Larry Hagner, an experienced fatherhood coach, shares insights on the spirit of fatherhood, planning for fatherhood, using the 'Family Score' to assess fathering performance, building strong bonds with kids, having tough conversations, and supporting friends in difficult times.
Understanding the spirit of fatherhood is essential for guiding children effectively.
Assessing fatherhood performance through tools like 'Family Score' promotes better connections with kids.
Effective communication and emotional regulation are pivotal for fostering strong family bonds.
Deep dives
Fatherhood and the Journey of Parenting
Navigating fatherhood is a challenging yet rewarding journey, where dads often face uncertainties in raising their children. Larry Hagner, a fatherhood coach, emphasizes the significance of understanding the spirit of fatherhood and preparing for the responsibilities before the arrival of the first child. Through tools like the 'Family Score,' fathers can assess their performance and focus on building strong connections and effective communication with their children.
Challenges and Growth in Parenting
The podcast delves into the fears and transitions experienced by new fathers, highlighting the apprehensions around financial stability, leadership, and maintaining relationships. It stresses the importance of not just 'figuring it out' but actively learning and seeking knowledge to excel in fatherhood. Personal anecdotes like pre-birth anxieties and the evolution of relationships with children demonstrate the ongoing learning process in parenting.
Emotional Awareness and Communication in Fatherhood
Recognizing emotional regulation as a crucial aspect of parenting, the episode discusses the impact of a father's emotional state on family dynamics. Effective communication, self-awareness, and openness with children are highlighted as key elements in fostering better relationships and understanding. Strategies like conducting family surveys for feedback and addressing personal challenges contribute to fostering a cohesive, connected family environment.
Overcoming challenges through communication and support
Acknowledging mistakes and taking ownership can lead to emotional healing and grace in relationships. Connecting with a supportive group of like-minded individuals and focusing on personal well-being, including mental and physical health, can positively impact overall emotional state and ability to lead effectively.
Building unbreakable bonds through active listening and empathy
Creating strong connections with children involves active listening and asking open-ended questions rather than giving advice. Empowering children to articulate their thoughts and experiences builds trust and fosters open communication. By validating their feelings and engaging them in problem-solving, parents can forge lasting, meaningful relationships with their children.
Being a father is hard work but it’s also one of the most rewarding journeys a man can take in his life. With all the demands of life, it can feel like we, as fathers, as simply flailing around trying to figure out the best way to raise our children. With 4 of my own, just when I think I have it figured out, I’m thrown another curveball.
My guest today, Larry Hagner, has spent the last 10 years coaching men who want to become the best fathers they can and, possibly, the fathers they never had themselves. Today, we talk about the spirit of fatherhood, what to plan for before your first child, a powerful tool Larry has built called the “Family Score,” to assess your performance as a father, building unbreakable bonds with your kids, how best to have tough conversations.
SHOW HIGHLIGHTS (00:00) - Episode Intro (00:40) - Fatherhood and Male Friendships (05:48) - Fatherhood Challenges and Growth (16:15) - Family Score and Feedback Perception (21:59) - Parental Communication and Emotional Regulation (29:47) - Personal Reform and Family Reconnection (33:59) - Men's Health and Personal Accountability (44:39) - Supporting Friends in Times of Struggle (51:45) - Empowering Through Curious Questions (55:33) - Bullying Advice and Fatherhood Support (59:11) - Exciting Event Coming Up
