The bond between a mother and son is one of the most profound connections in life—rooted in unconditional love, quiet strength, and unwavering support.

It’s a relationship that evolves through time, shifting from protection to partnership, from guidance to mutual respect. A mother becomes his first teacher, his earliest confidante, and often, his lifelong anchor. In turn, a son brings out a mother’s resilience and tenderness in equal measure. Whether in everyday moments or extraordinary milestones, their bond transcends words—built not just on blood, but on trust, affection, and a shared journey through life’s ever-changing seasons.

We sit down to discuss life and the industry with mother Danielle Fiedler and her son Zach – both models and actors.

BAHM: How is your relationship evolving as both of your careers are taking off in the spotlight?

D & Z: It feels like we are sharing a new chapter together. As our careers are taking off, we get to be each other’s biggest cheerleaders, be supportive through all the ups and downs, and be proud of our successes. We are best friends and share in the other’s happiness. 

BAHM:  Did growing up with a beautiful mother influence your decision to pursue modeling, or did you carve your own path?

D & Z: Even though she’s beautiful, that’s not where her values are. She has always focused on being a good person, and it’s her confidence and lightness that influences me. Watching her step into modeling now, actually inspires me; it shows me that you can keep chasing your dreams at any age. 

BAHM: What advice did you give your son about handling fame and the pressures of the fashion industry?

D & Z: I tell him to stay rooted in who he is – the genuine, loving, caring, funny person he’s always been. I remind him to enjoy the ride and to not let the pressures take away the joy, and also to not put too much stress on himself. He’s not going to be what everyone wants or is looking for in every opportunity, and to avoid focusing on that. 

BAHM:  Have you ever worked together on a project—if not, would you want to?

D & Z: This photoshoot has been the first time we have worked together, and it was so amazing! We would love to do more projects together; we really enjoy spending time together, we encourage and lift each other up. We have a lot of fun together, have an incredible bond and respect for each other, and that shows in front of the camera. 

BAHM: What would your fans be surprised to learn?

D & Z: We both share an interest in psychology and wanting to make a positive impact in the world.  

BAHM:  How do you support each other emotionally and professionally in such demanding, public-facing careers?

D & Z: We always talk openly and are very honest. We make time for each other, have special time together to reset and be present in the moment. We are encouraging, work together on poses, walking and scripts, and are there for each other, no matter what. Our relationship is the most important thing to maintain. 

BAHM: When did you realized your son was destined for the fashion world—or did it come as a surprise?

D & Z: I knew Zach had a presence from the time he was little, he has always carried himself with a quiet confidence. But seeing him in front of the camera for the first time still surprised me. It was like watching him step into something he was made for!

BAHM:  What’s the best piece of advice you’ve given—and received—when it comes to staying grounded in industries that often aren’t?

D & Z: The best advice that I can give is don’t lose yourself, the person that you truly are at your core. Stay true to your values and morals, and remain you! 

The best advice that I’ve received is to remember that you won’t get every job we audition for, that we aren’t always going to be what is being scouted for. 

BAHM:  How do you celebrate each other’s successes in industries that are both highly competitive and visually driven?

D & Z: We remain humble but get super excited for each other! We hug it out, giggle, talk, do a happy dance, and do our special handshake that we always mess up on and have to repeat it at least 3 times!