• 20. Father's Day and Fun Games
    Jun 17 2025

    Full video: https://www.youtube.com/@Built-InBesties

    https://www.tiktok.com/@builtinbestiespodcast

    Welcome back to Built-In Besties: A Dad and Daughter podcast! For this special Father's Day episode, we share a heartfelt gift exchange and show off some cherished memories. Later, we dive into a fun game called 'Five Second Rule' and test our quick thinking. We also play 'Roll and Tell', sharing our thoughts and favorites on various topics. Finally, we see how well the daughter knows her dad in a series of personal trivia questions. Join us for laughs, heartfelt moments, and some competitive fun!

    00:00 Welcome to Built-In Besties: Father's Day Special

    00:28 Father's Day Gifts and Memories

    03:38 Five Second Rule Game

    08:41 Roll and Tell Game

    10:48 Discussing Interests and Hobbies

    11:02 Rolling the Dice: Favorite Animals

    11:34 Dream Destinations

    12:58 Skills and Happiness

    13:27 How Well Do You Know Me?

    17:50 Babysitting Adventures

    18:25 Summer Plans and Cheerleading

    20:22 Father's Day Reflections



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit builtinbestiespodcast.substack.com
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    21 mins
  • 19. School's Out For Summer
    Jun 10 2025

    Full video: https://www.youtube.com/@Built-InBesties

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtinbestiespodcast

    Welcome back to Built-In Besties: A Dad and Daughter Podcast! In this episode, we're gearing up for summer and discussing our plans for the break. We talk about sleeping in, staying active with cheer and softball, and a sweet deal we got on some softball gear. We also dive into dealing with vocal cord dysfunction and managing it through speech therapy. Our Candle of the Week is a special gift that says 'Hello Summer,' and it sets the tone for our episode. We share our summer bucket lists, favorite summer memories, and debate between beach and lake vacations. Plus, we recap our experience spectating an Ironman race. Tune in as we chat about all things summer and look forward to some warm weather fun!

    00:00 Welcome to Built In Besties

    00:22 Summer Plans and Activities

    00:51 Softball and Staying Active

    01:37 Dealing with Vocal Cord Dysfunction

    05:26 Candle of the Week

    06:26 Summer Bucket List

    10:25 Beach vs. Lake Debate

    14:46 Ironman Race Experience

    18:29 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit builtinbestiespodcast.substack.com
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    20 mins
  • 18. Would You Rather: Dad & Daughter Edition
    Jun 3 2025

    Full video: https://www.youtube.com/@Built-InBesties

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtinbestiespodcast

    In this fun-filled episode of Built-In Besties, join us for a special Dad and Daughter edition of the 'Would You Rather' game! We've got some wild and whimsical questions lined up, from whether we'd prefer to sing everything we say or whisper for a week, to marshmallow feet versus spaghetti hair. We also share a candle recommendation, recount a funny yet painful nose-breaking incident, and delve into some thoughtful 'Would You Rather' dilemmas. Stick around till the end to catch up on our week filled with softball news, cheerleading achievements, and future aspirations. Don't miss out on this light-hearted and engaging episode—be a nice human and enjoy!

    00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

    00:20 Would You Rather: Whisper or Sing?

    01:31 Would You Rather: Horse-Sized Duck or Duck-Sized Horses?

    02:27 Candle of the Week and Nose Injury Story

    04:55 Would You Rather: Spaghetti Hair or Marshmallow Feet?

    05:29 Would You Rather: Theme Song or Cartoon Sound Effects?

    06:44 Would You Rather: Know What People Think or Not Care?

    08:10 Would You Rather: Famous for Something Silly or Respected but Unknown?

    10:15 Would You Rather: Mac and Cheese or French Fries?

    10:50 Would You Rather: Read Diary or Cringy TikTok Dance?

    11:48 Would You Rather: Socks on Hands or Different Shoes?

    12:29 Would You Rather: Relive Memory or Fast Forward?

    13:25 Weekly Recap and Softball Talk

    18:46 Conclusion and Sign-Off



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit builtinbestiespodcast.substack.com
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    19 mins
  • 17. Managing Teen Anxiety with Special Guest Marla Dakin, LCSW
    May 27 2025

    Full video available at https://www.youtube.com/@Built-InBesties

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtinbestiespodcast

    We want to first thank Marla for being so gracious with her time and being our first guest on our podcast. We wanted to close out Mental Health Awareness Month in a meaningful way and Marla was instrumental in making this happen. Please check out her social media and countless other resources she has to offer to kids and parents alike.

    Marla's Website: https://marladakin.com/

    Farmington Valley Counseling Center: https://fvcounseling.com/

    Marla's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marladakin/

    In this special episode of Built-In Besties, we welcome our first guest, anxiety and mental health specialist Marla Dakin. Join us as we dive deep into essential conversations on teen anxiety, mental health, self-care, and the impact of social media. Marla shares insightful tips on validating children’s feelings and fostering resilience. We also explore growth mindsets and practical strategies for parents and teens to manage stress and anxiety effectively. Don't miss out on this valuable and heartfelt discussion. Be sure to subscribe, like, and check out Marla’s resources for more support.

    00:00 Welcome to Built-In Besties

    00:05 Introducing Our Special Guest: Marla Dakin

    00:32 Candle of the Week

    01:41 Marla Dakin Joins the Conversation

    02:07 Marla's Resources and Tips

    03:16 Understanding and Validating Anxiety

    09:56 Balancing Self-Care and Resiliency

    15:13 Coping Strategies for Anxiety

    23:31 Emerging Trends in Teen Mental Health

    25:05 Social Media and Generation Z

    26:13 Balancing Social Media Use

    27:46 Parental Guidance and Safeguards

    33:26 The Impact of Algorithms

    38:49 Embracing a Growth Mindset

    44:23 Reflections on Parenting

    48:53 Middle School Challenges

    52:59 Final Thoughts and Farewell



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit builtinbestiespodcast.substack.com
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    54 mins
  • 15. Taylor Swift Playlist Challenge & Special Merch Giveaway!
    May 11 2025

    Full video at https://www.youtube.com/@Built-InBesties

    TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@builtinbestiespodcast

    Playlist links: Jackie's Version -

    Zach's version -

    Be sure to follow the giveaway rules to get the maximum entries! Winners announced May 18, 2025 on a LIVE YouTube podcast!

    Episode 15. Taylor Swift Playlist Challenge & Special Merch Giveaway!

    In episode 15 of Built-In Besties: A Dad and Daughter Podcast, we dive into a special Taylor Swift-themed episode. We're kicking things off with exciting news about an upcoming giveaway featuring exclusive built-in besties merch, including a hoodie, a candle, and a mug. This episode is all about crafting the ultimate Taylor Swift playlist designed for both superfans and newcomers. Join us as we discuss our favorite Taylor tracks, share stories from the Eras tour, and reveal how you can win our awesome giveaway. Stick around till the end for details on how to enter!

    00:00 Exciting Giveaway Announcement

    00:29 Introduction to the Podcast

    00:43 Candle of the Week

    01:29 Taylor Swift Episode Overview

    02:01 Creating the Ultimate Taylor Swift Playlist

    04:31 Track-by-Track Playlist Selection

    16:54 Final Playlist Choices and Reflections

    19:08 Final Playlist Picks

    21:42 Recap of Chosen Songs

    22:14 Quickfire Playlist Decisions

    27:06 Giveaway Announcement

    31:00 Eras Tour Highlights

    39:03 Wrapping Up and Giveaway Details



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit builtinbestiespodcast.substack.com
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    40 mins
  • 14. We Yap A Lot
    May 4 2025

    Episode 14. We Yap A Lot

    Welcome back to Built-In Besties: A Dad and Daughter Podcast! In this episode, we dive into some exciting updates and fun discussions. We touch on the details of our upcoming giveaway featuring exclusive Built-In Besties merchandise, including hoodies, candles, and mugs. We also share insights about our TikTok milestones, talk about personal favorites like Gilmore Girls, and get into the nitty-gritty of school experiences including unexpected French comprehension and the trials of testing. Plus, there's an entertaining recount of recent softball games and sliding adventures. Join us for a heartwarming and humorous episode.

    Full video at: https://www.youtube.com/@Built-InBesties

    Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtinbestiespodcast

    00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup

    00:33 Exciting Giveaway Announcement

    02:12 Candle of the Week

    03:34 Gilmore Girls Obsession

    05:09 School Testing and Homework

    08:17 Morning Routine and Sleep Habits

    12:15 Fashion Fit Check

    15:07 Exploring Cheerleading Merchandise Ideas

    16:29 Softball Practices and Clinics

    18:14 Softball Games and Rivalries

    20:47 Backyard Softball Practice

    24:24 Occupational Therapy and Mental Health Awareness

    26:30 School Updates and Language Learning

    31:56 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit builtinbestiespodcast.substack.com
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    32 mins
  • 13. Disney Adventures and Travel Misadventures
    Apr 27 2025

    Sadly, our audio issues continue to be a problem but should be worked out by the next episode.

    In this exciting episode of 'Built-In Besties: A Dad and Daughter Podcast,' join us as we dive into our latest adventures in travel, with a special focus on our memorable trip to Disney. We recount a chaotic travel experience with JetBlue, a whirlwind Disney day hitting multiple parks, and the unexpected events at a cheer competition. Get insights on our favorite rides, dining experiences, and some quirky mishaps along the way. Don't miss out on this episode filled with laughs, nostalgia, and Disney magic!

    More details on our giveaway coming soon! Make sure to subscribe so you are eligible to win!

    Full video available at https://www.youtube.com/@Built-InBesties

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@builtinbestiespodcast

    00:00 Welcome to Built-In Besties

    00:27 Weekly Highlights and Giveaway Announcement

    02:20 Candle of the Week and Travel Talk

    03:23 Nightmare Travel Experience

    09:01 Disney Springs and Family Time

    13:32 Cheer Competition and Disney Day

    18:41 Collecting Disney Characters

    19:01 Dining Challenges at GRA

    20:05 Epcot Adventures

    23:36 Magic Kingdom Highlights

    25:45 Speedway and Other Rides

    31:10 Final Thoughts and Reflections



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit builtinbestiespodcast.substack.com
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    37 mins
  • 12. Easter Special!
    Apr 20 2025

    Built-In Besties Episode 12 | Easter Special!

    In this special Easter episode of Built-In Besties, we apologize upfront for a recording issue leading to relying on a laptop mic, which affects ASMR parts of the podcast. The episode covers various Easter-related topics including favorite traditions, an exciting Easter egg hunt, and discussing memorable Easter moments from the past. We also dive into our weekly 'Candle of the Week' segment, featuring a salted jasmine candle from CVS. Don't miss our fun Q&A from Easter egg questions, and get a glimpse of our Easter-themed decorations and plans for the holiday.

    Full video at https://www.youtube.com/@Built-InBesties

    00:00 Introduction and Technical Issues

    01:00 Easter Celebrations Begin

    02:34 Candle of the Week

    03:44 Easter Basket Questions

    05:01 Disney Memories

    08:14 Easter Bunny for a Day

    10:07 Squirrel Mischief During the Egg Hunt

    11:12 Favorite Easter Memories

    14:34 Easter Traditions and Routines

    16:18 Easter Egg Hunt Adventures

    18:05 Favorite Easter Candies

    19:19 Wrapping Up the Easter Special



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit builtinbestiespodcast.substack.com
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    21 mins