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Larry Hagner

The Dad Edge Podcast is a movement. It is a strong community of Fathers who all share a set of values.

Larry Hagner, founder of The Dad Edge, breaks down common challenges of fatherhood, making them easy to understand and overcome.  Tackling the world of Fatherhood can be a daunting task when we try to do it alone.

The mission of The Dad Edge Podcast is to help you become the best, strongest, and happiest version of yourself so that you can help guide your kids to the best version of themselves. Simple as that.  

Everything you need and all of our resources can be found at thedadedge.com/podcast

The Dad Edge Podcast

In this heart-to-heart episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down with my 19-year-old son, Ethan Hagner, for a raw and honest conversation about growing up, gaining independence, and building strong family bonds in the process. Together, we explore what it means to transition from teenager to young adult while still staying connected to family values, respect, and open communication.
 
 
 
We dive into how to respectfully disagree with parents, how to manage emotions in a healthy way, and the importance of creating space without disconnection. Ethan shares his personal experiences—from turning down college parties to navigating long-distance relationships—and how he’s developed healthy coping mechanisms like ice baths, workouts, and prayer.
 
 
 
This episode isn’t just for parents of teens. It’s for any father who wants to lead his family with grace, patience, and intention—and raise young men of character in a chaotic world.
 
 
 
TIMELINE SUMMARY
 
 
 
[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge movement
 
[1:01] - Raising independent, critical-thinking kids
 
[2:12] - Respectful disagreements with parents and communication
 
[3:02] - Pumpkin spice protein ice cream (yes, seriously)
 
[5:03] - The scary truth about a Starbucks PSL’s sugar content
 
[6:42] - Why protein-first choices matter for men’s health
 
[9:34] - Introducing today’s topic: family ties and independence
 
[10:02] - Life after high school: structure vs. freedom
 
[11:52] - Taking initiative as a young adult
 
[13:35] - Visiting college friends and choosing not to party
 
[15:12] - Why making different choices matters to dads
 
[16:13] - Navigating peer pressure and honoring your values
 
[17:02] - “Liquor is poison in a fancy bottle” – a mindset shift
 
[18:01] - Recognizing alcohol for what it is: a toxin
 
[21:03] - Creating safe space for respectful disagreements
 
[23:04] - How to make kids feel seen, heard, and understood
 
[25:21] - All emotions are welcome, not all behaviors are
 
[26:26] - Ethan’s favorite stress relief tool: beating up “Bob”
 
[27:37] - Navigating long-distance relationships as a teen
 
[29:13] - Classical music, cards, and healthy distraction
 
[30:23] - Coping mechanisms that actually improve your life
 
[32:05] - Ice plunges and dopamine boosts
 
[34:20] - Why saunas win over cold plunges for dad
 
[36:26] - A reminder: every man needs a list of positive go-to’s
 
[37:15] - The highs and fears of new independence
 
[39:17] - What scares Ethan most about his future path
 
[40:02] - Why dad feels the clock ticking at age 50
 
[42:25] - Book launch: The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood
 
[43:17] - Two free bonus courses for a limited time
 
[44:15] - Why this father-son podcast is one-of-a-kind
 
[46:00] - Temptation and faith: how Ethan calls on God
 
[48:01] - God always provides a way out of temptation
 
 
 
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
 
 
 
1. Independence Comes With Responsibility
 
Growing up means more than freedom—it means taking ownership of your time, habits, and health.
 
 
 
2. All Emotions Are Welcome—Not All Behaviors Are
 
Feeling anger, sadness, or frustration is normal. Acting with intention is what matters.
 
 
 
3. Respectful Disagreements Build Connection
 
When parents create space for respectful pushback, kids learn how to think critically while staying connected.
 
 
 
4. Healthy Coping Mechanisms Are Essential
 
From ice baths and workouts to music and prayer, having go-to tools keeps stress from taking control.
 
 
 
5. Faith and Intention Defeat Temptation
 
Whether it’s porn, partying, or self-doubt, Ethan reminds us that calling on God in moments of weakness gives us strength to choose better.
 
 
 
LINKS & RESOURCES
 
 
 
Order the new book: The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood:
 
https://thedadedge.com/legendarybook
 
 Free Courses for a Limited Time:
 
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Creating More Patience
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Creating an Extraordinary Marriage
 • 
 
 
 
Episode page: https://thedadedge.com/1376
 
 
 
First Phorm Pumpkin Spice Protein:
 
Only available for a limited time — https://1stphorm.com/collections/pumpkin-spice
 
 
 
James Swanwick’s Alcohol-Free Program: https://www.jamesswanwick.com

Raising Emotionally Intelligent Sons in Today’s World ft. Ethan Hagner

In this episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down with Super Bowl Champion Heath Evans and his wife Chrissy, a powerhouse couple raising six kids—four of them adopted siblings—and leading with faith, love, and intentionality. Beyond the NFL career and business ventures, their mission is about adoption, marriage, and creating a Christ-centered home where safety, strength, and sacrificial love are at the core.
 
 
 
We dive deep into adoption, marriage dynamics, leadership in the home, and the foundation of their health and fitness business, Built Ready. From why safety is the #1 need of every woman to the five pillars of a man’s health (holiness, hydration, rest, workouts, and nutrition), this conversation challenges cultural norms and inspires fathers to lead with faith, humility, and strength.
 
 
 
 
 
TIMELINE SUMMARY
 
[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge and today’s guests: Heath and Chrissy Evans
 
[1:48] - Heath’s NFL career and transition to family and faith
 
[2:13] - Raising six kids, including four adopted siblings
 
[6:00] - Their calling to adoption and the heart behind Bethesda Ranch
 
[7:30] - The struggles of sibling adoption and God’s faithfulness in their journey
 
[9:00] - The fatherless crisis and why the church must step up
 
[11:00] - Fatherless home statistics and their generational impact
 
[12:12] - Why a great dad is usually also a great husband
 
[13:28] - Prioritizing marriage first to create security for kids
 
[14:07] - Modeling unity in front of children and avoiding division
 
[15:52] - Why parenting flows from the strength of your marriage
 
[16:44] - Larry’s son joins the conversation and a powerful NFL-to-dad lesson
 
[19:00] - Talking faith and fears with kids—real conversations that matter
 
[22:00] - Teaching kids reverence and the holiness of God
 
[24:11] - Why Scripture, not worldly wisdom, is the anchor for parenting
 
[25:24] - Chrissy shares what it feels like to be married to a man deeply rooted in Christ
 
[26:15] - Safety as a wife’s greatest need: emotional, spiritual, financial, and relational
 
[29:00] - Respect, appreciation, affection for men vs. being seen, heard, and safe for women
 
[31:15] - The power of forgiveness and humility in marriage
 
[32:07] - Why true security comes from Christ, not success or performance
 
[36:11] - Chrissy’s reflections on submission, teamwork, and balance in marriage
 
[40:20] - Heath’s analogy of submarine leadership and servant-hearted strength
 
[43:18] - The danger of self-reliance vs. dependence on Christ
 
[46:23] - Why brokenness is often the beginning of real faith
 
[49:23] - Built Ready’s five pillars: holiness, hydration, rest, workout, and nutrition
 
[53:05] - Why rest is non-negotiable for fathers and leaders
 
[54:24] - Nutrition as stewardship, not idolatry
 
[56:18] - Their supplement line and why A2 protein makes it unique
 
[58:41] - Closing reflections and the Evans’ heart for faith, family, and service
 
 
 
 
 
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
 
 
 
1. Safety Is the Cornerstone of Marriage
 
Chrissy powerfully explains that true safety goes beyond physical protection—it includes emotional, financial, spiritual, and relational security. When women feel safe, marriage flourishes.
 
2. Adoption Is God’s Heart in Action
 
The Evans adopted four siblings to keep them together, living out God’s call to be a “father to the fatherless” and modeling how faith drives family decisions.
 
3. Marriage First, Parenting Second
 
Strong marriages create strong families. Kids thrive when they see their parents united, affectionate, and committed to one another before all else.
 
4. Leadership Is Servanthood
 
Heath challenges men to rethink leadership—not as dominance, but as sacrificial love modeled by Christ. True strength is found in humility, service, and faith.
 
5. The Five Pillars of Health
 
Built Ready’s framework—holiness, hydration, rest, workouts, and nutrition—shows why spiritual health must lead the way, with physical health supporting a man’s mission to love and serve well.
 
 
 
 
 
LINKS & RESOURCES
 
 
 
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Built Ready Health & Fitness: https://builtready.com
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Chrissy Evans (Weight Loss Hero): https://weightlosshero.com
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Heath Evans on Instagram: https://instagram.com/heath_evans44
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Chrissy Evans on Instagram: https://instagram.com/weightlosshero
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Contact Heath: heath@builtready.com
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Contact Chrissy: chrissy@weightlosshero.com
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Dad Edge Podcast Website: https://www.thedadedge.com/podcast
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Join The Alliance: https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance
 • 
 • 

25 Questions to Spark Connection With Your Partner: https://www.thedadedge.com/25questions
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If this episode inspired you to rethink marriage, leadership, and fatherhood, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Together, we’re raising fathers who lead with faith, courage, and love.

The Five Pillars of Health, Marriage, and Fatherhood Every Man Needs ft. Heath & Chrissy Evans

In this solo episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I dive into one of the greatest challenges facing parents today: raising kids in the digital age. Between iPhones, TikTok, YouTube, and even AI tools like ChatGPT, technology is moving at lightning speed—and as fathers, we can’t afford to bury our heads in the sand.
 
 
 
I share three powerful strategies that will help you set the right boundaries for your kids without putting them in “tech prison.” From creating guardrails with apps like Bark, to implementing a family tech contract, to modeling discipline with our own devices, this episode is about protecting our kids while also preparing them to navigate the digital world with responsibility and confidence.
 
 
 
 
 
TIMELINE SUMMARY
 
[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge movement and today’s focus on raising kids in the digital age
 
[1:02] - Why technology is moving faster than parents can keep up
 
[2:11] - Why this generation is the first to face AI, smartphones, and social media all at once
 
[3:08] - Introducing Dad Edge Alliance and Boardroom Brotherhood for fathers
 
[4:00] - Strategy #1: Set guardrails, not walls, around tech use
 
[4:58] - The rookie mistake of limiting apps without realizing kids just switch platforms
 
[6:12] - Workarounds kids use to bypass phone restrictions
 
[7:05] - Why apps like Bark provide a real solution for parents
 
[7:25] - Strategy #2: Create a family tech contract with clear boundaries and accountability
 
[8:42] - Examples of contracts around bedtime, screen-free zones, and check-ins
 
[8:59] - Strategy #3: Model discipline by living the same tech rules as your kids
 
[9:56] - Why hypocrisy in tech rules undermines your authority
 
[11:14] - Setting boundaries with work and modeling digital discipline at home
 
[12:22] - The Bark app, Bark phone, and Bark watch explained
 
[14:05] - Why I don’t allow TikTok or YouTube for my younger kids
 
[14:54] - The Bark watch for younger kids as a safe, affordable option
 
[15:31] - Final recap of the three strategies for digital parenting
 
[16:13] - Closing encouragement and link to resources
 
 
 
 
 
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
 
 
 
1. Guardrails Beat Walls
 
Complete restriction creates rebellion. Guardrails, not tech prisons, teach kids to manage technology responsibly while keeping them safe.
 
2. Apps Aren’t Foolproof
 
Kids can and will find workarounds. Relying only on built-in phone restrictions isn’t enough—you need smarter tools like Bark to stay ahead.
 
3. Contracts Create Clarity
 
A family tech contract sets clear expectations for screen time, apps, and accountability. Clarity prevents arguments and keeps kids accountable.
 
4. Model the Discipline You Preach
 
If you tell your kids “no phones at dinner,” but you’re scrolling, the rule collapses. Fathers must live the same digital discipline they demand.
 
5. Your Kids’ Tech Is Your Business
 
Phones, apps, and online behavior aren’t private property for minors. Fathers must stay engaged, set boundaries, and protect their kids in the digital age.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINKS & RESOURCES
 
 
 
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Bark App & Devices (Protect your kids online): https://www.thedadedge.com/bark
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Episode Show Notes Page: https://www.thedadedge.com/1377
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Dad Edge Podcast Website: https://www.thedadedge.com/podcast
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Join The Alliance (career-driven dads): https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance
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Dad Edge Boardroom (entrepreneurial dads): https://www.thedadedge.com/boardroom
 • 
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25 Questions to Spark Connection With Your Partner: https://www.thedadedge.com/25questions
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If this episode gave you clarity on parenting in the digital age, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Together, we’re raising a generation of kids who are safe, confident, and prepared for a digital world.

The Father’s Guide to Raising Kids Safely in a Digital World

In this special father-son episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down with my 19-year-old son, Ethan Hagner, to talk about the ever-evolving world of modern dating, masculinity, and what respect looks like in today’s culture. From Snapchat and Bitmoji “vibes” to the dangers of digital footprints, Ethan pulls back the curtain on what Gen Z is really experiencing when it comes to relationships, identity, and self-worth.
 
 
 
We get raw and real about breakups, social media drama, posting for “social therapy,” and what red flags look like in 2025. But the conversation goes much deeper than dating. Ethan opens up about his personal growth, past mistakes, and what he’d tell his 16-year-old self—and future daughter—about how to protect your integrity in the world of online relationships and viral opinions.
 
 
 
This is a must-listen for any dad raising teens or preteens. It’s funny, eye-opening, brutally honest, and packed with generational wisdom from both sides of the table.
 

 

 
TIMELINE SUMMARY
 
[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge mission
 
[1:04] - How dating has changed since “back in the day”
 
[2:38] - Meet Ethan Hagner: college, EMT prep, and dad banter
 
[3:58] - Inside the Dad Edge studio & sponsor shoutout (First Form)
 
[5:36] - Ignition + Formula 1 explained: post-workout must-haves
 
[8:08] - Pre-order info: The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood
 
[9:11] - How 19-year-olds actually meet people now (Snapchat!)
 
[10:20] - Snapchat’s “Quick Add” and Bitmoji-deep dating decisions
 
[14:04] - Dating vs. passing notes in the 90s, how we used to ask friends to “talk to her for me”
 
[16:06] - Red flags on social profiles: vaping, weed, or weird vibes
 
[20:30] - Toxicity, trust, and “the feeling you just can’t explain”
 
[24:30] - Social media therapy: breakups that go viral
 
[27:03] - Digital drama and public TikTok crying
 
[30:27] - The real meaning of “game” for Gen Z (hint: not confidence)
 
[32:02] - Confidence vs. bravado: what women really respond to
 
[34:09] - What healthy confidence looks like in teens
 
[35:30] - Are ICks ruining relationships before they start?
 
[39:22] - Ego, lifting, and growing up with the wrong friend group
 
[41:13] - Self-awareness: from wife beater tanks to regretful beliefs
 
[42:35] - Advice Ethan would give his future 16-year-old daughter
 
[43:10] - Digital safety, values, and protecting your future
 
[46:40] - Larry’s top two dating lessons for his younger self
 
[47:40] - Regret from not approaching vs. regret from rejection
 
[48:16] - When you strike out, you’re still winning
 
[51:11] - Protecting your reputation on social media
 
[52:22] - First Form Dad of the Month: Ty Twizzler’s inspiring story
 

 

 
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
 
1. Snapchat Changed Dating Forever
 
For Gen Z, Snapchat is the new hallway, lunch table, and dating app combined. But what happens there leaves a permanent digital trail—so teach your kids to tread carefully.
 
2. Confidence Wins—Ego Repels
 
Bravado might grab attention, but real confidence comes from knowing who you are and not bending for validation. It’s quiet, steady, and deeply attractive.
 
3. Respect Is Never Outdated
 
Whether it’s how you treat a teacher, a girlfriend, or yourself, respect is foundational. True character shows when no one’s watching—or when everyone’s watching online.
 
4. Your Digital Footprint Never Goes Away
 
Posting relationship drama on TikTok or Snapchat may feel therapeutic in the moment, but it can damage reputations, create enemies, and attract the wrong kind of attention.
 
5. You’re Not Too Young to Lead
 
Ethan may be 19, but his mindset about dating, identity, and future family is already grounded in wisdom. His generation needs more examples like this—and so do ours.
 
 
 

 
LINKS & RESOURCES
 
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🎯 First Form Products
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Micro Factor: https://1stphorm.com/products/micro-factor
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Formula 1 + Ignition Post-Workout Stack: https://1stphorm.com/products/formula-1
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📘 Pre-Order: Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood: https://www.thedadedge.com/legendarybook
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🎙 Dad Edge Alliance Membership: https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance
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🎧 Full Episode & Show Notes: https://www.thedadedge.com/1364
 •

What My Son Taught Me About Dating in 2025 (And What I Wish I Knew at 19) ft. Ethan Hagner

In this powerful episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down with Chandler Rogers—founder of the Relay app and a man on a mission to help men break free from pornography and reclaim deep connection. Chandler shares his raw personal story as a new dad, a husband navigating the fog of sleep deprivation, and a man who turned his own struggle with porn into a platform that has already helped over 5,000 men heal.
 
This conversation isn’t just about addiction—it’s about isolation, shame, leadership, and stepping into the masculine role your family needs. Chandler reveals the emotional spiral that so many husbands silently endure and how one vulnerable conversation with his wife brought them closer than ever. We talk about why porn is not the real issue, how to lead with emotional clarity, and what it means to truly be seen by your partner.
 
If you’ve ever struggled with secret shame, felt alone in your role as a dad or husband, or craved deeper intimacy and purpose, this episode will show you you’re not broken—just unfinished. Real healing starts with connection.
 
 

 
TIMELINE SUMMARY
 
[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge and today’s focus: breaking the shame cycle
 
[3:09] - Becoming a father: sleep deprivation, joy, and surprises
 
[8:45] - Marriage after kids: missed connection, emotional gaps, and resentment
 
[12:06] - The physical toll of fatherhood and why self-care matters
 
[13:29] - The emotional cost of disconnection in marriage
 
[15:09] - How resentment is the cancer of relationships
 
[16:50] - Why Chandler named his platform “Relay” and its deeper meaning
 
[18:20] - Why isolation fuels addiction and how connection heals
 
[19:34] - Why porn isn’t the problem—it’s a comfort mechanism
 
[20:35] - Porn as a symptom of emotional wounds, not the root cause
 
[21:21] - Childhood trauma, hyper-stimulus, and the pain-pleasure cycle
 
[22:56] - How most men justify porn use (and why those stories fall apart)
 
[25:35] - The shame spiral: dissociation, numbness, and fragmentation
 
[28:54] - When needs go unmet: rationalizing porn through “selflessness”
 
[30:11] - Owning masculine needs without blame or desperation
 
[32:03] - Chandler’s powerful conversation with his wife that changed everything
 
[33:17] - Why emotional awareness is the first step to intimacy
 
[34:18] - The feminine response: how wives crave emotional leadership
 
[35:30] - The difference between openness and emotional outbursts
 
[36:38] - The moment Chandler reconnected with his wife through vulnerability
 
[39:47] - How unspoken needs lead to resentment—and eventually porn
 
[41:25] - The silver lining: how healing starts with connection
 
[43:20] - How Relay works: anonymous, app-based community for men
 
[46:45] - Why your wife shouldn’t be your accountability partner
 
[48:02] - Why connection must be as easy as access to porn
 
[49:47] - How Relay connects you with the right people 
 
[51:36] - Seeing your group’s progress and showing up with purpose
 
[53:11] - Designing your future vs. resisting your past
 
[54:11] - Replacing one habit with a better one: app design insights
 
[56:33] - How a community will help you grow into a better person
 
[58:01] - The real problem isn’t desire, it’s implementation
 
[01:00:00] - Why information alone won’t change your life
 
[1:01:06] - Where to find Chandler and the Relay app
 
 

 
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
 
 
 
1. Porn Isn’t the Problem—It’s the Pain
 
Most men turn to porn not out of lust, but to numb discomfort, avoid connection, or cope with emotional pain they haven’t addressed.
 
 
 
2. Resentment Is the Silent Killer of Marriage
 
Unspoken needs become stories. Stories become disconnection. And disconnection becomes resentment. That’s the cancer that silently kills intimacy.
 
 
 
3. You’re Not Broken—You’re Just Unfinished
 
Most men don’t lack desire or information—they lack implementation. Healing is not about perfection. It’s about progress with others.
 
 
 
4. Emotional Leadership Is Masculine
 
When men speak their needs clearly—without blame, shame, or desperation—it inspires women to soften, lean in, and reconnect.
 
 
 
5. Connection Is the Antidote to Shame
 
Isolation fuels addiction. Community kills shame. Vulnerability with safe men in a trusted circle is what creates lasting transformation.
 
 
 
LINKS & RESOURCES
 
 
 
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Join Relay (Chandler’s App): https://www.joinrelay.app
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Email Chandler: chandler@joinrelay.app
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Dad Edge Podcast: https://www.thedadedge.com/podcast
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Join the Alliance (Dad Edge Community): https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance
 

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How Men Heal Through Vulnerability & Going From A Secret Struggle to A Safe Connection ft. Chandler Rogers

In this solo episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I’m talking directly to you, the fathers, about stepping up as school is back in session. Life gets busier with drop-offs, homework, sports, and late-night routines, but this season also gives us new opportunities to lead and connect with our families in meaningful ways.
 
 
 
I share three powerful strategies for creating deeper bonds at home: owning one routine with your kids, maximizing “connection cues” during daily transitions, and holding a weekly huddle with your wife to reduce stress and strengthen your marriage. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of the school year, this episode will help you find clarity, lead intentionally, and make sure your family thrives instead of drifts.
 
 
 
 
 
TIMELINE SUMMARY
 
[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge movement and back-to-school chaos
 
[1:02] - Kids’ homework struggles and funny math frustrations
 
[2:21] - A message for kids listening in the car: your dad loves you deeply
 
[3:44] - Why most dads want to succeed—not fail—in fatherhood
 
[4:26] - Transitioning from summer to school as a leadership opportunity
 
[5:21] - Balancing school, sports, homework, and family commitments
 
[6:20] - Reflections on August episodes with Jessica and the power of marriage conversations
 
[7:53] - Strategy #1: Own one routine (breakfast, bedtime, school prep, homework help)
 
[9:32] - Reducing invisible labor for your wife by owning key tasks
 
[10:23] - Why bedtime routines are gold for connection (even if you’re exhausted)
 
[11:31] - Asking open-ended questions that spark real conversations
 
[12:57] - Adapting routines for different kids’ personalities and needs
 
[14:41] - Bedtime as a place of safety, vulnerability, and connection
 
[15:21] - Strategy #2: Connection cues in car rides, drop-offs, and pickups
 
[16:18] - Side-by-side conversations and the power of turning off the radio
 
[17:05] - Strategy #3: Weekly huddle with your wife (planning + intimacy)
 
[18:19] - Reducing stress by clarifying who owns which tasks at home
 
[19:39] - Using weekly huddles as both a planning and intimacy tool
 
[20:31] - Free weekly huddle resource (coming soon)
 
[20:53] - Tools for protecting kids online with Bark (sponsor)
 
[21:52] - Closing encouragement and reminder of available resources
 
 
 
 
 
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
 
 
 
1. Own One Routine
 
Whether it’s bedtime, breakfast, or homework, fathers who fully own one routine lighten their wife’s mental load while deepening connection with their kids.
 
2. Bedtime Is Golden
 
Even when you’re exhausted, bedtime is a unique opportunity for authenticity and safety. One open-ended question can spark conversations that matter.
 
3. Connection Cues Matter
 
Car rides, drop-offs, and side-by-side moments are often when kids open up most. Turning off the radio and asking thoughtful questions makes a difference.
 
4. Weekly Huddles Reduce Stress
 
A short check-in with your wife about what’s working, what’s draining, and what needs adjusting creates alignment and strengthens intimacy.
 
5. Leadership Is About Presence, Not Perfection
 
You don’t need to do everything—you just need to be intentional with what you choose to own. Presence, clarity, and consistency are what families need most.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINKS & RESOURCES
 
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Bark (Protect your kids online): https://www.thedadedge.com/bark
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Dad Edge Podcast Website: https://www.thedadedge.com/podcast
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Join The Alliance: https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance
 • 
 • 

Dad Edge Tools & Resources: https://www.thedadedge.com/tools
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If this episode gave you practical tools for leading your family during the school year, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Together, we’re raising a generation of fathers who lead with clarity, intention, and love.

The Father’s Guide to Back-to-School Routines & Quality Communication

In this episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, Ethan and I dive into a topic most men don’t talk about nearly enough—male friendships. From high school bonds that fade after graduation to the loneliness many men feel in their 30s and 40s, we unpack why brotherhood is so hard to maintain and why it matters more than ever.
 
 
 
We share personal stories, both from Ethan’s perspective at 19 and my experience at 50, about what it looks like to build lasting friendships at different stages of life. From the silent killers of connection—busyness, unspoken expectations, and lack of intentionality—to the keys that keep brotherhood alive, this episode is a raw and honest roadmap for men who don’t want to go through life alone.
 
 
 
 
 
TIMELINE SUMMARY
 
[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge movement and today’s theme: friendships and brotherhood
 
[1:02] - Why male friendships dwindle after high school
 
[2:45] - How friendships shift in your 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s
 
[4:58] - Why achievement never replaces connection
 
[6:13] - Ethan’s perspective at 19: losing friends as everyone goes their separate ways
 
[8:46] - Larry’s college stories: parties, hangovers, and life lessons learned the hard way
 
[12:23] - The shift from convenience-based friendships to intentional ones
 
[15:01] - Why men struggle to make new friendships as they age
 
[17:30] - The role of shared struggle, vulnerability, and consistency in building brotherhood
 
[21:10] - Why “let’s hang out sometime” rarely works—and what to do instead
 
[25:18] - Larry’s example of rekindling friendships with intentional planning
 
[28:35] - How marriage and fatherhood shift men’s priorities and isolate them
 
[31:05] - The silent killers of friendship: busyness, lack of vulnerability, inconsistency
 
[34:16] - Why brotherhood is essential for emotional, spiritual, and relational health
 
[37:02] - Advice for young men: stay proactive, visit friends, make memories now
 
[41:33] - How to prevent friendships from fading with intentionality and consistency
 
[48:11] - Parallels between the silent killers of friendship and the silent killers of marriage
 
[54:09] - Final reflections: why men need brotherhood and how to fight for it
 
 
 
 
 
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
 
 
 
1. Friendships Require Intentionality
 
Unlike the easy friendships of high school and college, adult brotherhood must be built with deliberate effort—planning, showing up, and refusing to drift.
 
2. Achievement Doesn’t Replace Connection
 
No amount of success, money, or accolades can substitute for the bond of brotherhood. Men need friendships to thrive, not just careers and families.
 
3. Vulnerability Creates Real Brotherhood
 
Surface-level conversations keep men distant. True friendship grows when we open up honestly about struggles, challenges, and real life behind the scenes.
 
4. Consistency Keeps Bonds Alive
 
Friendships die in silence. Weekly check-ins, shared rituals, or even planned coffee dates create the reps that make brotherhood last.
 
5. The Same Rules Apply to Marriage
 
The silent killers of friendship—busyness, lack of vulnerability, loss of intentionality—also destroy marriages. Strong relationships, whether with friends or a spouse, require consistent effort and openness.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINKS & RESOURCES
 
 
 
 • DB OVERDRIVE: https://1stphorm.com/products/thyro-drive/?a_aid=dadedge
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First Phorm DB Overdrive (supplement featured): https://www.thedadedge.com/1361
 • 
 • 

25 Questions to Spark Connection With Your Partner: https://www.thedadedge.com/25questions
 • 
 • 

Dad Edge Podcast Website: https://www.thedadedge.com/podcast
 • 
 • 

Join The Alliance: https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance
 • 
 • 

Dad Edge Tools & Resources: https://www.thedadedge.com/tools
 • 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If this episode gave you fresh insight into friendship, brotherhood, or marriage, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Let’s build a generation of men who refuse to live life alone.

Why Men Struggle to Keep Friends and How to Reignite Brotherhood ft. Ethan Hagner

In this episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down with GS Youngblood—author of The Masculine in Relationship and The Art of Embodiment for Men. GS brings decades of experience coaching men on leadership in marriage, parenting, and personal growth through his Masculine Blueprint framework. Together, we unpack what it really means to live from your masculine core while creating safety, connection, and trust in your relationships.
 
 
 
We talk about balancing firmness with heart, why composure beats control, and how to provide structure without domination. GS also dives into the importance of embodiment practices for men, how to stop reacting and start responding, and the role of clarity in building intimacy with your partner. This is a conversation about leadership that goes beyond the surface—helping men shift from fear and reactivity into grounded presence and intentional direction.
 
 
 
 
 
TIMELINE SUMMARY
 
[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge movement and introduction to GS Youngblood
 
[1:56] - GS’s bestselling books and the Masculine Blueprint framework
 
[2:28] - What it means to live from your masculine core
 
[3:08] - Why composure is more powerful than control in leadership
 
[5:03] - Growing up with an intense father and lessons for parenting
 
[6:23] - Balancing firmness and love with your kids
 
[7:30] - Relational masculinity: strength with empathy
 
[9:21] - The artful blend of clarity and heart in family leadership
 
[12:17] - Clarity as the foundation of effective masculine leadership
 
[13:33] - The “nice guy” trap and why men seek external validation
 
[15:10] - Why grounding your nervous system must come before clarity
 
[16:57] - Daily embodiment practices for staying present and calm
 
[20:06] - Breathwork, meditation, and awareness as tools for men
 
[23:12] - How embodiment reduces fixation and increases intimacy
 
[27:59] - The energetic flow between men and women in communication
 
[30:08] - Renewing curiosity in long-term marriage and intimacy
 
[32:18] - Why women crave being known and understood
 
[33:42] - Emotional safety as the gateway to sexual connection
 
[38:15] - The three parts of the Masculine Blueprint explained
 
[40:07] - Respond vs. react: staying grounded under pressure
 
[44:14] - “You may not be the problem, but you are the solution.”
 
[45:16] - Providing structure without domination—clarity plus inclusion
 
[48:32] - The spectrum of leadership: tenderness to directness
 
[50:01] - Sexual tension, rejection, and how men can hold ground
 
[52:11] - Why sexuality is vulnerable for men and how to own it
 
[54:31] - Avoiding the “hurt boy” response in relationships
 
[56:00] - When women need men to be bigger than their moods
 
[57:44] - Staying grounded when intimacy needs don’t align
 
[1:00:12] - The power of presence in building intimacy over time
 
 
 
 
 
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
 
 
 
1. Composure Beats Control
 
True masculine leadership isn’t about domination—it’s about staying grounded, calm, and clear even when emotions run high.
 
2. Firmness With Heart Creates Trust
 
Children and partners thrive when a man brings clarity and structure without fear. The combination of strength and empathy builds long-term respect.
 
3. Embodiment Grounds the Nervous System
 
Daily practices like breathwork and meditation keep men from being reactive, helping them lead from presence instead of anxiety or reactivity.
 
4. Curiosity Keeps Intimacy Alive
 
Long-term relationships require ongoing curiosity. When women feel known and understood, emotional safety deepens—and so does sexual connection.
 
5. Men Are the Solution
 
Even if you aren’t the cause of conflict, you can choose to be the solution. Leadership means stepping up with clarity, direction, and presence to create connection.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINKS & RESOURCES
 
 
 
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GS Youngblood Website: https://gsyoungblood.com
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The Masculine in Relationship Book: https://gsyoungblood.com/books
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 • The Alliance and Boardroom - thedadedge.com/mastermind
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Dad Edge Podcast Website: https://www.thedadedge.com/podcast
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Join The Alliance: https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance
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25 Questions to Spark Connection With Your Partner: https://www.thedadedge.com/25questions
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If this episode gave you new insight into marriage, masculinity, or fatherhood, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Together, we’re raising the standard for men who lead with both strength and heart.

Building Intimacy and Trust Through Grounded Masculine Leadership ft. GS Youngblood

In this candid episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I’m joined once again by my wife, Jessica, for a raw and relatable conversation about marriage, parenting, and family dynamics. Together, we dive into the often-unspoken expectations that can trip couples up—from finances and chores to parenting roles and communication.
 
 
 
We unpack stories from our own journey, including how we’ve learned to navigate paying bills vs. investing, handling family dinners without resentment, and even the role each of us plays in talking with our boys about tough subjects like sex and relationships. Jessica also shares her gift for approaching conversations with grace and timing, while I reflect on my more reactive nature. This episode is packed with practical takeaways for couples who want to strengthen teamwork, avoid resentment, and lead their families with intention.
 
 
 
 
 
TIMELINE SUMMARY
 
[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge movement and today’s focus on roles in marriage
 
[1:01] - Defining who does what in parenting, finances, and chores
 
[2:06] - The hidden danger of unspoken expectations
 
[3:30] - Behind the scenes: energy, stress, and real-life struggles
 
[5:10] - Midwest float trip stories and creating family traditions
 
[9:27] - Why shared memories matter more than perfection
 
[11:16] - Breaking down marriage roles: paying bills vs. investing
 
[15:23] - The early financial mistakes that created stress in our marriage
 
[18:05] - Why swapping roles can sometimes create resentment
 
[21:16] - How Jessica manages bills and accountability with confidence
 
[24:19] - Investments, risks, and learning to stomach financial swings
 
[27:15] - Family dinners: why they often cause conflict and how we shifted the burden
 
[29:03] - The turning point when Jessica admitted she hated cooking
 
[31:36] - Why meal planning is harder than it looks (and how we simplified it)
 
[34:47] - Balancing preferences, health, and kids’ picky eating habits
 
[39:11] - Parenting roles: who has the sex talk with the kids
 
[41:12] - Creating safe, open conversations about sex, porn, and relationships
 
[44:12] - How to approach hard conversations with timing and grace
 
[47:26] - Why gentleness and patience often lead to better results
 
[50:18] - Picking the right time and tone to address conflict at home
 
[53:03] - Dividing responsibilities with kids’ sports and activities
 
[56:08] - Communication as the glue that keeps roles balanced
 
[57:12] - Closing reflections and an invitation for listener topic suggestions
 
 
 
 
 
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
 
 
 
1. Unspoken Expectations Create Resentment
 
Most marital conflict stems not from tasks themselves, but from unspoken roles and assumptions. Clarity prevents conflict.
 
2. Play to Your Strengths
 
Dividing responsibilities based on natural strengths—like Jessica handling bills and me handling investments—makes life easier and reduces stress.
 
3. Dinners Are About Connection, Not Perfection
 
Family meals can quickly turn into a source of resentment. Sharing the load and letting go of perfection creates a healthier environment.
 
4. Hard Conversations Require Timing
 
Approaching difficult topics at the right time and with the right tone changes everything. Grace and patience often achieve more than urgency.
 
5. Parenting Is a Team Effort
 
From sex talks to sports practices, showing up as a united front teaches kids stability, respect, and the value of shared responsibility.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINKS & RESOURCES
 
 
 
 • 21 DAYS TO EXTRAORDINARY MARRIAGE - https://thedadedge.com/extraordinary-marriage/
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Share your topic suggestions: info@thedadedge.com
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25 Questions to Spark Connection With Your Partner: https://www.thedadedge.com/25questions
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Dad Edge Podcast Website: https://www.thedadedge.com/podcast
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Join The Alliance: https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance
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Dad Edge Tools & Resources: https://www.thedadedge.com/tools
 • 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If this episode gave you practical tools for marriage or parenting, please rate, follow, review, and share the podcast. Together, we’re creating stronger marriages, stronger families, and stronger futures.

Dividing Roles in Marriage: Finances, Parenting, & Family Responsibilities ft. Jessica Hagner

In this father-son conversation on the Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down once again with my son Ethan as we wrap up our August series on what it really means to grow from boyhood into manhood. This episode digs into the lessons society often fails to teach young men—like emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and the importance of spiritual leadership.
 
 
 
We share personal stories—some funny, some raw—about patience, distractions, and the times I’ve missed the mark as a dad. Ethan opens up about his work, his relationship, and how he’s learning to grow into the kind of man the world truly needs. Together, we unpack what fathers and sons alike can do to become intentional leaders in their families, relationships, and communities.
 
 
 
 
 
TIMELINE SUMMARY
 
[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge movement and today’s theme
 
[2:02] - What kind of men the world needs (and what’s missing today)
 
[3:33] - Morning routines and health habits for energy and focus
 
[4:06] - Ethan’s take on toxic behaviors and emotional regulation
 
[6:13] - Why patience is a skill every man must learn
 
[9:08] - The dangers of unchecked anger and modeling healthy behavior
 
[10:43] - Spiritual leadership: why families need fathers of faith
 
[12:55] - Technology distractions and missing moments with family
 
[14:13] - Ethan’s memory of a walk interrupted by a work call
 
[16:04] - Why presence matters more than productivity for kids
 
[17:11] - Emotional IQ and learning to communicate feelings clearly
 
[19:34] - The “blame game” in conflict and what’s really being argued
 
[21:29] - Why stating what you do want changes arguments instantly
 
[23:51] - Communication lessons that transform relationships
 
[26:14] - Humor, family dogs, and how laughter shapes connection
 
[28:26] - Ethan’s approach to relationship check-ins with his girlfriend
 
[32:10] - Why small gestures (videos, letters, notes) keep love alive
 
[34:09] - Preventative maintenance in relationships—like car care
 
[35:41] - Ethan’s life transitions: work, school, and EMT training
 
[37:00] - Looking back: how podcasting captured growth in real time
 
[39:22] - Lessons learned from starting with imperfect beginnings
 
[41:25] - Tangents, laughter, and building stronger bonds through honesty
 
[42:29] - Resources, free tools, and a final call to lead with intention
 
 
 
 
 
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
 
 
 
1. Patience Is a Choice, Not a Trait
 
Life tests your patience daily—but choosing to pause, breathe, and respond with calm sets the tone for your family and your relationships.
 
2. Spiritual Leadership Matters
 
A father who prays, leads spiritually, and models faith gives his family the foundation they need to thrive—not perfection, but presence.
 
3. Distractions Cost Connection
 
Every time work or technology interrupts family time, the message sent is “this is more important than you.” Presence is the true gift kids crave.
 
4. Communication Is Preventative Maintenance
 
Arguments often circle around what we don’t want. Learning to clearly state what we do want transforms conflict into connection.
 
5. Relationships Grow Through Small, Intentional Acts
 
From handwritten letters to a quick morning video, little efforts create lasting connection. Relationships require maintenance—just like everything worth keeping.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINKS & RESOURCES
 
 
 
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First Phorm Supplements: https://www.thedadedge.com/1358
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 CREATINE LINK: https://1stphorm.com/products/micronized-creatine-monohydrate/?a_aid=dadedge Hydration Sticks: https://1stphorm.com/products/hydration-sticks/?a_aid=dadedge • 

25 Intimate Conversation Starters (Free Resource): https://www.thedadedge.com/25questions
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Dad Edge Podcast Website: https://www.thedadedge.com/podcast
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Join The Alliance: https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance
 • 
 • 

Dad Edge Tools & Resources: https://www.thedadedge.com/tools
 • 
 
 
 
 
 
If this episode gave you a new perspective on fatherhood, marriage, or raising sons, please rate, follow, review, and share the podcast. Together, we’re building a generation of men who live, lead, and love with intention.

Father-Son Lessons on Patience, Communication, and Respect ft. Ethan Hagner

Larry and Shawn reached out to GDP community and asked one simple question: “What is one life lesson your father taught you and has made you the man you are today.” We had several responses and we chose five.

5 Life Changing Lessons from Dad Part 2 - GPD029

Lyt når som helst, hvor som helst

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