In a heartfelt discussion, Ethan Hagner, son of Larry Hagner, sheds light on the importance of accountability in father-son dynamics. They explore how genuine apologies can strengthen trust and respect. Ethan shares personal stories illustrating the power of embracing responsibility, both at home and in his academic life. They emphasize that admitting mistakes doesn't weaken a father's role but fortifies family bonds, all while reflecting on memorable adventures that shaped their journey together.
45:57
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
Apologizing Builds Parental Trust
Many parents fear apologizing to kids will cause loss of credibility.
Admitting mistakes actually builds trust and respect in fatherhood.
insights INSIGHT
Accountability Increases Credibility
Parents apologizing earn more credibility with their children.
Owning mistakes shows strength, not weakness.
question_answer ANECDOTE
A Dad's Honest Apology Story
Larry recounts a rough period helping Ethan with school when he lost patience.
After apologizing, Mason caught Larry calling himself a terrible dad, showing vulnerability.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
"How do I teach my kids accountability when I'm not always perfect myself?"
"Does admitting my mistakes actually make me a weaker dad?"
"What does it truly take to build unbreakable trust with my children?"
If these questions resonate, get ready for a raw and honest conversation that dives deep into one of the most vital lessons dads can teach: extreme ownership.
Larry Hagner and his son Ethan Hagner share unfiltered stories from their family's journey—moments of frustration, tough conversations, heartfelt apologies, and the profound vulnerability that comes with admitting when you're wrong. Together, they explore why modeling accountability as a father doesn’t diminish your credibility; it fundamentally builds trust and earns lasting respect.
The Counterintuitive Power of Apology: Larry recounts difficult parenting seasons, including struggles with anger and the immense pressure to be a "perfect" dad, and how genuine apologies transformed those moments.
A Son's Perspective on Accountability: Ethan offers a candid view on how his father's apologies and moments of ownership directly shaped his own character and understanding of responsibility.
Taking Responsibility in Real Life: Ethan shares valuable examples of how he's learned to embrace ownership in his own life, both at home and in the classroom, providing relatable lessons for parents and teens alike.
Beyond Perfection: Why the goal of fatherhood isn't about never making mistakes, but about how you respond when you do.
Building Unbreakable Trust: The direct link between a father's vulnerability, owning his flaws, and fostering deep, secure trust with his children.
This episode delivers authentic wisdom and reassurance, reminding every dad (and future dad) out there that perfection isn't the goal—connection and growth are.
Here's what research and observation highlight about parental accountability and child development:
Children whose parents model admitting mistakes and apologizing have 40% higher levels of empathy and a stronger sense of personal responsibility.
Parental vulnerability and honesty in moments of error significantly increase a child's trust in their parents, leading to 35% more open communication.
Adolescents with fathers who consistently practice accountability show a 25% lower likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors.
The Dad Edge Podcast