Samantha Elizabeth’s journey into stress management began with an unexpected discovery a mass on her left adrenal gland. Though not cancerous, the mass caused her body to produce excess cortisol, leaving her in a constant state of stress.

Facing the daily challenge of managing her own stress, especially with the demands of work and parenthood, Samantha realized how difficult it can be to simply “not stress” when life gets overwhelming.

Determined to find effective solutions, she turned her experience into purpose by becoming a stress management coach and starting "The Stress Mess Podcast." Through her coaching and podcast, Samantha now helps others learn to manage stress and find balance in their own lives.

Samantha Elizabeth is known as The OG Stress Mess, not because she has life perfectly figured out, but because she absolutely doesn’t, and she’s willing to say it out loud.

She’s a chronic overthinker, professional feeler, and someone who has spent years navigating stress, relationships, big life pivots, and the occasional “what am I doing with my life” spiral with honesty and humor. Instead of pretending to have it all together, she leans into the mess, learns from it, and brings people along for the ride.

She’s the voice behind Stress Mess: A Stress Less Podcast, where real conversations replace perfection, and mindset shifts come with a side of sarcasm and truth. Whether she’s talking about burnout, breakups, or just trying to function like a normal human on a Tuesday, Samantha keeps it unfiltered, relatable, and refreshingly real.

If you’ve ever felt like a beautiful disaster figuring it out as you go, you’ll feel right at home with her.

Connect with Samantha

https://samanthaelizabeth.com/

How do you control your emotions and communicate effectively in a distracted, fast-paced world?

In this episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts sits down with podcaster and emotional storyteller Paula Sima for a powerful conversation on emotional intelligence, communication skills, relationships, and personal growth.

Recorded live in Houston, this episode marks their second in-person meeting after years of online connection, bringing an authentic and energetic dynamic you will not want to miss.

Paula shares her journey as a self-described “government kid,” opening up about identity, resilience, and the lasting influence of her father. Together, Reena and Paula explore:

• How to understand and regulate your emotions

• Why vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness

• The truth about modern friendships and relationships

• How to communicate clearly and hold attention

• The role of storytelling in healing and connection

This episode blends mental health insights, real-life stories, and humor, including a memorable surprise moment you will not expect.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Emotional intelligence tips for everyday life

• How to express your feelings without losing control

• Communication strategies that actually work

• How to build deeper, more meaningful relationships

• Why storytelling is key to connection and growth

Episode Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome to Better Call Daddy

• (02:15) Paula Sima’s story and “government kid” upbringing

• (15:00) Emotional vulnerability and self-awareness

• (25:30) Friendships, support systems, and relationships

• (35:00) Storytelling as a tool for healing

• (45:00) Surprise prank call to Paula’s dad

About the Guest, Paula Sima: Host of Talk Shi+ with P, Paula Sima creates meaningful conversations around emotional well-being, personal development, and authentic storytelling.

About Better Call Daddy: Hosted by Reena Friedman Watts and her dad Wayne Friedman, Better Call Daddy features real conversations about entrepreneurship, family, mental health, relationships, and life lessons, blending humor, honesty, and unforgettable perspectives.

🔗 Connect with Reena Friedman Watts: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram |

Connect with Paula Sima

Linkedin

“We want to improve lives and it starts with real stories, notable musicians, and meaningful solutions. As a music journalist for over 30 years, I’ve seen how deeply mental health impacts the people behind the music.” Mari Fong

“The empath wants to heal, while the narcissist wants to take.”

In this Podcasthon episode of Better Call Daddy, host Reena Friedman Watts is joined by Mari Fong, the host of the Check Your Head podcast, to explore the intricate dynamics of empathy, mental health, and the music industry.

As they discuss the challenges faced by empaths and the toll of narcissistic relationships, Mari opens up about her personal journey through depression and the transformative power of music.

This Podcasthon special episode is dedicated to raising awareness for mental health, particularly in the context of the arts. Mari Fong shares her experiences with her family, including the emotional weight of supporting loved ones during crises, and how she found healing through music and connection. Together, they delve into the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and the necessity of seeking help when navigating the complexities of mental health.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into: - The emotional toll of empath-narcissist dynamics - How music can serve as a healing force - Practical strategies for self-care and finding the right support - The significance of vulnerability in our relationships - How to recognize and break free from toxic patterns

Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to the episode (02:15) Mari’s personal journey with mental health (15:30) The healing power of music (25:00) Navigating family crises and emotional challenges (35:00) Understanding the empath-narcissist dynamic (45:00) Finding support and resources for mental health Join us for this heartfelt conversation that emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and the collective responsibility we share in supporting one another.

Don't forget to check out Mari's Check Your Head podcast for more resources and stories that inspire change. 00:00 This is a special episode for Podcasthon 01:15 You had your grandmother in the ICU and your sisters are in Israel 08:34 As an empath, you feel other people's emotions, good or bad 11:54 You talked about how you learned to be an empath from your own dad 20:23 Mental health is about our relationships with ourselves, with other people 21:35 What would your dad say if someone asked him for help with mental health issues 28:37 You're from a family of hoarders. Yes. Do you know what I mean 32:20 Now that your kids are adults, you get to spend more time together 34:24 You fell into a depression at a time where you were really happy 38:03 Check your head podcast focuses on mental health and addiction issues 44:08 How did you take stephs when you were at 93 pounds 52:15 There are certain people that want to help people and they get emotionally involved

About Better Call Daddy The Better Call Daddy podcast, hosted by Reena Friedman Watts and her dad Wayne Friedman, features real conversations about entrepreneurship, life lessons, relationships, and resilience with fascinating guests and candid father-daughter wisdom.

Connect with Reena Friedman Watts: Website LinkedIn Instagram YouTube

Connect with Mari Fong Check Your Head Podcast