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Larry Hagner

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

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

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

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

The Dad Edge Podcast

In this deeply emotional solo episode, I continue our December series focused on protecting kids from online predators. I walk you through two real and devastating cases that show exactly how grooming, sextortion, and long-term digital harassment happen—often without parents having any idea it's occurring. These aren't edge cases. This is the reality of the digital world our kids are growing up in.
 
 
 
We break down a Roblox grooming case involving an eight-year-old girl, how predators slowly build trust and move conversations to private apps, and why platform bans don't actually stop them. I also share the heartbreaking story of Amanda Todd, a seventh grader who was hunted online for years by a predator who weaponized images, social media, and bullying across schools and borders. This episode is hard to listen to—but necessary—because awareness is the first step in protecting our kids.
 
 
 
 
 Timeline Summary: 
[0:00] Why online grooming often goes unnoticed until it's too late.
 
[1:48] How predators now access kids directly in their bedrooms through devices.
 
[2:46] Why this generation of parents is navigating entirely new digital dangers.
 
[3:52] Parenting the first generation of kids growing up fully online.
 
[4:20] Introducing a real Roblox grooming case involving an eight-year-old girl.
 
[5:24] How predators use in-game chat and "helping" to gain trust.
 
[6:18] The move from public game chat to private apps like WhatsApp.
 
[6:44] Grooming tactics that feel like friendship to kids.
 
[7:09] How exploitation and sextortion begin once trust is built.
 
[8:07] Why platform bans don't stop predators from returning.
 
[9:06] Key lessons parents must understand about Roblox and open chat systems.
 
[10:06] Larry shares a personal experience with a suspicious "wrong number" text.
 
[11:54] Why text messages and private apps are also major risk areas.
 
[12:25] Introducing the Amanda Todd case from British Columbia.
 
[12:52] How sextortion followed Amanda across schools and years.
 
[13:58] Why Amanda wasn't bullied—she was hunted.
 
[14:27] The mental health toll of long-term digital harassment.
 
[15:18] Amanda's nine-minute YouTube video explaining her story.
 
[15:49] Arrest, conviction, and sentencing of her predator years later.
 
[16:41] Why one image can give predators long-term control.
 
[17:39] How predators weaponize anonymity, time, and technology.
 
[18:38] Why Bark has helped Larry catch issues proactively for seven years.
 
[19:26] How parents can honor victims by protecting their own kids.
 
[20:11] Final call to action to monitor devices and stay engaged.
 
 
 
 
 Five Key Takeaways Online grooming happens slowly and quietly 1. , often disguised as friendship and "help" inside games like Roblox.
 Predators almost always move kids from public chats to private apps, where there is no moderation or logging. One image is all a predator needs 2. to control, extort, and emotionally destroy a child over time.
 Platform bans do not protect kids 3. , because predators can create new accounts in minutes.
 Parental awareness and monitoring can change outcomes 4. , and proactive conversations can prevent lifelong trauma.
 
 
 
 
 Links & Resources Bark Monitoring for Families: • 
https://thedadedge.com/bark Episode Show Notes & Resources: • 
https://thedadedge.com/1415 • Mentioned Link: 
 https://www.amandatoddlegacy.org/aydin-coban.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com 
 
 Closing Remark 
These stories are hard—but they matter. The best way we can honor kids who've been hurt or lost is by protecting our own. Please rate, review, follow, and share this episode, and most importantly, stay involved in your kids' digital lives. From my heart to yours—let's do better.

The Dark Reality of Roblox & Online Chat for Kids

What if the most dangerous addiction in the world isn't drugs, alcohol, or gambling—but revenge? In this eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Dr. James Kimmel Jr., Yale School of Medicine researcher, attorney, and author of The Science of Revenge, to unpack what actually happens in our brains when we feel wronged, humiliated, or disrespected.
 
 
 
Dr. Kimmel breaks down the neuroscience behind revenge, why it lights up the brain the same way cocaine does, and how seeking retaliation gives us a temporary dopamine hit that ultimately leaves us worse off. We talk about anger, forgiveness, sibling rivalry, marriage conflict, parenting mistakes, and why forgiveness isn't weakness—it's one of the most powerful tools we have to reclaim peace, leadership, and self-control as men and fathers.
 
 
 
 
 Timeline Summary 
 
 
[0:00] Why revenge may be the most dangerous addiction in the world.
 
[2:10] Introducing Dr. James Kimmel Jr. and his research on revenge and forgiveness.
 
[3:02] How revenge activates the same brain circuitry as drugs like cocaine.
 
[4:38] Dr. Kimmel's background as both a lawyer and Yale researcher.
 
[6:33] Marriage, faith, and building a family with shared purpose over 37 years.
 
[9:12] Advice on long-term marriage and selecting the right partner early.
 
[13:23] Why revenge seeking escalates conflict in families and relationships.
 
[16:17] Defining revenge as an addictive, pleasure-seeking process.
 
[17:17] How grievances activate the brain's pain and reward systems.
 
[21:25] Why emotional pain registers as physical pain in the brain.
 
[23:13] Dopamine, craving, and why revenge never actually satisfies.
 
[25:32] How the prefrontal cortex gets hijacked during revenge seeking.
 
[28:06] Revenge cycles in marriage and intimate relationships.
 
[31:20] Losing control: when logic shuts down during retaliation.
 
[33:27] Larry shares a real-life road rage trigger moment.
 
[37:39] How quickly fight-or-flight turns into revenge seeking.
 
[39:52] Why only about 20% of people become "revenge addicted."
 
[42:16] Differences between men and women when seeking revenge.
 
[43:28] Why revenge plots dominate movies like John Wick and The Lion King.
 
[47:07] Sibling rivalry and how revenge shows up between brothers.
 
[54:23] Parenting discipline vs. revenge-driven punishment.
 
[58:25] Why forgiveness is essential for breaking the revenge cycle.
 
 
 
 
 Five Key Takeaways Revenge activates the same brain circuits as drugs and gambling, making it addictive and compulsive for some people. Emotional wounds register as real physical pain 1. in the brain, triggering a desire to self-medicate through retaliation.
 Revenge provides temporary relief but increases anger, anxiety, and depression 2. 
after the dopamine fades. Parents can unintentionally cross the line from discipline into revenge, especially when ego and shame are triggered. Forgiveness is not weakness—it's neuroscience. 3. It's one of the most powerful ways to reclaim control, peace, and leadership.
 Links & Resources • 

The Science of Revenge: https://bit.ly/4q1khVd
 • 
 • 

Bark Monitoring for Families: https://thedadedge.com/bark
 • 
 Podcast Shownotes: http://thedadedge.com/1414 
 
 
 
 Closing Remark 
 
 
If this episode challenged the way you think about anger, conflict, and forgiveness, please take a moment to rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us reach more men who want to lead with intention instead of reaction.

How Anger Becomes an Addiction & What It Does to Families featuring Dr. James Kimmel Jr.

If you're a parent with a kid in youth sports—rec, competitive, or full-blown travel—today's episode will hit home. I sit down with Jonathan Carone, creator of Healthy Sports Parents, for a powerful conversation about what youth sports have become, why burnout is skyrocketing, and how well-meaning parents (including me in the early years) unknowingly make the experience more stressful for their kids.
 
 
 
We break down shocking stats—like why 70% of kids quit sports by age 13, why travel leagues are burning families out, and how overtraining is causing injuries in 9-, 10-, and 11-year-olds. Jonathan brings immense wisdom about the car ride home, sideline behavior, when to step in with coaches, and how to raise confident, resilient athletes without crushing the joy of the game.
 
 
 
 
 Timeline Summary: 
 
 
[0:00] The surprising reason most kids quit sports by age 13.
 
[2:14] Larry shares his own evolution from "obnoxious sideline dad" to quiet encourager.
 
[3:41] Introducing guest Jonathan Carone of Healthy Sports Parents.
 
[4:10] Why travel sports are wrecking family time and burning kids out.
 
[4:40] The truth about scholarships and NIL fantasies.
 
[5:00] How the car ride home can make or break a kid's love for the game.
 
[6:04] The pressure kids feel once sports stop being fun.
 
[7:04] Why rec leagues are disappearing—and why that matters.
 
[8:29] How travel sports exploded over the last 25 years.
 
[10:25] A realistic look at what travel sports demand from families.
 
[12:09] Early onset injuries from overscheduling and year-round seasons.
 
[14:21] Real-life stories of parents whose kids never get a break.
 
[16:06] Why travel sports can destroy family dinners and family culture.
 
[17:05] The fear-based mindset driving parents to overcommit.
 
[19:47] The burnout cycle and why most kids stop enjoying the sport.
 
[20:05] The psychology behind parents who push too hard.
 
[21:13] Self-love vs. self-glory and how they influence parenting.
 
[22:29] The myth of scholarships and how rare they really are.
 
[23:24] How unhealthy pressure destroys a child's love for physical activity.
 
[24:13] Why running became punishment for our generation.
 
[26:33] Protecting kids' mental health in the digital age with Bark.
 
[31:43] What parents should be doing on the sidelines.
 
[34:36] The car ride home: three things you should ALWAYS say.
 
[35:42] When and how to give feedback the right way.
 
[38:44] Using a 5-to-1 positivity ratio to help kids grow.
 
[41:22] Being an "obnoxious encourager."
 
[43:33] The power of tone and why it changes everything.
 
[45:04] When coaches only play to win—and your kid never gets in.
 
[47:04] Teaching kids to advocate for themselves, age by age.
 
[49:20] How ADHD affects emotional regulation in sports.
 
[53:14] The long-tail impact of how we parent through sports.
 
[54:18] Generational change starts with how we show up today.
 
 
 
 
 Five Key Takeaways Kids quit because the game stops being fun 1. —not because of screens, school, or injuries. Pressure from adults is the biggest culprit.
 Travel sports demand 6–15 hours per week 2. before adding training or lessons, often at the cost of family dinners and downtime.
 Overuse injuries are exploding 3. in kids as young as 9 due to year-round seasons and lack of rest.
 Parents often push due to fear, self-validation, or scholarship fantasies 4. , even though less than 5% of athletes ever receive any scholarship money.
 The car ride home should NEVER be coaching time. 5. The only things kids need to hear are: "I loved watching you play," "Where do you want to eat?" and "What do you want to listen to?"
 
 
 
 
 Links & Resources • 

Bark Monitoring for Families: https://thedadedge.com/bark
 • 
 • 

Healthy Sports Parents (Jonathan Carone): https://healthysportsparents.com
 • 
 • 

Healthy Sports Parents on Social: https://www.instagram.com/healthysportsparents/
 • 
 • 

Episode Show Notes: https://thedadedge.com/1413
 • 
 
 
 
 
 Closing Remark 
If this episode gave you a new perspective on supporting your youth athlete, take a moment to rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us reach more dads who want to lead with intention—on the sidelines and at home.

Why 70% of Kids Quit Sports by 13 & How Parents Can Stop Killing the Joy of the Game featuring Jonathan Carone

In this solo December episode, I continue a month-long series dedicated to educating parents about the real dangers our kids face online. After last week's story about Adam Tate, today I share two more real cases—one involving sextortion and another involving swatting—that every parent needs to understand. These aren't rare events. They're happening quickly, quietly, and often right under our noses while our kids sit in their bedrooms playing games like Roblox, Fortnite, and more.
 
 
 
You'll hear the heartbreaking story of 17-year-old Ryan Lass from San Jose, who took his own life within hours of being extorted by an overseas criminal network. Then we break down the tragic case of Andrew Finch, a 28-year-old father of two who was killed after a swatting prank triggered a full SWAT response to the wrong house. Both stories highlight how dangerous the digital world has become—and why we must be proactive, aware, and deeply involved in protecting our kids' online lives.
 
 
 
 
 Timeline Summary: 
[0:00] Introduction
 
[1:02] Why December episodes are focused on online safety and protecting kids.
 
[1:50] Recap of last week's episode about Adam Tate and the Sean Ryan interview.
 
[2:32] Why sinister online activity is escalating and why parents must stay informed.
 
[3:02] Introducing two new stories: a sextortion case and a swatting case.
 
[3:48] Explanation of "swatting" and why even young kids are now doing it.
 
[4:48] Beginning Ryan Lass's story — a high school senior extorted online.
 
[5:38] How a predator posed as a woman and launched a rapid blackmail attack.
 
[6:07] FBI findings and identification of the international criminal ring.
 
[7:41] Why Ryan's case matters: he was targeted, not reckless.
 
[8:37] How modern predators manipulate teens using panic and pressure.
 
[9:02] Parents' blind spots about who kids are connected to online.
 
[10:17] Reminder that kids are connected to global predators—not just friends.
 
[11:03] Introduction to Andrew Finch's swatting case.
 
[12:06] The false 911 call describing a violent hostage situation.
 
[12:57] How Andrew Finch was shot despite having no involvement.
 
[14:01] Why swatting is deadly—and how it grew out of gaming communities.
 
[15:39] The seriousness of online conflict and its real-world consequences.
 
[16:33] How swatting and predator activity now infiltrate gaming platforms.
 
[16:54] Why Bark is one of the most effective tools for monitoring kids' devices.
 
[17:19] The need for proactive online supervision—like helmets for digital life.
 
[18:18] A recent incident with my own son that Bark helped me catch early.
 
[19:09] The urgency of protecting our kids from online predators.
 
[19:32] Directing listeners to the show notes and resources at thedadedge.com/1412.
 
[20:10] Additional resources including PenTester, YouTube links, and conversation guides.
 
[20:27] Free "Conversations for the Car" PDF for kids ages 5–18.
 
[20:45] Encouragement for parents: we fight this fight together.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Five Key Takeaways Predators are organized, trained, and global. 1. Kids on gaming systems are interacting with far more than just "friends."
 Sextortion happens extremely fast. 2. In Ryan's case, the window from first contact to death was only hours.
 Swatting is no longer just a gaming prank—it's deadly. 3. The Andrew Finch tragedy shows how quickly it can turn fatal.
 Parents must stay vigilant, informed, and engaged. 4. Safety now requires ongoing conversations and digital monitoring.
 Tools like Bark can save lives. 5. Monitoring texts, DMs, and online chats can catch danger long before it escalates.
 
 
 
 
 Links & Resources Mentioned 
 
 
 Bark Monitoring for Families: • 
https://thedadedge.com/bark Ryan Montgomery Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2GPd36fFPuLsBSlZp6WUvc?si=BPYACSoWRRin9MatFHMGbg Facebook Story Referenced in Episode: https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=32876961955250751&id=100000911118224&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=nnmVU8LFIdec2oLO# PenTester (Ryan Montgomery's Cybersecurity Site): • 
https://pentester.com/ Ryan Montgomery's YouTube Channel (@0dayCTF): • 
https://www.youtube.com/@0dayCTF NBC Bay Area News — Sextortion Case of San Jose Teen: https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/4-arrested-sextortion-san-jose-teen-suicide/3865298/?utm_source=chatgpt.com ABC News — Swatting Incident Leading to Andrew Finch's Death: https://abcnews.go.com/US/la-man-arrested-swatting-incident-led-police-killing/story?id=52057251&utm_source=chatgpt.com • Podcast Episode Shownotes: 
http://thedadedge.com/1412 
 
 Closing Remark 
If this episode helped open your eyes to the realities our kids face online, please take a moment to rate, review, follow, and share the show. Together, we can protect our kids and make the digital world a safer place for every family.

Digital Predators Are Targeting Our Kids, Here's How We Can Protect Them

In this powerful and deeply emotional episode, I sit down with my good friend Sean Cochran, CEO of Men for Life, to have one of the rawest conversations we've ever shared on this podcast. Sean opens up about losing his first child to abortion at 19 and the seven-year spiral that followed—addiction, gambling, overdoses, isolation, and hitting rock bottom on the floor of a dirty hotel room. His story is one of unimaginable darkness, but also unbelievable redemption.
 
 
 
We explore how culture has silenced men in the abortion conversation, the devastating emotional impact so many men carry in secret, and Sean's journey from shame to recovery, fatherhood, and ultimately becoming a national voice for men who feel unseen in this space. We also dive into the mission behind Men for Life, the data behind father involvement, and how redefining authentic masculinity can change families and communities for generations.
 
 
 
 
 Timeline Summary 
 
 
[0:00] Sean begins sharing why abortion is not just a "women's issue."
 
[2:03] The staggering data on how many men are affected by abortion every year.
 
[3:56] Sean's personal story begins—19 years old, his girlfriend is pregnant.
 
[5:06] Learning the abortion would happen despite his desire to keep the baby.
 
[6:34] The counselor who told him "this doesn't affect you"—and how that shaped years of silence.
 
[8:05] Addiction escalates: cocaine, ecstasy, gambling, and stealing.
 
[9:25] Hitting rock bottom in a hotel room and believing he would die.
 
[10:59] A moment of surrender and prayer that changed everything.
 
[12:50] Entering treatment, beginning healing, and naming his son "Michael."
 
[15:38] Rebuilding: finishing college, law school, starting a family.
 
[17:04] Adopting three children—and the powerful contrast between two mothers' choices.
 
[18:28] Realizing he was failing as a lawyer, husband, and father—and shutting down his law practice.
 
[21:00] Discovering men everywhere carry hidden abortion wounds after speaking publicly for the first time.
 
[23:03] How Sean was led—against his own plans—to become CEO of Men for Life.
 
[26:05] The mission: creating a fatherhood program that transforms young men and saves lives.
 
[28:00] Why authentic masculinity is rooted in service, courage, sacrifice, and Christ-like leadership.
 
[30:00] How men can get involved and support Men for Life.
 
 
 
 
 Five Key Takeaways Men are deeply impacted by abortion 1. , yet culture has told them their voice doesn't matter.
 One in five men 2. will lose a child to abortion by age 45—and most carry that pain alone.
 Sean's seven-year spiral 3. was fueled by unprocessed grief, shame, and the belief that he "didn't matter."
 Father involvement changes outcomes: 4. when men see an ultrasound and go through a fatherhood program, 
97% choose life 5. .
 Authentic masculinity 6. isn't domination—it's service, courage, sacrifice, and living for something bigger than yourself.
 
 
 
 
 Links & Resources Mentioned • Men for Life Website: 
https://menforlife.org • Contact Sean Directly: 
Email: • 
sean@menforlife.org • or 
https://menforlife.org/contact-us • Sean's Instagram: 
https://instagram.com/lseancorcoran • Dad Edge Mastermind: 
https://thedadedge.com/mastermind • Episode Show Notes Page: 
https://thedadedge.com/1411 
 
 Closing Remark 
If today's episode moved you, inspired you, or helped you feel less alone, please take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast. Your support helps us reach more men who need these conversations.

The Reasons Unprocessed Pain Destroys Men featuring Sean Cochran

In today's conversation, I sit down with Ian Cron — a psychotherapist, priest, bestselling author of The Road Back to You, and one of the world's leading experts on the Enneagram. This episode hit me far harder than I expected. Ian doesn't just explain the Enneagram… he helps us understand how our personality type shapes our marriage, our parenting, our leadership, and even the stories we tell ourselves.
 
 
 
But things get incredibly real when Ian puts me through a live guided inner-work exercise. Within minutes, he led me straight into one of the deepest beliefs I carry about success, provision, and worth — taking me face-to-face with the 12-year-old version of myself who still drives far more than I realized. It was raw, vulnerable, uncomfortable… and one of the most powerful moments I've had behind this microphone. If you've ever wondered why you do what you do, why you push so hard, or why your strengths sometimes undermine you, this conversation will stop you in your tracks.
 
 
 
 
 Timeline Summary: 
[0:00] – Introducing the episode and why today's conversation hit harder than expected.
 
[1:27] – Ian Cron's background as a psychotherapist, priest, and Enneagram expert.
 
[2:12] – Ian explains the nine personality types in plain language.
 
[2:42] – Why I chose to get vulnerable and let Ian guide me through inner work.
 
[3:25] – A moment of intense authenticity as I sit face-to-face with my younger self.
 
[11:51] – Nature vs. nurture — where personality comes from.
 
[13:34] – Why self-awareness is essential for good living, marriage, and parenting.
 
[15:31] – Applying Enneagram wisdom to understanding kids and their inner worlds.
 
[17:22] – How knowing my wife's type changed our marriage.
 
[18:27] – "What's best about you is also what's worst about you."
 
[19:59] – Ian analyzes my type (3w2) and explains why he knew so much about me instantly.
 
[21:42] – How threes may unintentionally run over people while chasing goals.
 
[22:50] – Parenting kids who aren't wired like you — and avoiding making them copies.
 
[24:12] – Why every type has strengths, weaknesses, and a path toward health.
 
[26:32] – Understanding your kids' Enneagram types and customizing your parenting.
 
[27:48] – When kids should take the Enneagram test.
 
[29:03] – My own reflections on turning 50 and becoming more self-aware.
 
[30:19] – How to begin inner work and understand your type's shadow side.
 
[31:21] – The shift from first-half-of-life achievement to second-half-of-life meaning.
 
[32:36] – Do Enneagram types change over time?
 
[33:58] – Ian shares the hard truths about being a Type 4 and the work it required.
 
[35:51] – What makes the Enneagram "painfully accurate" — and why it stings at first.
 
[43:03] – Why dating app "compatibility" algorithms may be misleading.
 
[46:16] – The danger of being married to someone exactly like you.
 
[47:15] – Why I talk to the "achiever" part of myself and how Ian explains this phenomenon.
 
[49:21] – Understanding internal "parts" and learning to lead them well.
 
[52:06] – The moment my 12-year-old self emerges during the guided exercise.
 
[1:02:14] – Why self-knowledge is the beginning of wisdom.
 
[1:03:27] – Ian's resources: assessments, coaching, books, and his Typology podcast.
 
[1:04:45] – Final reflections and directing listeners to the show notes.
 
 
 
 
 Five Key Takeaways 
 
 
 The Enneagram reveals core motivations, not just behaviors. 1. Understanding your type gives you a mirror into why you act, think, and feel the way you do.
 Self-awareness is foundational to healthy marriage and parenting. 2. When you understand your patterns, blind spots, and triggers, you show up more intentionally for the people you love.
 Your strengths also contain your shadow. 3. "What's best about you is also what's worst about you" — and growth requires facing both sides honestly.
 Inner-work exposes old parts still running your life. 4. The guided exercise revealed a wounded 12-year-old part of me still driving my need to achieve and provide.
 Your type doesn't change, but you evolve within it. 5. True maturity comes from learning to lead your personality, not letting it lead you.
 
 
 
 
 Links & Resources: Ian's website & resources: • 
https://www.ianmorgancron.com Ian's book: The Road Back to You: https://www.amazon.com/Road-Back-You-Enneagram-Self-Discovery/dp/0830846190 Bark x The Dad Edge: http://thedadedge.com/bark Show notes: • 
https://thedadedge.com/1410 
 
 
 
 Closing Remark 
 
 
If this episode gave you a moment of clarity, helped you understand yourself better, or challenged you to grow, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. From my heart to yours, thank you for listening — now go out and live legendary.

How the Enneagram Can Heal Your Marriage, Parenting, and Identity featuring Ian Cron

In this first solo show for December, the host, Larry Hagner, comes to the audience with anger and urgency to discuss a massive, sinister online threat targeting children through seemingly innocent games like Roblox and Minecraft. Drawing heavily from a recent Sean Ryan Show interview with ethical hacker Ryan Montgomery (Episode 255), the host alerts parents to the dark fringes of the internet and a dangerous group, 764, described as a dark web cult with an "indifference" belief that lives and families mean nothing.
 
 
 
The episode features the heartbreaking, public post from Adam and Amanda Tate whose 15-year-old son, Bryce Tate, tragically took his own life after being a victim of sextortion. The host details how these criminals build trust, escalate quickly (the Tate tragedy occurred in just three hours), and use threats of public exposure to manipulate vulnerable children. Beyond sextortion, the episode warns about extreme acts of self-harm, pet-killing, and even violence against family members being coerced for things as trivial as Roblox Robux.
 
 
 
The host emphasizes that parental awareness is the only defense. He strongly recommends using a parental monitoring software like Bark (about $15/month) to monitor online chats, text messages, and social media, allowing parents to get immediate alerts and intervene before tragedy strikes. This is a passionate call to action for fathers to educate themselves, have ongoing, fruitful conversations, and protect their children's lives.
 
 
 
TIMELINE SUMMARY
 
 
 
[0:00] Introduction
 
[1:47] Episode disclaimer for parents
 
[2:22] Alerting parents to the "massive threat" in games like Roblox and Minecraft
 
[3:35] How innocent games can be tampered with and made evil
 
[3:59] Introducing the Sean Ryan Show and the interview with Ryan Montgomery
 
[4:37] Episode 255 of The Sean Ryan Show: "Roblox and Minecraft. Hacker exposes the largest online video games."
 
[5:22] Warning: Roblox is not safe; introduction to the online group 764
 
[6:07] The 764 group's belief in indifference and not caring about the welfare of children
 
[6:51] Sharing the story of Bryce Tate (15) and his parents, Adam and Amanda Tate
 
[8:57] The discovery: Bryce was a victim of sextortion—a serious and growing threat 
 
[9:49] The extortion phase: demanding $500 and threatening to share photos. 
 
[10:22] Bryce, believing his world was destroyed, was manipulated into taking his own life
 
[11:11] The rapid timeline: the first message to the final tragic act occurred in just three hours
 
[12:02] Episode recommendation: Sean Ryan/Ryan Montgomery interview 
 
[13:13] Discussing extreme acts: forcing a 14-year-old girl to hang herself naked on video
 
[14:08] Forcing kids to tattoo usernames, burn themselves, and kill their pets or parents/siblings on video
 
[15:10] The shocking detail: kids are being coerced for Roblox Robux, not even real money 
 
[16:49] Bark: Parental Monitoring Software
 
[19:11] Call to parents: Make an effort to have ongoing conversations with your kids
 
[19:35] The modern threat: the bully can be in your kid's bedroom, 25 feet away, and you have "no idea"
 
[20:25] Conclusion: The only protection our kids have is us; a passionate final call to action.
 
 
 
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
 
 
 
 1. The Threat is Real and Sinister Online platforms like Roblox and Minecraft are being exploited by a large, sadistic group (764) on the dark web that preys on vulnerable children, escalating from sextortion to coercing extreme acts of self-harm and violence for Robux or recognition.
 2. Speed is Critical—Intervention Must Be Immediate. The sextortion process is incredibly fast. A child can be manipulated into a catastrophic decision in as little as three to six hours, as seen in the Bryce Tate tragedy, highlighting the crucial need for immediate digital awareness and monitoring.
 3. The Stakes Are Life and Death. These criminals are professionals who exploit children's innocence and sense of shame, often leading victims to take their own lives. The host argues this is a heinous crime, describing the acts as being "murdered... through his phone".
 4. Awareness is the Only Defense. Parents cannot protect their children unless they know what is happening. The host urges parents to research the topic (especially the Sean Ryan Show interview with Ryan Montgomery) to understand the depth of the technological and psychological infiltration.
 5. Protect Your Kids with Technology and Ongoing Conversation. While open, ongoing conversations are vital, parental monitoring tools like Bark are essential for a safety net. Bark monitors 30+ apps and texts, sending immediate alerts to parents, allowing intervention within minutes to stop a fast-moving threat.
 
 
 
LINKS
 
 • Podcast Shownotes: 
https://thedadedge.com/1409
 • 

 • Bark: Parental Monitoring Software: 
https://thedadedge.com/bark
 • 

 • #255 Ryan Montgomery - Roblox & Minecraft: Hacker Exposes the Largest Online Video Games: 
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2GPd36fFPuLsBSlZp6WUvc?si=7BfOCdNOTzuoW4LkvHzyAA
 • 

 • #JusticeforBryce - Adam Tate's Official Announcement: 
https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=32876961955250751&id=100000911118224&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=nnmVU8LFIdec2oLO#
 • 

 • Pentester: 
https://pentester.com
 • 

 • Ryan Montgomery: 
https://www.youtube.com/@0dayCTF

What Every Father Must Know NOW About The Dark Web Targeting Our Kids

In today's conversation, I'm sitting down with Tyler Moore—better known as Tidy Dad—and this one genuinely surprised me in the best way. We went way beyond "clean your room" tactics and dove into how clutter quietly taxes our patience, steals our mornings, and robs us of presence with the people we love. Tyler breaks down simple, doable systems that turn chaos into calm—especially for us dads navigating careers, marriage, and raising kids.
 
 
 
We talk about the launch-pad front door setup that ends morning scrambles, the capsule wardrobe that eliminates decision fatigue, how to get your kids on board without battles or tears, and how to choose the right starting point so you build momentum instead of overwhelm. If you want more laughter, connection, and leadership at home—and fewer frantic searches for keys—this episode will hit you right where you need it.
 
 
 
 
 Timeline Summary 
 
 
[0:00] – Introduction
 
[1:01] – Why "less mess = more presence" and how clutter taxes patience, marriage, and mornings.
 
[3:10] – Tyler on why tidying starts with accepting that life will get messy—and how systems prevent spirals.
 
[4:47] – The hidden cost of small daily stressors (like losing your keys) and why routines create mental clarity.
 
[7:21] – The extremes of "perfectly tidy" vs. "messy house, happy family"… and where most dads actually fall.
 
[17:05] – The front-door "launch pad": a simple system that ends the morning chaos for good.
 
[18:24] – Tyler's game-changing capsule wardrobe that eliminates decision fatigue (and why kids notice).
 
[26:30] – Why most big organizing projects fail—and how to start small by identifying the real pain point.
 
[33:24] – How to get kids involved without tears by starting with low-stakes categories and giving them ownership.
 
[47:09] – Lessons learned from the "bedroom switch meltdown" and communicating as a couple before changing systems.
 
[51:52] – Why intentional living beats comparison, and how to define "just enough" for your family.
 
 
 
 
 Five Key Takeaways 
 
 
 Clutter steals more than space — it steals presence. 1. Small daily frustrations compound into bigger emotional and relational consequences.
 Systems beat motivation. 2. Creating "launch pads," routines, and predictable spots for essentials protects your mornings and your mindset.
 Start tiny, not huge. 3. The big whole-house overhauls usually fail; momentum comes from solving one specific pain point at a time.
 Kids thrive when they're part of the process. 4. Beginning with low-stakes categories (like socks or pajamas) builds confidence, ownership, and calm.
 Define "just enough" for your family. 5. You don't need the fanciest home or the most stuff—intentional choices create more freedom, clarity, and connection.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Links & Resources Tyler Moore (Tidy Dad) on Instagram: • 
https://www.instagram.com/tidydad Tidy Times Newsletter (Substack): • 
https://tidydad.substack.com Tidy Tidbits Podcast: • Search 
Tidy Tidbits • wherever you listen to podcasts
 Dad Edge Show Notes: • https://thedadedge.com/1408
 Dad Edge Business Boardroom: • https://thedadedge.com/mastermind
 
 
 
 
 Closing Remark 
 
 
If this conversation gave you practical ways to reclaim presence, connection, and calm inside your home, do me a favor—rate, follow, and leave a quick review. And share this one with another dad who could use a boost in simplifying his life and leading more intentionally. You guys are the best.

How Clutter Steals More Than Space In Your Home (It Steals Presence) featuring Tyler Moore

In this special Black Friday episode, I dive into a much-needed conversation about emotional reset. As the holiday season ramps up, many of us are carrying stress, tension, and unprocessed emotions that make us more reactive and less connected. In this short but impactful solo episode, I walk you through how to reset three vital areas of your life—your mind, your marriage, and your relationship with your kids—before the craziness of December takes over.
 
 
 
If you've felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or simply exhausted lately, this episode offers practical and heartfelt guidance to bring intention, clarity, and presence back into your home.
 
 
 
 
 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 
 
 
[0:00] – Introduction
 
[1:02] – Why this time of year can feel especially heavy and chaotic
 
[2:22] – The three things to reset before the holidays: mind, marriage, and kids
 
[3:04] – A tactical Black Friday shout-out and 50% off gear at thedadedge.com/shop
 
[3:58] – Resetting your mind: the power of a quiet, tech-free 30-minute walk
 
[5:03] – How constant busyness keeps us distracted and emotionally exhausted
 
[6:38] – Resetting your marriage with one simple and honest check-in conversation
 
[7:23] – Real-life example of how Larry leads open dialogue with his wife
 
[9:12] – Resetting your connection with your kids through gratitude and shared plans
 
[10:10] – What Larry's son said he wanted to do together before Christmas
 
[10:29] – Why you shouldn't wait until January 1st to reconnect with your family
 
 
 
 
 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 
 
 
 Resetting Begins with Stillness: 1. Unprocessed stress makes us reactive and distant. A quiet 30-minute walk without media can bring clarity, calm, and presence back to your day.
 Marital Tension Needs Check-Ins, Not Grand Gestures: 2. One intentional conversation with your spouse—asking how they're doing and what needs to be talked about—can diffuse tension and bring closeness back.
 Children Want Time, Not Things: 3. Asking your kids what they loved about the year and what they want to do together before Christmas creates meaningful connection during a busy season.
 Don't Wait for the New Year to Start Over: 4. You can recalibrate your emotional tone now. Waiting for January 1st delays the connection your family needs today.
 Great Dads Lead with Emotional Tone: 5. Your mindset, your calm, and your intention set the atmosphere for your entire home. Lead it with purpose—especially during the holidays.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 LINKS & RESOURCES 
 
 
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Black Friday Sale (limited time): https://thedadedge.com/shop – Use code FRIDAY for 50% off all gear
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Download the "25 Questions" PDF for better connection with your kids: https://thedadedge.com/25questions
 • 
 Episode Show notes: https://thedadedge.com/1407 
 
 
 
 
If this episode resonated with you, take 30 minutes today for yourself—and 10 minutes with your family. Then rate and review the podcast, and share it with a fellow dad who could use a reset.
 
 
 
Live legendary.

The 10 Minute Reset to Strengthen Marriage and Parenting

In this special solo episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I take a moment to reflect on the power of gratitude, especially as we approach Thanksgiving. What started out as a funny story about a failed attempt to record with my nine-year-old quickly turned into a heartfelt message for the men who make this podcast possible. I open up about the lessons I've learned over the past 10 years of podcasting, leading the Dad Edge movement, and the importance of appreciating life's simplest blessings—even when the world feels chaotic.
 
 
 
Whether you're navigating challenging family dynamics over the holidays or simply want to deepen your connection with those you love, this episode is packed with encouragement and reminders about what truly matters.
 
 
 
 
 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 
 
 
[0:00] – Introduction
 
[1:22] – Why this solo episode almost didn't happen
 
[2:38] – Reflections on Thanksgiving and what it represents
 
[3:55] – How simple gratitude (like working fingers and toes) shifts perspective
 
[4:56] – The Hagner family Thanksgiving tradition of spoken gratitude
 
[5:35] – The importance of setting healthy boundaries around alcohol
 
[6:17] – A hilarious and humbling personal story from a past holiday
 
[7:37] – Deep gratitude to the Dad Edge community and listeners
 
[9:51] – Shout-out to men in the Alliance, Boardroom, and 1-on-1 coaching
 
[11:39] – Celebrating Wade Hendry as First Form Dad Edge Dad of the Month
 
[14:29] – How First Form's company culture mirrors our values
 
[15:20] – Where to find full show notes and resources for this episode
 
 
 
 
 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 
 
 
 Gratitude Doesn't Require Perfection: 1. Even in chaotic or stressful family situations, choosing to focus on small, simple blessings—like health or a working car—can reframe your entire experience.
 Holiday Traditions Can Be Powerful Tools: 2. Larry's family tradition of expressing specific gratitude around the Thanksgiving table serves as a model for meaningful connection, not just with family but with intention.
 Guard Your Energy and Presence: 3. The episode includes a candid and humorous warning about overindulging in alcohol during the holidays—a reminder that one night can become a story you regret for decades.
 Celebrate Your Journey, Even If It's Imperfect: 4. Larry shares how the 
Dad Edge Podcast 5. began as a passion project and evolved into a global movement—proof that you don't have to have it all figured out to make an impact.
 The Community Is What Makes This Possible: 6. From listeners to Alliance members to coaching clients, this episode is a heartfelt "thank you" to the men doing life together, growing, contributing, and showing up with courage.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 LINKS & RESOURCES 
 
 
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Full episode details: https://thedadedge.com/1406
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 • 

Download "25 Questions to Help You Connect with Your Kids": https://thedadedge.com/25questions
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Shop First Form and support the podcast: https://1stphorm.com/dadedge
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 • Podcast Shownotes: 
https://thedadedge.com/1406 
 
 
 
 
If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with another father. Let's keep building this community of intentional men who lead and love well.
 
 
 
Live legendary.

Gratitude That Grounds You During the Holidays

Mike McCarthy knows this. As the author of The Miracle Morning for parents (co-authored by Hal Elrod), Mike has developed a proven process to help you not only embrace your mornings, but get you so you improve your life and that of your family. The Miracle Morning works on the premise of being deliberate in your daily actions. As a father, Mike has created The Miracle Mornings for Parents and Families, focusing on CHARMS: Creativity, Health, Affirmation, Reading and Service.
 
Show Notes:
 
www.thedadedge.com/351

Making Miracle Mornings with Your Family with Mike McCarthy

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