Total Versus Free Testosterone: What To Measure

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.

[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

1. Hormone Imbalance Isn't Just for Older Men: Men in their 20s and 30s are now experiencing low testosterone and fertility issues due to stress, poor sleep, and environmental toxins.
2. TRT Isn't a Shortcut—It's a Tool: Testosterone Replacement Therapy can be life-changing for the right candidates, but it's not a cure-all. Lifestyle must come first.
3. Small Choices Equal Big Outcomes: Daily habits like reducing alcohol, managing stress, and improving sleep can significantly improve testosterone and overall vitality.
4. Digital Overstimulation Is Rewiring Sexual Health: Excessive porn use and screen time are contributing to erectile dysfunction and lowered libido in men of all ages.
5. Proactive Health Wins the Long Game: Don't wait until something breaks—taking action now protects your ability to lead, love, and show up strong for your family.

• 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

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Live legendary.