Podcast: Dad of Divas

Parenting with Purpose: Building Stronger Bonds with Your Daughter, featuring Dr. Christopher Lewis and Mark Reinisch

What does it mean to be fully present for your daughter? In the latest episode of the Dad and Daughter Connection podcast, host Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with Mark Reinisch, author of The Wellness Ethic, to explore the art and heart of intentional, love-centered fatherhood. If you want practical insights, real stories, and meaningful encouragement for nurturing your most important relationship, this episode is for you.

Mark reigns as the perfect guest, bringing not just expertise—he’s the father of two daughters—but also vulnerability and wisdom from his personal journey. His story of supporting his daughter Emma through a multi-year struggle with chronic headaches and migraines is deeply moving. Through overwhelming medical challenges, Mark witnessed Emma’s resilience and learned the profound impact a father’s presence and support can make. Moments of victory, like the day her headaches disappeared, offer hope and inspiration for any parent facing adversity.

The episode’s main theme is clear: wellness is not a luxury—it’s a responsibility. Drawing from his book, Mark emphasizes that love is “the north star” of wellness for dads. He shares honest lessons learned, admitting mistakes like being overbearing in sports and how tuning in to your daughter’s interests, at her pace, creates deeper bonds. This is connection not as a grand gesture but as a daily practice—being present, listening, showing up for games, carving out one-on-one time, and evolving alongside your daughter.

Dr. Christopher Lewis and Mark discuss responding to your daughter’s stress and imperfection with compassion, modeling vulnerability, and reframing setbacks as opportunities. Mark’s “accept, frame, respond” model from his book is a powerful tool for helping daughters build lifelong resilience and self-compassion.

Another gem from this episode is applying the 80/20 rule: focus on the vital few actions that make the biggest difference in connection, knowing every child’s needs are unique.

This conversation isn’t obsessed with perfection—it’s grounded in love and presence. As Mark Reinisch says, “Connection will evolve as you both grow, but nurture it, and love will always be there.”

Whether you’re a seasoned dad or just starting out, these lessons will change how you show up for your daughter—and for yourself. Listen now to the Dad and Daughter Connection podcast and start building stronger bonds today!