In this solo episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I dive into the valuable life lessons we as fathers can teach our kids through sports—lessons that go far beyond winning or losing. Whether it's about praising effort over outcomes, sharing personal stories of hard work, or simply playing together with no agenda, I explore how to build stronger bonds and greater resilience in our kids through these moments.

This episode is a call to reframe how we show up on the sidelines and in life. Sports can be more than competition—they can be a platform for presence, growth, and connection. If you want to raise grounded, hardworking kids who aren’t afraid of putting in the reps, this episode is for you.

TIMELINE SUMMARY [0:00] - Kicking off the episode with intention and a mission for fatherhood [1:02] - The busy fall season: sports, school, and parenting chaos [2:22] - Why we must praise effort—not just outcomes—with our kids [3:46] - Childhood memories and the impact of working hard without reward [5:02] - Growth mindset: effort over results builds long-term confidence [6:29] - Combating entitlement by teaching consistent hard work [7:27] - Celebrating preparation, not just game-day performance [8:07] - Sharing real stories of hard work from our own lives with our kids [9:18] - Why credibility with your kids is built through relatable stories [9:38] - The power of play: connecting with our kids through shared activity [10:21] - Taekwondo with my son and football with another—just having fun [11:12] - Why the end result matters less than the connection [11:49] - A practical call to action: ask your kids what they learned from sports this week [12:26] - Don’t let your kids off the hook—push for real answers [13:04] - Reflecting on the last quarter of the year and what’s ahead [13:39] - A warning for business owners: don’t build an empire and lose your family [14:19] - Links to join The Alliance or Business Boardroom [14:42] - Final recap and reminder to praise effort, share stories, and play together

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Praise Effort, Not Just Results When we focus on our kids’ preparation, persistence, and grit rather than wins or trophies, we help them develop a growth mindset that builds confidence and resilience.

2. Real-Life Stories Create Connection Sharing your own stories of hard work, sacrifice, and struggle makes your guidance more credible and relatable—and shows your kids you’ve been in their shoes.

3. Play Without a Purpose Connection often happens in the unstructured moments. Whether it's football or taekwondo, playing with your kids for the sake of fun builds trust and memories.

4. Ask Better Questions Instead of asking “How was practice?”, ask “What did you learn this week from sports?” Push them to reflect and communicate their growth and insights.

5. Lead Without Losing What Matters Whether you're a career man or building a business, don’t trade connection with your wife or kids for productivity. Build both—intentionally.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Show notes for this episode: https://www.thedadedge.com/1380

• thedadedge.com/mastermind

• Join The Dad Edge Alliance (for career-driven men): https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance

• Join The Dad Edge Business Boardroom (for entrepreneurs): https://www.thedadedge.com/boardroom

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

If this episode gave you a new way to think about parenting through sports and everyday moments, do me a favor—follow, rate, review, and share the podcast. Let’s keep equipping men to lead with intention and live legendary.

In this episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, my son Ethan and I open up about the kind of conversations that strengthen the bond between fathers and sons. We explore what it really means to show up with respect, emotional maturity, presence, and perspective—both as a parent and as a young man growing into adulthood.

From handling difficult emotions and making space for deeper connection to the importance of ownership and emotional regulation, this episode is filled with raw insights and real-life tools for leading your kids—especially your sons—toward a more grounded and respectful life. Whether you’re a dad trying to better understand your son or a young man looking to grow into his role, this one hits home.

TIMELINE SUMMARY

[0:00] - Welcome and today’s topic: respect, ownership, and emotional maturity

[1:14] - Why dads and sons need hard conversations for deeper connection

[2:33] - Teaching kids emotional control without shutting down their feelings

[3:58] - Ethan’s take on what “being present” looks like from a son’s perspective

[6:27] - Why kids don’t always need advice—they need you to listen

[8:22] - The impact of dads staying calm when kids are upset

[11:15] - A story about “being too close to the situation” and losing perspective

[13:47] - Ethan’s advice to young men about taking responsibility and thinking bigger

[15:01] - When life feels overwhelming: how to pause and regain emotional footing

[17:26] - Teaching sons that vulnerability and strength are not opposites

[19:44] - Lessons from past episodes and how guests influence Ethan’s perspective

[21:10] - Navigating performance pressure as a young man in today’s world

[23:42] - What Ethan is learning about balancing ambition and contentment

[26:03] - Managing stress and comparison in the digital age

[29:18] - The father-son dynamic around goals, growth, and personal responsibility

[31:51] - Ethan shares what helps him feel most connected to his dad

[34:22] - Why consistency beats intensity in relationships and leadership

[36:09] - The importance of checking in emotionally, not just logistically

[38:45] - Final reflections on fatherhood, growth, and relational leadership

[41:36] - Closing encouragement and reminder to lead with presence and love

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Respect Starts With Presence

Kids don’t feel respected when they’re interrupted or corrected mid-emotion. Simply being present—listening without jumping in—builds trust that lasts.

2. Emotional Regulation Is Learned, Not Inherited

Children learn emotional control from what we model. Calm fathers create calm environments where kids feel safe to feel.

3. You Can’t Solve What You Don’t See Clearly

Reacting emotionally without pausing for perspective often escalates the situation. Teaching our kids to “zoom out” is a lifelong skill.

4. Sons Need Ownership, Not Rescue

Letting our sons take responsibility—even when they mess up—builds confidence and teaches them to lead themselves.

5. Vulnerability Builds Strength

Helping boys understand that being vulnerable doesn’t make them weak—it makes them real—is key to raising emotionally intelligent men.

LINKS & RESOURCES

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

• Micro factor:  https://1stphorm.com/products/micro-factor/?a_aid=dadedge

• POST WORKOUT STACK:  https://1stphorm.com/products/post-workout-stack/?a_aid=dadedge

• Larry's book:  thedadedge.com/legendarybook  

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

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

• Dad Edge Boardroom (for entrepreneurial fathers): https://www.thedadedge.com/boardroom

• Dad Edge Tools & Resources: https://www.thedadedge.com/tools

If this episode helped you see father-son connection in a new light, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Let’s raise a generation of men who lead with heart, discipline, and perspective.

In this episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, Larry Hagner is joined by Oscar “Oz” Aponte—a U.S. Army veteran, StrongFirst kettlebell instructor, and founder of Iron Core—to explore what real strength means as a man, a father, and a leader.

Oz brings a powerful blend of physical mastery and spiritual depth, helping men move from brute force to intentional presence. Together, they unpack how posture, breath, nervous system regulation, and movement patterns shape your long-term vitality—not just in the gym, but at the dinner table, in your marriage, and in your legacy.

More than a conversation about fitness, this is a deep dive into fatherhood, grief, and building your life with intention. Whether you’re a kettlebell junkie or just a dad looking to show up better, this episode will challenge you to redefine strength on every level.

TIMELINE SUMMARY

[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge mission: changing generations

[1:00] - Os’ dad: love, legacy, and shaping a son through presence

[4:05] - The final moments Os had with his father before he passed

[6:42] - The cycle-breaking power of a father who never had one

[9:58] - Combining Eastern mindfulness with Western strength

[12:21] - Training for longevity vs. ego

[14:45] - Redefining masculinity as balance, not burnout

[19:23] - Nervous system health: “the threat bucket” metaphor

[25:36] - The seasons of fitness (and why to respect them)

[28:15] - How posture and gait silently break men down

[30:37] - Tissues adapt to dysfunction—unless you intervene

[33:33] - Why kettlebells work: simple tools, elite results

[38:55] - Busy dads: how to train with limited time and space

[40:37] - Core movements every man should master

[44:13] - The “Simple & Sinister” training approach

[47:13] - Kettlebell workshops, coaching, and learning more

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Strength Is Presence

Being strong isn’t just about lifting weight—it’s about how grounded, aware, and calm you are with your family.

2. Your Nervous System Is Running the Show

Stress, posture, sleep, and breath all impact your strength more than ego lifting ever could. Master your internal world first.

3. Movement Is Medicine

Poor gait and posture don’t just cause pain—they drain your energy and shorten your lifespan. Train smart, not just hard.

4. Simplicity Wins

You don’t need a fancy gym or complicated gear. One kettlebell and intentional reps can outperform a cluttered workout.

5. Legacy Is Built in the Small Moments

Oz’s story shows that being a strong father isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up, being present, and choosing intentionality every day.

LINKS & RESOURCES

Os Aponte’s Website & Coaching:

https://ironcoreway.com

Book Mentioned:

Simple & Sinister by Pavel Tsatsouline

https://www.strongfirst.com/shop/ebooks/simple-sinister-ebook

StrongFirst Kettlebell Certifications + Programs:

https://www.strongfirst.com

Live Workshops in San Diego:

Check Oz’s site for current event listings

Dad Edge Podcast Hub:

https://thedadedge.com/podcast

Book Preorder: The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood

https://thedadedge.com/legendarybook

In this solo episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, host Larry Hagner opens up about what it means to be the thermostat in your home, not just the thermometer. With economic uncertainty, workplace stress, and daily responsibilities piling up, Larry shares a powerful message: while we can’t always control the outside world, we can control the atmosphere inside our homes.

Drawing from his own experience as a husband, father of four, entrepreneur, and coach to hundreds of men, Larry offers three simple but game-changing practices to help you lead with presence, peace, and intentionality. You’ll learn how to create transition rituals, share stress in age-appropriate ways, and protect one daily “anchor moment” with your family.

This isn’t just advice—it’s a battle plan for fatherhood in today’s chaotic world.

TIMELINE SUMMARY

[0:00] - The Dad Edge movement: raising the next generation of fathers

[1:06] - Why “Dad Jones” matters more than Dow Jones

[2:30] - From entrepreneurship to emotional presence at home

[3:38] - Why dads must become the thermostat, not the thermometer

[4:31] - Breaking generational cycles through intentional leadership

[5:21] - Tactical Nugget #1: Create a transition ritual

[6:02] - From Zoom calls to family time in 60 seconds or less

[7:39] - Zoom fatigue, blue-collar exhaustion, and stress overload

[8:18] - Real-world examples of transition rituals that work

[9:36] - The “warm-up” metaphor: why you can’t sprint cold

[10:40] - Tactical Nugget #2: Share age-appropriate context

[11:48] - Explaining stress to a 9-year-old without oversharing

[12:49] - Tactical Nugget #3: Protect one anchor moment daily

[13:46] - The dinner table is sacred—don’t let sports take it away

[14:55] - The Hagner family: 70% dinner consistency even with teens

[16:05] - Anchoring doesn’t have to be nightly—just intentional

[17:09] - What it means to protect your family’s emotional economy

[18:18] - Action step: Choose one ritual to stabilize your home

[19:02] - Want to go deeper? Why Larry created the Dad Edge Alliance

[20:14] - Introducing: The Dad Edge Business Brotherhood

[21:01] - “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Be the Thermostat, Not the Thermometer

Your mood sets the emotional tone in your home. Don’t react to the chaos—lead through it.

2. Create a Transition Ritual

Whether it’s deep breathing, walking, or reading scripture, take 5–10 minutes to reset before re-entering home life.

3. Speak to Your Kids at Their Level

You don’t need to dump stress on your children—but you can share what’s going on in ways they understand.

4. Protect One Daily Anchor Moment

Whether it’s a meal, bedtime routine, or morning coffee with your spouse—make it non-negotiable.

5. Your Family Needs a Grounded Leader

They don’t need a stressed-out provider. They need you—calm, present, and emotionally available.

LINKS & RESOURCES

Join the Mastermind Paths

• Dad Edge Alliance: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind

• Business Owner Brotherhood: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind

Books Mentioned:

• Building a Non-Anxious Life by Dr. John Delony: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/store/books/building-a-non-anxious-life-by-john-delony

Full Episode & Other Resources:

• Podcast Homepage: https://thedadedge.com/podcast

• Larry Hagner Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedadedge

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:

• Creating More Patience

• 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

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

• Built Ready Health & Fitness: https://builtready.com

• Chrissy Evans (Weight Loss Hero): https://weightlosshero.com

• Heath Evans on Instagram: https://instagram.com/heath_evans44

• Chrissy Evans on Instagram: https://instagram.com/weightlosshero

• Contact Heath: [email protected]

• Contact Chrissy: [email protected]

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

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

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

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.

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

• Bark App & Devices (Protect your kids online): https://www.thedadedge.com/bark

• Episode Show Notes Page: https://www.thedadedge.com/1377

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

• Join The Alliance (career-driven dads): https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance

• Dad Edge Boardroom (entrepreneurial dads): https://www.thedadedge.com/boardroom

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

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.

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

• 🎯 First Form Products

• Micro Factor: https://1stphorm.com/products/micro-factor

• Formula 1 + Ignition Post-Workout Stack: https://1stphorm.com/products/formula-1

• 📘 Pre-Order: Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood: https://www.thedadedge.com/legendarybook

• 🎙 Dad Edge Alliance Membership: https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance

• 🎧 Full Episode & Show Notes: https://www.thedadedge.com/1364

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

• Join Relay (Chandler’s App): https://www.joinrelay.app

• Email Chandler: [email protected]

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

• Join the Alliance (Dad Edge Community): https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance

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

• Bark (Protect your kids online): https://www.thedadedge.com/bark

• 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 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.