The Dr. Laura Podcast Should I Wish My Daughter a Happy Birthday?
Jan 31, 2026
Preston, a father of three dealing with long-term estrangement after a divorce. He recounts custody fights, strained family dynamics, and a recent birthday snub. The conversation covers past visitation battles, signs of his ex-wife's instability, which child stayed close, and advice about reaching out with low expectations.
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Divorce Surprise During Counseling
- Preston describes being blindsided when his wife announced a divorce during counseling after years of blaming him.
- He recounts that counselors told him she wanted to blame, not actually engage in therapy.
Humiliating Court-Ordered Exchanges
- Preston recounts restricted pickup locations shifting from home to a restaurant and then a police station parking lot.
- He says his ex used those exchanges to instill fear in the children about him.
Children Turned Against Father
- Preston gives examples of his daughter's hostile behavior, like yelling at her mother on the phone.
- He also notes the ex-wife repeatedly called him a liar to the children.