The Dad Edge Podcast

Sean Patrick Flanery is an American actor, author, and martial arts practitioner. He has embraced transformative roles that have deepened his faith and allowed him to connect with his audience on a profound level. His broad achievements and credentials as an actor and entrepreneur are a testament to his dedication, hard work, and commitment to personal growth. In this episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, Larry Hagner and Sean Patrick Flanery discuss their childhoods and the impact their parents had on their lives. They talk about the importance of having a supportive family and how it can shape a person's work ethic. Despite not having a lot growing up, Sean Patrick Flanery emphasizes that he never wanted for anything and had all the necessary tools to navigate life successfully. They also touch on the significance of attending sporting events and the role it played in their upbringing. Wrestling is a sport that goes beyond physical strength and technique. It builds resilience and grit in individuals, teaching them valuable life lessons that can be applied both on and off the mat. Sean Patrick Flanery emphasizes that wrestling is not just another sport like tennis or basketball. It involves hand-to-hand combat, where a wrestler is pitted against another individual of the same size, weight, and age. The primal nature of wrestling creates a real-world application, where a wrestler realizes that they can be bested by someone their own age. This realization instills a sense of humility and a desire to improve. Wrestling teaches individuals to make quick decisions and remain calm in chaotic situations. It instills resilience and grit, qualities that are essential for success in any aspect of life. The ability to think on your feet and maintain composure in high-pressure situations is a valuable skill that wrestlers develop through their training and competition. As we wrap up this episode, remember that embracing failure is a vital part of personal development. Today, we delved into the significance of obstacles and setbacks in propelling us towards our goals, reminding us to continually strive for self-improvement. Consider adversity as a daily supplement, integral to growth and advancement. This wisdom holds particularly true in wrestling, where wins and losses are an inseparable part of the journey. Carry these insights with you as you forge your path forward. thedadedge.com/summit2023 1stphorm.com/dadedge www.thedadedge.com/435

Tom Dobrez is the author of "Root Root Root for the Home Teams: A Chicago Fan's Odyssey to Find the Meaning of Life Through Sports", an autobiographical account of his life as a sports fan. In this memoir, he examines how sports can teach us about family and success in life. In this episode of the Dad Edge podcast, Larry Hagner welcomes author Tom Dobrez to discuss his book "Root, Root, Root" and his unique childhood experiences with his father. Tom shares how his dad was not only his baseball coach but also took him and his siblings to professional sporting events in Chicago. This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of the father-son relationship and the impact it can have on a child's life. Tom describes how his father was their baseball coach, and they would often play organized sports together. However, it was not just organized sports that filled their days. Tom's father built a small ball field in their backyard, providing the perfect setting for their baseball games. The family's love for sports extended to attending professional sporting events, such as Chicago White Sox, Blackhawks, and Bears games. This exposure to sports and outdoor activities created a foundation for Tom's love of sports and physical activity. Engaging in outdoor play has numerous benefits for children's physical and mental well-being. Outdoor play promotes physical fitness and helps children develop gross motor skills, coordination, and balance. Playing sports and games also teaches children the importance of teamwork, communication, and fair play. Additionally, being outdoors exposes children to fresh air and sunlight, which are essential for overall health and well-being. Outdoor play also has significant mental health benefits. Being in nature has a calming effect on the mind and reduces stress and anxiety. It allows children to disconnect from technology and experience the natural world around them. In today's digital age, where children are often glued to screens and have limited opportunities for outdoor play, it is crucial to recognize the importance of outdoor play in childhood. Tom's childhood experiences highlight the joy and benefits of spending time outdoors, engaging in physical activities, and building connections with others. www.thedadedge.com/friday116 www.rootrootrootbook.com

Larry Hagner hosts members of the Dad Edge Mastermind in this behind-the-scenes episode. This is an opportunity for members to ask Larry and the community their most pressing questions and get tailored insights from experienced dads. From work-life balance to dealing with tough emotions and building stronger relationships with our kids, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical strategies to help you become the best dad you can be. Sit back, listen in and get ready to level up your fatherhood game. thedadedge.com/bark

Thomas Pfanner, founder of Dads Who Lead, shares his unique journey into fatherhood, becoming a father at a young age and the challenges he faced. They discuss the importance of leadership in fatherhood and how becoming a father changed his perspective on life. The podcast emphasizes the importance of parental support in navigating the challenges of unexpected fatherhood. Thomas shares his experience of telling his parents and the profound impact their support had on him. The focus shifts to the subsequent years of the father-son relationship and pivotal moments. Thomas discusses the decision to be present in his son's life and provide stability. The podcast covers family life, marriage, raising daughters, confidence, insecurity, and the importance of expectations in parenting.

Scott Jeffery Miller is currently FranklinCovey's senior advisor on thought leadership, leading the strategy, development, and publication of the firm's bestselling books. He is also the host of the podcast "C-Suite Conversations with Scott Miller", which features interviews with the world's top executives, as well as the author of the multivolume series Master Mentors: 30 Transformative Insights from Our Greatest Business Minds. In this episode, Larry Hagner welcomes Scott Jeffrey Miller, who embarks on a revealing journey from his bachelor days to fathering three boys. Scott candidly discusses his transition into parenthood, unexpected career trajectory, and his latest book that focuses on his passion for mentorship. Moving away from traditional perceptions, the conversation illuminates the essence of parenting as a mutual learning experience, thus underlining mentorship's role in shaping a child's self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-worth. Scott Jeffrey Miller underlines the importance of appreciating a child's unique abilities and contributions. He advocates the practice of "naming their genius," a validating method that can enhance a child's self-worth and enable them to meet challenges head-on. He also compares the parent's role to that of an archaeologist, gently unearthing a child's passions and aspirations, thus enabling children to own their journey. Also pivotal is the role of parents as validators who affirm their child's capabilities. However, Scott cautions against over-validation, which can diminish the impact of genuine achievements. He also touches on the significance of clear boundaries, using his own strict rules around behaviors like drinking, drugs, and tattoos as an example, to steer children towards positive behaviors. In summary, Scott paints a compelling picture of parenting as mentorship and validation. This model encourages the nurturing of a child's inherent strengths, mutual growth, and the setting of boundaries. By embracing this approach, parents can foster strong connections with their children, providing them with a trusted confidant and mentor throughout their lives. www.thedadedge.com/friday115 www.1stphorm.com/dadedge www.greatmentorship.com www.scottjeffreymiller.com

Larry Hagner hosts members of the Dad Edge Mastermind in this behind-the-scenes episode. This is an opportunity for members to ask Larry and the community their most pressing questions and get tailored insights from experienced dads. From work-life balance to dealing with tough emotions and building stronger relationships with our kids, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical strategies to help you become the best dad you can be. Sit back, listen in and get ready to level up your fatherhood game. thedadedge.com/alliance

Mike Baldwin is the VP of Operations for Grossman on Truth. He is also an experienced Law Enforcement Professional with a proven history in successfully working high profile and sensitive investigations, and co-author of the book "The Bulletproof Mind". In this episode, Mike shares insights on developing a bulletproof mind and cultivating resilience. He also opens up about his upbringing in Arizona, growing up in a big family with parents who loved him and adopted him. Throughout his 21-year career in law enforcement, Mike served in various roles, including patrol officer, field training officer, SWAT team member, and detective. He found great satisfaction in investigating crimes, talking to people, and learning from them. Mike's ability to connect with others and gather information played a crucial role in his success as a detective. Reflecting on his upbringing and the opportunities he was given through adoption, Mike expresses deep gratitude. He acknowledges that without being adopted, his life could have taken a different path, potentially leading to substance abuse or other negative outcomes. Mike credits his heavenly father for guiding him and keeping him away from such destructive paths. Mike shares an example from his experience as a law enforcement officer, where he would interview suspects who would blame others for their actions. He would remind them that they are responsible for their choices and need to take ownership of their lives. He challenges men to examine their own actions and not use their upbringing or circumstances as an excuse for their behavior. He discusses the importance of making choices that lead to positive outcomes. Mike mentions that individuals who grew up in dysfunctional homes have the choice to break the cycle and create a better life for themselves and their families. He encourages men to reflect on the kind of men, husbands, and fathers they want to be. By being accountable to oneself, to others, and to a higher power, individuals are able to navigate challenges, stay motivated, and work towards their goals. Whether it is personal growth, maintaining healthy relationships, or excelling in the professional sphere, accountability plays a vital role in leading to success. www.thedadedge.com/alliance www.thedadedge.com/433 www.grossmanontruth.com

In this episode, Larry Hagner delves into the glaring absence of comprehensive education on what makes a marriage successful, and the trials many couples face as a result of this deficiency in knowledge and skills. Larry turns the spotlight on his own marriage, expressing his heartfelt gratitude as he crosses the two-decade milestone. Additionally, Larry touches upon the escalating divorce rates and explores whether a lack of these crucial skills might be a major contributing factor. One of the primary hurdles in marriage, according to Larry Hagner, lies in the intrinsic differences between men and women. Our needs, our ways of operation, and our communication styles all differ. Without a clear understanding and appreciation of these disparities, conflicts can surface, triggering misunderstandings and resentment. Consequently, it becomes imperative to learn how to bridge these differences and communicate effectively in order to sustain a healthy and harmonious relationship. Throughout the podcast, Larry Hagner underscores the lack of formal training or education in the domains of marriage and parenting. Unlike other professional pursuits that demand rigorous training and certification, marriage and parenting are typically a journey of trial and error. This dearth of guidance can leave couples feeling directionless and ill-prepared to tackle the challenges they encounter. Larry Hagner proposes that with the right set of skills and knowledge, we as couples can surmount these challenges and lay a robust foundation for our marriage. Similar to how a GPS aids in navigation by offering clear directions and information about potential roadblocks, acquiring marriage skills can steer couples through the labyrinth of married life. These skills encompass effective communication, conflict resolution, empathy, emotional intelligence, and understanding one's partner's needs. Ultimately, Larry Hagner believes that mastering marriage skills is integral to building and sustaining a successful and fulfilling relationship. Living in a society where divorce rates are at an all-time high and relationships encounter numerous challenges, it's essential for us as couples to be educated and guided on how to navigate the intricacies of married life. By honing skills like effective communication, conflict resolution, empathy, and emotional intelligence, we can overcome challenges, reinforce our bond, and cultivate a lasting and joyful marriage. www.thedadedge.com/friday114 www.thedadedge.com/alliance www.thedadedge.com/25questions

In this engaging discussion, Joe Bailey, a dedicated father and expert on parenting, shares invaluable insights on raising resilient daughters. He emphasizes the importance of open communication and emotional understanding, especially during pre-teen years. The conversation covers navigating guilt and the rewarding nature of community service, revealing how helping others can enhance personal fulfillment. Joe also reflects on prioritizing family, embracing challenges, and the joys of being present in everyday moments. Tune in for practical strategies to enhance fatherhood!

Josh White is a musician who is still involved in music and has a record label at the church. His ethos and philosophy revolve around fatherhood, broken relationships, forgiveness, grace, and faith. He believes in breaking the cycle, creating change, surrendering to God's perfect plan, and embracing vulnerability and humility in relationships. In this episode, Larry sits down with Josh White as he shares his challenging upbringing and the absence of a stable father figure in his life. He grew up in a depressed mill town and experienced multiple stepfathers who were either disconnected or abusive. His biological father was an alcoholic and drug addict. Their relationship was distant, but they reconnected later in life, and Josh became a supportive presence for him before his father's death. Josh White's experience with his biological father is a central theme in his story. He describes the initial disconnect and the subsequent reconnection that occurred during his last year of high school. This highlights the importance of open communication and the potential for relationships to evolve and grow over time. Despite the challenges they faced, Josh and his father were able to establish a real relationship before his father's passing. This demonstrates the power of vulnerability and the potential for transformation in even the most difficult circumstances. Josh's understanding of forgiveness goes beyond simply forgiving someone. He believes in actively working towards rebuilding relationships, even with someone as complicated and difficult as his father. He attributes this mindset to his faith and the lessons he learned from the Lord. He emphasizes the importance of the cross in his book, as it represents God's willingness to enter into human suffering and offer grace. Josh's personal experiences have shaped his understanding of forgiveness and grace. He shares that he had a complex family dynamic, being the oldest of three brothers with different fathers. Despite the challenges, he formed a close bond with his younger brother, who had a different father. Josh took on a father figure role for his brother, given the absence of their biological father. This experience allowed him to understand the importance of boundaries and parameters in creating a sense of safety and freedom. www.thedadedge.com/432 www.thedadedge.com/alliance www.amazon.com/Stumbling-Toward-Eternity-Finding-Ourselves