Navigating Independence: From School to College Life

In this heart-to-heart episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I sit down with my 19-year-old son, Ethan Hagner, for a raw and honest conversation about growing up, gaining independence, and building strong family bonds in the process. Together, we explore what it means to transition from teenager to young adult while still staying connected to family values, respect, and open communication.

We dive into how to respectfully disagree with parents, how to manage emotions in a healthy way, and the importance of creating space without disconnection. Ethan shares his personal experiences—from turning down college parties to navigating long-distance relationships—and how he’s developed healthy coping mechanisms like ice baths, workouts, and prayer.

This episode isn’t just for parents of teens. It’s for any father who wants to lead his family with grace, patience, and intention—and raise young men of character in a chaotic world.

TIMELINE SUMMARY

[0:00] - Welcome to the Dad Edge movement

[1:01] - Raising independent, critical-thinking kids

[2:12] - Respectful disagreements with parents and communication

[3:02] - Pumpkin spice protein ice cream (yes, seriously)

[5:03] - The scary truth about a Starbucks PSL’s sugar content

[6:42] - Why protein-first choices matter for men’s health

[9:34] - Introducing today’s topic: family ties and independence

[10:02] - Life after high school: structure vs. freedom

[11:52] - Taking initiative as a young adult

[13:35] - Visiting college friends and choosing not to party

[15:12] - Why making different choices matters to dads

[16:13] - Navigating peer pressure and honoring your values

[17:02] - “Liquor is poison in a fancy bottle” – a mindset shift

[18:01] - Recognizing alcohol for what it is: a toxin

[21:03] - Creating safe space for respectful disagreements

[23:04] - How to make kids feel seen, heard, and understood

[25:21] - All emotions are welcome, not all behaviors are

[26:26] - Ethan’s favorite stress relief tool: beating up “Bob”

[27:37] - Navigating long-distance relationships as a teen

[29:13] - Classical music, cards, and healthy distraction

[30:23] - Coping mechanisms that actually improve your life

[32:05] - Ice plunges and dopamine boosts

[34:20] - Why saunas win over cold plunges for dad

[36:26] - A reminder: every man needs a list of positive go-to’s

[37:15] - The highs and fears of new independence

[39:17] - What scares Ethan most about his future path

[40:02] - Why dad feels the clock ticking at age 50

[42:25] - Book launch: The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood

[43:17] - Two free bonus courses for a limited time

[44:15] - Why this father-son podcast is one-of-a-kind

[46:00] - Temptation and faith: how Ethan calls on God

[48:01] - God always provides a way out of temptation

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Independence Comes With Responsibility

Growing up means more than freedom—it means taking ownership of your time, habits, and health.

2. All Emotions Are Welcome—Not All Behaviors Are

Feeling anger, sadness, or frustration is normal. Acting with intention is what matters.

3. Respectful Disagreements Build Connection

When parents create space for respectful pushback, kids learn how to think critically while staying connected.

4. Healthy Coping Mechanisms Are Essential

From ice baths and workouts to music and prayer, having go-to tools keeps stress from taking control.

5. Faith and Intention Defeat Temptation

Whether it’s porn, partying, or self-doubt, Ethan reminds us that calling on God in moments of weakness gives us strength to choose better.

LINKS & RESOURCES

Order the new book: The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood:

https://thedadedge.com/legendarybook

 Free Courses for a Limited Time:

• Creating More Patience

• Creating an Extraordinary Marriage

Episode page: https://thedadedge.com/1376

First Phorm Pumpkin Spice Protein:

Only available for a limited time — https://1stphorm.com/collections/pumpkin-spice

James Swanwick’s Alcohol-Free Program: https://www.jamesswanwick.com