In this episode of Listings and Lullabies, hosts Vikas Sondhi and Varun Varma kick off Season Two by discussing the arrival of Varun's second child, Sahil, and the challenges and joys of parenting two young kids. They reflect on the break they took from the podcast, the importance of mental health, and the personal growth Varun has experienced through therapy and self-reflection. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of the real estate market, with insights on current trends and strategies for buyers and sellers. The hosts emphasize the importance of authenticity, love, and support in both personal and professional lives as they look forward to a new season filled with engaging content.

Takeaways

This season is focused on the journey of parenting two kids.
Zyanna has shown great love and affection for her new brother, Sahil.
Taking a break was necessary for personal reflection and growth.
Mental health is crucial for navigating the challenges of parenthood.
Therapy has been a valuable tool for personal development.
The real estate market is shifting, requiring new strategies for success.
Authenticity in sharing personal struggles is important for connection.
The hosts plan to include more guests in future episodes.
2020-Thrive is the mantra for the upcoming year.
Love and support are essential in both family and business.

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Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

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Summary

In this episode, the hosts welcome Jaydev Karande, the unofficial mayor of Cincinnati, as a special guest. They discuss the importance of relationships and connecting people, as well as the role of being a father. They emphasize the lifelong personal development program that comes with being a parent and the need to be present and authentic in parenting.

They also talk about the differences between raising a boy and a girl and the importance of instilling values like gratitude and compassion. The hosts reflect on their own parenting journeys and the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship and family life. In this conversation, Vikas and Varun discuss the process of waking up and becoming more present as fathers. They explore the importance of embracing difficult conversations and learning from them. They also discuss the role of ego and the need to let go of materialistic pursuits.

The conversation touches on the dynamics of being a girl dad and the importance of meeting children where they are. They emphasize the need for self-reflection, compassion, and continuous personal growth as fathers.

Takeaways

• Being a parent is a lifelong personal development program that requires self-reflection and authenticity.
• Instilling values like gratitude and compassion in children is important.
• Balancing entrepreneurship and family life can be challenging, but being present and supportive is key.
• The differences between raising boys and girls can be both challenging and rewarding.
• It's important to question and unlearn inherited beliefs and be open to growth and change. Waking up as a father involves embracing difficult conversations and learning from them.
• Letting go of ego and materialistic pursuits is essential for personal growth as a father.
• Being a girl dad means meeting your daughter where she is and empowering her with confidence.
• Self-reflection, compassion, and continuous personal growth are key to being a better father.
• Acknowledging and valuing the thoughts, words, and deeds of your children is important for their development.

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Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

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Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

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Summary

In this episode of Listings and Lullabies, host Varun Varma interviews real estate investor Jordan Noble about his journey as a girl dad and his experience in the real estate industry. They discuss the challenges and joys of fatherhood, the importance of communication and teamwork in parenting, and the transition from engineering to real estate investing. They also touch on the complexities of the real estate market and the misconceptions surrounding real estate investing. The conversation revolves around the challenges and lessons learned in real estate investing. The hosts discuss their experience with a contractor who stole money and caused delays in a project. They highlight the importance of having a strong team and support system to navigate through difficult times. They also touch on different types of real estate investing, such as rental properties, flipping houses, wholesaling, and short-term rentals. The hosts emphasize the value of taking risks and the need for continuous learning and growth in the industry.

Takeaways

• Communication and teamwork are essential in parenting.
• Being present and enjoying each stage of your child's development is important.
• Knowing yourself and your strengths can lead to success in your career.
• Real estate investing requires careful analysis and understanding of the market.
• Social media can create misconceptions about the reality of real estate investing. Having a strong team and support system is crucial in navigating challenges in real estate investing.
• Different types of real estate investing include rental properties, flipping houses, wholesaling, and short-term rentals.
• Taking risks and being willing to learn and grow are essential in the industry.
• Real estate investing provides opportunities for financial success and building generational wealth.
• Having a positive outlook and resilience are key in overcoming obstacles.
• Building relationships and partnerships is important for success in real estate investing.

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

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Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

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In this episode, the host, Varun, discusses his excitement and concerns about expecting their second child. They talk about their desire for a girl and the importance of sibling bonds. They also touch on the challenges of parenting, including sickness and adapting to routines. The hosts express their confidence in their ability to handle the changes and share their excitement about being dads.

In this episode, Varun reflects on the milestones and challenges of parenting, including his daughter's newfound mobility and independence. He discusses the importance of baby-proofing the house and shares his admiration for parents who balance work and fitness goals. Vikas emphasizes the need for communication, planning, and accountability in maintaining a healthy relationship and achieving personal and family goals. He encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability and seek support from others going through similar experiences.

Takeaways

• The hosts are excited and nervous about expecting their second child
• They hope for a girl to strengthen sibling bonds
• Parenting comes with challenges, such as sickness and adapting to routines
• The hosts are confident in their ability to handle the changes and are excited about being dads
• Parenting is a journey of milestones and challenges, and it's important to embrace and celebrate each stage of your child's development.
• Baby-proofing your home is crucial as your child becomes more mobile and curious.
• Balancing work and personal goals, such as fitness, requires communication and support from your partner.
• Effective planning and time-blocking can help you achieve your goals and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Open and honest communication, vulnerability, and accountability are essential for a strong and successful relationship.
• Seeking support from others who are going through similar experiences can provide guidance and inspiration.

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

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Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

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Summary

In this episode, Varun Varma interviews Dr. Smruti K. Patel, a pediatric neurosurgeon and a girl mom. Dr. Smruti Patel shares her journey in becoming a pediatric neurosurgeon and the extensive training required for the profession. She discusses the challenges of balancing her career and motherhood, as well as the emotional toll of dealing with difficult cases.

Smruti emphasizes the importance of support from her husband and colleagues in managing her busy schedule. She also highlights the unique experiences and joys of being a girl mom and raising a daughter. In this conversation, Varun Varma discusses his experience as a girl dad and the joys and challenges of raising his daughter.

Dr. Patel talks about the unique personality and curiosity of her daughter, as well as the importance of providing her with opportunities and empowering her to pursue her dreams. Varun also shares the conversations he will have with his daughter about her cultural identity and the importance of embracing her uniqueness. Smruti emphasizes the need for parents to define their own success and to allow themselves permission to fail. Finally, she discusses the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with his partner and finding time for themselves as a couple.

Takeaways

• Becoming a pediatric neurosurgeon requires extensive training and long hours of work.
• Balancing a career in medicine and motherhood is challenging but possible with support from family and colleagues.
• Pediatric neurosurgeons often deal with difficult and emotional cases, but they learn to separate their personal emotions to provide support and guidance to patients and their families.
• Having a network of colleagues who understand the challenges of the medical profession is crucial for emotional well-being.
• Being a girl mom is a unique and fulfilling experience, and it brings a different perspective to parenting.
• Raising a daughter involves navigating the challenges and joys of girlhood, and it requires being a positive role model and providing support and guidance. Empower your daughter to pursue her dreams and provide her with opportunities to excel.
• Have open conversations with your child about their cultural identity and embrace their uniqueness.
• Define your own success in every aspect of your life and don't let society's expectations dictate your path.
• Allow yourself permission to fail and learn from those failures to become better.
• Make time for your relationship with your partner and prioritize your connection as a couple.

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

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Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

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Summary

In this episode, Varun Varma interviews Eric Schultz, a fellow girl dad and realtor colleague. They discuss Eric's background, his journey into real estate, and how he balances his career and being a father of four. Eric shares his experiences and insights on open communication, coping with stress, and the importance of having a supportive partner. He also talks about joining a real estate team and how it has helped him navigate the challenges of the industry. Despite the difficulties, Eric has found success and fulfillment in both his personal and professional life. In this conversation, Eric Schultz shares his experiences as a father of four children and discusses the importance of open communication and vulnerability in parenting. He emphasizes the need for quality over quantity in friendships and the value of deep, meaningful conversations. Eric also talks about the challenges and joys of being a girl dad and the growth and independence he has witnessed in his daughter. He highlights the significance of cherishing the little moments and having open conversations about sensitive topics with children. Eric concludes by discussing his plans for the summer, including day camps and sports activities.

Takeaways

Open communication is key in maintaining a healthy work-life balance as a parent.

Finding ways to cope with stress, such as being active or seeking therapy, can greatly benefit both personal and professional life.

Having a supportive partner who understands the demands of the real estate industry is crucial.

Joining a real estate team can provide stability, support, and opportunities for growth.

Success in real estate requires prioritizing time and being selective with clients and opportunities. Open communication and vulnerability are key in parenting and building strong relationships with children.

Quality over quantity is important in friendships, focusing on deep, meaningful conversations.

Cherish the little moments with children as they grow up quickly.

Having open conversations about sensitive topics with children can foster trust and understanding.

Summer plans for Eric and his family include day camps and sports activities.

Sound Bites

"There's typically a favorite. And it can change, but you make it clear who's the favorite for the week or the month based on behaviors."
"Being active has always been something that has helped me. Being active. And I think just being busy."
"Understanding the business, kind of figuring out my groove, and kind of dive into how that team aspect has really helped me in real estate."
"I've started to really enjoy intimate, deep conversations with other adults."
"The conversations you have with the people around you now, the support you get and give, all comes back to you in a meaningful way."
"I'd rather her ask me than go find it on the internet or go ask a friend."

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

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Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

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Summary

In this episode, Varun and Vikas reflect on reaching the milestone of episode five and discuss the challenges and joys of parenting. They talk about the importance of being on the same page as a couple, the struggles of balancing work and family life, and the support they receive from their parents. They also touch on the topic of daycare and share their experiences of dropping off their daughter for the first time. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the need for open communication and the importance of taking time for oneself and one's relationship. In this conversation, Vikas and Varun discuss their experiences with daycare and offer advice for parents who are considering sending their children to daycare. They emphasize the importance of understanding the day-to-day operations of a daycare facility and recommend having thorough orientations to ensure a smooth transition. They also discuss the current real estate market in Cincinnati, highlighting the high demand and multiple offer situations. They stress the importance of considering personal circumstances and needs when deciding whether to buy or sell a home. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the upcoming NFL draft and the excitement surrounding it.

Takeaways

Parenting is a journey that requires constant adaptation and reflection.

Being on the same page as a couple is crucial for making decisions and navigating the challenges of parenting.

Support from family and friends is invaluable in the parenting journey.

Daycare can be a mix of emotions for both parents and children, but it is an important step in a child's development.

Open communication and regular check-ins with your partner are essential for maintaining a strong relationship while parenting.

Taking time for self-care and nurturing the couple's relationship is important for overall well-being. When choosing a daycare, it is important to have a thorough understanding of the day-to-day operations and routines.

Having a good relationship with a real estate agent who prioritizes your needs and provides unbiased advice is crucial when buying or selling a home.

The current real estate market in Cincinnati is highly competitive, with houses often selling above asking price and multiple offer situations.

Deciding whether to buy or sell a home should be based on personal circumstances and needs, such as job changes, family size, and location preferences.

The NFL draft is an exciting event for football fans, and there is anticipation and speculation about the decisions teams will make.


Chapters

00:00 Celebrating Milestones and Reflecting on the Parenting Journey
09:00 Navigating Work-Life Balance and Seeking Support
27:21 Making Informed Decisions in the Real Estate Market
41:14 The Excitement and Speculation Surrounding the NFL Draft

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
https://www.girldadspodcast.com/

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Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

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Summary

In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics including updates on Varun's daughter Zyanna, the increase in demand for mental health discussions, and recent changes in the real estate industry. They also congratulate friends who are expecting daughters and talk about the importance of work-life balance. The hosts then delve into the recent settlement of a lawsuit by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and its implications for real estate agents and buyers. They discuss the need for transparency in the industry and the value that realtors provide in the buying and selling process. In this conversation, Vikas Sondhi discusses the changing landscape of the real estate industry and the importance of transparency in the commission breakdown. He emphasizes the value that real estate agents bring to the table in terms of negotiation, guidance, and expertise. Vikas also shares his excitement about a new high-end listing he secured and the challenges and risks involved in selling a property in that price range. The conversation concludes with a discussion about Varun's upcoming birthday and the plans for celebrating.

Takeaways

The demand for mental health discussions is increasing, highlighting the importance of open conversations and support.

The hosts emphasize the need for work-life balance and finding a balance between work and personal life.

The recent settlement of a lawsuit by the NAR brings transparency to the real estate industry and allows buyers and sellers to see the value that realtors provide.
Buyers should consider the importance of having representation in real estate transactions and the expertise that realtors bring to the table.

The hosts discuss the misconceptions surrounding realtor commissions and highlight the costs and work involved in the buying and selling process. Transparency in the commission breakdown is crucial for clients to understand the value that real estate agents provide.

Selling a high-end property involves additional costs, time, and effort, and there is no guarantee of a successful sale.

Varun's birthday celebration has evolved over the years, but he still enjoys doing something big with friends and family.

The Cincinnati Reds are off to a good start in the baseball season.

Collaboration among real estate agents can help improve the industry and the market.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Episode Recap
08:30 Settlement of Lawsuit by NAR and Transparency in Real Estate
25:26 The Expertise of Real Estate Agents
31:38 The Breakdown of Costs in Selling a High-End Property
40:41 Celebrating Varun's Birthday: From Week-Long Extravaganza to a Special Day

Find us on all of your favorite podcast streaming apps!
Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey with Varun Varma

Learn more and engage with us at:
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Listings & Lullabies: A Girl Dad's Journey

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