Skip to main content
Dad Stop

Dad Stop

By Brooklynn and Lonnie Ridgeway

An engaging and entertaining conversation about all things life between a father and daughter.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

EP #63: Is the Foster Care System Broken?

Dad StopSep 28, 2023

00:00
33:07
EP #63: Is the Foster Care System Broken?

EP #63: Is the Foster Care System Broken?

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad discuss issues regarding the foster care system and what could be done to improve it.

Sep 28, 202333:07
EP #62: Toxic Relationships and Social Awkwardness

EP #62: Toxic Relationships and Social Awkwardness

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad discuss the characteristics of a healthy relationship verse a toxic relationship and socially awkward people.

Jul 12, 202327:14
 EP #61: Happy Fourth - We Appreciate the Country We Live In

EP #61: Happy Fourth - We Appreciate the Country We Live In

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad speak on their appreciation of the those who've fought for the freedoms and opportunities experienced by those living in the United States.

Jul 05, 202312:28
EP #60: Questions For Brooklynn

EP #60: Questions For Brooklynn

On this episode, Brooklynn answers a couple questions from a few audience members.

Jun 14, 202322:22
EP #59: Understanding the Life of a Kid with ADHD

EP #59: Understanding the Life of a Kid with ADHD

On this episode, Brooklynn and her Dad discuss ADHD and how it affects one's focus and their ability to stay on track. Please note the Dad gives the wrong definition for ADHD in the beginning but is corrected on the right definition during the show.

Jun 07, 202331:30
EP #58: Story Time - How "DAD" Almost Became An Accomplice To A Major Crime

EP #58: Story Time - How "DAD" Almost Became An Accomplice To A Major Crime

On this episode, the "Dad" shares a story about a time when he was one decision away from becoming an accomplice to a major crime that would have drastically changed his life. ***DISCLAIMER and WARNING*** This episode does include details of violence.

May 31, 202320:11
EP# 57: Talking About Crime and How to Avoid Bad Situations and People

EP# 57: Talking About Crime and How to Avoid Bad Situations and People

On this episode, Brooklynn and her Dad discuss the very real world of crime and how to trust your gut to avoid bad situations and people.


A note from the "Dad" to parents. "Most people don't understand just how close they are to the world of crime. And along those same lines, most parents don't understand how close their kid is to crime. Public schools are essentially little towns and just like every town, even schools have bad things happening or planning to happen. One of the conversations that is a "must have" with your kids is how to deal with bad people and bad situations. While working in the juvenile detention center, I have seen your every day "typical" kid get caught up in something they had no busy being involved in. Guilty by association is a real thing. The prevention to bad company and circumstances starts with conversations. Our hope is the conversations between my daughter and I serve as a conversation starter in your homes with your kids, or if you're kid the hope is you are allowing these conversations to broaden your perspective and make you think so you can be better prepared with a response rather than a reaction. Dad Out!"

May 24, 202318:12
EP #56: Coping with Anger and Understanding It's Association With Pressure

EP #56: Coping with Anger and Understanding It's Association With Pressure

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad discuss their anger triggers and how they deal with their anger. They also break down the correlation between pressure and anger.

May 18, 202329:06
EP #55: Crutching on Mental Health

EP #55: Crutching on Mental Health

On this episode of the podcast, Brooklynn and her Dad discuss mental health and whether people are using it as a "crutch" to escape responsibilities.

May 10, 202333:48
E9 #54: The Power of Social Media's Influence

E9 #54: The Power of Social Media's Influence

On this episode, Brooklynn and her Dad talk about the power of social media's influence on youth; why certain social media platforms attract teens; the difference between boys and girls when listening verses watching; and why everyone should be careful to what they listen to.

May 03, 202330:53
EP #53: Child Abuse Awareness

EP #53: Child Abuse Awareness

On this episode, the Dad of the podcast talks about child abuse awareness which is nationally recognized throughout the month of April. He discusses some statistics and why you should consider having an open door policy to your home for your children's friends.

Apr 26, 202316:18
EP #52: Teenage Drug Addiction and Overdose

EP #52: Teenage Drug Addiction and Overdose

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad discuss drug addiction, overdose, prevention, and tips for parents to help break the ice on these difficult conversations with their teens.

Apr 19, 202324:25
EP #51: Um...The Dalai Lama did WHAT???

EP #51: Um...The Dalai Lama did WHAT???

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad disgust (see what I did there) the actions that led to the Dalai Lama's public apology and how the world has become so desensitized to exploitation of children.

Apr 12, 202321:56
EP #50: Dealing With Disappointment

EP #50: Dealing With Disappointment

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad discuss how they have been on either side of disappointment and what they did to bounce back. If you like this show, please rate, subscribe, and leave a comment!

Apr 05, 202326:51
EP #49: C'mon Now...Another School Shooting?

EP #49: C'mon Now...Another School Shooting?

On this episode, Brooklynn and her Dad discuss the latest details of the Nashville school shooting and have a conversation around prevention measures that could be taken.

Mar 29, 202326:28
EP #48: Brooklynn's Business Ideas

EP #48: Brooklynn's Business Ideas

On this episode, Brooklynn and her Dad brainstorm potential business ideas for Brooklynn to start.

Mar 22, 202322:12
EP #47: When Did Your Faith Become Your Own

EP #47: When Did Your Faith Become Your Own

On this episode, Brooklynn asks her Dad questions about the origins of his faith journey and when he started taking his faith seriously. 

Mar 15, 202325:41
EP#46: High School Confessions - Conversation With a Group of High School Girls

EP#46: High School Confessions - Conversation With a Group of High School Girls

On this episode, the Dad talks with a group of high school girls about the realities and expectations of high school. They talk about social media, relationships, partying, drugs, and the importance of having a parent they can talk to and trust. 

Mar 08, 202322:49
EP #45: How are students using CHAT-GPT and other artificial intelligence tools.

EP #45: How are students using CHAT-GPT and other artificial intelligence tools.

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad discuss artificial intelligence and how students can use it appropriately to do assignments. They also talk about news sources and the importance of getting the facts and not the emotions of a story.  

Mar 01, 202317:32
EP #44: "Ain't Nobody Grooming Me"...Shut Up Tate

EP #44: "Ain't Nobody Grooming Me"...Shut Up Tate

On this episode, Brooklynn and her Dad discuss grooming, manipulation, and the dangers of falling for a "WACK" philosophy by "WACK" people. The Dad opens up about some fears he has on raising a daughter in this world. 

Feb 22, 202317:29
EP #43: Shut Up and Let Me Speak...Brooklynn's Take on Clothing

EP #43: Shut Up and Let Me Speak...Brooklynn's Take on Clothing

On this episode, the Dad gets off the mic and let's Brooklynn address the listeners on her perspective of the hot button topic in the Household...Clothing. 

Feb 15, 202311:08
EP #42: Cover up...Turtle necks and Overalls

EP #42: Cover up...Turtle necks and Overalls

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad discuss the most heavily debated topic in their home...clothing. What's appropriate to wear? What's not appropriate to wear? Why does there seam to be a double standard? Is the "Dad" too overprotective? They get into it! "Listen, I struggle to find the line on what's appropriate for my daughter and what's not appropriate. I'm a protective father. I know that and I'm cool with that. I sleep very well at night. With my GUN!"

Feb 01, 202324:38
EP #41: We Back - Justice and Accountability

EP #41: We Back - Justice and Accountability

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad talk about the recent police brutality case of Tyre Nichols; power of the media; thoughts and opinions of the use of the "N" word; and the details of the most recent drama in Brooklynn's life. 

Feb 01, 202330:09
EP #40: Foster Care and Adoption

EP #40: Foster Care and Adoption

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad talk about foster care, adoption, and respite; stereotypes around foster care; and what signs to look for that may indicate abuse. 

Show Sponsor: Elevated Oats. Please visit elevatedoats.com and use the coupon code "DADSTOP" for 15% off at checkout.

Jun 15, 202219:01
EP #39: Never Too Early To Talk About Careers

EP #39: Never Too Early To Talk About Careers

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad talk about what type of career she wants to go into and how to start. They also talk about the power of networking and how to make authentic connections. Some of the topics covered on this episode include real estate, tik tok, content strategy, best friends, careers, networking, college, burritos, ELEVATED OATS, and more. 

The show sponsor is Elevated Oats. Visit elevatedoats.com and use the coupon code "DADSTOP" for 15% off at checkout. 

Jun 08, 202219:59
Convo Clip

Convo Clip

This is a conversation clip from Episode #38: Have You "Heard" About the Trial?

Jun 04, 202203:50
EP #38: Have You "Heard" about the trial?

EP #38: Have You "Heard" about the trial?

On this episode of the podcast, Brooklynn and her Dad discuss topics surrounding the Amber Heard & Johnny Depp trial and what could be learned from a distance. Some of the topics discussed on this episode include but are not limited to dating, lying, character, old age, integrity, racism, feminism, criminal charges, defamation, and more. 

Show sponsor: Elevatedoats.com (use coupon code "DADSTOP" for 15% off at checkout). 

Jun 01, 202222:44
Convo Clip

Convo Clip

This is a conversation clip from Episode #37: Disgusted - Texas School Shooting Massacre.

May 28, 202201:01
EP #37: Disgusted - Texas School Shooting Massacre

EP #37: Disgusted - Texas School Shooting Massacre

On this episode of the podcast, Brooklynn and her Dad discuss the recent Texas School Shooting Massacre. Some of the topics discussed on this episode are religion, shooting, family, mental health, boundaries, gun laws, protection, sympathy, and more. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the victims of the travesty. 

Show sponsor: Elevatedoats.com (use coupon code "DADSTOP" for 15% off at checkout).

May 25, 202228:58
EP #36: The Buffalo Shooting

EP #36: The Buffalo Shooting

Have you every talked to your child about what to do in an active shooter situation? On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad discuss the details and facts of the Buffalo shooting and what to do in that situation. On behalf of the podcast, our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the victims. 

Show Sponsor: Elevatedoats.com - Use coupon code "DADSTOP" for 15% off at checkout. 

May 18, 202220:54
EP #35: Mother's Day Shoutout
May 11, 202222:31
EP# 34: Interrogation Part 2 - Dad's Turn

EP# 34: Interrogation Part 2 - Dad's Turn

On this episode of the episode of the podcast, the Dad of the podcast interrogates Brooklynn with questions around her personal life! Some of the topics covered on this episode is dating, sleepovers, social media, friendships, boys, holding hands, and more. 

This episode is sponsored by Elevated Oats. Go to Elevatedoats.com and check out what they have to offer and be sure to use the coupon code "DADSTOP" at checkout for 15% off. 

May 04, 202217:37
EP #33: Interrogation Part 1 - Brooklynn Asks Questions

EP #33: Interrogation Part 1 - Brooklynn Asks Questions

On this episode of the dad stop podcast, Brooklynn asks her dad questions about his childhood and young adult years and tries to incriminate him. Some of the topics covered on this episode are weed, girlfriends, in school suspension, vandalism, and more.

This episode is sponsored by Elevated Oats. Go to Elevatedoats.com to check out their nutritious and delicious products (use coupon code "DADSTOP" at checkout for 15% off).

Apr 27, 202225:37
EP# 32: Yep...We Talkin Bout All Things Sexuality

EP# 32: Yep...We Talkin Bout All Things Sexuality

On this episode, Brooklynn asks her dad questions about sexuality; and discusses some issues she sees in the dynamics of the relationship between conservative parents and kids who are figuring figuring out their own sexuality. They also discuss how conservative folks have to navigate how to go about their beliefs that may not be in alignment with the culture they live in. 


This show is sponsored by Elevated Oats. Be sure to visit elevatedoats.com and use the coupon code "DADSTOP" for 15% off purchase at checkout.

Apr 22, 202221:44
EP #31: This Week Got the Best of Us

EP #31: This Week Got the Best of Us

We made a commitment to post every single week for an entire year! Although this week got the best of us and we were not able to put together an episode, we wanted to post and keep our word. Thanks for the grace. Be on the lookout for next week's episode. 

Apr 14, 202203:28
EP #30: Teen Pregnancy and Abortion

EP #30: Teen Pregnancy and Abortion

Hi there! This is the Dad from the podcast. I felt the need to step in and say this was one of my favorite conversations I have ever had with my Brooklynn because it's a perfect example of the trust and openness I desire to always have with her as the years pass along. This conversation has opened up more conversations for questions and answers between us during car rides and leisure time. On this episode of the podcast, we have a conversations centered around teen pregnancy but we also discuss abortion, beliefs, morality, marriage, and much more. I hope you enjoy the episode and thank you for listening,  supporting, and sharing this episode with a friend. 

Show Sponsor: Elevatedoats.com (use coupon code "DADSTOP" for 15% off at checkout)


Apr 06, 202230:16
EP #29: Let's Talk Transgender Athletes

EP #29: Let's Talk Transgender Athletes

Among the many things that may have caught your eye in the media over the past week (Will Smith Slap, Ukraine, Gas Prices, March Madness), there's no way you haven't listened to, read, or been engaged in a conversation regarding Lia Thomas, a transgender female athlete who recently won a Division I National Female Swimming Championship. You don't have to like or understand something to show respect. This is a conversation that needs to be had and will continue to bring controversy. On this episode, Brooklynn and her Dad have a conversation around the topic of transgender athletes and how they are or are not accepted by their peers in her school. 

Show Sponsor: Elevatedoats.com (use coupon code "DADSTOP" for 15% off at closing). 

Mar 30, 202226:58
EP #28: Teenagers Speaking on the NEED for Open Communication With Their Parents

EP #28: Teenagers Speaking on the NEED for Open Communication With Their Parents

On this episode, we share a clip of the "Dad" interviewing two teenagers on regarding the importance of parents working to communicate with their teens. The teens share some ways how parents could open up lines of communications with their teens. If you are interested in hearing the full interview, let us know by posting a comment to the podcast platform. Enjoy!

Show Sponsor: elevatedoats.com (coupon code "DADSTOP" at checkout for 15% off)

Mar 23, 202213:01
EP #27: No Dad Allowed - Pros and Cons of Being an Only Child

EP #27: No Dad Allowed - Pros and Cons of Being an Only Child

On this episode, Brooklynn talks about the pros and cons of being an only child, gets honest about her emotions, and exposes some embarrassing truths about herself. Also, this is Brooklynn's first solo episode as she is beginning to test the waters in starting her own podcast! If you want to hear more of "Just Brooklynn" let us know! 

Show Sponsor: elevatedoats.com (coupon code "DADSTOP" at checkout for 15% off). 

Mar 16, 202220:26
EP #26: Cancel Culture and NOT Sending Pics...

EP #26: Cancel Culture and NOT Sending Pics...

On this episode, Brooklynn and her Dad discuss cancel culture and touch on the dangers of sending PICS (future conversation topic FOR SURE). BTW parents, if you haven't talked to your t(w)een (boy or girl) about the dangers of sending PICS or messages over the internet, please do. Often times, our t(w)eens need to be taught how to use wisdom or think through what they are sending from their phone or posting on social media. Don't let them learn the hard way. Once it gets posted or sent...you can't protect them.


Show Sponsor: elevatedoats.com (coupon code "DADSTOP" at checkout for 15% off).

Mar 09, 202215:21
EP #25: Russia & Ukraine - Tweenage Thoughts

EP #25: Russia & Ukraine - Tweenage Thoughts

Real life situations provide the best discussions and teachable moments. On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad discuss what's currently happening (as of February 27th, 2022) between Russia & Ukraine; and highlight relevant life lessons and teenage wisdom that can be taken away from this unfortunate series of events. We'd also like to make a statement and acknowledge that the political decisions made by the Russian government do not represent all Russian people. We do not support individuals and groups of people being targeted and bullied in any way especially as a result of a political decision made by the government of their country of origin. Thank you for supporting the podcast and please be sure to rate and review. 

Show Sponsor: elevatedoats.com (coupon code "DADSTOP" at checkout for 15% off).

Mar 02, 202220:17
EP #24: Self Harming Is a Thing

EP #24: Self Harming Is a Thing

A recent study showed that 18% out of 64,000 high school kids engaged in self harm over the past year. The most popular form of self harm was cutting. Now a days, self-harm seems to be more accepted and less demonized among Middle School and High School students. Kids are no longer covering up their scars and are even inviting other kids to engage in this unhealthy coping skill. On this episode, Brooklynn and her Dad discuss self harming and other healthy coping skills.

Statistics Reference - https://www.center4research.org/self-injury-increasing-teenage-girls-can-parents/

Show Sponsor - https://www.elevatedoats.com/ (Use coupon code "DADSTOP" for 15% off at checkout)

Feb 23, 202224:49
EP #23 - Dating 101: Setting the Standard for the WAAAAY Future

EP #23 - Dating 101: Setting the Standard for the WAAAAY Future

"Here's the deal. Not only am I NOT emotionally or mentally ready for my daughter to start dating, she's not allowed in this season of her life to date or be exclusive with anyone. Now, with that said, I know she has and is going to have discussions about dating and boys whether I like it or not; therefore, I choose to put myself in the middle of those discussions by engaging with her on the subject. As a father of a daughter, I want do my best to set standards or expectations for any future "Jamals" (name I use that represents any guy who likes my daughter) that come her way talking that smooth talk. These are some of my favorite conversations." 

On this episode of the podcast, Brooklynn and her father discuss FUTURE dating expectations, girl code rules for dating, red flags, and much more. This is an entertaining episode that you do not want to miss. 

Show Sponsor: https://www.elevatedoats.com/ (coupon code "DADSTOP" for 15% off at checkout)

Feb 16, 202215:47
EP #22: Oh...She TOXIC TOXIC

EP #22: Oh...She TOXIC TOXIC

What does toxic girl behavior look like in tweens and teens? On this episode, the dynamic duo talk about what toxic girl behavior looks like in Junior High and High School culture and what builds that toxicity. They also go into details as to why their relationship is strong and what steps Brooklynn's "Dad" takes to stay in constant communication with her. 

To learn more about the show's sponsor "Elevated Oats" you can visit elevatedoats.com and if you order online, you can get 15% off by using the coupon code "DADSTOP" at checkout. 

Feb 09, 202223:28
EP #21: Intentionality - Do NOT (yelling voice) Let Culture Set The Standard

EP #21: Intentionality - Do NOT (yelling voice) Let Culture Set The Standard

Be honest for a second. Who or what is setting the standard in your home or life? If you're not intentional in addressing culture's philosophies through conversations in your home, the CULTURE is setting the standard under your roof. Teens are learning expectations from social media, music, television shows, movies and everything else that drives culture. When's the last time you talked to your teen about what a healthy platonic or romantic relationship looks like? "They aren't old enough to date." Pshhh...they are still gathering information and taking notes. They are watching sitcom after sitcom of cheating partners, abusive relationships, substance misuse, erratic behaviors, and so on. What goes in, will won't always come out but will at least influence what come out. On this episode, the "DAD" is solo today and venting (more or less) and urging parents and teens to have healthy conversations and taking hold of the standard that is being set in their lives...or home. If you like this content, please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE and RATE and REVIEW on any relevant platforms. 

Sponsor: elevatedoats.com (use coupon code "DADSTOP" for 15% off at checkout).

Feb 02, 202219:00
EP #20: More Boy Talk...ugh

EP #20: More Boy Talk...ugh

Hello! I'm the dad from the podcast. To be real, I'm not ready for the whole "boy" talk and you know what scares me the most? The thought of failing to prepare my daughter to deal with all these fools out here in these streets. On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad have a casual discussion about dating and boys. More specifically, they bring up concerns regarding the increasing level of disrespectfulness of boys in regards to speaking to girls. 

Jan 26, 202216:07
EP #19: Music (Part 2)

EP #19: Music (Part 2)

This episode is a continuation of the previous show where Brooklynn and her dad discuss how music negatively influences thoughts. On this episode, you will hear an engaging and authentic conversation about how all music is not good music. During this conversation, Brooklynn admits to learning things about life that should have probably been taught by her mom and dad and NOT a soundtrack. Parents will definitely benefit from this conversation.

Listener Perks

https://www.elevatedoats.com/ is giving our listeners 15% off their order if they use coupon code "DADSTOP" at checkout

Dec 29, 202127:45
EP #18 - Music: Inappropriate Lyrics Influencing Minds (Part 1)

EP #18 - Music: Inappropriate Lyrics Influencing Minds (Part 1)

Music is arguably one of the most underrated educational sources out there. People learn so much from music...and it isn't all good. Question for the parents...doesn't it seem like the music of today is 100 times worse than it was twenty years ago? The lyrics now a days seem to be so much more graphic and in your face. On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad began talking about how music influences and educates. This conversations ends up narrowing it's focus on a recent popular song that wasn't meant for young ears. Stay tuned for Part 2!

Dec 22, 202119:54
EP #17 - Talk Me About Anxiety and Cutting

EP #17 - Talk Me About Anxiety and Cutting

On this episode, Brooklynn and her dad discuss anxiety. Some of the topics discussed on this podcast are marriage, fatherhood, anxiety, fear, nervousness, coping skills, cutting, pets, school, sports, and ELEVATED OATS (elevatedoats.com and use the coupon code at checkout  "DADSTOP" for 15% off. 

Dec 15, 202132:35
EP #16 - What She Really Knows About... Covid

EP #16 - What She Really Knows About... Covid

As parents, are you ever curious about the level of impact your opinion on social matters has on your teens? Personally, I forget my daughter can think for herself and...she's good at it. On this episode, Brooklynn answers questions about COVID and how much of an impact the shut downs has had on the economy. Some of the topics discussed are COVID, the economy, social distancing, New York, the mask mandate, vaccinations, government control, and more. 

Dec 08, 202125:20