By Staff
Justin Reese, Esq. is known to many as a respected attorney, TV personality, and community figure, but beyond the accolades and public persona lies his most cherished role: father. A man of purpose and poise, Justin’s approach to parenting is rooted in love, intentionality, and legacy. As he opens up about the joys and responsibilities of fatherhood, we find a deeply thoughtful man committed to raising a powerful young woman in a complex world. His reflections reveal a father who leads with heart, learns with humility, and lives each day in service of something greater than himself—his daughter.
Describe the moment you first became a father and what emotions you experienced.
Becoming a father was one of the most profound moments of my life but also if I am being honest I was far more scared than anything. I remember holding my daughter for the first time and being completely overwhelmed with emotion. There was this powerful rush of joy, wonder, and fear all at once. A lot of people will say they were thrilled to meet this little human who instantly held their whole heart, but I didn’t connect immediately. It wasn’t until being in the thick of it and caring for my child in the early hours of the morning is when we truly connected and bonded. At that moment, I understood that my purpose had changed—I wasn’t just living for myself anymore. Everything now centered around her.
What does fatherhood mean to you—not just the title, but the responsibility and the legacy?
To me, fatherhood is sacred. It’s not just about being present, but being purposeful. It’s about pouring wisdom, love, and strength into my child every single day. Her mother and I are intentional about the example we set and the values we instill—kindness, courage, discipline, compassion, and drive. I want my daughter to grow up knowing that she’s powerful, capable, and worthy of everything she dreams of. In addition to my legacy having accolades or achievements—it’s so important if not more the kind of person I raise her to be.
In what ways has becoming a father changed you as a man?
Fatherhood changed the lens through which I view the world. I’ve tried become more intentional, especially in how I manage my time, money, and energy. That part is very difficult but thankfully for Kelsey she keeps me on track. I think more long-term now—not just about building success, but building stability and security for my daughter’s future. It’s made me more grounded and more selfless. Every decision is filtered through the question, “How will this impact her?” It’s reshaped how I lead, how I love, and how I live.
What do you find most fulfilling about being a father?
The connection. The little moments. The pure joy of watching my daughter be fully herself. Her laughter, her curiosity, her resilience—those things fill me in a way that nothing else can. But what’s most fulfilling is knowing that her mother and I have the opportunity to help shape someone who can positively impact the world. That kind of influence is a gift and a responsibility I never take for granted.
How do you show love and affection to your child, and how did you learn that language of love?
For us, love looks like presence. It looks like Saturday morning dance parties, story time before bed, and just being fully engaged in her world. I’ve learned that listening—really listening—and sharing experiences is what makes her feel seen. I grew up with strong examples of love expressed through action, and I will try my best to mirror that. I hope she knows she’s loved not just because I say it, but because I am doing my best to consistently show up.
What are some of the challenges you face as a Black father in today’s world?
The world can be beautiful, but also unjust—and as a Black father, I carry the weight of preparing my daughter for both. I’m constantly thinking about how to equip her for the complexities she’ll face, especially as a Black girl navigating spaces that might not always affirm her. My challenge is to protect her without shielding her, to tell her the truth while still preserving her hope and joy. That balance isn’t easy, but it’s necessary.
How do you teach your children about identity, pride, and navigating the world as a Black child?
Education is constant in our home. We are intentional about exposing our daughter to Black excellence—through books, stories, museums, cultural events, and personal conversations. I want her to be proud of who she is and where she comes from. I want her to know that her identity is powerful and beautiful. It’s not something to be hidden—it’s something to be celebrated.
Can you share a time when you felt especially proud as a father?
There’s no single moment—it’s a series of small, meaningful ones. Every time she says something kind, shows bravery, or tries something new, I feel a swell of pride. Watching her become her own person, little by little, is the most rewarding journey I’ve ever been on.
How do you balance work, purpose, and fatherhood in a way that keeps your family grounded?
I try my best to be deliberate with my time. It is very hard and I get off track. My career can be demanding, but I make space for family. I am very thankful to have a partner that can keep me grounded and help me stay centered—whether it’s carving out uninterrupted time on weekends. The goal is to be present, not just physically but emotionally and mentally. My daughter needs to know that she is never an afterthought—she’s always a priority.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned from your own father or father figure that you’re now passing on?
My father taught me the value of letting children learn through experience—even when it includes failure. He believed that growth comes through struggle, and that gave me the resilience I carry today. I try to give my daughter that same space to fall, get up, and try again. I’m there to support her, not to shield her from every difficulty.
How do you approach discipline, and what values do you hope to instill in your children?
Discipline is rooted in love and understanding. My focus is helping her recognize and regulate her emotions while learning right from wrong. I want her to grow up with a strong moral compass, but also the emotional intelligence to navigate relationships and challenges. We are constantly instilling values like empathy, self-control, and accountability.
What’s one of the most joyful or funny moments you’ve had with your child?
She’s at the age where everything is an adventure—and her sense of humor is developing fast. One day she put on sunglasses, struck a pose, and said, “Daddy, I’m cooler than you!” I couldn’t stop laughing. These little unscripted moments are what I live for.
How do you stay mentally and emotionally well while being a father, partner, and provider?
Therapy has been a huge tool for me. It helps me process, reflect, and stay grounded. I also make time for the gym, and quiet moments. I am learned that I can’t pour from an empty cup—so I prioritize wellness to be fully present for the people who depend on me.
What kind of conversations do you have with your children about love, respect, and relationships?
Right now, those lessons are shown more than spoken. I’m modeling respect in how I treat her and all the women in her life. She watches everything—how I speak, how I handle conflict, how I love. When she gets older, those lived examples will be the foundation for our deeper conversations.
What does “being present” look like for you as a father?
Present means just that, getting on the floor to play, asking questions, listening to answers, and just being in the moment. Presence is not about proximity—it’s about attention. It’s about making her feel like she’s the most important person in the room.
Are there any myths or stereotypes about Black fatherhood that you’re working to dismantle?
Absolutely. One of the most harmful narratives is that Black fathers are disengaged or absent. I actively challenge that every day through my involvement, visibility, and love. I want my daughter—and others—to know that strong, loving, Black fatherhood is real and powerful.
What role does spirituality, culture, or tradition play in how you raise your children?
Spirituality, culture, and tradition are the foundation. They ground us in faith, community, and purpose. They offer a blueprint for how to navigate life with integrity and courage. I want my daughter to walk through the world with both humility and pride in who she is and what she believes.
What’s one thing you hope your children remember most about their childhood with you?
I hope she remembers joy. I want her to recall laughter, adventures, and love that felt unconditional. But more than anything, I hope she remembers that her father was her biggest fan and most consistent supporter. That she felt seen, valued, and empowered every step of the way.
