Where real estate expertise meets personal stories of fatherhood and Midwestern living. Join us as we explore the joys and challenges of being a Realtor, a 'girl dad,' sports fanatic, and a mental health advocate. Tune in for inspiring discussions, local insights, and advice in real estate markets.
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January 30, 2026Episode 1153 min
Lessons from 2025: What Fatherhood Taught Us This Year
SummaryIn this episode, Vikas and Varun reflect on their experiences from 2025, sharing personal and professional lessons learned. They discuss the importance of empathy, setting boundaries, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. The conversation emphasizes the need for fathers to be proactive in their roles and to engage more deeply with their families. As they set intentions for 2026, they highlight the significance of self-reflection, community building, and the value of travel as an educational experience for children. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to be intentional in their parenting and personal growth.TakeawaysReflect on personal and professional lessons regularly.Empathy is crucial in understanding others' actions.Setting boundaries is essential for work-life balance.Children learn from observing their parents' actions.Traveling provides invaluable life lessons for children.Intentionality in parenting leads to deeper connections.Community building is vital for support and growth.Dads need to be proactive in societal issues.Self-reflection can lead to personal growth.Creating traditions strengthens family bonds.Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun VarmaLearn more and engage with us at:https://www.girldadspodcast.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/Youtube: Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's JourneyTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast
December 16, 2025Episode 101 hr 4 min
Screens, Stress & Showing Up: Navigating Parenthood in a Digital World
In this episode of Listings and Lullabies, Varun and Vikas dive into the real-life challenges and wins of modern fatherhood. From juggling careers and raising young children to handling screen time and prioritizing mental wellness, this honest conversation unpacks the pressure parents face—especially dads trying to “do it all.” The hosts reflect on setting healthy boundaries, leading with presence, and the importance of giving back during the holiday season. It’s a grounded, inspiring episode for every parent looking to show up better—at home and in the world.Takeaways👶 Fatherhood is a rollercoaster of highs, lows, and unforgettable moments.⚖️ Balancing work and family is tough—but you're not alone.🤝 Sharing your struggles helps break the pressure of “perfect parenting.”🚫📱 Setting boundaries (especially with screens) matters for kids and parents.🧘 Mindfulness and presence = better parenting and stronger relationships.🎉 Celebrate the small wins—they add up to big impact.🧠 Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s survival.💬 Vulnerability leads to deeper connections with your kids.🎁 Teaching kids to give back builds empathy and gratitude.🕰️ Quality time > Quantity. Be there when it counts.Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun VarmaLearn more and engage with us at:https://www.girldadspodcast.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/Youtube: Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's JourneyTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast
September 22, 2025Episode 942 min
The Dad Hack Manual: Entrepreneurship, Energy & Emotional Growth
In this episode of Listings and Lullabies, Dr. Ravi Patel joins Varun and Vikas to share his deeply personal journey into fatherhood while building a wellness startup, Club 5 Health. From the emotional shift of becoming a dad to the daily grind of growing a business, Dr. Patel opens up about redefining success, building community, and the small habits that lead to a healthier life. Packed with real talk, wellness tips, and entrepreneurial wisdom, this conversation is a must-listen for every parent balancing passion and purpose.Takeways- Fatherhood shifted Dr. Patel’s mindset to appreciate life’s smaller, meaningful moments.- Balancing a business and family life is a real challenge—but also a powerful motivator.- His company, Club 5 Health, focuses on using technology to improve quality of life.- Simple health habits like cooking at home can have a big impact on wellness.- Being a dad has made him a more empathetic leader and listener.- Community support is crucial for navigating both parenting and entrepreneurship.- Consistency, intuition, and communication are key in both parenting and business.Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun VarmaLearn more and engage with us at:https://www.girldadspodcast.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/Youtube: Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's JourneyTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast
August 8, 2025Episode 849 min
Work. Family. Growth. The Blueprint for Today’s Dad
In this season-shaping episode of Listings and Lullabies, Varun Varma and Vikas Sondhi get raw and real about what it means to be a modern-day girl dad while running a successful business. From breaking real estate records to diaper duty, they unpack how they balance family life, entrepreneurship, AI-driven workflows, and staying grounded in community. This is more than just a podcast—it’s a blueprint for intentional fatherhood, a support circle for ambitious dads, and a call to every man trying to show up better.If you’re a dad who’s building something—for your family, your career, or your legacy—this one’s for you.Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun VarmaLearn more and engage with us at:https://www.girldadspodcast.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/Youtube: Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's JourneyTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast
June 30, 2025Episode 71 hr 16 min
Girl Dad, Second Chance: The Power of Showing Up
In this powerful episode, Varun and Vikas sit down with Christian Bradley to explore the raw, redemptive journey of fatherhood. From past mistakes to co-parenting challenges and the road to reconnection, Christian shares how accountability, forgiveness, and presence reshaped his relationship with his daughter. A moving conversation about second chances, emotional growth, and what it truly means to be a girl dad today.TakeawaysChristian Bradley shares his journey as a girl dad.He reflects on his past as a deadbeat dad.Building relationships takes time and effort.Forgiveness is essential in co-parenting.Redemption is a gradual process.It's crucial to prioritize the child's well-being.Intentional relationships add value to life.Christian's daughter has taught him about resilience.He emphasizes the importance of being present.The conversation highlights the struggles and triumphs of fatherhood. The importance of doing right by one's children.Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun VarmaLearn more and engage with us at:https://www.girldadspodcast.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/Youtube: Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's JourneyTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast
May 29, 2025Episode 645 min
Dads, Daughters & the Moments That Matter Most
In this episode, Varun Varma, guest Madeline Anderson, and producer Vikas Sondhi discuss the importance of fatherhood, focusing on how dads can connect with their daughters through inclusion and communication. They share personal stories, including Madeline's recent wedding and the emotional moments shared with her father. The conversation also touches on balancing work and life, exploring Cincinnati's culture, and the upcoming launch of Madeline's podcast. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the journey of creating a podcast and an audiobook, discussing the importance of personal storytelling and the challenges of publishing. They explore the significance of human connection, especially in the context of fatherhood, and the value of capturing moments through journaling. The discussion emphasizes taking actionable steps in creative endeavors and the impact of including family in one's journey.TakeawaysDads should include their daughters in their activities to strengthen their bond.Communication is essential for building a strong relationship with children.Balancing work and family life is a common challenge for fathers.Inclusion helps daughters feel valued and understood.Personal experiences shape the way we connect with our children.It's important to set realistic expectations for family time.Daughters appreciate understanding the reasons behind their father's work.Creating memorable moments, like weddings, strengthens family ties.Exploring local culture can enhance family experiences.It's never too late to improve relationships with children. The process of creating an audiobook can be deeply personal.Breaking down large projects into smaller tasks makes them manageable.Self-publishing can be a valid choice for first-time authors.Networking and building relationships are crucial for success.In-person connections enhance the podcasting experience.Journaling can help capture precious moments in parenting.Including children in your world fosters better relationships.Every stage of a child's life is temporary and should be appreciated.Human connection is fundamental to all relationships.Taking action is essential to turning dreams into reality.Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun VarmaLearn more and engage with us at:https://www.girldadspodcast.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/Youtube: Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's JourneyTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast
April 25, 2025Episode 51 hr 7 min
She’s Watching You: How Dads Shape Their Daughters' Futures
In this episode of Listings and Lullabies, host Varun Varma and co-host Vikas Sondhi welcome Hammad Siddiqi, a seasoned father and community figure, to discuss the unique experiences of being a 'girl dad.' The conversation explores the challenges and joys of parenting daughters, the influence of cultural backgrounds, and the importance of honesty and communication in fatherhood. Hamad shares insights from his own journey as a father, navigating dual cultures, and the lessons learned from his upbringing. The episode emphasizes the significance of being a positive role model for daughters and the impact of parenting styles on children's development. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the multifaceted aspects of parenting, emphasizing the importance of physical affection, the challenges of raising teenagers, and the legacy that parents leave through their children. They discuss the lessons learned from their daughters, the balance between work and family life, and the impact of social media on modern parenting. The dialogue highlights the need for patience, understanding, and open communication in nurturing healthy relationships with children. In this episode, the speakers delve into the complexities of parenting, emphasizing the importance of open communication between parents and children. They discuss the need for parents to express their intentions clearly, instill strong values, and provide core advice that children can carry with them throughout their lives. The conversation also touches on the societal dangers that children face today, the cultural perspectives on protection, and the necessity of raising awareness about these issues. Ultimately, the speakers highlight the evolution of parenting practices and the importance of adapting to new understandings of child psychology. In this episode, the conversation delves into the profound impact of parenting on children's development, emphasizing the importance of healthy habits and the influence of parental actions. The speakers reflect on the joys and challenges of parenting, sharing personal anecdotes and insights about cherishing childhood moments. They also discuss the significance of community engagement through a career in community development banking, the role of control in life and politics, and the value of authentic friendships. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal personal insights and aspirations, along with a reminder of upcoming community events.Takeaways:Nobody's prepared to be a girl dad.Every day is different in parenting.Honesty in your relationship with your kids is crucial.You can pick the best of both cultures.Being present and available is key to fatherhood.You are the benchmark for every man she will ever see.Lead with love and understanding in parenting.Cultural differences can enrich parenting experiences.Open communication helps in understanding children's perspectives.Parenting is a journey of learning and growth. Kids need physical affection to feel secure.Parents set the benchmark for their children's future relationships.Balancing work and family is a constant struggle for parents.Children are sponges, absorbing everything from their parents.The importance of being present and engaged with children.Parents should monitor their children's social media usage.Conversations with children can alleviate past resentments.Legacy is built through the values instilled in children.Patience and listening are crucial skills for effective parenting.Social media presents unique challenges for modern parenting. Open communication with parents is crucial for children.Parents often have good intentions, even if misunderstood.Instilling values in children is essential for their development.Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun VarmaLearn more and engage with us at:https://www.girldadspodcast.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/Youtube: Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's JourneyTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast
March 21, 2025Episode 41 hr 2 min
From Classroom to Closing Deals: The Wide World of Parenting and Real Estate
In this episode, Varun and Vikas discuss the challenges and joys of parenting, particularly focusing on the development of Varun's daughter Zyanna and the dynamics of having a new baby, Sahil. They explore the importance of educational choices, particularly Montessori, and the role of community support for parents, especially girl dads. The conversation also touches on cultural traditions, work-life balance, and the current state of the real estate market. In this episode, Vikas Sondhi and Varun Varma discuss the current state of the real estate market, focusing on rising property taxes, the role of real estate agents, and the importance of understanding representation agreements. They explore the shifting dynamics of buyer power, inventory issues, and the necessity for potential buyers and sellers to educate themselves about the market. Varun emphasizes the value of real estate agents as resources beyond transactions, encouraging open communication and transparency in client-agent relationships.TakeawaysZyanna is starting to form sentences and communicate more clearly.Parenting dynamics shift with the introduction of a new sibling.The role of older siblings can shape the younger sibling's development.Community support is vital for parents navigating their journeys.Montessori education is seen as beneficial for child development.Parents aspire to provide better opportunities for their children than they had.Cultural traditions play an important role in family life.Work-life balance becomes more complex with multiple young children.Real estate market dynamics are influenced by economic changes.Building a supportive community can ease parenting challenges. Property taxes are rising significantly, impacting homeowners.Real estate agents can provide valuable resources beyond buying and selling.Understanding representation agreements is crucial for clients.Buyers currently have more power in negotiations due to market shifts.It's important to educate oneself about the real estate process.Life changes often necessitate moving, regardless of market conditions.Real estate agents should maintain open communication with clients.Market trends indicate a potential shift towards a buyer's market.Investors should be aware of off-market opportunities.Engaging with community forums can provide valuable insights.Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun VarmaLearn more and engage with us at:https://www.girldadspodcast.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/Youtube: Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's JourneyTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast
February 19, 2025Episode 350 min
The Girl Dad Revelation: Unpacking Fatherhood's Greatest Lessons
SummaryIn this episode of Listings and Lullabies, hosts Varun Varma and Vikas Sondhi welcome Madeline Anderson, author of 'The Girl Dad'. They discuss the unique perspective of a daughter on the father-daughter relationship, the journey of writing the book, and the valuable lessons learned from both dads and daughters. The conversation emphasizes the importance of connection, understanding love languages, and the role of mothers in shaping these relationships. Madeline shares insights on how fathers can positively impact their daughters' lives and the significance of being present and intentional in parenting. In this engaging conversation, Varun Varma, Vikas Sondhi, and Madeline Anderson delve into the complexities of social media's impact on mental health, the challenges of parenting in a digital age, and the importance of fostering strong father-daughter relationships. They explore personal anecdotes, future aspirations, and the mission behind the Girl Dad Network, emphasizing the need for intentional living and the nurturing of self-worth in children.TakeawaysThe book 'The Girl Dad' offers a unique perspective from a daughter's viewpoint.Dads can learn valuable lessons from their daughters' experiences.The importance of being intentional in parenting is crucial for building strong relationships.Understanding a daughter's love language can enhance the father-daughter bond.Daughters often look to their fathers as role models for future relationships.The journey of writing the book was a fulfilling and purposeful experience for Madeline.Mothers play a significant role in the dynamics of father-daughter relationships.Dads should strive to be present and engaged in their daughters' lives.The impact of a father's actions can shape a daughter's expectations in relationships.Getting to know your daughter on a deeper level is essential for effective parenting. Social media can negatively impact mental health.It's crucial to create time away from technology for children.Building confidence in children helps them navigate social media.Fathers play a vital role in shaping their daughters' self-esteem.Intentional living is essential for meaningful relationships.Outdoor activities can strengthen family bonds.Understanding the impact of social media is important for parents.The Girl Dad Network aims to improve father-daughter relationships.Dads can learn from each other through shared experiences.Strong family units lead to a better society.Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun VarmaLearn more and engage with us at:https://www.girldadspodcast.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/Youtube: Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's JourneyTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast
January 27, 2025Episode 240 min
Unplugging to Unite: The Tech Timeout That Connects Families
SummaryIn this episode, the hosts discuss their experiences as parents and business owners, touching on the challenges of balancing family life with work, the impact of an ADHD diagnosis, and the importance of having a business coach. They reflect on the real estate market, share insights from their personal journeys, and emphasize the significance of planning, accountability, and self-care in both personal and professional realms.TakeawaysFeedback from listeners is invaluable for growth.Parenting challenges are universal, not limited to specific demographics.Time management is crucial for balancing work and family life.ADHD can be a challenge but also a source of strength.Having a business coach can provide necessary guidance and support.It's important to disconnect from technology to reconnect with family.The real estate market is stabilizing post-pandemic.Planning for the future is essential for family dynamics.Failure is a part of the learning process.It's never too late to seek help and improve oneself.Sound Bites"We're not talking that we're sitting on an island.""You try to set like, okay, who's the audience for this?""ADHD is just a new path for me.""It's never too late to get into therapy.""Failure is a learning experience.""Focus on time blocking and planning.""Disconnect and reconnect."Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun VarmaLearn more and engage with us at:https://www.girldadspodcast.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/girldads.podcast/Youtube: Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's JourneyTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@girldads.podcast?_t=8kGGyFzB6IV&_r=1Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/girldads.podcast
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