#28 Winging it Like a Pro: Real Talk with Dad's Dr. Charles Parmele and Bryan Levy

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In this heart-opening episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Dr. Melissa Wellner and Sam Straub sit down with two thoughtful dads, Charles Parmele and Bryan Levy, for a conversation that’s equal parts real talk and reflection. Together, they dig into what it means to be a father in today’s world—from the pressure to “have it all together” to the power of being vulnerable.

The discussion goes deep into topics like equitable parenting, emotional health, and the need for strong dad-to-dad support systems. You'll hear about the importance of open communication, navigating grief as a parent, and how redefining masculinity can lead to more meaningful relationships and healthier families.

Whether you're a dad, parenting alongside one, or just curious about the changing landscape of modern fatherhood, this episode offers rich insight and a reminder that connection and authenticity are key.

About Chip and Bryan

Chip heads up a blended family, raising 4 children in total. As a pediatrician he's also had the privilege of caring for thousands of families, in the process seeing what tends to work. Bryan has 3 children, one of whom was a special-needs child, one of whom was adopted. Together we have navigated many of family life’s biggest adventures: birth, death, marriage, divorce, special needs children, tornadoes, and boating in hurricanes to name a few. We've learned a thing or two along the way, and later this year we'll roll out our new podcast, GOOD HOOLIGANS, to help real parents with our insights and humor.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

You know when your kid screws up in some way, and you're sure of the lesson you want them to learn from it....but you’re not sure how to say it in a way they’ll actually hear?  

Download Sam's free video guide that walks you through a simple, step-by-step process for handling these tough conversations called the L.O.V.E.D. framework.  

Contact us: [e-mail]
Follow us:

• Sam on Instagram and Facebook
• Melissa on Facebook

Work with Us:

Sam: Teen Savvy Coaching

• Join The Teen Savvy Parent Hub
• Sam's free video guide: How to Have a "You Screwed Up" Conversation with your Child or Teen
• Sam's free e-book: Beyond Nagging: Empowering Parents to Transform Teen Homework Headaches

Dr. Melissa: Annapolis Psychiatry

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