Call Her Daddy Podcast Summary Episode: Zayn: For the First Time in 6 Years (FBF)
Release Date: May 16, 2025
Host: Alex Cooper

Introduction

In this highly anticipated episode of Call Her Daddy, host Alex Cooper sits down with global superstar Zayn Malik for an in-depth conversation. This marks Zayn's first appearance on the podcast in six years, offering listeners a rare glimpse into his personal and professional life since departing from One Direction.

Early Life and Relocation to Pennsylvania

Zayn begins by sharing his reasons for relocating from the bustling environment of New York City to the more serene suburbs of Pennsylvania. He explains,
“I fell in love with Pennsylvania because it was super calm and chill, something I needed after living in the chaos of New York for three years” (03:17). This move was partly influenced by his desire to create a stable environment for his daughter and distance himself from the relentless paparazzi presence in major cities.

Daily Routine and Personal Life

Discussing his typical day, Zayn outlines a balanced routine centered around his daughter and musical pursuits.
“I wake up around midday, take a shower, eat, and then head to the studio to work on my records until bedtime” (09:24). He emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal space and managing his time effectively to nurture both his creativity and fatherhood.

Childhood and Family Dynamics

Zayn delves into his upbringing in Bradford, UK, highlighting the challenges and influences that shaped his identity. He reflects,
“Growing up in an impoverished community in Bradford taught me resilience and helped cement my own identity” (15:30). As the only son among three sisters, he learned responsibility early on, often supporting his sisters by running errands like buying tampons—a task he approached with a blend of awkwardness and dedication.

Passion for Music and X Factor Experience

Zayn recounts his early passion for singing, which blossomed during his school years.
“I auditioned for X Factor because my music teacher saw potential in me,” (24:00) he explains. Despite initial nerves, his performance on the show was met with positive feedback, setting the stage for his future in music.

Joining and Departing One Direction

Reflecting on his time with One Direction, Zayn describes the sudden shift from a typical teenage life to global stardom.
“Being suddenly famous was surreal. At 17, I couldn’t fully comprehend the rush and the responsibilities that came with it” (32:24). He shares memorable fan interactions, including a startling moment in Sweden where fans emerged from trash cans to greet him—a testament to their unwavering dedication.

Eventually, citing the need for personal growth and creative freedom, Zayn made the pivotal decision to leave the band.
“I wanted to make my own record and explore deeper, more authentic themes in my music,” (50:03) he states. This move, while difficult, was essential for his mental well-being and artistic expression.

Mental Health and Anxiety

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on Zayn’s struggles with anxiety, both during his time with One Direction and afterward.
“Performing on stage in front of thousands naturally brought about anxiety, but becoming a father shifted my priorities and helped me manage these feelings” (58:23). He emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness and his journey towards balancing fame with personal well-being.

Fatherhood and Co-Parenting

Zayn opens up about his role as a father, highlighting the profound impact his daughter has had on his life.
“Spending time with her, engaging in activities like playing instruments and reading together, has rekindled my own childhood joy” (64:40). He proudly shares how fatherhood has shifted his life priorities, fostering a deeper sense of purpose and happiness.

Solo Career and Future Projects

Looking ahead, Zayn discusses his solo music career and upcoming releases.
“My new single 'Love Like This' is a summer jam that reflects my personal growth and experiences,” (72:56) he reveals. He articulates his desire to infuse his music with more personal and authentic narratives, distancing himself from the more sanitized content produced during his time with One Direction.

Handling Public Perception and Rumors

Addressing past controversies, Zayn explains his approach to managing public perception and rumors.
“I chose to handle negative rumors quietly to protect my daughter's perception of me,” (69:47). He underscores the importance of focusing on his immediate family and personal well-being rather than engaging with toxic online narratives.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In wrapping up the interview, Zayn expresses his hope that fans gain a deeper understanding of his true self beyond the "mysterious" persona often portrayed in the media.
“I want my fans to feel like they really know me and see the positive changes I've embraced, especially through fatherhood,” (75:03) he concludes. Zayn leaves listeners with anticipation for his new music and a renewed connection with his audience.

Notable Quotes

• “I fell in love with Pennsylvania because it was super calm and chill, something I needed after living in the chaos of New York for three years.” – Zayn Malik (03:17)
• “Being suddenly famous was surreal. At 17, I couldn’t fully comprehend the rush and the responsibilities that came with it.” – Zayn Malik (32:24)
• “Spending time with her, engaging in activities like playing instruments and reading together, has rekindled my own childhood joy.” – Zayn Malik (64:40)
• “I wanted to make my own record and explore deeper, more authentic themes in my music.” – Zayn Malik (50:03)
• “I chose to handle negative rumors quietly to protect my daughter's perception of me.” – Zayn Malik (69:47)

Insights and Takeaways

• Balancing Fame and Personal Life: Zayn emphasizes the challenges of maintaining personal well-being amidst fame, highlighting the significance of fatherhood in achieving this balance.
• Creative Freedom: His departure from One Direction was driven by a desire for artistic authenticity, allowing him to explore more profound and personal themes in his solo work.
• Mental Health Advocacy: Openly discussing his struggles with anxiety, Zayn advocates for mental health awareness and the importance of seeking support.
• Family and Identity: Growing up in a diverse and challenging environment shaped Zayn’s resilience and sense of self, which continues to influence his music and personal life.

Conclusion

This episode of Call Her Daddy offers a candid and comprehensive look into Zayn Malik's life post-One Direction. From his relocation for a peaceful family life to his ongoing solo music career, Zayn shares heartfelt reflections on fame, mental health, and the joys of fatherhood. Listeners gain valuable insights into his journey of self-discovery and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures.