You are doing what you can to be able to show up for your daughters in so many different ways. And that's why this show exists. This show exists to help you to be that dad that you want to be. And I try to bring you different people, different people with different experiences every week to allow for you to be able to learn something new, to gain some tools for your toolbox that can help you to be able to be that dad. Today we've got another great guest. Mitesh Khatri is with us today. And Mitesh is a father from Melbourne, Australia. He's got two kids himself and we're going to focus on his daughter, but he also has a son and we're going to learn a little bit more about him and I'm really excited to have him here. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:51]: Mitesh, thanks so much for being here today. Mitesh Khatri [00:01:53]: Thank you so much, Christopher. And really appreciate all the work you do for fatherhood and dads and daughter in this connection. This podcast is fantastic. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:01]: Well, I really appreciate that you're here today and we're going to talk about a new book that you have out to help fathers in many different ways as well. But. But we always start our interviews talking a little bit about you as a dad and especially as a dad to a daughter. And I know you've got a six year old daughter and I am really excited to be able to delve a little bit deeper. And I guess as you're thinking about your relationship with your daughter, what's one of the most meaningful mom that you've been able to share with your daughter, what made it so special? Mitesh Khatri [00:02:28]: Yeah, I think one of my most meaningful moments has definitely been the bedtime routine. I think it's been really. Because it's come from a moment where it wasn't the best moment for me. So, you know, there was a time when I was completely stressed out. Two young kids, and my daughter was four. My son was five and a half. And I remember my son is quite direct. But my daughter, she is more subtle in her ways of expressing her emotions. Mitesh Khatri [00:02:54]: And she said to me one night, and as I was putting her to bed, four years old, looked up to me and said, you know, stop rushing me. Those three words, I just froze. And she wasn't being difficult. I was trying to get through the routine. Please put on your pajamas, brush your teeth, go to the bathroom, read a book or two, or cut it short. I was stressed, I was depleted, and I didn't want to be there in the room mentally, even though, you know, my beautiful daughter was just asking me to be there and to actually be present with her. And we talk about present all the time. I hear it on your podcast. Mitesh Khatri [00:03:23]: It's all be present. It's so difficult to do. You can't think yourself to be present in the moment. You physically can sometimes not be able to be present, and your mind is rushing and your body is not allowing you to do that. So it was quite a low moment. But today, when I look at it, it's one of the most beautiful times I have, is to put her to sleep every day, read her books, that routine, the cuddle she gives. And I look at her now, she's six years old, just turned in April. We take time with that routine, and I really cherish that time. Mitesh Khatri [00:03:51]: Is she's so sweet and she has the cutest smile and the cuddles and kisses you get at that time, you think, well, you know, I'm never going to get this back. And she's only going to be this age, like this, this moment. So we have to make the most of it, because they do fade. I hear it from people with older children. You have clearly girls that have grown up. You have to appreciate that. And so I think my best moments, they're around the bedtime routine because you get to talk about the day. You get to talk about what they really enjoyed, what they liked in the day, what they didn't and might do differently. Mitesh Khatri [00:04:21]: And it's really sort of deep, meaningful connections which you might not get it. Sort of school pickup. How was your day? Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:04:26]: So talk to me a little bit about that transition that you had to go through because just hearing those three words, you can't switch on a dime. You definitely have to go through a process for yourself to, I'm going to say, reinvent yourself in many different ways to be able to change that paradigm for yourself. So talk to me a little bit about that and what you had to do to be able to make that shift. I'm guessing failing a few times along the way and then getting to the point where you are now. Mitesh Khatri [00:04:55]: Yeah, absolutely. I think, you know, what I found was I thought I could think myself to be present and calm. And actually I found at that point my, my body was tense. It was stressed out from work, stressed out from home work, life management, all things that new dads or sort of dads at least, I mean all dads, but especially with the young children, you have a lot of competing priorities. And I didn't think to look there, but actually looked to my body and I was tense in the shoulders, my back was hurting, I felt I was short of breath. Deadlines and emails and what's next for the kids in terms of what we need to take care of. And I had to go through a bit of journey to really understand how to relax my nervous system. Right. Mitesh Khatri [00:05:38]: Ultimately our. If we think back to sort of hunter gatherer times and we think about the threats we had, right? We always talk about the lion and we sort of have to run away from the lion, the threat, and then our sort of nervous system can calm down. In today's day and age, we all know with technology and the pace of life, there's almost this ambient stress and therefore our automatic nervous system actually never sort of calms down. So we need to be sort of this safe and secure place. Polyvagal theory sort of talks about this where you need to be safe and secure. The next stage is survival mode and then complete shutdown. And I think many of us, at least me at the time, I was at least in survival mode every day, if not shut down on every other day. And I had to get my body back and I had to sort of calm my body. Mitesh Khatri [00:06:25]: And I have a sort of framework in the book around how we can discharge that stress. And there's techniques

    36 min

  2. APR 20

    Small Moments, Big Impact: Strengthening Your Bond With Your Daughter

    In a world where the father-daughter relationship is often celebrated but not always explored in depth, "The Dad and Daughter Connection" podcast stands out as a guiding light for dads eager to nurture lifelong bonds with their daughters. In the latest heartwarming episode, host Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with Bernard Drew, a proud father, to discuss the unique joys and evolving challenges of raising independent, confident young women. Celebrating Small Moments That Matter One of the central themes of this episode is the importance of everyday intentionality. Bernard Drew recalls a cherished memory—taking his young daughter to a midnight premiere of her favorite movie, Hannah Montana. It wasn't a grand gesture but a simple act of presence and togetherness that, years later, still stands out for both father and daughter. Through stories like this, Bernard Drew emphasizes how small, thoughtful rituals, like watching movies or sharing inside jokes, lay the foundation for meaningful connections. Balancing Guidance with Independence A challenge many fathers face is balancing the instinct to protect with the need to allow daughters the freedom to grow. Bernard Drew shares openly about this ongoing journey. From having those tough conversations ("the sex talks, the hard things with society") to trusting the "seeds previously planted," he reflects on moments when he had to learn to step back and let his daughter own her choices. This powerful message reminds dads everywhere that guidance is important, but space and trust are essential for daughters to flourish as independent thinkers. The Value of Authenticity and Listening Another profound takeaway is the transformation that comes when fathers truly listen. Bernard Drew candidly admits that, growing up, he'd been raised in a "kids are seen and not heard" environment, but realized the importance of letting his daughter have a voice—especially through teenage transitions and life changes. Authentic, open dialogue not only makes daughters feel valued but also strengthens their self-worth. Encouragement for Dads Everywhere Throughout their conversation, both Dr. Christopher Lewis and Bernard Drew stress that being present, engaged, and authentic is more valuable than striving for perfection as a parent. The episode encourages listeners to invest in quality time, foster open communication, and continually learn—not just about their daughters, but about themselves as fathers. Whether you're seeking practical advice or inspiration, this episode offers a candid, uplifting look at what it means to be "the dad she needs." Tune in to strengthen your own connection and join a community devoted to raising confident, empowered daughters. Ready to dive in? Listen to the full conversation and start making your moments count! 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. 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, you. You and I have an opportunity, an opportunity to be able to work on those relationships that we want to have with our daughters. Christopher Lewis [00:01:02]: You know, I've got two daughters, and every week, I love being able to have you here with me as we're talking about these relationships and we're talking about what we can do to be able to build those stronger relationships, because each of us have a responsibility to be able to be there for our kids, not just our daughters, but our kids. But the relationship that you have with your daughter is a truly unique one and a very special one, and one that you do have to invest in and you have to work on. And that's why this podcast exists. It exists so that every week you have an opportunity to be able to learn, to grow, and to try to work on something. Might be small, it might be large that you can do to be able to either work on, repair, or continue to build that relationship with your daughter. That's why every week, I love bringing you different guests with different experiences that can help you do just that. And today, we've got another great guest, Bernard Drew is with us, and Bernard is a father of two, but today we're going to be talking about his relationship and his experiences with his own daughter. So I'm really excited to have him here. Christopher Lewis [00:02:07]: Bernard, thanks so much for being here today. Bernard Drew [00:02:08]: Dr. Chris, it's a pleasure to be here, and as you know, I've been so enamored. You do so many things from an extraordinary perspective academically, but I am most intrigued that you have this great passion, this relentless desire to support dads and their journeys with daughters. So it's actually an honor to be here and part of this community that you've been able to nurture. Christopher Lewis [00:02:29]: I appreciate you saying that, because it is a passion. It's been something that I've been working on for many, many years. And I love being able to talk to dads like you that have been right in it. And even today, I know today is your daughter's birthday, so happy birthday to your daughter. And while this will come out after your daughter's birthday, you we were just talking about the fact that before you came to be on the show today that you were over giving her a birthday present and dropping that off before we were talking. And it's those special moments, those little moments that so much. And I know your daughter is an adult now, and I. And I guess first and foremost, as we talk about that relationship with your daughter, talk to me about for you what is one of the most meaningful moments that you've shared with your daughter and what made it so special as Bernard Drew [00:03:16]: it's her birthday today. And I'll be grateful. We have a lot of great memories, one that always stands out. I think she had to been maybe 6 years old. And we're going back. She turned 24 today. So we're talking about, wow, that's crazy. Almost 18 years ago, maybe she was 6 or 7. Bernard Drew [00:03:32]: She had maybe about 7. And she was just absolutely enamored with Hannah Montana on the television on Disney Channel. And man, that was her show. And I would sit and spend time and just watch it with her and just hanging out. And long story short, they ended up having a movie came out and I ended up buying tickets so that she could go at midnight when it first opened that night to go see it. And we have a picture. And to this day, that is one of the most precious memories for her. Like my dad took me to see Hannah Montana at midnight. Bernard Drew [00:04:04]: To her, the thought of going to a movie at midnight was absur. Who does that? But then to be able to take her little Hannah Montana guitar and sit in the show and it's just a lot of those little moments compound them over time. And I'm so grateful. Almost regardless of any other accomplishments or accolades in life, man, I have enjoyed my journey with my daughter. Christopher Lewis [00:04:23]: All of us, as we go through this journey with our daughters and with our kids, we have to balance the expectations that we have. We have to balance the drive that we have to be able to guide them, to help them. Men in general, 10 to be helpers. They tend to be solvers. And sometimes that can be to the detriment of being a father to a daughter. So I guess the question that I have is either now that your daughter is an adult, or as she's grown up into the adult that she is today. How did you balance or how do you balance guiding your daughter while also giving her the independence to be the person that she was becoming as she was getting older or that she continues to become as she gets older? Bernard Drew [00:05:08]: Well, you went straight to one of the most profound, reflective questions we could go into here. And I'll say it's definitely an evolving spectrum, even today, and how to be the dad that she needs for this stage and season in life, and even how my role has evolved in years past. And sometimes I got it great. Sometimes it was like, oh, I missed the exit ramp when I was supposed to be a little less overbearing and give her a little more room to explore and discover. But I think it's somewhere in between that line of being a dad who wants to protect and prevent harm as well as the dad who wants to, hey, I need you to be prepared for this. So in our household, I was the one to have the hard conversations. I had the sex talks. I had the conversations about hard things with society and everything else. Bernard Drew [00:05:53]: That was a dad daughter thing. My wife was like, I'm so glad you're handling that. And I was glad to. I want my daughter to be prepared. But I think it was her sophomore year in high school, and she was volunteering, I do believe, to support the National Honor Society induction. And it dawned on me that she's going to be participating in this next year, two years from now. It finally hit me in the late spring of her sophomore year. I've got two more years with her, and she could be gone forever when she graduates high school. Bernard Drew [00:06:19]: I have no more, for lack of better words, control where she goes to college. I want her to have a confident choice where she goes. She could go to the other si

    23 min

  3. APR 13

    Helping your daughter transition to adulthood with confidence

    Hey dads—welcome back to Dad Connections in 5, where we talk practical, real-world ways to strengthen the relationship you have with your daughter in just five minutes. I'm Dr. Christopher Lewis, and today we're diving into a season that's both exciting and emotional for many dads: Helping your daughter transition to adulthood with confidence. Whether she's graduating high school, heading to college, starting a job, or moving out on her own, this is a major milestone—for her and for you. And as much as you may want to hold on, your role is shifting from protector to guide. So how do you support her independence while still staying close? Let's talk about how to do that with presence, patience, and purpose. Why This Transition Is a Big Deal Becoming an adult doesn't happen overnight. It's a slow, sometimes messy process. Your daughter may bounce between independence and insecurity. One moment she wants advice, the next she's sure she knows everything. And that's normal. What she really needs during this season is: Your trust in her ability to grow Your availability when she needs guidance And your reminders that she's not doing this alone When you show up in these ways, you're not just parenting—you're empowering. 3 Ways to Support Her Transition with Confidence 1. Shift from Solving to Coaching Your daughter is going to face adult-level problems—budgeting, job interviews, tough decisions. It's tempting to swoop in and solve them for her. But the real gift is helping her think through them herself. Try asking: "What options are you considering?" "What do you think your next step should be? "Want to talk it through together?" This teaches her that she has the tools—and that you trust her to use them. You're still there, but you're no longer holding the steering wheel. 2. Normalize Struggle and Growth Transitioning into adulthood comes with failure, doubt, and second-guessing. One of the most powerful things you can do? Let her know that's okay. Say things like: "Adulting is hard sometimes, and it's totally normal to feel overwhelmed." "You don't have to have it all figured out—none of us do." "Trying and failing doesn't make you weak. It makes you brave." When she feels safe to stumble, she'll be more willing to try. That's confidence rooted in reality—not perfection. 3. Stay Connected Without Hovering Your daughter still needs you, just in a different way. A simple check-in text, a shared lunch, or a weekend visit means more than you might think. Send a "thinking of you" message Ask, "What's something new you've learned this week?" Offer help without insisting on it This shows her: "I'm still here. Just differently now." Quick Takeaway: Try This Today Here's your challenge: Reach out to your daughter in a way that supports her independence and reminds her of your presence. It could be: A note that says, "I'm proud of the woman you're becoming." A text that says, "I'm here if you ever want to talk through life stuff." An invitation to grab coffee and celebrate how far she's come Let her know: 💬 "I trust you to take on the world—and I'll be cheering you on every step of the way." That's it for today's Dad Connections in 5. The road from girlhood to womanhood isn't always smooth—but when your daughter knows her dad believes in her, it makes the bumps feel a little smaller. Until next time—keep guiding, keep encouraging, and keep reminding her that growing up doesn't mean growing apart.

    6 min

  4. APR 6

    How to stay connected with your daughter even when travel or work takes you away

    Hey dads! Welcome back to Dad Connections in 5, where five intentional minutes spark deeper bonds with your daughter. I'm Dr. Christopher Lewis, and today we're tackling a modern challenge: How to stay connected with your daughter even when travel or work takes you away. Whether you're on a business trip, a deployment, or just headed out of town, being apart can be tough on both of you. But distance doesn't have to mean disconnection. Let's turn travel into an opportunity to build trust, anticipation, and closeness—no matter how many miles lie between you. Why It Matters Absence can create worries: "Is Dad thinking of me?" "Does he miss me?" When you're intentional, you answer those questions before they're asked. You show her that wherever you are, she's always in your heart—and on your mind. 3 Practical Ways to Stay Connected While Traveling 1. Establish a "Virtual Ritual" Pick a small, repeatable habit that you do together—no matter where you are. ·       Morning Text Check-In: Send a photo of your coffee or sunrise and ask her how she slept. ·       Evening Voice Note: Record a 30-second "goodnight" message sharing one thing you're proud of her for. ·       Daily Question Exchange: Each day, ask the same two questions—"What made you smile today?" and "What's one thing you're curious about?" These micro-moments turn ordinary routines into emotional lifelines. 2. Share a Digital "Adventure Journal" Use a shared photo album, note app, or group chat to create a joint travel journal. ·       Upload photos of local sights—ice cream stands, cool street art, your hotel view. ·       Jot down quick voice memos describing a funny language mix-up or a delicious snack you tried. ·       Encourage her to reply with her own mini journal entries—school highlights, a new friend, or a homework win. This isn't just you reporting in—it's a two-way story you write together, weaving your worlds even when you're apart. 3. Plan a Countdown Surprise Turn your return into a celebration she can help stage in advance. ·       Countdown Calendar: Share a digital calendar marking off days until you get back. ·       Surprise Reveal: Have her choose or create something you'll do together—bake cookies, hike, or movie night. ·       Welcome-Home Note: Ask her to leave sticky notes around the house—"Can't wait to hug you!"—and send her a similar message to find when she wakes up. Anticipation is a powerful connector—both for her and for you. Quick Takeaway: Start Today! Here's your challenge: Pick one of these ideas and launch it before your next trip—even if it's just across town. Set up a virtual ritual (morning text or nightly voice note). Create your shared digital journal right now—take one photo or voice note today. Sketch a simple countdown calendar and share it with her. These small, consistent actions tell your daughter: 💬 "I'm here for you—no matter where I am." And that message? It crosses every time zone. That's it for today's Dad Connections in 5. If you found this helpful, share it with another dad who's often on the move. Until next time—keep showing up, even when you're away, and keep growing that unbreakable connection. 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.

    6 min

  5. MAR 30

    How do you stay close to your daughter as she grows more independent?

    Hey dads, welcome back to Dad Connections in 5—your five-minute guide to building lasting relationships with your daughter, one intentional moment at a time. I'm Dr. Christopher Lewis, and today we're tackling a question that hits many dads right in the heart: How do you stay close to your daughter as she grows more independent? It's a bittersweet transition. The little girl who once ran into your arms now closes her bedroom door. She's making her own choices, forming opinions, building a life that isn't centered on you—and that's a good thing. That means you've done your job well. But it doesn't mean your relationship has to fade. Let's talk about how to keep that bond strong, even as she steps confidently into her own independence. Why This Season Matters As your daughter becomes more independent—whether she's 12, 18, or 25—what she really needs is to know that: You still see her You still support her And your love is unconditional, even if she needs you in different ways now She might not ask for your help like she used to, but she still values your presence, your approval, and your interest in who she's becoming. 3 Ways to Stay Connected as She Grows Up 1. Stay Curious, Not Controlling Instead of trying to stay close by holding on tight, stay close by letting go with intention. Ask her questions that invite conversation without judgment: "What's something you've been thinking about a lot lately?" "What's something new you're proud of?" "Want to bounce any ideas off me?" Let her know you're interested in her as a person, not just as your daughter. Curiosity says, "I care about who you are today." 2. Respect Her Space, But Be Consistently Present Your daughter may not need you to solve problems anymore—but she still needs to know you're there. Send a short text that says, "Thinking of you. Hope today's going well." Leave a sticky note or send a meme that'll make her smile. Invite her for lunch, a coffee, or a walk—but don't push if she says no. You're showing her that connection is always available, without pressure. That presence builds safety—and trust. 3. Celebrate Her Growth—Out Loud As she becomes more independent, she needs to hear that you're proud of who she's becoming—not just what she's doing. Say things like: "I love seeing how confident you've become." "You're handling that like a total adult—I'm seriously impressed." "Even though we don't talk as often, I think about you every day." These words are powerful. They reinforce your bond and remind her: "Dad still sees me, believes in me, and supports me—just in a new way." Quick Takeaway: Try This Today Here's your challenge: Send your daughter a short message today that recognizes her independence and reminds her of your love. Try: "I see how much you've grown lately—and I'm proud of who you're becoming." Or: "You may be more independent now, but I'll always be here if you need me." She may not say it out loud, but that message might be exactly what she needs to hear today. That's it for today's Dad Connections in 5. Remember—staying close isn't about holding on tight. It's about showing up with respect, love, and quiet consistency. Your daughter's growing independence isn't the end of your bond—it's just a new chapter. Until next time—keep cheering her on, keep being steady, and keep reminding her that no matter how far she goes, she'll always have a place in your heart. 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.

    6 min

  6. MAR 23

    Healing Artfully: Creative Ways for Dads to Connect with Their Daughters

    If you're a dad looking for meaningful ways to connect with your daughter and navigate the often tricky terrain of emotions, the latest episode of the Dad and Daughter Connection podcast is essential listening. Hosted by Dr. Christopher Lewis, this episode features Cheryl Rosenberg—a coach and creator of the Healing Artfully program. Together, they unpack the challenges and rewards of building lasting father-daughter relationships. Understanding Through Story and Experience Cheryl Rosenberg opens the conversation by reflecting on her own close relationship with her father, emphasizing how his steady love, honesty, and encouragement shaped her life. She shares that the simple act of her father being present—whether teaching her to paint or expressing pride in her achievements—made an enduring difference in her confidence and sense of being valued. Her story is a reminder that it's the consistent, every-day practices—not grand gestures—that lay a foundation for trust and communication. Reconnecting When Emotions Run High One of the central themes of the episode is how fathers can best respond during the turbulent teenage years, when daughters might seem withdrawn or overwhelmed by big emotions. Cheryl Rosenberg notes that, for many dads, the instinct is to "fix" things or resort to logic and discipline. But often, what daughters need most is simply their dad's calm presence and willingness to listen. As Dr. Christopher Lewis puts it, "connection doesn't come from fixing, it comes from presence." Tools for Emotional Connection The episode delves into creative solutions for building rapport, especially when words fall short. Cheryl Rosenberg's Healing Artfully program encourages both daughters and parents to use artistic expression and journaling to process feelings and spark honest discussions. These activities don't require artistic talent—just the willingness to explore and share emotions together. Dads are encouraged to participate, using art and even weekly "check-ins" to open new avenues of dialogue and trust. Practical Takeaways for Every Dad Listeners will come away with actionable advice: set aside regular time to check in, engage in shared activities (even a simple card game), and respond with compassion rather than quick solutions. And most of all, dads are reminded that their steady presence and acceptance are the anchors their daughters need to thrive. Ready to build a closer relationship with your daughter? Tune in to this episode and start the conversation today. 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 on those relationships that we want to have with our own daughters to make them be as strong as they can be and to help us build those strong lasting relationships that'll help us to be amazing dads, but also having amazing relationships with our kids. And every week I love being able to have you here to be able to work on this together. And I love being able to introduce you to people that have resources that can help you to be able to do just that. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:25]: And today's guest is someone that I know you're going to appreciate. Cheryl Rosenberg is a coach, and she's the creator of the Healing Artfully program, where she helps students ages 12 to 20 who are struggling with big emotions, disruptive behaviors, or stress at home or school. But you know what I love about Cheryl's work is that she doesn't just focus on the child. She works closely with All of Us as Overwhelmed Parents: Helping Families Rebuild Connections, Emotional Regulation, and Peaceful Communication. If you're a dad who's ever felt unsure how to respond to your daughter's big feelings or wondered how to reconnect when things may feel tense, this conversation is definitely going to be for you. Cheryl, thanks so much for being here today. Cheryl Rosenberg [00:02:14]: Thank you for having me, Chris. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:16]: Well, I'm really excited to have you here today, and As always, I love being able to start the conversation reflecting back on your own relationship with your father. I guess first and foremost, before we even get into the relationship, tell me a little bit about your dad. Cheryl Rosenberg [00:02:31]: I would love to. My father, he was raised in a very poor environment. Grandfather was out of work, and they had very little food, which made my father very self-sufficient and very driven to be crosshu— provide for his family. And he was a wonderful man. He was honest and sincere and very loving. And he had a brother who was not quite as capable as he, and he would take him to different job sites and get him work that he could do, stuff that he was able to complete and, um, contribute. He had wonderful hand skills. He could make anything. Cheryl Rosenberg [00:03:17]: But my father was 17 when he went into the Army in— during World War II. He was all over the European theater, and he would tell me stories about being there and what they would do, and about going into farmhouses that had been vacated, and they'd find potatoes and cook those. That's the only thing they had to eat. And about different battles and, and how they survived and the different things that they did. He was very fair. He was hands-on, and he was just so loving. And I used to love to sit next to him on the couch on a Sunday afternoon and watch a movie with him. And if he had seen the movie, he would tell me a little bit about it. Cheryl Rosenberg [00:04:04]: And I, I just loved to listen to him, listen to him talk. And he had his old ways and his old patterns of speech, but he was a self-made man and he did very well for himself. He was a telegrapher on the railroad, which means that he would take the messages that were sent and he could more or less tap Morse code and, and then get down to the tracks and change the— change the direction of the tracks. And that was up in the tower, his tower too, where he worked. But Couldn't have asked for a better father. He was there for me all the time. And I didn't have a great mother, but I did have a great father and he made up for it. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:04:51]: So tell me one thing that your dad did that made you truly feel seen, heard, or valued as a daughter. Cheryl Rosenberg [00:04:59]: Well, he always taught me— I always felt like he wanted me to be my best, do my best, and he would speak to me in those terms and tell me how I could do that and what I needed to do. And then he'd say, "Try it. Just be— just be diligent in your efforts." And he would tell me about working in school and how he was so proud of that, of me and my schoolwork. And he would say, you know, "You, you've done a marvelous job with—" I always— cleaning the house or doing the laundry or, like I said, schoolwork or being a good sister to my sister, helping my mother and helping him. I used to love to help him paint. I took on his ability to paint and I used to hand paint furniture artistically. So he taught me that and that was ingrained in me and he just always made me feel loved and cared for. And I would go to him with anything because he was so understanding. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:06:05]: Now, looking back, was there a moment where your dad's support or guidance had a significant impact on your growth? Or confidence? Cheryl Rosenberg [00:06:14]: I don't remember any one specific time. I just— it was constant. There was a constant feeling of support and love, and I can't think of a one particular incident at this moment, but he was always there. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:06:30]: Now, no father is perfect. We all have our flaws. What are some things you wish your dad had done differently when it came to building your relationship? Cheryl Rosenberg [00:06:39]: Well, this may surprise you, but my sister and I have talked about this at length. And my sister and I both wish that our father had left our mother. But he wouldn't do that. He was from that era where you didn't divorce. When he was home, he would take care of a situation that she had created. But when he wasn't, we were at her mercy. And, uh, so that was the one thing we wish that he would have left and taken us. With him because it could be bad when he wasn't there. Cheryl Rosenberg [00:07:13]: So we felt like it would have been better to— for him to step in and, and help us all the time, when some of the time he would just let her take charge and we would be— we never knew what was coming. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:07:27]: What do you feel is one thing that your dad taught you that has made a huge impact on your life? Cheryl Rosenberg [00:07:34]: To be and do my best at everything that I tried. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:07:38]: And if you had the opportunity to spend a day with your dad now doing anything, what would it look like? Cheryl Rosenberg [00:07:45]: It would look like going to an, an old park where he would take my sister and I when we were children, going there and sitting on a blanket because we did that, uh, we did that often with him and sitting around and talking and, or pos

    24 min

  7. MAR 16

    Teaching your daughter that vulnerability is strength

    Hey dads, welcome back to Dad Connections in 5—where we equip you with short, powerful tools to build deeper, lasting connections with your daughter. I'm Dr. Christopher Lewis, and today's topic might just be one of the most important in your parenting journey: Teaching your daughter that vulnerability is strength. In a world that often tells our girls to "be tough," "don't cry," or "keep it together," it's crucial that she hears a different message from you—the man she looks to for emotional guidance. She needs to know that it's okay to feel, to struggle, to ask for help. And that doing so isn't weakness—it's courage. Let's explore how to model that kind of emotional strength in everyday life. Why Vulnerability Matters Vulnerability is the foundation of emotional intelligence, resilience, and healthy relationships. When your daughter understands that expressing her emotions is safe and strong, she learns: That she doesn't have to hide who she is That connection is built through honesty, not perfection That her emotions are valid—not something to be ashamed of And here's the key: she'll believe it when she sees it in you. 3 Ways to Model and Teach Vulnerability 1. Show Her What Vulnerability Looks Like in You One of the most powerful lessons you can give your daughter is letting her see that you have emotions too. That doesn't mean breaking down in every moment—but it does mean saying: "I've had a really hard day, and I'm feeling overwhelmed." "I messed up earlier, and I feel disappointed in myself." "I don't have all the answers, but I'm here and willing to listen." This shows her that strength isn't about having it all together. It's about being real—and still showing up. 2. Create a Safe Space for Her Emotions If your daughter opens up to you—whether it's about a rough day, anxiety, heartbreak, or self-doubt—resist the urge to fix it right away. First, validate her. Try this: "That sounds really hard. I'm glad you told me." "It's okay to feel that way. I've felt that too." "You don't have to go through this alone." She'll remember not just what you said, but how you made her feel—safe, seen, and loved. 3. Celebrate Emotional Courage If your daughter opens up about something vulnerable—affirm that bravery. "I know that wasn't easy to talk about, but it means a lot that you did." "You were really strong for speaking up." "Being honest about how you feel takes guts—and I'm proud of you." This rewires her thinking: Vulnerability isn't weakness—it's powerful. And it reinforces that being emotionally open is something to be proud of, not something to hide. Quick Takeaway: Try This Today Here's your challenge: Open up about something small but real today—something that lets your daughter see your heart. It could be: "I'm nervous about this big meeting at work tomorrow." "I've been feeling a little off today, and I'm not sure why." "I'm really proud of how you handled that earlier. It reminded me how I wish I'd done the same at your age." Even one vulnerable moment builds trust. And it opens the door for her to be vulnerable too. That's it for today's Dad Connections in 5. Remember—when you show your daughter that vulnerability is strength, you're giving her permission to live honestly, love fully, and connect deeply. And that's one of the greatest gifts a father can give. Until next time—keep showing up, keep opening up, and keep building that foundation of trust that lasts a lifetime. 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.

    6 min

  8. MAR 9

    Building Stronger Bonds: Dads, Daughters, and Calming Teenage Anxiety

    Building a strong, meaningful relationship with your daughter is a journey—one filled with ups and downs, learning curves, and rewarding moments. On a recent episode of the "Dad and Daughter Connection" podcast, host Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with teen mental health specialist and author Sophia Vale Galano to explore this crucial bond, especially during the challenging teenage years. The episode kicks off with Dr. Christopher Lewis and Sophia Vale Galano reflecting on their own relationships with their fathers. Sophia shares how her dad's ability to truly listen and validate her feelings stood out as a pivotal part of her upbringing. As she recalls, even during rough patches or adolescent turmoil, her dad's nurturing, present, and non-judgmental approach cultivated a sense of safety and trust—a lesson that still shapes her adult life and the way she parents her own child. A major theme explored is the importance of active listening over "fixing" when it comes to supporting anxious teens. Sophia pulls from her book Calming Teenage Anxiety and explains that while it's natural for dads (and all parents) to want to solve problems, the real magic happens when parents simply listen. Reflecting on both her personal experience and her professional expertise, she emphasizes that daughters don't always want solutions—they want support, validation, and someone in their corner. Another core topic in the conversation is the challenge posed by today's comparison culture and social media. Rather than restricting or policing teens, Sophia urges dads to engage in open conversations, seek to understand their daughter's experience with digital platforms, and help them build healthy self-worth amidst outside influences. The podcast also addresses the pressure teens feel to "succeed," encouraging dads to balance ambition with empathy. It's all about collaborating with teens, understanding their interests, and making sure encouragement doesn't accidentally become overwhelming pressure. The episode closes with practical advice: It's never too late to repair and grow your relationship with your daughter. Vulnerability, communication, and a willingness to meet your teen where they are can make all the difference. Whether you're a seasoned dad or just starting the journey, this episode is filled with wisdom, warmth, and actionable strategies. Tune in for real stories and expert insights that will leave you feeling inspired and better equipped to connect with your daughter. Listen now to the full episode of the "Dad and Daughter Connection" and start building the relationship your daughter needs today! 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, a great opportunity to be able to work on building those strong relationships with our own daughters. And I love that because every week I love being able to walk with you on this journey. I can't say I am an expert. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:07]: I try my best. I have two daughters myself, as you know, but all of us can learn and all of us can be better fathers in the end. And that's why every week I love coming back to be able to, to walk on this journey with you and to be able to have these conversations that we have every week. And that's why I bring you different people with different experiences that can share those experiences with you to help you to to prepare you and to provide you with some tools for your own toolbox to help you be the dad that you want to be. This week, I am really excited to be able to have Sophia Vale Galano with us. And Sophia is a licensed clinical social worker and teen mental health specialist and the author of a book called Calming Teenage Anxiety. And for any of you that have teens, you know that anxiety comes with it. So it is important to know how to manage that, but also to kind of ride the wave as you're going through those teenage years and to be able to support your daughters in many different ways, because Sophia's work focuses on helping parents like you and I better understand what anxiety really looks like in today's teenagers, and more importantly, how to show up in ways that truly help. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:15]: One of the things I really liked in reading through the book myself, I loved the fact that I saw a lot of real-life stories, practical tools, and powerful reflection exercises that you can go through to help you to be more attuned to what your kids are going through. Because Sophia is, is guiding you as the reader to build a calmer, more connected relationship with your teen, not by fixing them, but by walking alongside them with empathy, awareness, and confidence. Her message is one that for me, and I think from you too, you're gonna find that it's a message you need to hear. And it's that your presence, your listening, and your emotional modeling matter more than you think. So I'm really excited to have Sophia here today to be able to talk to her and to have her as a guest on the show. Sophia, thanks so much for being here. Sophia Vale Galano [00:03:07]: Thank you so much for having me. I'm excited to be here and I appreciate the lovely introduction. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:03:12]: I really appreciate you being here. And I always start these interviews with an opportunity to delve a little bit deeper into your own relationship with your dad. So I guess to start off, tell me a little bit about your dad. And what's one thing that your dad did that made you feel truly seen, heard, and valued as a daughter? Endia Crabtree [00:03:30]: I so appreciate that question. I'm really excited to chat about this because full transparency, I really do feel very fortunate because I've had a really positive relationship with my dad. Of course, there have been bumps. Nothing's perfect, but overall my dad and I have always been very close. I grew up in a bit of an unconventional family structure where my mom went and worked in an office. She ran a major film company. She traveled a lot, and my dad was at home with me from ages 5 and up. So really, I feel fortunate in the sense that, you know, A, I got to spend a lot of time with my dad, which I feel that a lot of people don't have. Endia Crabtree [00:04:08]: And also, I felt very heard and seen by my dad. I feel that my dad did an amazing job at really listening to me and validating me throughout the years. I have such distinct memories of being a teenager and coming back from high school, grabbing a snack, and, you know, going into the room and chatting with him about my day, talking to him about what happened with friend drama, boy drama, things that most people don't speak with their dad about when they're age 16, you know, particularly a, you know, 15, 16-year-old girl. And I feel my dad, I remember kind of around age 12 or so when I was in 7th grade. And, you know, my dad talks to me about this now, you know, since, you know, I'm an adult now, my dad's an adult. And he always jokes that he had this kind of, you know, revelation when I was age 12 that, oh, my daughter, even though she's 12, is starting to have more needs as an adult, as a, a woman versus a girl. She doesn't want to be fixed. She doesn't want to be told what to do. Endia Crabtree [00:05:08]: She wants to be listened to. She wants to be validated. And I think it's really eye-opening for him because I was so young, but it really— he noticed a shift, and honestly, I noticed a shift. And that's something that honestly still, still happens. I still call my dad when I've had a rough day, and I'm just like, ugh, I just need to vent, or I just, I just need to talk this out. And he'll hear me out, you know, and he'll listen to me, and then he will say, what can I do to support, or what can I do to help? He'll ask me those questions. But my dad, again, I'm so fortunate because my dad really, really does a fantastic job of listening to me. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:05:43]: So let's delve a little bit into that because what do you think it was? And maybe you've had these conversations with your dad about this, but what allowed for your father to be able to— I'm going to say flip the script because a lot of times a lot of dads don't have that innate ability to as you said, listen, to connect, and to be able to build those strong relationships. And it seems like your dad was able to do that from an— from early on. So what was it about your dad or what allowed for him to bring that to the relationship from early on? Endia Crabtree [00:06:14]: Yes. Well, I do think that my dad was very present with me. I mean, obviously, you know, when he was there with me, we were talking, of course, he's present, engaged in the conversation. But, you know, I had so much interaction with my dad on the day-to-day. So I think that really helped because he really got a sense of, you know, how I operate. And he knew me really, really well. Um, but it really— we talk about this, my dad and I kind of laugh about it now— that when I was 12, I moved to America from England. I know it's hard to believe with my accent, but I had a really tough time as a 12-year-old adjus

    32 min
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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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