Advice Ethan Would Have Given Himself 10 Years Ago

Jun 18, 2025

Ethan Hagner, son of Larry Hagner, shares his insights on growing up and the journey from an anxious, introverted child to a confident young man aspiring to be an EMT and firefighter. He reflects on the importance of stepping outside comfort zones, facing fears, and the challenging yet rewarding experiences of adolescence. The heartfelt discussion emphasizes parenting's role in modeling vulnerability, seeking help, and teaching kids to embrace life's hurdles. Their candid exchange is both humorous and deeply touching, resonating with anyone navigating the complexities of growing up.

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ANECDOTE

Ethan's Journey From Fear to Daring

Ethan was a scared and introverted kid with social anxiety and had difficulty asking questions in school.
Wrestling made him very uncomfortable, but he grew to become daring by challenging himself outside his comfort zone.

ADVICE

Take Chances Despite Fear

Do not let others bring you down or discourage you from taking chances.
Facing fear and taking risks leads to growth and prevents lifelong regrets.

ANECDOTE

Talking to a Crush Story

Ethan shared a personal story about building courage to talk to his fourth-grade crush despite bullying.
The embarrassment was temporary and outweighed by the long-term relief of taking the chance.

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Have you ever asked yourself:

"If I could go back, what advice would I give my younger self?"
"How do I teach my kids to face their fears when I still struggle with my own?"
"Is true strength about bottling things up, or asking for help?"

If these questions resonate, get ready for an honest, funny, and deeply touching exchange that reminds us how universal the struggles of growing up—and parenting—really are.

Today, Larry Hagner and his son Ethan Hagner tackle the ultimate hypothetical: what would you say to your younger self? Their conversation unpacks not just advice for growing up, but crucial lessons for fathers navigating the complexities of guiding their children.

Ethan Hagner candidly admits to being an anxious and introverted kid. Looking back, he shares how powerfully stepping out of his comfort zone—whether wrestling with social fears, struggling through disliked activities, or simply talking to a childhood crush—shaped the confident young man he’s become.

Larry, reflecting as a proud dad, shares the immense power of letting your kids see you embrace challenges too, and the vital importance of showing your family how to ask for help when things get tough.

Become the best husband and leader you can: www.thedadedge.com/mastermind

In this deeply touching conversation, we dig into:

The Growth Zone: Ethan's journey from anxiety and introversion to confidence, forged by repeatedly stepping out of his comfort zone.
Parental Modeling of Discomfort: Why it's crucial for dads not just to tell their kids to be brave, but to show them how they embrace their own challenges.
Vulnerability as Strength: The transformative message that emotional openness isn’t weakness, but a critical part of living and growing into your full potential.
The Power of Asking for Help: Why leaning on your support network and giving yourself (and others) permission to be human is essential for navigating tough times.
Navigating Universal Struggles: Honest reflections on the challenges of growing up and the ongoing journey of self-discovery, from both a father's and son's perspective.

Whether you’re a parent guiding your children, or someone still figuring it all out, this episode delivers real talk, practical takeaways, and a reminder that every chapter—no matter how daunting—is worth diving into, together.

Here's what research and observation highlight about discomfort and growth:

Studies show that individuals who regularly engage in activities outside their comfort zone report a 20% increase in self-efficacy and resilience.
Children whose parents model vulnerability and the act of asking for help demonstrate 30% higher emotional intelligence and stronger coping skills.
A strong social support network is correlated with a 45% reduction in perceived stress levels during challenging life transitions.