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Today, I’m joined by Garr Russell, a father of four who’s raising sons and daughters with intention, structure and a whole lot of heart.
This is one of those conversations where you’re going to hear conviction and real-world experience. Garr isn’t speaking theory. He’s in the middle of raising a 17-year-old daughter and a 9-year-old daughter, while navigating everything in between.
In this episode, you’ll hear several powerful takeaways.
First, Garr shares why he believes every child must understand their identity, who they are and whose they are, and how everything in life flows from that foundation.
Second, we talk about the importance of being available as a dad, especially when your daughter is ready to “empty the teapot” late at night and just needs you to listen instead of fix her problems.
Third, Garr explains the guardrails he’s put in place around phones, social media, and friendships, including why he eliminated social media entirely and limits friendships to a small, meaningful circle.
Fourth, he walks through his philosophy on dating, or more accurately, why his family focuses on intentional friendships instead of traditional dating.
Finally, Garr shares how he and his wife are raising their kids with an entrepreneurial mindset, teaching them how to think independently, create opportunities and take ownership of their future.
This is a practical, honest conversation about raising daughters in today’s world without losing your values or your connection.
Garr is very intentional about how he raises his daughters, and there are a few lessons every dad can take away from this conversation.
First, your presence matters more than your solutions. Sometimes your daughter doesn’t need advice, she just needs you to listen and be available when she’s ready to talk.
Second, guardrails create freedom. Whether it’s limiting social media, setting boundaries on phones, or being intentional about friendships, structure actually helps kids thrive.
Third, focus on identity. When your daughter knows who she is and what she stands for, she’s far less likely to be pulled in the wrong direction.
Fourth, call out the good. Garr talked about “calling out the gold” in his kids, and that’s a powerful reminder that what you notice and affirm is what will grow.
And finally, keep the heart connection strong. At the end of the day, if your daughter knows she’s loved and safe with you, she’ll keep coming back to you no matter what life throws her way.
If you’d like to connect with Garr, you can visit his website at garrrussell.com. From there, you’ll find links to his books, content, and ways to follow what he’s doing.
If you found value in this episode of the DODO Dads podcast, please share it with another father who could use the encouragement. You are welcome to join the DODO Dads Facebook group, too, or visit us at www.dododads.com. Because the world needs more great girl dads. Thank you for listening.
