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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

Ever found yourself trying to fix a problem with your spouse or kids—only to make it worse? Yeah, me too. In today's episode, I sat down with Josh Davis, a neuroscientist, author, and master of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), to explore how the way we communicate—our words, tone, body language, and mindset—can shape the emotional responses of those we love most.
 
 
 
Josh didn't just explain NLP; he showed it in action—by putting me in the hot seat. We talked real-life scenarios that dads like us face daily, from explosive moments with kids to feeling emotionally disconnected from our spouses. Josh walked me through powerful, science-backed communication tools that shifted my perspective in real time. Trust me, this episode isn't just about theory—it's a game changer that could transform how you show up in your marriage, fatherhood, and even your inner dialogue.
 
 
 
 
 
Timeline Summary
 
[0:00] - Introduction
 
[1:19] - Common communication missteps with our wives and kids
 
[2:07] - What is NLP and why every dad should care
 
[6:56] - Josh's background and why NLP is his passion
 
[12:06] - Comparing NLP to cognitive behavioral therapy
 
[14:10] - Real-world examples of how NLP creates breakthroughs
 
[23:25] - Josh's personal story about improving his marriage through NLP
 
[33:21] - A deep-dive NLP coaching session with me as the guinea pig
 
[40:00] - Identifying limiting beliefs and how they shape our behavior
 
[42:00] - The surprising power of body language in father-child connection
 
[45:04] - How to build rapport with your kids through posture and tone
 
[54:12] - Reframing limiting beliefs our kids express
 
[57:00] - Simple language tweaks to open emotional doors
 
[1:01:20] - A tactical breakdown of how to validate emotions without enabling
 
 
 
 
 
Key Takeaways
 
 
 
 Stop Fixing, Start Connecting 1. – Your instinct to solve may actually be creating distance; connection begins with emotional validation.
 NLP Isn't Magic—It's Strategy 2. – Small shifts in language, posture, and tone can create big breakthroughs in how others respond to you.
 Meet People Where They Are 3. – Emotional safety starts with joining your child or partner in their current state before trying to lead them somewhere else.
 Your Body Talks Too 4. – Mirroring posture and energy isn't manipulation—it's subconscious empathy that builds trust.
 Change Begins with You 5. – Whether it's marriage, parenting, or personal beliefs, the transformation starts by examining your internal dialogue and behavior.
 
 
 
Links & Resources
 
 
 
 • Josh Davis' Book: https://www.amazon.com/Difference-that-Makes-Science-Positive/dp/1250349087
 thedadedge.com/soulmates joshdavisphd.com/dads • Podcast Show Notes: thedadedge.com/1401
 
 
 
 
 
If this episode sparked some ah-ha moments, hit that follow button, leave a review, and share it with a fellow dad who's ready to level up his communication and connection at home.

How to Be Heard, Seen & Understood at Home featuring Josh Davis

Today marks the 1400th episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, and I couldn't be more excited to celebrate it with one of the most important people in my life—my 9-year-old son, Colton. In this fun, heartfelt, and candid father-son conversation, we dive into some of the powerful questions from my free resource, Questions for the Car, to model what intentional connection looks like between a dad and his kid.
 
 
 
Colton opens up about everything from his love of dodgeball and tacos to what makes him feel proud, loved, and connected to our family. We laugh, share stories, and flip the script as Colton even asks me a question or two. This episode is a reminder that our kids are always listening—and when we ask the right questions, they start to open up in ways that shape our relationship forever.
 
 
 
 
 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 
 
 
[0:00] – Introduction
 
[1:01] – Why this episode is so personal and meaningful
 
[2:45] – Introducing the Questions for the Car PDF
 
[4:05] – Colton jumps on the mic for the first time!
 
[5:26] – What 4th grade is like from a kid's perspective
 
[6:47] – Dodgeball, gym class, and why Colton loves competition
 
[9:53] – The game-winning catch that boosted his confidence
 
[10:47] – Colton's proudest sports moment and how it made him feel
 
[11:21] – What makes hiking with Dad so special
 
[12:44] – Colton defines love in his own words
 
[14:17] – Why spending time as a family matters to kids
 
[15:37] – His favorite family meals (hint: tacos and wings!)
 
[16:22] – The superpowers he'd love to have
 
[18:51] – Colton flips the script and interviews me
 
[19:56] – Favorite books, stories, and why we love reading together
 
[21:23] – How to grab the Questions for the Car PDF to connect with your own kids
 
 
 
 
 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 
 
 
 Kids Just Want Time with You: 1. Colton said it best—kids feel love when parents spend time with them. It's not about big moments, but consistent presence.
 Ask Better Questions, Get Better Connection: 2. Our 
Questions for the Car 3. tool helps dads go beyond "How was your day?" and into deeper, more meaningful conversations.
 Celebrate the Small Wins: 4. Confidence grows from moments like a dodgeball victory or a hike with Dad—highlight them and talk about them.
 Let Them See You as Human: 5. When Colton asked 
me 6. a question, it reminded me how valuable it is to let our kids learn about us, too.
 Legacy Is Built One Conversation at a Time: 7. Every car ride, bedtime chat, or dinner table question is a chance to connect, shape, and influence our kids for life.
 
 
 
 
 LINKS & RESOURCES • 

Questions for the Car (Free PDF): http://thedadedge.com/kidquestions
 • 
 • Podcast Shownotes: thedadedge.com/1400
 
 
 
 
 
If this episode brought you joy—or gave you a new way to connect with your kids—please take 30 seconds to rate, review, and share it. And if you mention Colton in your review, I promise I'll read it to him!
 
 
 
Live legendary.

Building Deeper Father-Son Bonds Through Meaningful Questions featuring Colton Hagner

In this eye-opening episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Justin Houman, a leading urologist and men's health expert, to talk about everything most guys avoid—hormones, testosterone, fertility, vasectomies, and how your lifestyle is impacting your long-term health as a man. Dr. Houman pulls back the curtain on what's really happening with declining testosterone levels, the truth about TRT (testosterone replacement therapy), and why many young men are already showing signs of hormonal imbalance.
 
 
 
We also dive deep into how stress, diet, alcohol, and even simple daily choices are influencing not just your performance—but your future as a father and husband. If you've ever felt off, sluggish, or just "not yourself," this episode could be the wake-up call you didn't know you needed.
 
 
 
 
 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 
[0:00] – Introduction
 
[2:11] – Why testosterone levels are dropping in younger men
 
[3:38] – The impact of stress and modern lifestyle on men's hormones
 
[6:52] – What every guy should know about fertility and sperm health
 
[9:26] – The myth of "you're too young to have hormone issues"
 
[11:33] – Why alcohol may be hurting your testosterone more than you think
 
[13:05] – The truth about TRT: who should and should not consider it
 
[16:10] – Lifestyle first: how diet, exercise, and sleep influence hormones
 
[18:22] – The impact of porn and digital overstimulation on sexual function
 
[21:04] – What you need to know about vasectomies and reversals
 
[23:44] – The mental health component of hormone imbalance
 
[25:31] – Final advice from Dr. Houman: take control of your health early
 
 
 
 
 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS Hormone Imbalance Isn't Just for Older Men: 1. Men in their 20s and 30s are now experiencing low testosterone and fertility issues due to stress, poor sleep, and environmental toxins.
 TRT Isn't a Shortcut—It's a Tool: 2. Testosterone Replacement Therapy can be life-changing for the right candidates, but it's not a cure-all. Lifestyle must come first.
 Small Choices Equal Big Outcomes: 3. Daily habits like reducing alcohol, managing stress, and improving sleep can significantly improve testosterone and overall vitality.
 Digital Overstimulation Is Rewiring Sexual Health: 4. Excessive porn use and screen time are contributing to erectile dysfunction and lowered libido in men of all ages.
 Proactive Health Wins the Long Game: 5. Don't wait until something breaks—taking action now protects your ability to lead, love, and show up strong for your family.
 
 
 
 
 LINKS & RESOURCES 
 
 
 • 

Learn more about Dr. Justin Houman: https://houmanmd.com/
 • 
 • 

25 Questions to Spark Connection: https://thedadedge.com/25questions
 • 
 • 

More podcast episodes and resources: https://thedadedge.com/podcast
 • 
 • Episode Shownotes: 
thedadedge.com/1399 
 
 
 
 
If this episode opened your eyes, don't keep it to yourself. Share it with another dad, and remember to rate, follow, and review the podcast.
 
 
 
Live legendary.

TRT, Vasectomies, & the Truth About Men's Health featuring Dr. Justin Houman

In this deeply moving and perspective-shifting episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down with John O'Leary, a bestselling author, motivational speaker, and burn survivor whose life is a testament to the power of resilience, hope, and radical love. At age nine, John suffered severe burns across 100% of his body. He wasn't supposed to live. But not only did he survive—he became one of the most impactful voices inspiring people to live fully, love deeply, and lead fearlessly.
 
 
 
John and I talk about what truly matters in life, the legacy we leave through small, consistent acts of presence, and how pain—when faced with faith and courage—can become the very tool that transforms us into the fathers and husbands we were meant to be. This isn't just an episode about overcoming—it's about becoming.
 
 
 
 
 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 
[0:00] – Introduction
 
[1:45] – The moment that changed John's life forever
 
[4:18] – How his parents showed up during trauma and why it shaped him
 
[7:32] – The role of forgiveness in healing deep wounds
 
[10:06] – Why pain isn't the enemy—but a bridge to deeper purpose
 
[13:14] – John's perspective on legacy and the value of being there
 
[17:05] – The power of small, consistent actions over grand gestures
 
[21:38] – Loving your spouse through service and sacrifice
 
[25:12] – Raising kids who are resilient, grateful, and grounded
 
[28:59] – The single most powerful lesson John learned from his father
 
[32:30] – A challenge for every dad listening: What are you really living for?
 
 
 
 
 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 
 
 
 Pain Can Be a Catalyst, Not a Curse: 1. John's story proves that life's most devastating moments can forge our deepest character and call us to higher purpose if we choose to face them with courage.
 Legacy Is Built in Presence, Not Perfection: 2. His parents' unwavering presence—especially during trauma—taught him that how we show up in the hardest times says everything about who we are.
 Love Is Action, Not Just Intention: 3. Whether it's in marriage or parenting, love must be expressed through service, sacrifice, and consistency—not just feelings or words.
 Our Kids Learn More from Observation Than Instruction: 4. John learned resilience, discipline, and deep love not by being told what to do, but by watching how his parents lived during the toughest seasons.
 You Were Meant to Live Fully, Not Just Survive: 5. Every dad has the opportunity—and responsibility—to stop sleepwalking through life and start leading intentionally with love, clarity, and vision.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 LINKS & RESOURCES 
 
 
 Learn more about John O'Leary • – 
https://johnolearyinspires.com 25 Questions to Spark Connection • – 
https://thedadedge.com/25questions More Podcast Episodes • – 
https://thedadedge.com/podcast • The Dad Edge Boardroom Mastermind - thedadedge.com/mastermind
 • Shownotes for this episode: thedadedge.com/1397
 
 
 
 
 
If this conversation sparked something in you, share it with a fellow dad who needs this message. And don't forget to rate, review, and follow the podcast.
 
 
 
Live legendary.

Presence During Hardship Defines Your Legacy featuring John O'Leary

In this special episode of The Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down with a very special guest—my 11-year-old son, Lawson Hagner. This episode is unlike any other, because it's not about interviews or experts—it's about connection. It's about the power of slowing down, asking questions, and being intentional with our kids.
 
 
 
Lawson and I dive into simple but meaningful topics—his favorite memories, what it means to "lock in," and how he's learning to handle school, sports, and life. What starts as a lighthearted father-son chat turns into an authentic, heartfelt conversation about discipline, focus, and what it truly means to build a strong relationship between a dad and his son.
 
 
 
We also talk about a new free resource I created called "Questions for the Car"—designed to help dads spark deeper conversations with their kids during everyday moments. This episode is a reminder that great connections don't happen by accident—they happen when we choose to show up and be curious.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 What You'll Learn in This Episode 
[0:00] – Introduction
 
[1:02] – Introducing Lawson Hagner — my 11-year-old son and first-time podcast guest.
 
[2:25] – The fun and chaos of sixth grade (and yes, girls come up right away).
 
[4:58] – How Lawson's football team went undefeated—and what "locking in" means to him.
 
[6:06] – Our father-son bond and why intentional connection matters so much.
 
[7:08] – Introducing the Questions for the Car resource and how dads can use it.
 
[8:33] – Lawson's favorite memories and why going to breakfast together means so much.
 
[10:19] – How meaningful conversations can come from simple, everyday questions.
 
[12:11] – "Locking in": Lawson's personal philosophy on focus and discipline in sports and school.
 
[15:20] – How to manage overwhelm—teaching kids (and adults) how to take on the "next right thing."
 
[20:02] – What tradition means to Lawson and why Christmas represents deeper family connection.
 
[23:14] – The power of presence—how just three questions can spark a 25-minute, life-giving conversation.
 
 
 
 
 Key Takeaways Connection happens in small moments. 1. Breakfasts, car rides, and one-on-one chats matter more than grand gestures.
 "Lock in" isn't just for sports. 2. Lawson reminds us that focus and effort apply to school, family, and life.
 Asking great questions creates great relationships. 3. Curiosity opens the door for deeper understanding.
 Tradition builds belonging. 4. Family rituals—like Christmas mornings and hot cocoa nights—create lasting bonds.
 Dads set the tone. 5. Our consistency, presence, and willingness to engage build the foundation our kids stand on.
 
 
 
 
 Links & Resources 
 
 
 
 
 • 

Download Questions for the Car: https://thedadedge.com/kidquestions
 • 
 • 

Episoe Shownotes: thedadedge.com/1398
 • 
 
 
 
 
 Closing Thoughts 
 
 
This episode isn't just a podcast—it's a moment between a dad and his son that shows what intentional fatherhood looks like in real time. Whether it's on the way to school, over breakfast, or sitting by the fire, every dad has the opportunity to lead with curiosity and love.
 
 
 
If this conversation inspired you, please rate, review, and share The Dad Edge Podcast. And remember, gentlemen—don't just go through the motions… Live Legendary.

Building Focus, Discipline, and Connection with Your Kids featuring Lawson Hagner

In this episode of The Dad Edge Podcast, we dive into a topic every parent faces daily — our kids' teeth. From baby gums to braces, I sit down with orthodontist, educator, and author Dr. Robert Geiman to unpack the essential truths about children's dental health and what parents can do to set their kids up for lifelong confidence and health.
 
 
 
Dr. Geiman's new book, The Tooth Bible: A Parent's Guide to Their Child's Smile, turns decades of clinical experience into practical, bite-sized advice every parent can understand and apply. In our conversation, we cover everything from fluoride myths to brushing battles, flossing habits, and how oral health connects to our kids' overall well-being. But this episode goes beyond teeth — we talk about leadership, humility, and how the way we show up as dads can shape our families for generations.
 
 
 Episode Timeline 
 
 
[0:00] – Introduction
 
[2:27] – Introducing Dr. Robert Geiman and his mission behind The Tooth Bible.
 
[5:07] – How a COVID lockdown project became a parenting essential.
 
[8:12] – What parents should do from birth to age three: brushing basics and fluoride facts.
 
[10:22] – The truth about fluoride and why science still matters.
 
[15:00] – Why The Tooth Bible is written in Q&A format and the most common dental questions parents ask.
 
[18:10] – What parents should and shouldn't say to their kids before braces.
 
[20:16] – The real reason snacking on sugar all day is worse than eating it all at once.
 
[23:00] – How orthodontic technology has made braces more comfortable and effective.
 
[27:00] – The link between oral health, heart health, and overall well-being.
 
[30:00] – Making brushing fun and consistent for kids of all ages.
 
[40:30] – How and when to start flossing — and tools that make it easier for kids.
 
[43:33] – Leading by example: how your dental habits as a dad influence your children.
 
[48:41] – Dr. Geiman on marriage, communication, and leading at home with humility.
 
[50:45] – The importance of owning mistakes and teaching kids through example.
 
 
 
 
 Key Takeaways: Oral health is a reflection of overall health. 1. Healthy gums and teeth often mirror good habits and wellness throughout the body.
 Fluoride, when used in proper doses, is safe and essential for preventing cavities. 2. 
Dr. Geiman emphasizes trusting science over social media noise. Make brushing fun and consistent. 3. Give kids ownership—let them choose their toothbrush and toothpaste flavor to increase motivation.
 Lead by example. 4. Your kids are watching; if they see you brushing and flossing daily, they're more likely to do the same.
 Parenting is leadership in action. 5. Whether in dental habits or daily life, your consistency, humility, and example create lasting impact.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Links and Resources • The Tooth Bible website: https://thetoothbible.com
 • The Tooth Bible Smile Shop: 
https://thetoothbible.com/smile-shop • ChildandAdultOrthodontics.com
 • Follow Dr. Geiman on Instagram: 
https://www.instagram.com/author_dr.bobby/ https://www.instagram.com/brace_thyself/ • Podcast Episode Show Notes: http://thedadedge.com/1396
 
 
 
 
 Closing Thoughts 
 
 
This episode reminds us that leadership starts with example — even in the smallest routines, like brushing your teeth beside your kids. When we lead with intention and humility, our children learn more than just good dental hygiene; they learn integrity, consistency, and care.
 
 
 
If you enjoyed this conversation, please rate, review, and share The Dad Edge Podcast to help more fathers build stronger, more intentional families.

Raising Kids Who Smile with Confidence By Leading by Example featuring Dr. Robert Geiman

In this solo episode, I open up about one of the most overwhelming seasons my family has faced—fall. Between school demands, sports, band, and everything else, our schedule was maxed out and our connection suffered. Jessica and I found ourselves constantly busy but emotionally distant, operating more like teammates than soulmates.
 
 
 
I share how we recognized the symptoms of "roommate syndrome," what we did to course-correct, and why protecting margin in your life and marriage is non-negotiable. I also introduce my brand-new course launching in January, From Roommates to Soulmates, designed for husbands who are ready to rebuild emotional connection and intimacy.
 
 
 
 
 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 
[0:00] – Introduction
 
[2:31] – Why fall marks the beginning of chaos for many families
 
[3:07] – Introducing the From Roommates to Soulmates course
 
[4:15] – What roommate syndrome looks like and why it's dangerous
 
[5:20] – Cultural lies men believe about marriage and fatherhood
 
[6:45] – The silent struggle of disconnection
 
[8:06] – Our family's real-life overscheduling mistake
 
[10:28] – When joy turns into exhaustion
 
[10:54] – The "Sunday Night Reset" strategy
 
[11:27] – How shared calendars and huddles create clarity
 
[12:13] – Learning to say no with purpose
 
[13:16] – Protecting margin and prioritizing connection
 
[14:42] – Why our "Date Days" are sacred
 
[15:38] – Free gift: Questions for the Car PDF
 
[16:41] – Start deeper conversations with your kids today
 
 
 
 
 
 
 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 
 
 
1. Busyness Is the Enemy of Intimacy
 
Just because you're doing a lot doesn't mean you're connecting. Overscheduling your family can slowly erode the relationships that matter most.
 
2. Roommate Syndrome Is Real—But Reversible
 
When you and your partner start functioning as co-managers instead of lovers, it's time to course-correct. Connection requires intention.
 
3. Margin Is Not a Luxury, It's a Necessity
 
If your calendar is full but your marriage feels empty, it's a sign you need to guard time for each other and for rest.
 
4. Clarity and Communication Prevent Chaos
 
Tools like family huddles and shared calendars aren't just logistical—they're emotional anchors that keep the household united.
 
5. Leading Your Family Starts With Leading Yourself
 
Recognizing when you're off-track and initiating reconnection is the mark of strong leadership—both as a husband and a father.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 LINKS & RESOURCES 
• Free Resource – Questions for the Car: https://thedadedge.com/kidquestions
 
• Show Notes for this episode: https://thedadedge.com/1395
 
 
 
If this episode resonated with you, rate, review, follow, and share it with another dad who needs it. Let's lead our families with presence and purpose.
 
 
 
Live legendary.

Maintaining Connection & Relationships When Life Gets Busy

For all the show notes and to connect with Sean Whalen, check out our show notes page HERE.

Taking 100% Responsibility and Being a Lion Not a Sheep with Sean Whalen

In this special Father-Son Wednesday edition of the Dad Edge Podcast, Ethan and I have an open and heartfelt conversation about the kind of legacy we want to leave—not in terms of money, but in how we show up for our families, our faith, and our future. With Halloween around the corner, we explore the idea of what truly haunts fathers—missed moments, emotional distance, and failing to lead with purpose.
 
 
 
We dive into what it means to lead a family spiritually without pushing religion, how a father's love for his wife becomes a model for children, and how intentional home culture shapes future generations. Ethan shares his vision for his future family and career as a firefighter—and how he wants to lead by presence, not pressure.
 
 
 
 
 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 
 
 
[0:00] – Introduction
 
[1:15] – Ethan's "Winter Arc" and using seasons to spark growth
 
[2:59] – Redefining legacy beyond wealth or achievements
 
[5:14] – Why health and strength are crucial to long-term fatherhood
 
[8:32] – Spiritual leadership without religiosity
 
[10:04] – Passing down a relationship with God to future generations
 
[12:33] – Faith, emotional safety, and keeping an open mind
 
[15:21] – Ethan's vision of future fatherhood and home culture
 
[17:42] – How your home environment speaks louder than your words
 
[20:07] – The impact of loving your spouse well in front of your kids
 
[23:15] – Why we choose to gross our kids out with affection—not arguments
 
[24:49] – The power of being the "warrior in the garden"
 
[25:29] – Ethan's passion for firefighting and leaving impact
 
[27:56] – Halloween memories, safety tips, and shoutouts
 
 
 
 
 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 
1. Legacy Is Emotional, Not Just Financial
 
The mark we leave on our kids isn't in bank accounts—it's in the daily presence, protection, and love they feel from us.
 
2. Faith Is Modeled, Not Mandated
 
Ethan speaks on how he wants to raise his future family to know God through a relationship—not religion—and how that shaped his upbringing.
 
3. Your Marriage Is the Blueprint
 
How you treat your wife sets the tone for how your kids will approach love, commitment, and conflict in their own relationships.
 
4. Presence Over Perfection
 
Kids remember if you were there and emotionally available—not if you were flawless. Being the safe space is what sticks.
 
5. Strength Is Best When Softened by Love
 
Ethan reflects on the need for dads to be both strong and gentle—to be warriors in the garden, not tyrants in the home.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 LINKS & RESOURCES • 

25 Questions to Spark Deeper Connection – https://thedadedge.com/25questions
 • 
 • Level 1 Protein - 
https://1stphorm.com/products/level-1/?a_aid=dadedge • BCAAs - https://1stphorm.com/products/bcaa/?a_aid=dadedge 
 • 

Pastor Paul Daily Bible Studies – Search "Pastor Paul" on YouTube
 • 
 • 

Dad Edge Podcast & Show Notes – thedadedge.com/1394
 • 
 
 
 
 
 
If this episode brought you closer to how you want to show up as a father and husband, please rate, review, follow, and share the show. Let's keep building legacies that matter.
 
 
 
Live legendary.

The Most Important Trait You Can Pass to Your Kids (Why Legacy Is Emotional, Not Just Financial)

In this episode we have a conversation with Bret Johnson about how to be a strong father to raise strong daughters. For all the show notes and to connect with Bret, head over to our show notes page HERE.

Being a Coach, a Dad, and Raising Strong Daughters with Bret Johnson

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