Episodios

  • Dropping Anger, Building Bonds: Tools for Healthy Father-Daughter Relationships

    Dropping Anger, Building Bonds: Tools for Healthy Father-Daughter Relationships
    Jun 23 2025
    When it comes to the unique and deeply important relationship between fathers and daughters, few conversations are as honest, insightful, and practical as the recent episode of the “Dad and Daughter Connection” podcast featuring Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield. Whether you’re a father looking for inspiration, practical tips, or simply reassurance that you’re not alone on your parenting journey, this episode stands out as a must-listen. Honest Conversations About Fatherhood Host Dr. Christopher Lewis welcomes Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield, a renowned expert on father-daughter dynamics, back for a candid and heartfelt conversation. She shares her personal story—growing up as one of four daughters with a father from a tough South Chicago background, and navigating a complex but loving relationship marked by resilience and honest effort. Dr. Canfield’s openness about family wounds, generational patterns, anger, and the need for introspection brings a refreshing vulnerability to the dialogue. Her reminder is clear: you don’t need to be perfect, but you do need to be present, willing to learn, and capable of examining your own story. Practical Strategies Every Dad Should Know One of the episode’s biggest strengths is its wealth of actionable advice. Dr. Canfield emphasizes the power of curiosity, vulnerability, and humility in connecting with daughters. She advocates for practical steps like Starting meaningful conversations—even if it means getting creative or asking your daughter to teach you something new, Making amends and taking responsibility when you’ve made mistakes, And, perhaps most importantly, “dropping your anger”—a theme that resonated deeply with listeners and quickly went viral on social media. Dr. Canfield also explores how fathers can help daughters build resilience and self-confidence in the digital age. She encourages dads to lean in with curiosity when confronting social media challenges, ask thoughtful questions, and co-create boundaries around technology use. Why You Should Tune In This episode is not just for dads who feel like they have it all figured out—it’s for every father, at every stage, who wants to do right by his daughter. The conversation is compassionate, empowering, and full of wisdom you can put into practice today. Ready to build a deeper, more meaningful relationship with your daughter? Listen to the full episode of the “Dad and Daughter Connection” and take your first step towards being the dad she needs—present, engaged, and always willing to grow. 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 doctor 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. I am so glad that you are back with us again this week. As always, every week, you and I are on a journey together as we are working to build those strong relationships with our daughters. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:06]: And it takes time. It takes effort. It takes a willingness to jump all in because every day is gonna be different, and some days are gonna be better than others. And you have to be willing to learn. You have to be willing to take that jump and know that you're not always gonna have all the answers. And that's why every week this podcast is here to give you some some help, some hints, some tips to be able to add to your own toolbox so that you can be that dad that you wanna be, so that you can keep showing up with your daughter and building that strong relationship that you want. And that's why every week, I love being able to bring you different guests with different experiences that can help you to do just that. And this week, I am really excited because I'm bringing a guest that I've interviewed on a previous podcast back, and I am so excited to introduce her to you. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:00]: Doctor Michelle Watson Canfield is with us today, And Doctor. Canfield and I go back. The last time that we talked, I think was in 2020, and we were talking about her newer book at that point called Let's Talk. And at that time, that was a new book for her that she was just bringing out and was conversation starters for dads and daughters. But she has been talking to dads, working with dads for many years in helping them to ...
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    43 m
  • Car Ride Conversations: Turning Drive Time into Bonding Time

    Car Ride Conversations: Turning Drive Time into Bonding Time
    Jun 20 2025

    Hey dads, welcome back to Dad Connections in 5—the podcast where in just five minutes, you get simple, meaningful ideas to help build a stronger connection with your daughter. I’m [Your Name], and today we’re hitting the road—literally.

    Let’s talk about how those everyday car rides—school drop-offs, errands, sports practice—can become some of the best bonding moments you’ll ever have.

    You don’t need a special trip or a deep heart-to-heart planned. You just need a little intention—and the willingness to show up, even between red lights.

    Why Car Rides Are Gold for Connection

    Think about it:

    • You’re both in the same space.
    • Distractions are minimal (unless the radio’s blasting).
    • And most importantly—you’re side-by-side, not face-to-face.

    That side-by-side setup? It’s powerful. It’s less intense, less intimidating, and often opens the door to more open, honest conversation.

    Car rides can be that perfect mix of casual and meaningful—a natural space where your daughter feels safe to talk without pressure.

    3 Easy Ways to Turn Drive Time into Bonding Time

    1. Start with Curiosity, Not Questions

    We all fall into the “How was school?” trap. But try swapping that with:

    • "What made you laugh today?”
    • "What was the weirdest thing you saw?”
    • “What’s one thing you wish you didn’t have to do this week?”

    These aren’t interviews—they’re invitations. You’re saying: “I’m genuinely interested in your world.”

    And even if she shrugs the first few times, keep going. Over time, the message sticks.

    2. Use Music as a Connector

    Let her DJ. Seriously. Ask her to share her favorite songs—and actually listen. Even if it’s not your thing.

    Then say:

    • “What do you like about this song?”
    • “This one reminds me of something I listened to when I was your age.”

    Music can be a powerful bridge. It’s emotional, expressive, and a way to bond without needing constant dialogue.

    3. Embrace the Silence

    Not every ride needs to be packed with conversation. In fact, quiet moments can be just as valuable.

    Sometimes she’s processing. Sometimes she just needs your calm presence.

    And then—out of nowhere—she’ll start talking.
    About something funny, or something serious.

    And you’ll realize that because you stayed present—she trusted the silence enough to break it.

    Quick Takeaway: Try This Today

    Here’s your challenge:
    During your next car ride with your daughter, pick one of these simple steps:

    • Ask a question that’s different from your usual go-to
    • Let her pick the music—and actually talk about it
    • Sit in the quiet, and be ready when she opens up

    And when she does?

    • Listen without fixing.
    • Laugh with her.
    • Let her know you love these moments just as much as she does—even if she doesn’t say it back.

    Because connection isn’t always about the destination. Sometimes, it’s built one mile at a time—on the way there.

    That’s it for this episode of Dad Connections in 5. If this reminded you that bonding doesn’t have to be complicated or scheduled, share it with another dad who’s doing the morning drop-off or weekend errands.

    Until next time—keep driving, keep listening, and keep using the in-between moments to build something that lasts.

    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.
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    7 m
  • Strengthening Father-Daughter Bonds: Lessons from Broadcaster David Andrews

    Strengthening Father-Daughter Bonds: Lessons from Broadcaster David Andrews
    Jun 16 2025
    Building a strong, meaningful connection with your daughter doesn't come with a manual—a truth at the heart of every episode of the Dad and Daughter Connection podcast. In a recent interview, Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with David Andrews, Lansing’s beloved news anchor and a proud father of three daughters, to dive into the joys and challenges of being a dad. This heartwarming episode is packed with both relatable moments and insightful advice for dads at any stage of their parenting journey. David openly shares that fatherhood, especially to three daughters with very different personalities, has been “a crash course” in love, patience, and adaptability. Yet, through each unique relationship, a single lesson rings true: being present and intentional is what builds lasting bonds. Intentional Connection A recurring theme of the conversation is the power of simply being there. David recounts the choice he and his wife made to adjust their work schedules, ensuring one parent was always home. By prioritizing presence, not perfection, David built trust and closeness with each daughter. From doing Austin’s hair in the mornings to spontaneous fishing trips with Carson as an adult, these moments weren’t just about activities—they were about making memories and fostering meaningful conversations. Guidance and Independence David is honest about the tricky balance between guiding your kids and letting them carve their own paths. He emphasizes the importance of supporting unique dreams—even when they take unexpected turns, like his daughter transitioning from tattoo artist to hair colorist, or another working to eradicate mosquito-borne diseases. His approach? Offer guidance, but let them discover their true passions, leaning on your own life experiences for wisdom without controlling their choices. Listening and Traditions The essence of feeling ‘valued and heard’ is simple: listen more, lecture less. David’s philosophy on fatherhood centers on being a reliable sounding board—letting his daughters express themselves openly, knowing he’ll respond with empathy (not a sermon). He also highlights the value of family traditions, from regular birthday dinners to playful social media photoshoots, which have evolved into cherished rituals that unite his family. Taking Life Lightly With humor as a family glue, David reminds dads: don’t take life too seriously. Whether through social media antics or cheering for the Green Bay Packers together, laughter keeps relationships strong and reminds everyone that joy is found in the journey, not just the destination. Ready for More? If you’re eager for practical wisdom and real-world stories about raising strong, independent daughters, this episode with David Andrews is a must-listen. Tune in to the Dad and Daughter Connection podcast—because every dad deserves to feel seen, supported, and inspired. 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. I am so excited that you're here today as we are delving back into that relationship that you're trying to build with your daughter. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:02]: It is such an important relationship, and every week I love that you are here to be able to talk about that, but also to learn and to grow from that. Because none of us walk into fatherhood with a manual about how to be the dad that we want to be. We learned it along the way. We trip, we fall, we make mistakes as well. And that's why every week, I love being able to bring you different people with different experiences and be able to offer you some sneak peeks into their experiences in raising daughters so that you can learn from them. Today we got another great guest with us. David Andrews is with us today. And David is a news reporter, a anchor, someone that's been in the Lansing news market for many years. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:49]: He's been at WIOX since the late 90s and even before that was at Channel 6 in Lansing. So he's been in the news agency for a long time. Very well known in the Lansing community, but he's got three daughters himself. So I'm always excited to be able to talk to other dads with daughters, to be able to gain some...
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    19 m
  • Body Image and Self-Esteem: How Dads Can Make a Difference

    Body Image and Self-Esteem: How Dads Can Make a Difference
    Jun 13 2025
    Hey dads! Welcome to Dad Connections in 5, your quick, practical guide to building a stronger bond with your daughter—one meaningful moment at a time. I’m [Your Name], and today, we’re tackling an issue that affects so many girls today—body image and self-esteem. Let’s be real—the world bombards our daughters with unrealistic beauty standards every single day. Whether it’s social media, TV, or even casual comments from others, the pressure to look a certain way is everywhere. But here’s the good news—you, as her dad, have a powerful role in shaping how she sees herself. Your words, your actions, and even the way you talk about yourself can build her confidence or tear it down. So today, I’m giving you three powerful ways to help your daughter develop a healthy body image and strong self-esteem. Why Your Role as a Dad Matters Girls with supportive, affirming fathers tend to: ✅ Feel more confident in their own skin. ✅ Base their worth on who they are, not how they look. ✅ Have higher self-esteem and resilience against negative influences. The way you see her will become how she sees herself. 3 Ways Dads Can Help Their Daughters Build a Healthy Body Image Compliment Her Beyond Her Appearance It’s easy to say, “You’re beautiful”—and you should! But if the only praise she hears is about her looks, she may start believing her value is tied to her appearance. ✅ Mix in compliments about her character: 💬 “I love how kind you are to your friends.” 💬 “You are so strong and determined—I admire that about you.” 💬 “Your creativity blows me away!” This reinforces that her beauty is more than skin deep. Be Mindful of How You Talk About Bodies—Including Your Own Your daughter is always listening, even when you’re not talking directly to her. If you’re constantly saying things like: ❌ “Ugh, I need to lose weight.” ❌ “I can’t eat that—I’ll get fat.” ❌ “She looks terrible in that outfit.” She learns that appearance is something to be criticized. Instead, model self-acceptance by: ✅ Speaking positively about your own body – Show her that health matters more than size. ✅ Avoiding body-shaming comments about others – Teach her that everyone deserves respect. ✅ Focusing on what your body can DO, not just how it looks – “I love that my legs are strong enough to run with you.” Your words shape how she talks to herself. Teach Her That Social Media is NOT Reality Filters, editing, and curated images make it easy for girls to compare themselves to impossible standards. Help her develop a healthy mindset by: 💬 Asking critical questions – “Do you think this picture was edited?” 💬 Pointing out unrealistic portrayals – “No one actually looks like that 24/7.” 💬 Encouraging social media breaks – Help her see that her worth isn’t tied to likes and comments. If she struggles with comparison, remind her: 👉 “The most important thing about you isn’t what you look like—it’s who you are.” Quick Takeaways: Start Today! Here’s your challenge: Today, give your daughter a compliment that has nothing to do with her appearance. ✅ Encourage her for her strength, kindness, or intelligence. ✅ Be mindful of how you talk about bodies—including your own. ✅ Help her see that social media isn’t reality. The way she sees herself starts with how you see her—make sure she knows she is enough, exactly as she is. That’s it for today’s Dad Connections in 5! If this was helpful, share it with another dad who wants to help his daughter build unshakable confidence. Until next time—keep showing up, keep lifting her up, and keep reminding her that she is more than enough. 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.
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    7 m
  • Running Together: Building Strong Bonds, Confidence, and Healthy Habits with Your Daughter

    Running Together: Building Strong Bonds, Confidence, and Healthy Habits with Your Daughter
    Jun 9 2025
    If you’re a dad looking to deepen your relationship with your daughter and help her thrive, this week’s episode of the Dad and Daughter Connection podcast is a must-listen. Host Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with Michele Pettinger—owner of P3Running, coach, nutrition expert, and author of The Young Runner’s Guide to Nutrition—for an inspiring, heartfelt conversation about parenting, connection, and empowering young women. The Power of Presence and Shared Activities A central theme of the episode is the lasting impact of simply “showing up” for your child. Michele recounts how her father, a high school cross country coach, introduced her to running by joining her on her very first run at age 12. It was more than physical activity; it was a moment of connection, respect, and mutual understanding. Even when they didn’t always see eye to eye, their shared love for running kept their bond strong. Michele’s story reminds us that the foundations for confidence and independence are often laid not through grand gestures, but through small, consistent acts of engagement and support. Nurturing Healthy Habits—Body and Mind Drawing on her new book, Michele emphasizes the importance of instilling positive nutrition habits in young athletes, particularly girls who can be vulnerable to mixed messages around food and body image. She highlights the unique influence fathers can have—by focusing on their daughter’s strengths and performance, not appearance, and by taking an active role in meal planning and family routines. Her advice? Share the kitchen, have open conversations, and model an attitude of curiosity and empathy. Beyond nutrition, Michele also touches on how dads can support their daughters emotionally, helping them overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome by celebrating effort, resilience, and genuine interests. Sometimes, she notes, daughters just need you to listen rather than offer solutions. A Toolbox for Every Dad This episode is packed with practical insights—from finding moments of connection outside traditional family dinners, to fostering open dialogue about challenges like eating disorders and self-esteem. Michele and Dr. Lewis provide actionable advice and heartfelt encouragement for fathers at every stage of parenting. If you want inspiration and real-world tips for being the dad your daughter needs, tune into this episode of the Dad and Daughter Connection. Listen now and become part of a community dedicated to raising strong, confident young women—one day and one conversation at a time. 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 doctor 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 an opportunity to work together to walk on this path side by side as we are working to raise our daughters and to build those strong relationships with them one day at a time. This podcast is all about building strong connections between ourselves and our daughters, and there are things that you and I can do every day to be able to do just that. It's not always gonna be easy. There's going to be bumps in the road. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:25]: But as long as we keep showing up and keep working at it and keep engaging with our daughters and meeting them where they are, things are going to be positive. Things are gonna be moving in the right direction. But this podcast is here to be able to give you some tools for your toolbox, to give you some insights, give you some thoughts, give you some things to chew on as you are going through your day and to allow you and help you along this journey. That's why every week, I love being able to bring you different guests, different people with different experiences that can provide you with some perspective, provide you with some thoughts, some things...
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    28 m
  • What to Say When Your Daughter Feels Like She’s Not Good Enough

    What to Say When Your Daughter Feels Like She’s Not Good Enough
    Jun 6 2025
    Hey dads! Welcome to Dad Connections in 5, your quick, practical guide to building a stronger bond with your daughter—one meaningful conversation at a time. I’m [Your Name], and today, we’re tackling a tough but important topic: What to say when your daughter feels like she’s not "good enough." Maybe she’s struggling in school, feeling left out with friends, or comparing herself to others on social media. No matter the reason, hearing your daughter doubt herself is heartbreaking—and as a dad, you want to fix it. But here’s the thing—you can’t just tell her she’s amazing and expect her to believe it. Confidence doesn’t come from just hearing “You’re great.” It comes from learning how to face self-doubt and push through it. So today, I’ll share why she might feel this way, what NOT to say, and three powerful things you CAN say to help her build confidence. Why She Might Feel Like She’s Not “Good Enough” Kids, especially girls, are under so much pressure—to be smart, pretty, talented, popular, successful. And if they don’t meet these impossible standards, they start believing: ➡️ “I’ll never be as good as everyone else.” ➡️ “I’m just not talented enough.” ➡️ “No matter how hard I try, it’s never enough.” This self-doubt can come from school, friendships, social media, or even just being too hard on herself. What NOT to Say When she’s feeling down, you might be tempted to quickly reassure her, but some common responses can actually backfire. ❌ “That’s not true, you’re amazing!” (She won’t believe it in the moment.) ❌ “Stop being so hard on yourself.” (She doesn’t know how to stop.) ❌ “Other people have it worse.” (Minimizing doesn’t help—she just wants to be heard.) Instead of trying to fix it immediately, help her work through it. 3 Things to Say When She Feels “Not Good Enough” 1. “It’s okay to feel this way, but let’s look at the facts.” Self-doubt often comes from feelings, not facts. Help her step back and see the bigger picture. 💬 “I hear you. You feel like you’re not good enough—but is that really true, or just how you feel right now?” 💬 “Let’s look at all the ways you’ve improved or worked hard.” When she separates emotions from reality, she can start to reframe her thinking. 2. “What would you say to a friend who felt this way?” When kids doubt themselves, they’re often much kinder to others than to themselves. 💬 “If your best friend said, ‘I’m not good enough,’ what would you tell her?” 💬 “Why don’t you deserve that same kindness?” This helps her recognize her own worth—on her own terms. 3. “Let’s focus on growth, not perfection.” Perfectionism is a major reason kids feel like they’re not good enough. Teach her that progress matters more than being the best. 💬 “You don’t have to be perfect to be valuable.” 💬 “Every mistake is a chance to learn and grow.” 💬 “What’s one thing you can do today to take a step forward?” By focusing on small wins, she learns that effort is what really counts. Quick Takeaways: Start Today! Here’s your challenge: The next time your daughter says she’s not good enough, don’t just tell her she is—help her believe it. ✅ Validate her feelings without minimizing them. ✅ Help her see facts, not just emotions. ✅ Encourage her to treat herself like she would a friend. ✅ Shift her focus from perfection to progress. Your words won’t just lift her up in the moment—they’ll shape how she talks to herself for years to come. That’s it for today’s Dad Connections in 5! If this was helpful, share it with another dad who wants to help his daughter believe in herself. Until next time—keep listening, keep encouraging, and keep showing her that she is more than enough. 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.
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    6 m
  • Granddad Sings: Edwin Rayner on Music, Family, and Bonding Across Generations

    Granddad Sings: Edwin Rayner on Music, Family, and Bonding Across Generations
    Jun 2 2025
    Few things bring generations together like music can, and in a recent heartfelt episode of the Dad and Daughter Connection podcast, Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with the incredible Edwin Rayner—better known as "Granddad Sings"—to explore the timeless bonds between fathers, daughters, and granddaughters. This inspiring conversation is more than just a story of viral fame; it’s a touching lesson in love, support, resilience, and the ways we nurture one another through life’s changing seasons. The Heart of Fatherhood Right from the start, Dr. Lewis sets the tone: being a great dad is about true connection. Edwin Rayner, at 92 years young and an internet sensation thanks to the encouragement of his granddaughters, shares moving stories of fatherhood, like welcoming his daughters into the world and then watching them grow, stumble, and flourish through life’s ups and downs. His approach to parenting resonates: be present, offer gentle guidance, and let your children make their own way with your unwavering support behind them. Music as Family Glue Another beautiful theme in this episode is how music, both old and new, has woven throughout the Rayner family’s life. From singing while doing chores to making Christmas memories with Andy Williams’ carols, Edwin reminisces on how music naturally brought his family closer—creating traditions, sparking laughter, and even helping process loss. The revival of his singing career on TikTok, pushed by his granddaughters, not only sparked global joy but also deepened their family bonds. Their teamwork—picking songs together, going to the studio, encouraging Edwin to try new genres—shows how shared passions can bridge generational divides. Encouragement, Acceptance, and Growth Throughout their conversation, Edwin and Dr. Lewis emphasize the importance of encouragement, understanding, and letting our children and grandchildren find their unique voices. Even when they choose different paths (“I wish they were singers,” Edwin chuckles about his daughters), support and unconditional love shine through. Edwin’s advice to dads, granddads, and parents: be there, give encouragement, work together as a team, and celebrate each person’s journey. Tune In and Be Inspired Whether you’re a dad, a daughter, or simply someone who values meaningful connections, this episode is full of heartening wisdom and relatable moments. Listen to hear stories that will make you smile, reflect, and perhaps even sing along. Dive in at Dad and Daughter Connection and discover how music and love can help us all be the best family we can be. 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 doctor 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 an opportunity to be able to build those strong relationships, those strong connections that we want with our daughters. And I love being on this journey with you because it's an opportunity for us to be able to work together, to learn and grow together. You know, I've got two daughters, and as a father of a daughter, every day we need to be able to do something a little bit different. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:17]: To be able to connect with our daughters and to be able to be the dads that they need to support them in their journey. Every week I love being able to bring you different guests with different experiences, people that have gone through being a dad themselves, but also are going through it right now. And I I love that because every week you're going to learn something new and gain some new insight into things that you might be able to do to be able to build those strong relationships that you want. This week we got another great guest. Edwin Rayner is with us, and he is affectionately known as Granddad Sings. And he is 92 years old young and an Internet sensation who has captured the hearts of many with his song covers that he sings on TikTok and other platforms. And his journey into the spotlight began with the encouragement of his granddaughters, Laura and Liv, who introduced him to TikTok. And his rendition of Lana Del Rey's video games garnered 16,800,000 views, which is amazing. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:23]: I was introduced to him from some other ...
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    31 m
  • The Right Way to Praise Focusing on Effort-Not Just Talent

    The Right Way to Praise Focusing on Effort-Not Just Talent
    May 30 2025
    Hey dads! Welcome to Dad Connections in 5, your quick, practical guide to building a stronger bond with your daughter—one simple action at a time. I’m [Your Name], and today, we’re talking about the right way to praise your daughter—focusing on effort, not just talent. We all want our daughters to feel confident and capable. But did you know that HOW you praise her can actually shape the way she sees herself and her abilities? Today, I’m going to show you why effort-based praise is so important, how it builds resilience, and practical ways to start using it today. Why Effort-Based Praise Matters A lot of times, we say things like: ➡️ “You’re so smart!” ➡️ “You’re a natural!” ➡️ “Wow, you’re really talented at that!” And while those compliments sound great, they can actually have an unintended effect—making her believe that success is about being naturally gifted, rather than about hard work, practice, and growth. Instead, when we praise effort, we teach her that: ✅ Hard work matters more than being “naturally good” at something. ✅ Mistakes aren’t failures—they’re learning opportunities. ✅ She is in control of her growth and success. How to Shift from Talent-Based to Effort-Based Praise 1. Praise the Process, Not Just the Outcome Instead of saying: ❌ “You’re so good at math!” Try: ✅ “I love how you kept working through that tough problem—that’s real determination!” This reinforces that success comes from persistence. 2. Highlight Hard Work Over Perfection Instead of saying: ❌ “Wow, you won first place—you’re amazing!” Try: ✅ “You practiced so hard for this, and it really paid off! I’m so proud of your dedication.” Winning is great, but the effort is what truly matters. 3. Encourage a Growth Mindset When she struggles, instead of saying: ❌ “It’s okay, maybe this just isn’t your thing.” Try: ✅ “You’re not there yet, but every time you practice, you get better!” This teaches her that skills are built, not just given. 4. Praise Her Willingness to Try New Things If she’s hesitant to try something new, remind her: ✅ “It’s okay to not be great at something right away—what matters is that you’re willing to try.” This boosts confidence and makes her more open to challenges. Quick Takeaways: Start Today! Here’s your challenge: The next time you praise your daughter, focus on her effort instead of just the result. ✅ Notice her hard work and persistence. ✅ Encourage her to see challenges as learning opportunities. ✅ Reinforce that growth happens with time, effort, and practice. This small shift builds resilience, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. That’s it for today’s Dad Connections in 5! If you found this helpful, share it with another dad who wants to empower his daughter with the right kind of praise. Until next time—keep encouraging, keep supporting, and keep helping her grow. Episode: Teaching Resilience – Helping Her Bounce Back from Setbacks [Intro Music] Host: Hey dads! Welcome to Dad Connections in 5, your quick, practical guide to building a stronger bond with your daughter—one intentional moment at a time. I’m [Your Name], and today, we’re talking about resilience—helping your daughter bounce back when things don’t go her way. Let’s face it—life is full of setbacks. She’s going to face disappointments, failures, and challenges, and as her dad, you have a huge opportunity to teach her how to handle them with confidence. So today, I’ll share why resilience matters, what NOT to say when she’s struggling, and three powerful ways to help her develop a bounce-back mindset. Why Teaching Resilience is So Important Resilience isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about learning to rise after a setback. When your daughter develops resilience, she’ll: ➡️ Take risks and try new things without fear of failure. ➡️ Handle criticism and setbacks with confidence. ➡️ Learn from mistakes instead of letting them define her. And most importantly, she’ll know she has the strength to handle whatever life throws her way. What NOT to Say When She’s Struggling When your daughter is upset about losing a game, failing a test, or being left out, your instinct might be to fix it or say things like: ❌ “It’s not a big deal.” (To her, it is.) ❌ “You’ll do better next time.” (She might need space before hearing this.) ❌ “Don’t be sad.” (All feelings are valid—even the tough ones.) Instead, try these three simple strategies to help her develop true resilience. 3 Ways to Help Your Daughter Build Resilience 1. Acknowledge Her Feelings Without Trying to Fix Them Before giving advice, make sure she knows it’s okay to feel disappointed, frustrated, or sad. ✅ “I can see you’re really upset about this. That’s okay.” ✅ “I get why you’re frustrated—you worked really hard.” By validating her feelings ...
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