When Miles Garber became a father he couldn’t find many media outlets that spoke to him. Sure, there were many for moms, but it seemed that dads were often overlooked in this space of new-fatherhood. He wanted to create a platform where dads could feel comfortable being emotional – somewhere they could see other dads going through similar situations with similar feelings.
He decided to take matters in his own hands and created Call Me Dada, a media platform surrounding everything dealing with fatherhood in this sometimes confusing time in society. Their goal is to exchange, educate, and inspire adults about the nuances surrounding fatherhood.
We caught up with him to talk about courage, vision, and common misconceptions for dads.
What inspired you to create Call Me Dada?
I felt like there weren’t many outlets for dads out there. All the ones I did find felt very bro-ey and “how to” instead of emotional and vulnerable. When I became a dad I felt very emotional and wanted to create an outlet for other men who felt similarly.
What's been the most rewarding moment since starting it?
The messages I receive thanking me. Those messages keep me going.
How do you find courage to be vulnerable in such a public setting?
I just stopped caring what people thought about me after my daughter was born. I know the work I’m doing is important, but most of all it’s important to me. Even if no one cared I would still do it for myself. It just happens to be on the Internet, but it’s so much bigger than that for me.
What are your grandest goals and visions for Call Me Dada?
I want to become a full-on media company. I want to produce content for people of all walks of life about all different types of subjects. I also want to make merchandise and do speaking engagements and really build a large community.
What's the most surprising thing you've learned about yourself since becoming a father?
I have no patience!
What do you think is the biggest misconception about fatherhood?
That fathers don’t take care of their children. That we will inevitably not care as much as the mother will. It really breaks my heart.
If you could only instill one lesson in your daughter, what would it be?
Be yourself always. Never follow.
How do you unwind and practice self-care?
I’m still figuring this one out for myself. My self-care routine is very limited, but I would say I try to exercise at least 4 times a week.