Creating Meaningful Rites of Passage with Dr. Drew Eggebraten (Ep. 7)
Raising kids to be financially and emotionally ready for life isn’t about one big talk—it’s about intentional moments that shape character and build trust.
How can a birthday become a turning point? What does it look like when a parent pauses, plans, and connects at just the right time?
In this episode, Joline Godfrey talks with Dr. Drew Eggebraten, General Dentist at Drew Eggebraten DDS Inc., about how he turned his son’s 12th birthday into a day of honest conversations, meaningful connections, and real-world preparation. They explore the power of one-on-one time, values-based parenting, and setting boundaries in today’s tech-heavy culture.
Dr. Eggebraten discusses:
- How he used his son’s birthday to create a rite of passage rooted in reflection, bonding, and life lessons
- The shift in influence from parents to peers in early adolescence, and how intentional parenting can make a difference before that moment
- How travel and service work have impacted his parenting values and priorities
- How to talk about difficult subjects—like addiction, pornography, and emotional regulation—early and openly
- The role of screens, dopamine habits, and the importance of family-based rules that encourage presence and connection
- And more!
Resources:
Connect with Joline Godfrey:
Connect with Drew Eggebraten:
About our Guest:
Dr. Eggebraten is a 2008 graduate of the University of Southern California School of Dentistry and a former part-time faculty member. While at USC, he received the Charles Pincus Memorial Award for Esthetic Dentistry and the award of Merit from the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry. As a student, he was selected to participate in an advanced select training course led by his mentor, Dr. Pascal Magne, one of the leading experts in biomimetic dentistry. Because of this education, Dr. Eggebraten practices biomimetic dentistry in his private practice.
Dr. Eggebraten is a member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the Academy of Osseointegration. In private practice, he continues to implement conservative dentistry and focuses on comprehensive preventive dental care. Dr Eggebraten lives in Ojai with his wife Victoria and their three boys.
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