On a day when the spotlight often shines on barbecue grills and ties, Dr. Travis Barber reminds us what real fatherhood looks like. Not the kind measured in dollars or diplomas — but in presence, accountability, and an unwavering will to show up.
Dr. Barber’s story reads like a modern-day parable of redemption and responsibility. Once caught in a cycle of incarceration — serving 10 years in prison after a tragic act of violence — he emerged with a mission. Today, he’s a Goodwill Ambassador, founder of One More Question Nonprofit, and a relentless advocate for at-risk youth and returning citizens across Georgia.
From speaking to county courts to prevent juvenile incarceration to hosting leadership programs in 10 schools, Barber is on a mission: to interrupt violence and inspire futures. And at the heart of that mission lies a profound belief — fatherhood is the most honorable title on earth.
Fatherhood as a calling
For Dr. Barber, fatherhood is more than a role. “It’s my spirituality, my religion,” he says. And that belief was sharpened behind bars, where despite physical absence, he fought to remain present in his sons’ lives — through weekly check-ins, letters, and unwavering emotional support.
“When I got out, we still had a bond,” he shares. “My boys knew what I stood for.”
Now free, Barber makes no excuses. He once drove over three hours to catch his youngest son’s high school football game. “The look on his face said it all. That’s a moment he’ll never forget.”
He’s direct in his Father’s Day call-to-action: Stop making excuses. Just be there.
At a recent graduation, he counted 22 mothers and only three fathers. “Dads, we got to do better,” he urges.
A father to the community
Beyond his own children, Barber has become a father figure to countless others — hosting Father’s Day fishing trips and “Sons Day” events for boys without fathers. “I want them to see a real man, to know what’s possible.”
His leadership extends to the courtroom as a credible messenger and into prisons where he works to awaken hope in men trapped by their pasts. His mission: “to save lives, interrupt violence, and open young men’s minds to bigger possibilities.”
Lessons from the trap
Barber’s acclaimed book and documentary, Behind the Trap, reflect his personal journey and the dangers of glorified street life. He challenges youth to question the images they consume.
“Cut off that damn rap music,” he says. “Google where those rappers really live. Check their stocks. See what they really value.”
He champions vocational training as the clearest path forward, noting the urgent demand for skilled trades like plumbing and construction. “As long as you learning, you earning.”
Faith, family, and forward vision
Despite the intense demands of his work, Barber finds balance through faith, scripture, and the steadfast support of his wife. His biggest lesson? “The most masculine thing is vulnerability.”
And his vision for the future is crystal clear: “Give me a billionaire and one facility. We’ll change a community in six months.”
This Father’s Day, Dr. Travis Barber’s message rings out loud and clear: being a father — to your own children and to the community — isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about purpose. And it’s about doing the work, one child, one life at a time.
How you can support:
- Follow One More Question Nonprofit on social media (@1MOQUESTION).
- Watch Behind the Trap on Amazon Prime and Tubi.
- Stay tuned for his upcoming children’s book Travis Can this summer.
- Follow Dr. Travis Barber directly on his platforms @1moquestion.
