This episode holds a special place in my heart because it’s a conversation with one of my favorite people in the world — my dad, Larry Johnson.
With Father’s Day as our backdrop, this episode is a tribute to all the fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and father figures who are raising, mentoring, and loving Black children — teaching them how to thrive in a world that doesn’t always make it easy.
Larry Johnson: From South Carolina to Iowa — A Journey of Firsts
My dad’s journey is one of perseverance, courage, and transformation. Born in 1955 in Jim Crow South Carolina, he was raised by his grandparents before moving to the Bronx as a teenager — the oldest of six siblings.
As a first-generation college student, he made the brave decision to leave New York for Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa, on a one-way ticket. He would become president of the Black Student Organization, a trailblazer on campus, and a voice for change during the height of the Civil Rights era.
Hearing him talk about this journey reminds me of how much strength it took to leave everything familiar behind to create a better future — not only for himself but for his future family.
Fatherhood: Raising Black Daughters in Iowa
One of the most meaningful parts of our conversation was hearing my dad reflect on what it meant to raise two Black girls — me and my sister, Olivia — in a predominantly white city like Des Moines.
He shared how intentional he and my mom were about making sure we had every opportunity to succeed:
“We wanted to give you every opportunity to make everything as fair as possible. We were always thinking beyond Iowa for you — we wanted to offer you the whole world.”
Growing up, I often didn’t realize how much work went into creating that kind of foundation for us. Whether it was being the only Black kid in class or navigating spaces where we didn’t always feel welcome, my dad taught us never to let anyone define our worth.
“We never let those things bother us or determine what we needed to do. You always go, hold your head up high, do your best, and never let anyone control your narrative.”
That lesson has stayed with me all my life.
The Power of Presence: What It Means to Be a Father
When I asked my dad about what he thought was most important about being a father, his answer was simple but profound:
“You have to be committed. You have to be there — no matter what. There’s no blueprint because every child is different. You give them opportunities, and you show up.”
Hearing that brought me back to my childhood. My dad was always there — at every game, every concert, every school event. He wasn’t just physically present — he was engaged, encouraging, and always pushing us to dream big.
Even when we struggled, he never gave up on us.
Generational Love: Now Raising His Grandsons
Today, my dad is back in full “dad mode” as he and my mom raise my nephews — two amazing young Black boys growing up in today’s complex world.
He talked about the differences in raising boys versus girls and about making sure they have both opportunities and protection — especially in a world where Black boys face unique challenges.
“My job now is to save them from themselves — to teach them how to navigate situations in a way that keeps them safe and allows them to thrive. I want them to have opportunities to be kids, to grow up without being forced to be adults too soon.”
That hit me deeply because I’ve seen how my dad has poured his heart into raising these boys — just like he did with me and my sister.
Proudest Moments: A Legacy of Strength
When I asked him to reflect on his proudest moments, my dad mentioned three things:
- Graduating college — a moment that made his parents proud and set a new standard for our family.
- Becoming a father — knowing that he had a responsibility to raise us with love and integrity.
- Watching his grandsons grow — seeing the next generation flourish and knowing he’s playing a role in shaping their future.
His reflection was a reminder that when one of us succeeds, it’s a victory for all those who came before us — a generational win.
Final Thoughts: To All the Fathers Out There
As we wrapped up the conversation, my dad shared this advice for other fathers:
“Be committed. Always give your kids opportunities. Be there when they need you. And never stop encouraging them to be their best selves.”
So on this Father’s Day, I want to say thank you to my dad — for being the first man to love me, to believe in me, and to show me what real strength looks like.
And to all the fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and father figures out there — thank you for showing up, for leading, and for loving your children. You matter. You are needed.
💐 Happy Father’s Day to my dad and all the incredible fathers out there. Your love and leadership shape the world.
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