BCM - How did your life change when you became a dad?
Chris - A whole new world opened up for me once I became a dad. Besides being an inspiration for my business (believe me this is the last thing I thought I would be doing with my life) my children made me realized that being together and sharing experiences as a family are the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences I could ever hope for. They bring so much joy and laughter to my life that often I catch myself in moments of disbelief that I am so lucky to have these little beings to share my life with. I learn so much each and every day with them. Don’t get me wrong, not all days are a breeze but it’s even during those difficult times I still feel like I would never trade for life prior to kids. OF course sharing this role with my wife even deepens the experience. I love it!
BCM - What has been your most memorable moment (s) as a dad?
Chris -This past winter my wife and I took our 3 kids to the mountains for the first time to ski. The kids took a ski class one day for an hour and they were naturals. Each child took off on their own riding the ski lift and skiing down the mountain. I was blown away! I was so proud of their independence and impressed how fast they caught on. It was amazing to experience that.
BCM - Congrats on the success of Diaper Dude! How and Why did you get into the baby gear business?
Chris -My original goal career goal was acting. I graduated from NYU’s Tisch School Of The Arts and immediately moved to LA. After landing some jobs and starting a Dog Walking business to supplement my income during jobs, my wife became pregnant with our first child. It was my wife that I credit for starting Diaper Dude since she came home one day with a dozen or so feminine diaper bags that she just bought as her first pregnancy purchase. I took one look at them and asked where was mine? She said take your pick. I said no way and that is when the idea was born and the journey began. There was really nothing on the market that was geared towards dads. It was all a matter of timing.
BCM - What are some key benefits of your products?
Chris -Diaper Dude is designed to not look like a diaper bag. It is compartmentalized to hold all those essentials needed for a day out with your little one. The messenger style design allows dad to be hands free, comfortable and confident all at the same time.
BCM - Do you have any gear advice for dads?
Chris - When picking out gear, whether it’s a diaper bag or even a stroller, I usually recommend following these 3 basic rules:
- Comfort – Make sure you choose the product that feels good to you. Remember you can pull off anything if you have the confidence, but that will only come with comfort.
- Function – Choose a product that will assist you in those times of need. The last thing you need is to add stress to your life, being a dad is stressful enough. If it looks good but is not functional, don’t get it!
- Choose a product that ultimately reflects your style. Whether you are conservative or a funky dude, there is a wide range of dad friendly products on the market today that will suit your style.
BCM - How do you balance your work life and your personal life?
Chris -Family is extremely important to me and is my priority. Making sure I have time with my kids is mandatory. I have rituals that keep our family bond strong. Walking my kids to school each day, having family dinner each night, reading to them at bedtime and telling stories before they fall asleep are some of the ways we stay connected. My wife and I also make a priority to have a date night at least 1 time a week. That helps me be a better dad too. It may take me longer to get where I want to go in my professional life but I have my whole life to get there. You can’t relive these precious moments of childhood. It’s important to me to remember that.
BCM - What types of activities do you like to do w/ your kids?
Chris -We love playing baseball in our backyard with our Golden retriever. She is a great outfielder. Family swims both day and night are a blast. The beach is a favorite for all of us – swimming in the ocean, building sandcastles and flying kites. I am in training to run the NY marathon and my 10 year old has recently been coming along on my long runs riding his bike. This is a great time for us to bond. I love that he enjoys it too!
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