Healing From Trauma and Leading Your Family Through Grace and Grit ft. Os Aponte
The Dad Edge Podcast
Mind-Body Strength: Technique, Nervous System, Seasons
Oz explains his assessment-first, technique-over-load philosophy, the 'threat bucket' model for nervous system health, and why respecting training seasons matters for long-term vitality.
In this episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, Larry Hagner is joined by Oscar “Oz” Aponte—a U.S. Army veteran, StrongFirst kettlebell instructor, and founder of Iron Core—to explore what real strength means as a man, a father, and a leader.
Oz brings a powerful blend of physical mastery and spiritual depth, helping men move from brute force to intentional presence. Together, they unpack how posture, breath, nervous system regulation, and movement patterns shape your long-term vitality—not just in the gym, but at the dinner table, in your marriage, and in your legacy.
More than a conversation about fitness, this is a deep dive into fatherhood, grief, and building your life with intention. Whether you’re a kettlebell junkie or just a dad looking to show up better, this episode will challenge you to redefine strength on every level.
TIMELINE SUMMARY
[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge mission: changing generations
[1:00] - Os’ dad: love, legacy, and shaping a son through presence
[4:05] - The final moments Os had with his father before he passed
[6:42] - The cycle-breaking power of a father who never had one
[9:58] - Combining Eastern mindfulness with Western strength
[12:21] - Training for longevity vs. ego
[14:45] - Redefining masculinity as balance, not burnout
[19:23] - Nervous system health: “the threat bucket” metaphor
[25:36] - The seasons of fitness (and why to respect them)
[28:15] - How posture and gait silently break men down
[30:37] - Tissues adapt to dysfunction—unless you intervene
[33:33] - Why kettlebells work: simple tools, elite results
[38:55] - Busy dads: how to train with limited time and space
[40:37] - Core movements every man should master
[44:13] - The “Simple & Sinister” training approach
[47:13] - Kettlebell workshops, coaching, and learning more
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
1. Strength Is Presence
Being strong isn’t just about lifting weight—it’s about how grounded, aware, and calm you are with your family.
2. Your Nervous System Is Running the Show
Stress, posture, sleep, and breath all impact your strength more than ego lifting ever could. Master your internal world first.
3. Movement Is Medicine
Poor gait and posture don’t just cause pain—they drain your energy and shorten your lifespan. Train smart, not just hard.
4. Simplicity Wins
You don’t need a fancy gym or complicated gear. One kettlebell and intentional reps can outperform a cluttered workout.
5. Legacy Is Built in the Small Moments
Oz’s story shows that being a strong father isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up, being present, and choosing intentionality every day.
LINKS & RESOURCES
Os Aponte’s Website & Coaching:
Book Mentioned:
Simple & Sinister by Pavel Tsatsouline
https://www.strongfirst.com/shop/ebooks/simple-sinister-ebook
StrongFirst Kettlebell Certifications + Programs:
Live Workshops in San Diego:
Check Oz’s site for current event listings
Dad Edge Podcast Hub:
https://thedadedge.com/podcast
Book Preorder: The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood
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