The Dad Edge Podcast

In this special episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I'm joined once again by my son Ethan for another honest and often hilarious father-son conversation. This week, we're kicking off our August series focused on helping young men grow into adulthood with integrity, resilience, and intention. We unpack what it really means to become a man in today's world and why so many guys stay stuck in a boyhood mindset well into their 40s and beyond.

Ethan shares firsthand experiences from his first full-time job, launching a car detailing business in high school, and learning life skills that go far beyond the classroom. We talk about emotional regulation, grit, finding meaningful work, and how to support your kids without micromanaging their growth. Whether you're raising sons or just want insight into building a better father-child bond, this episode is packed with perspective, wisdom, and a few laughs.

TIMELINE SUMMARY

[0:00] - Welcome to the podcast and the mission behind the Dad Edge

[1:30] - The origin and theme of our father-son conversations

[3:06] - Why August is all about helping boys become men

[5:00] - The First Phorm 8-week challenge and tools to get started

[7:01] - The moment I realized no one was coming to save me

[8:22] - Ethan's experience at his first real job in an auto shop

[11:30] - Learning to grow up through the CAPS entrepreneurship program

[13:42] - How Ethan started and ran a successful car detailing business

[17:07] - Signs a boy is becoming a man: long-term thinking, embracing discomfort

[20:37] - The danger of staying in a soul-sucking job and the power of choice

[26:30] - Stories of perseverance from Steve Jobs, Colonel Sanders, and J.K. Rowling

[30:21] - Ethan's reflections on helping others break limiting beliefs

[35:45] - Why emotional regulation is key to maturing into manhood

[39:00] - Learning to pause, respond, and reflect through challenging days

[43:27] - How fathers can support sons without overstepping

[47:03] - Using better questions to develop critical thinking and self-direction

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

1. Becoming a Man Requires Intentional Growth The shift from boyhood to manhood doesn't happen automatically; it's shaped by life experiences, learning responsibility, and the conscious decision to grow up. No one is coming to save you, and it's up to you to take ownership.

2. Let Sons Struggle, But Be Their Safe Place Growth often happens in the discomfort. As dads, it's tempting to step in and fix things. But real development comes when we let our kids wrestle with problems while knowing they have a safe place to process and recover.

3. Embrace and Teach Emotional Regulation Maturity is marked by how well we manage our emotions. Learning to pause, breathe, and choose a thoughtful response instead of reacting impulsively is a life skill every young man needs to master.

4. Work Experience Teaches More Than Just Skills From oil changes to running a business, Ethan's journey proves that real-world jobs and responsibilities develop grit, confidence, and a clearer sense of what one wants and doesn't want in life.

5. Success Is Measured by Fulfillment, Not Fortune We often think success means more money, bigger homes, or flashier titles. But as we explore in this episode, true success is found in happiness, strong relationships, and doing work that brings purpose, not just a paycheck.

LINKS & RESOURCES

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If this episode inspired you or gave you a new perspective, please rate, follow, review, and share the podcast. Together, we're building stronger families—and stronger men—for generations to come.

Would you die for your kids? Most dads would. But would you live for them? In this powerful episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down with Andrew Jax—father of three, Australian natural bodybuilding champion, and founder of the "Ditch the Dad Fat" program. Known as the "6 Pack Dad," Andrew shares how optimizing your health isn't just about looking good—it's about leading with strength, energy, and integrity at home.

We explore the silent leadership of fatherhood, why most men's health declines after marriage, and how to reverse that trend with small, sustainable changes. Andrew breaks down the real cost of saying "I don't have time," the importance of emotional and physical energy for our families, and how you can enjoy your pizza and beer—and still lose the dad bod. Whether you're already committed to health or just thinking about getting back in the game, this episode will fire you up and equip you with strategies you can use today.

TIMELINE SUMMARY:

[0:00] - Would you die for your kids? What about live for them?

[2:10] - Introducing Andrew Jax: father, champion bodybuilder, and coach

[3:17] - Why health is a leadership issue, not just a vanity project

[5:00] - The "Dad decline": why men fall apart after marriage

[8:22] - Guilt, shame, and why self-care isn't selfish

[13:06] - The myth of "no time" and how to make fitness fit your life

[17:07] - Why starting small matters—and why most men wait for a crisis

[21:22] - Andrew's "Habit Sustainability Formula" explained

[25:17] - Daily accountability: the #1 key to long-term success

[28:10] - How to stay lean without relying on exercise

[31:08] - Why sleep and stress management are crucial to fat loss

[34:03] - Finding balance: eating clean without giving up your life

[37:04] - Prioritizing protein, carbs, fats, and smart supplementation

[43:08] - How Andrew leads his family spiritually, emotionally, and physically

[46:10] - Where to connect and get a free copy of Andrew's book

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Health Is a Legacy Issue Your kids aren't just watching—they're modeling. Leading with health means passing on a generational inheritance of physical, emotional, and mental well-being. They'll follow your example more than your advice.

2. Self-Care Is Not Selfish Skipping your workout may feel noble in the moment, but long-term neglect robs your family of your energy, presence, and vitality. When you take care of yourself, you increase your capacity to take care of others.

3. You Don't Need Hours or Perfection You don't need five workouts a week or chicken and broccoli forever. Andrew's clients are busy dads and business owners who see results with three efficient sessions per week and a flexible, sustainable eating plan.

4. Daily Accountability Changes Everything Forget once-a-week check-ins. Andrew's clients get results through daily guidance and support. If you want real change, don't go it alone—build a system that keeps you on track every single day.

5. Lead at Home Like You Lead at Work Andrew's success isn't just in coaching—it's in how he shows up as a husband and father. He shares how servant leadership, spiritual alignment, and presence fuel his connection with his wife and kids every day.

LINKS & RESOURCES:

• Free copy of my Ditch The Dad Fat eBook: ditchthedadfatbook.gr8.com
• Free training on How Busy Dads Are Losing 10-35lbs & Reclaiming Their Health, Energy & Confidence In 6 Weeks Without Exercise or Extreme Diets: ditchthedadfat.com
• Ditch The Dad Fat Podcast: rebrand.ly/DTDFPodcast

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

• Episode Page: https://www.thedadedge.com/538

If this episode gave you fresh perspective or practical tips, please rate, follow, review, and share the podcast. Your support fuels this mission to help fathers lead legendary lives—for themselves and their families.

In this deeply personal and refreshingly raw episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I'm joined by my incredible wife, Jessica Hagner, for a long-overdue conversation that many of you have been asking for. After years of encouragement (and a little nudging), Jessica stepped up to the mic to help me share the real, behind-the-scenes story of our 22-year marriage.

We go back to the early days of college, reliving the awkwardness of our first kiss and my embarrassing (but strategic) attempt to get her on a student committee just to spend time with her. But we don't just stay in the past. We dive deep into the challenges of our early marriage, the struggles I had showing up as a husband and father, and how Jessica's unwavering grace, direct but loving communication, and deep emotional strength helped pull us through. From parenting four boys to rediscovering connection after disconnection, we explore how we've stayed aligned, what we've learned, and why our friendship is the real heartbeat of our relationship.

Whether you're a husband, wife, parent, or someone navigating the messy middle of a relationship, this episode will speak to your heart and give you practical hope that real love is always within reach, if you're willing to work for it.

TIMELINE SUMMARY

[1:34] - Jessica joins the podcast for the first time—and how long it took to convince her

[4:35] - The (disastrous) first kiss story from both our perspectives

[10:22] - My clever scheme to get Jessica on the student committee

[13:36] - Celebrating 22 years: reflections on young love and early marriage

[16:05] - My struggles early on as a husband and father

[20:48] - Jessica's thoughtful, respectful way of expressing hard truths

[26:02] - A rough week of disconnection—and why we refuse to let it linger

[29:30] - How we sense and address emotional distance before it becomes dangerous

[35:31] - Replacing blame with grace: the power of constructive feedback

[38:01] - Jessica's journey through self-image and how we supported each other

[40:35] - Our secret weapon: friendship as the foundation

[44:12] - Creating emotional safety in a marriage

[46:40] - Reflections on sobriety and emotional consistency

[47:17] - The role of counseling and shared tools in sustaining growth

[50:21] - That time we tried swing dancing—and what it taught us about trying new things

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Marriage Is Built, Not Found Strong relationships don't happen by accident—they're intentionally created through effort, vulnerability, and consistent choices. Love is less about fate and more about foundation, and we've learned that every season of growth requires patience and partnership.

2. Grace Changes Everything Jessica's ability to express concerns with love instead of criticism shaped how I received them—and how I grew. Her grace didn't minimize the message; it softened the delivery so that it could be heard. When grace leads, growth follows.

3. Friendship Is the Foundation Beyond intimacy and partnership lies a deep friendship. We laugh, challenge, and enjoy one another—whether we're hitting the gym or sitting in silence. That comfort and camaraderie anchor us in hard times and elevate the everyday.

4. Disconnection Is a Signal, Not a Sentence We all drift sometimes—but we've trained ourselves not to tolerate that drift for long. Disconnection is simply a call to reconnect. We address it, own it, and rebuild before it becomes a pattern.

5. Shared Growth Sustains Love What keeps us aligned is our shared commitment to grow—individually and as a couple. From therapy to new hobbies, we make space for evolution. That growth keeps the relationship fresh, resilient, and deeply fulfilling.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Pre-order my book Legendary Fatherhood: http://thedadedge.com/legendarybook

• Podcast Website: https://www.thedadedge.com

• Join Our Community: https://www.thedadedge.com/alliance

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• Recommended Episode: https://www.thedadedge.com/intentional-marriage

If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to rate, follow, review, and share the podcast. Your support helps us reach more families, more fathers, and more couples who need real, honest conversations like this one. Thanks for being here.

Have you ever asked yourself?

• Do I show my children, through my actions, how to maintain a healthy marriage and set high standards for future relationships?
• How do I intentionally teach my kids lessons about money, relationships, and mental health that they aren't learning in school?
• How do I respond when my kids come to me with emotional struggles?

If you ever thought parenting was just about getting your kids to do their homework and behave, think again. The real curriculum happens at home, in the conversations we have with our children.

Today, Larry and Ethan dive into the essential life lessons that high school just doesn't teach—think managing money, building real relationships, navigating mental health, and mastering communication beyond the digital world. Along the way, you'll hear personal stories about fatherhood, learning how to treat women with respect, and the power of leading by example at home.

Larry and Ethan also shine a spotlight on the importance of old-school manners, effective boundary-setting, and even the art of saving and investing early. Plus, they get candid about handling rejection, repairing relationships, and the sometimes tough but necessary skill of saying "no." As always, they keep things light and relatable, weaving in fun anecdotes and a dash of family banter

Become the best husband you can: https://bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

In this vital conversation, we dig into:

1. Relationship Skills Aren't Taught in School: Ethan shares how Larry modeled (not just talked about!) the importance of treating women with respect—from a proper handshake to introducing himself to his girlfriend's parents, and how these "old school manners" set him apart in today's world. Larry and Ethan agree: the best lessons are caught, not taught.
2. Money Management Early On Makes a Difference: Larry reminisces about starting Ethan and his brothers on the envelope savings system and quarterly meetings with a financial advisor from a young age. It pays off: Ethan feels more confident with money than most of his peers, recognizing the power of starting early, setting goals, and understanding critical concepts like compound interest.
3. Create a Safe Space for Mental Health: Ethan reflects on how being able to talk openly about tough situations—whether it's heartbreak, anxiety, or just a hard day—has helped him develop emotional resilience. Larry encourages parents to model vulnerability, listen, and share stories from their own journey (even the awkward ones).
4. Saying "No" and People Pleasing: Larry and Ethan get honest about people pleasing, time management, and learning to filter commitments. Larry's golden rule: "If it's not a hell yes, it's a no." They discuss real-life examples, from turning down extra work projects to standing strong against peer pressure.
5. Repairing Relationships & Healthy Conflict: Ethan shares what works in his relationship: addressing conflict calmly, not going to bed angry if possible, but also not being afraid to sleep on things when emotions run high—with the agreement to circle back and resolve it the next day.

Whether you're a dad, a son, or just someone looking to live more intentionally, this conversation is packed with relatable humor, honest reflections, and practical takeaways to help you.

Here's what research and observation highlight about family communication:

• Research shows that 86% of adolescents identify parents as their primary model for relationship skills and values.
• Studies found that 49% of Americans say they frequently agree to things they don't want to do to avoid disappointing others.
• Studies found that over 80% of teens say the way their parents communicate with each other directly affects how they approach their own romantic relationships.

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Have you ever asked yourself:

• Am I really aware of how much social media and online content is influencing my kids?
• Have I noticed my kids becoming overly focused on their physical appearance or diet?
• How do I handle conversations about nutrition and fitness at home?

If you've noticed your son obsessing over his physique or protein intake, or your daughter silently struggling with self-worth because of what she sees online, this episode is for you. Larry and Rich dive deep into how today's digital landscape is distorting kids' perceptions of themselves, driving issues like body dysmorphia, disordered eating, and unhealthy relationships with food and fitness—affecting boys and girls earlier than ever before.

You'll hear real talk on what warning signs to watch out for, how to foster healthy conversations about food and body image, and the steps you can take to protect your kids from the relentless pressures of curated perfection online. Plus, learn practical strategies for monitoring your child's digital world and discover why it's crucial to model resilience, open dialogue, and authentic self-worth in your home.

Whether you're a dad, coach, or mentor, this episode is your wake-up call and toolbox—because the world is changing, and as fathers, we need to step up, disrupt the status quo, and help our kids build unshakeable confidence in themselves.

Become the best husband you can: https://bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

In this vital conversation, we dig into:

1. Why Social Media Is A Game-Changer: Unlike the occasional magazine we grew up with, today's kids are constantly exposed to unrealistic body standards, curated feeds, and supplement ads designed to make them feel "less than." The result? Kids (especially boys ages 12-14!) are reporting anxiety, body dysmorphia, compulsive exercising, and disordered eating at skyrocketing rates.
2. Spot the Warning Signs: It's not just about undereating—obsession with protein grams, excessive workouts, and constant flexing in the mirror can all point to an unhealthy relationship with food and body image.
3. Smart Conversations, Not Confrontations: The episode shares actionable tips to open up dialogue with your kids. Watch "Generation Flex" together, use it as a springboard for honest conversation, and focus on how food and fitness make us feel—not just how we look.
4. Model Healthy Habits: As dads, it's not about being perfect—it's about showing our kids that food isn't "good" or "bad," and that balance is key (yes, you can have that burger and a salad).
5. Digital Safety for Peace of Mind: Larry also highlights tools like Bark, which alert you to concerning activity on your kids' devices—so you're not left in the dark about what they're seeing online.

If you care about raising healthy, resilient sons and daughters in an always-connected world—and want to know the practical steps you can take at home—this episode is for you

Here's what research and observation highlight about

• Studies show that hospitalizations for pediatric eating disorders rose by 139% from 2002 to 2018, with the largest relative increase seen in males aged 12 to 14
• Boys and men now represent a third of all eating disorder diagnoses today
• Nearly 100% of kids with internet access are exposed to carefully curated or unrealistic fitness/body images daily.

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https://menshealth.com

@menshealthmag

@richdorment

Read more about Men's Health's documentary "Generation Flex": https://www.menshealth.com/generationflex

Watch Generation Flex on Apple TV+:https://tv.apple.com/us/clip/generation-flex

Watch Generation Flex on Amazon Prime Video: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0DJCND11R

Have you ever asked yourself:

• Am I willing to face discomfort and take courageous action?
• What negative self-talk or pressure am I letting control me?
• Have I ever taken the time to really name and face what's weighing me down or keeping me up at night?

Whether you're a business owner, a hard-working dad, or somewhere in between, Larry lays out why building intentional connections with other men and seeking growth is key to creating a legendary life—both for yourself and the generations to come.

Drawing from personal experience and eye-opening statistics, Larry opens up about his own journey through denial, honesty, and growth, unpacking how easy it is for men to stay stuck in "I'm fine" mode—even when struggling internally. He offers three powerful strategies to support mental well-being: ruthless self-honesty, taking care of your body and mind, and intentionally building a supportive, growth-oriented circle of men.

If you're ready to get honest, find your tribe, and start moving forward, this episode will be the wake-up call you need.

Become the best husband you can: https://bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

In this vital conversation, we dig into:

1. Move Your Body, Guard Your Mind, and Cut the Junk: Mental and physical health are inseparable. Larry calls this the second pillar: move your body, guard your mind, and cut out the junk. Regular movement, whether it's a walk, a lift, or a sweat session, can clear your head and improve your mood. You don't need a perfect workout routine. Consistency is far more important.
2. Upgrade Your Circle: Brotherhood Over Isolation: Isolation is the silent killer of men's mental health. Many fathers try to "lone wolf" their way through struggles, believing they must handle everything themselves. Larry warns that this mindset can erode your spirit and make life's challenges feel even heavier.
3. The Power of Getting Honest With Yourself: Every father experiences moments of feeling lost, overwhelmed, or out of his depth. According to Larry, the first and most crucial step is honesty. Too often, we brush aside our struggles with the phrase, "I'm fine," when, in reality, we are not. Instead of masking the pain or confusion, Larry encourages dads to face those feelings head-on.

This episode will inspire you to disrupt the repeating pattern, reclaim your purpose, and start living a legendary life.

Here's what research and observation highlight about men's mental health:

• One in eight men will deal with serious depression in their lifetime, but over 60% will not get help.
• Men die by suicide four times more than women, but rarely ask for help.
• Most dads say that they feel consistently stressed or burned out trying to balance work, fatherhood, and marriage. But nearly half admit feeling completely and totally alone.
• If you're filling your head with hours of doomscrolling news and mindless social media every day, your risk doubles.
• Studies show people who watch over 3 hours of news daily are twice as likely to report severe anxiety, depression, and sleep problems.

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Have you ever asked yourself?

• When's the last time I really asked my kids what they think about God or faith?
• How can I start the journey of exploring faith side-by-side with my kids?
• What are the ways I can create more open, judgment-free conversations with my children?

For many dads, the idea of being a "spiritual leader" in the home feels intimidating, even paralyzing. Maybe you grew up with rigid, guilt-driven religious expectations or maybe you just don't feel like you know enough. The truth? None of that has to stop you. In fact, the most meaningful spiritual leadership happens when we admit we don't have it all figured out—and decide to walk the road of faith together with our kids.

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Larry and Ethan get real about their own experiences growing up Catholic—the guilt, confusion, and the struggles to make sense of complex religious teachings. They share how, as adults, they've navigated those challenges together and discovered the power of learning side by side, embracing faith as a shared father-son journey rather than a top-down lecture.

You'll hear their honest talk about breaking down the barriers of feeling "not good enough" to lead spiritually, why vulnerability can actually be your greatest asset in these moments, and practical ideas for connecting with your children around faith without fear or overwhelm. Plus, they touch on the importance of building a personal relationship with God—outside of simply following rituals or attending church—and how even small daily steps, like reading a chapter from the Book of John together, can transform your family's spiritual life.

So if you're a dad who's ever felt uncertain about how to talk faith with your kids, or if you're looking for encouragement to deepen those connections, this episode is for you. Let's step into the arena together, lead and learn as a team, and discover what it truly means to create a legacy of intentional, faith-filled fatherhood.

Become the best husband you can: https://bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

Today, we dig into:

1. You don't have to "have it all figured out" to lead spiritually: Many dads, including myself, feel intimidated by spiritual conversations because we think we need to be experts. The truth? The best leadership often comes from learning side-by-side with our kids.
2. Make it a journey, not a lecture: Spiritual leadership isn't about preaching from a pedestal. It's about reading, questioning, and growing together—sometimes stumbling, sometimes leading, always learning.
3. Relationship over ritual: The most powerful faith lessons come from genuine connection and conversation—not just attending church or following rituals. Building a relationship with God, and helping our kids do the same, is what matters most.

This episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice for fathers who want to step up as spiritual leaders without the fear of not being "good enough."

Here's what research and observation highlight about religious and spiritual conversations within families:

• Studies found that 58% of men admit to avoiding religious or spiritual conversations for fear of being unprepared or judged.
• Research found that 67% of adolescents reported feeling more connected to parents when both were engaged in joint learning or spiritual exploration.
• Research indicates that 73% of practicing Christian parents say it's essential to teach their children about the faith, yet only 35% report regularly engaging in spiritual conversations at home.

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Have you ever asked yourself:

1. Do I create a safe, judgment-free environment where my kids can come to me with their awkward questions?

2. Am I making time for one-on-one connection with my kids, so these tough conversations can happen more naturally?

3. What steps am I taking to protect my kids from online exposure, and is there more I could be doing?

Navigating "the talk" about sex and sexuality is a daunting task for dads everywhere — and it never seems to get less awkward. Today, Larry sits down with renowned author and communicator Jim Burns to break down how dads can lead the way in guiding their kids through conversations about sex, porn, and growing up in a digital world.

Larry and Jim dive deep into the realities of "the talk"—why it never quite stops feeling awkward, and why that awkwardness can actually be a gateway to genuine connection with our kids. They explore why our own discomfort shouldn't keep us from being the voices our children trust to learn about relationships, intimacy, and sexual integrity—especially when the internet and social media are more than willing to fill in any gaps we leave.

You'll hear practical strategies for navigating these conversations, including how to replace a single, intimidating "talk" with hundreds of approachable one-minute chats, ways to demystify topics like pornography and online safety, and tips for tailoring discussions to your child's unique personality.

If you want to raise confident kids who learn about sex and relationships from you—and not from TikTok or YouTube—this episode is packed with clarity, courage, and actionable advice to help you step up, again and again, in those crucial parenting moments.

Become the best husband you can: https://bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

In this vital conversation, we dig into:

1. Embracing Awkwardness: Jim Burns shares that awkward isn't the enemy—it's actually a doorway to true connection. If your head sweats or you stammer, congratulations, you're doing it right!

2. From One "Talk" to 100 Conversations: The secret? Don't stress the big performance. Focus on hundreds of one-minute check-ins and question invites over time.

3. Navigating Porn & Tech: In today's world, our kids' go-to source for sex education is often the internet. Jim breaks down how early and often these conversations need to happen—and why holding off on full-on smartphones can give your kids a real edge.

4. What If You're Still Sorting Out Your Own Stuff: If you're struggling with sexual integrity or have a messy past, don't sit silently. Your honesty and process can become a powerful guide for your children.

This episode reminds us that showing up with intention, compassion, and consistency is what really matters.

Here's what research and observation highlight about parental involvement in sex education:

1. Studies show that 70% of teens report accidentally or intentionally encountering online pornography,

2. Studies show that ongoing, bite-sized conversations are up to 50% more effective in retention and behavioral outcomes compared to single, formal discussions.

3. Studies found that teens who receive sex education from their parents are 24% less likely to engage in risky sexual behavior compared to those who learn primarily from peers or media

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@drjimburns

@homewordcenter

Have you ever asked yourself:

1. Am I sacrificing too much time with my wife and kids in pursuit of my career or financial goals?
2. What small changes could I make right now to build more connection points and memories with my family?
3. Am I making choices that line up with the kind of legacy and example I want to set for my children?

Whether you're a career-driven dad, a business owner, or just trying to do your best for your family, this episode is an honest look at why intentional time, connection, and legacy matter far more than your next paycheck.

This week, Larry takes us on a heartfelt journey inspired by his recent 50th birthday, reflecting on the advice he wishes he could have given his younger self during his 30s and 40s. With deep sincerity, he opens up about the "rookie mistakes" he made by spending years grinding in a demanding career—sacrificing precious time with his wife and kids in pursuit of financial success.

Drawing from powerful examples, including an emotional moment from Tom Brady reflecting on the cost of greatness, Larry reminds us that while hustling to provide is noble, it often comes at a price that money can't buy back: time, connection, and memories with our loved ones. He shares statistics on how finances often strain marriages, highlights the importance of intentional living, and encourages dads to pause and assess what their hard work might be costing them outside the office.

So if you've ever questioned if the grind is worth it, or worried about missing out on what truly matters, this one's for you.

Become the best husband you can: https://bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

In this vital conversation, we dig into:

1. The Hidden Price of Success: Working 60, 70, or even 80 hours a week is celebrated by many men. Yet, as Larry reveals, this dedication is often worn as a badge of honor. While providing for a family is noble, the cost can be severe. Countless hours spent at work are hours lost with children, spouses, and friends. Larry's own journey included long weeks on the road and executive-level sacrifices in the medical industry. Despite earning a good living, he found himself disconnected and unfulfilled.
2. The Irreplaceable Asset: Time with Family: Time is the one thing every parent has in equal measure—24 hours each day. Although bank accounts and careers differ, the hours we have with loved ones are finite. Larry highlights this by referencing Tom Brady's emotional reflection on his father. Even with record-breaking success and financial security, Brady admitted to sacrificing precious moments with his children. This lesson resonates with many fathers who struggle to strike a healthy balance.
3. Wealth, Marriage, and the Stress Factor: Finances play a leading role in marital stress. In fact, 37% of divorces are linked primarily to money disagreements. Arguments about spending, saving, and debt are rampant in households. Sometimes, financial infidelity—like secret spending—can quietly erode trust. Moreover, differences in money personalities between spouses can further complicate things. One partner may be a saver while the other prefers to spend, creating ongoing tension.
4. Rethinking the Grind: Society tells us we must stick with what we know, even if it costs us happiness. Larry demonstrates that it's possible to shift careers, learn new skills, and pursue passions. He provides examples of his own path, as well as others who made midlife career changes successfully. There are more ways to generate income today than ever before. From real estate to side hustles, passive revenue is accessible for those willing to be creative and disciplined.
5. Practical Advice for Fathers: Larry urges fathers to pause and consider what the grind is truly costing them. Is it worth missing key moments with your children? Instead of only focusing on earning, he recommends open communication with your spouse. Aligning financial goals can ease the burden and reduce the need for endless overtime. Fathers don't have to choose between security and connection. With intention, you can build both.

This episode is packed with raw, practical wisdom on finding balance, embracing new opportunities, and living with intentionality.

Here's what research and observation highlight about financial issues in relationships:

• Almost 3 out of 10 couples are secretly spending money that the other person doesn't know about.
• Money fights show up in nearly 40 to 50% of all marital arguments.
• 27% of couples or partners admit to secretly spending, and 10% say it will lead directly to divorce

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Brady on Family vs football

Have you ever asked yourself?

• Do I give my children room to make decisions and mistakes, or do I try to control outcomes too tightly?
• How often am I sitting down with my kids and really listening to their perspective instead of just telling them what to do?
• Am I open about my struggles as a parent and willing to admit when I don't have all the answers?

Navigating the relationship between father and son is never straightforward, especially as your child grows into a young adult. On this episode of The Dad Edge Podcast, Larry Hagner welcomes his son Ethan for a candid discussion about the so-called "friendship gap"—that elusive space between being too much of a friend and not enough of a parent.

Larry and Ethan get real about their own family dynamics, sharing personal stories of where things clicked—and where they missed the mark. From lecture-based parenting in elementary school to establishing new routines as Ethan enters adulthood, they explore the effects of too much leniency or authority, and the importance of clear communication, shared expectations, and accountability.

Whether you're raising toddlers or about to launch your kids into the world, this episode is packed with relatable, actionable insights on fostering a deeper father-child bond—while still preparing your kids for the real world. Stick around for honest reflections, a few laughs, and tips that will help any dad walk the fine line between being a guide, a leader… and a friend.

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In this vital conversation, we dig into:

1. Balance Structure and Connection: Avoid leaning too hard into "just being friends" or being purely authoritarian. Kids crave both boundaries and genuine connection.
2. Use Storytelling and Curiosity: When tough conversations arise, share your personal stories and ask thoughtful questions to guide your child's own critical thinking—instead of falling into lecture mode.
3. Create a Supportive Environment: Physical order (like a clean room or set routines) supports mental clarity and well-being; maintain structure even during transitions to help kids thrive.

This episode is packed with relatable, actionable insights on fostering a deeper father-child bond—while still preparing your kids for the real world.

Here's what research and observation highlight about family emotional connection:

• children who reported having both warmth and structure from their fathers had a 30% higher chance of reporting positive life satisfaction and emotional regulation in adulthood compared to those who experienced only discipline or only friendship.
• Studies show that 67% of adolescents report they "completely tune out" or "stop listening" during long lectures from parents, favoring concise, two-way conversations instead.
• Studies show that 70% of young adults feel unprepared for the practical aspects of adulthood, while 59% of parents report feeling "uncertain" about how to best guide their children through these years

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