What happens when a 5-year-old boy believes moms are supposed to go find dads? That’s how Larry Hagner began his journey—a journey marked by absence, abuse, discovery, and ultimately, purpose.
In this powerful episode of The Grit Mindset with Matt Rosen, Larry opens up about his early childhood—growing up without a father, surviving a toxic step-parent relationship, and the life-changing moment when he met his birth father at age 12 and reconnecting when he himself, became a Dad in his 30's.
Larry founded The Dad Edge movement in 2012 to help men become better husbands, fathers, and leaders. Since launching The Dad Edge Podcast in 2015, he’s coached thousands and interviewed over 1,400 guests—yet this is the first time he gets this raw about his personal story.
Now a father of four boys (ages 9, 11, 17, and 19) and celebrating 22 years of marriage, Larry is proof that you don’t have to repeat your past—you can rewrite it.
🎙 “Most men think, ‘I’m married. I should just know how to be a great dad and husband.’ But the truth is—it’s a skill. It takes reps. It takes community. And it’s never too late to start.”
👉 Watch the full episode to hear how Larry turned childhood pain into a mission to build stronger men—and stronger families.
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What is Grit Mindset with Matt Rosen?
This podcast is dedicated to exploring the untold stories of resilience, determination, and mental toughness from leaders in business and technology. Our mission is to inspire and empower listeners by delving deep into the journeys of those who have faced significant challenges and emerged stronger. Through authentic conversations, we uncover the mindsets, strategies, and lessons that have propelled these individuals to overcome adversity and achieve success. We aim to provide actionable insights and real-world advice to help our audience cultivate their own grit and navigate their personal and professional lives with confidence and resilience.