Breaking Myths, Presence, Perception & the Truth About Black Fatherhood | C.A. Truthwell
By Lana Reid | June 3, 2026
As part of the Black Men Matter Series, Lana Reid sits down with C.A. Truthwell, author of Breaking the Myth, to discuss the realities of Black fatherhood and the narratives that continue to shape public perception. Truthwell explains how fathers are often labeled as absent despite being actively involved in their children’s lives, whether they live in the home or outside of it. Drawing from his research and observations, he challenges commonly repeated assumptions and encourages a more nuanced understanding of fatherhood, presence, and parental involvement.
In this episode of The Male Perspective, C.A. Truthwell explores the gap between public perception and the lived realities of many Black fathers.
Truthwell explains that conversations about Black fatherhood often rely on outdated assumptions and incomplete narratives. While media portrayals frequently emphasize absence, many fathers remain deeply engaged in their children’s lives through emotional support, guidance, financial contributions, and active parenting, regardless of whether they live in the same household.
Throughout the conversation, Lana Reid and Truthwell examine how involved fathers can sometimes be overlooked, dismissed, or excluded despite their ongoing presence. He argues that fatherhood should be measured by engagement and responsibility rather than simply by living arrangements, and that public discussions often fail to account for the complexity of modern family structures.
The discussion also focuses on the next generation. Truthwell shares his thoughts on the values, character traits, and life skills communities should intentionally pour into boys today to help prepare them to become healthy fathers tomorrow. He emphasizes the importance of accountability, emotional maturity, leadership, and community support in shaping future generations of men.
Another key theme is the importance of Black men telling their own stories. Truthwell explains that when others define the narrative, nuance is often lost. By sharing experiences directly and creating spaces for honest conversations, fathers can help challenge misconceptions and broaden public understanding.
This episode encourages listeners to look beyond stereotypes, question assumptions, and recognize the many ways Black fathers contribute to their families and communities every day.
About the Guest
C.A. Truthwell is the author of Breaking the Myth, a book that examines common misconceptions about Black fatherhood and challenges narratives that fail to reflect the experiences of many actively involved fathers. His work focuses on fatherhood, family relationships, and reshaping public understanding through honest dialogue and storytelling.
๐๐ผ๐ฟ ๐บ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐ถ๐ป๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐ผ๐ป ๐.๐. ๐ง๐ฟ๐๐๐ต๐๐ฒ๐น๐น:
https://catruthwell.com
https://www.instagram.com/author_catruthwell
https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Myth-Truth-About-Fatherhood/dp/B0FR1JRGL9
About the Series
This episode is part of the Black Men Matter Series, highlighting Black men whose experiences, insights, and leadership help expand conversations about identity, family, community, and culture.
About the Host & Organization
The Male Perspective is hosted by Lana Reid, founder of Conversations in Color, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) grassroots organization dedicated to providing uplifting and community-building spaces of dialogue for Black voices.
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The purpose of The Male Perspective is to dispel stereotypes and increase awareness of the experiences of Black men through open discussions, thought-provoking interviews, and the sharing of personal experiences that highlight the diversity and depth of the Black male experience.
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