The Dad Edge Podcast (formerly The Good Dad Project Podcast)

In this episode, Larry and coach Marc sit down to talk about one of the most common and least-talked-about crises facing business owner dads — burnout. Not the dramatic kind. The quiet, grinding, everyday kind where you're doing 14-hour days, drinking to decompress, wearing exhaustion like a badge of honor, and slowly losing the very people you're killing yourself to provide for. Featuring recorded clips from John — a real Boardroom member who came in on the brink of burnout — this episode is one of the most emotionally honest conversations we've had on this show. John's story will hit close to home for a lot of men. Working obsessively, drinking daily to escape, knowing something was wrong but believing the only answer was more action. His wife was losing her patience. He was losing himself. And then he stopped lone-wolfing it. Larry shares his own raw moment — telling his wife that if he's not providing, he doesn't know what value he brings to the family — and what his kids said when he and his wife actually asked them what they wanted most. Marc breaks down the BRAVE Man system, the tracker, and why busyness is not the same as results. And the episode closes with John getting so emotional he can't speak — and the silence that says everything.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:02] The burnout that business owner dads don't talk about — grinding for your family while quietly losing them [2:44] Leaders usually starve — because they pour everything into everyone else but themselves [4:15] Introducing Marc Hildebrand — and what today's episode is really about [5:52] How Marc met John — on the brink of burnout, drinking daily, running 14-16 hour days [7:35] The shift Marc saw by weeks four and five — doing less, but achieving more [9:11] The GPS analogy — what life feels like without a system versus with one [10:37] Why we resist new tools even when they could save us — and the old-timer cops who threw out the Garmin [12:12] Wearing burnout as a badge of honor — and the people who love you who see it from a mile away [13:29] Your kids ask "Dad, are you okay?" and you think nobody noticed [14:45] John's first clip: what life looked like before he applied — work first, drinking to escape, lone-wolfing it [17:36] The heart behind the burnout — doing it all for your family, but missing what they actually need [19:20] What Marc saw in John — a man believing there was only one way to succeed [20:10] Larry's vulnerable moment: "If I'm not providing, what value do I bring this family?" [22:10] His kids' answer when asked what they wanted most — more time, not more money [22:29] The 13 Hours scene — a Navy SEAL on his 12th deployment finally hearing "the kids don't need more money, they need you" [24:37] Why being willing to have the vulnerable conversation is the game changer [25:10] John's second clip: getting a map, small goals, and what changed in his marriage [27:25] Breaking down the BRAVE Man system — Bond, Raise, Amplify, Vitality, Enjoy, Movement, Action, Network [28:04] Why joy is a tactical requirement — if you have no joy to give, you have nothing to give [28:50] Why motivation is a lie — and why action creates motivation, not the other way around [29:13] John's transformation from 15 points a week to 40-50 — and what the tracker actually measures [31:57] Busyness does not equal results — the most dangerous trap for burned-out business owners [32:18] John's final clip — the emotional moment that stopped everyone cold [35:28] What that moment meant — a man who saved his marriage and came back to himself [37:52] What it means to have a battle to fight, a beauty to love, and an adventure to be had — together [39:05] The call to every business owner who sees a piece of John in himself   Five Key Takeaways Burnout doesn't always look dramatic. It looks like 14-hour days, drinking to unwind, and quietly drifting away from the people you're working so hard to provide for. The people who love you most can see your burnout from a mile away — even when you think you're hiding it. Your kids see it. Your wife feels it. Your family doesn't want more money. They want more of you. When Larry asked his boys, the answer was time — every single time. The answer to burnout is not more action. It's better action, in the right areas, with a system that tells you what actually moves the needle. You are not a liability because you need help. John thought he had nothing to give when he walked in — and became one of the most valuable men in the room.   Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance & Business Boardroom: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1468): https://thedadedge.com/1468   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: the answer to burnout is never more action — it's a better system, a map, and men around you who won't let you disappear. John came in wearing his exhaustion like a badge, drinking every day to survive it, and believing the only way through was to grind harder. Six weeks later, he was lighter. His marriage was coming back. And when Larry asked him what it felt like to make his way back — he couldn't speak. That silence said everything. If there's a piece of John in you right now, this is your move. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Thomas Caleel — former Director of MBA Admissions at the Wharton School, founder of Admittedly, and one of the most clear-eyed voices in the college admissions space. This one is personal — I've got an 18-year-old headed to University of Arkansas in four months, and a sixth grader whose decisions today will quietly shape where he ends up ten years from now. Thomas opens the black box of college admissions and explains what's actually changed, what most parents are getting wrong, and what admissions officers are really looking for. The shift from well-rounded candidates to "vertical spikes" of deep passion and genuine interest is one of those things that sounds simple but changes everything about how you should be thinking about your kid's path right now. We talk about the right time to start, why the seventh-grade math assessment quietly matters more than most parents realize, how doing fewer things with real intentionality is more powerful than stacking clubs and activities, and why your child's college essay should tell their story — not yours. We also get into the financial reality most parents aren't prepared for — new federal loan caps, how to negotiate financial aid after admission, what Juno is and why it matters, and why sending your kid to a low-tier private college that costs $50,000 a year is something Thomas calls criminal. And he gives a refreshingly honest answer to whether college is actually worth it.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:02] Larry's 18-year-old is leaving for University of Arkansas — and Thomas's son is heading to NYU [2:45] When change goes according to plan — and why it hits harder than you expect [4:45] What most parents are missing — the pressure cooker, the doom race, and why more is not always more [5:56] Why admissions is a black box — and why bad information fills that vacuum [7:23] Thomas's background — former Director of MBA Admissions at Wharton, 20 years shaping admissions strategy globally [9:05] How college admissions has changed — from well-rounded candidates to vertical spikes of deep passion [10:49] Why schools now prioritize socioeconomic diversity — and what full ride programs actually look like [11:37] What the internet did to admissions — 50,000 applicants where there used to be 8,000, and rates under 3% at Yale [12:00] Do fewer things intentionally and well — the sneakerhead who got into Stanford [15:18] Why volunteering doesn't help anymore if your kid doesn't actually care about it [17:31] How grit, initiative, and unglamorous jobs stand out just as much as expensive summer programs [19:29] The most common question Thomas hears — when should we start? [19:51] The seventh-grade math assessment that quietly determines whether your kid can pursue STEM majors [22:41] Middle school is for exploration — you don't need to pick a direction, just stay warm on the fundamentals [24:11] What universities are really asking — not what do you want to do with your life, but what are you curious about right now [24:47] Why your kid won't tell you the truth — and why a neutral third party changes everything [29:47] How to have a real conversation with your kid about what they actually want [30:36] Listening without judgment — the parent who almost killed their child's essay by refusing to let them tell their real story [33:06] How to handle the "I want to study dance" conversation — without crushing them [35:45] Is college a scam? Thomas's honest, nuanced answer — and why the lottery ticket mentality is dangerous [37:20] Why low-tier private colleges charging $50,000 a year are, in his words, criminal [40:38] What's changed in the political arena — new federal loan caps and what they mean for families [41:51] Why the ROI conversation has to happen before you commit to a school [44:08] How to negotiate financial aid after you've been admitted — and why schools will sometimes find money [45:03] Juno — the collective bargaining platform that negotiates lower interest rates on student loans [48:01] What Admittedly is — former admissions officers, group coaching, weekly office hours, and accessible pricing   Five Key Takeaways Admissions has shifted from well-rounded to deeply interesting. A kid who does one thing with real passion and depth will stand out over a kid who stacks clubs and activities to check boxes. The seventh-grade math assessment quietly shapes whether your kid can pursue the majors they want. Start paying attention earlier than you think you need to. Your child's essay needs to tell their story — not your version of their story. Listen without judgment and let them lead. The financial conversation has to happen early and honestly. With new federal loan caps and rising tuition, the ROI of each school choice matters more than ever. College is not a binary decision. It can be great, but it's not the right path for everyone. Know your child, know their goals, and help them build the path that actually fits — not the one that looks right from the outside.   Links & Resources Dad Edge Business Boardroom: https://thedadedge.com/boardroom Admittedly website: https://admittedly.co Admittedly on Instagram and TikTok: @admittedly.co Juno student loan platform: https://joinjuno.com Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1467): https://thedadedge.com/1467   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: the decisions your kid makes in middle school are already shaping where they'll end up — and most parents don't find that out until it's too late to do anything about it. Thomas Caleel has sat inside the room where these decisions get made. He knows what gets someone in and what gets them passed over. And the good news is that none of it requires privilege, expensive programs, or a perfect resume. It requires knowing your kid, helping them tell their real story, and starting the right conversations while there's still time to matter. If your kid is anywhere from sixth grade to senior year, this episode is required listening. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Sol Kennedy — software developer, founder of the co-parenting app Best Interest, host of the Co-parenting Beyond Conflict podcast, and a man who built the thing he needed most during one of the hardest seasons of his life. Sol grew up watching a codependent father and a controlling mother, and spent years of his adult life repeating that dynamic — giving up his power in relationships, avoiding conflict at all costs, and calling the absence of fighting a good marriage. It took a divorce, his first therapy session at 38, and laying awake next to his girlfriend at 2am feeling that familiar anxiety spike when his phone pinged from his ex for Sol to finally build something different. We dig into the psychology behind why co-parenting is so emotionally explosive — the trapped emotions, the triggers, the courtroom-ready anger that destroys custody cases — and Sol walks us through exactly how the Best Interest app works. It acts as an AI-powered filter between you and your ex, stripping inflammatory language before it reaches you, flagging your own reactive messages before you send them, and letting you set communication boundaries without needing your co-parent's cooperation. It's essentially a bodyguard for your inbox — and for your peace of mind. We also get into the practical stuff: why you should start with a divorce coach, not a bulldog attorney; why anger in the courtroom is the fastest way to lose custody; and why therapy isn't optional if you want to actually show up well for your kids on the other side of a divorce.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:02] The moment that sparked Best Interest — lying in bed next to his girlfriend, anxiety spiking at every notification from his ex [2:23] What Our Family Wizard is and how co-parenting apps work [4:28] Why co-parenting is so hard — you're still in a relationship with someone you divorced [7:52] Sol's origin story — the codependent father, the controlling mother, and the name he chose for himself [9:22] Stepping into therapy at 38 for the first time — learning what "triggered" and "boundary" meant [13:05] Who Sol Kennedy is — founder of Best Interest, host of Co-parenting Beyond Conflict [14:30] How Sol's childhood shaped the relationships he sought out as an adult [19:47] The golden child, the scapegoat, and a marriage that never had real depth [23:29] How divorce changed what he was attracted to — and the intimacy he found on the other side [26:59] The catalyst for the divorce — a year and a half of therapy, a repetitive cycle, and his wife leaving just before the Covid lockdowns [29:26] How Best Interest differs from Our Family Wizard — shifting from a court-ready mindset to a conflict-prevention mindset [31:49] How the AI filter works in practice — stripping inflammatory language before it reaches you [33:29] How it protects you from yourself — reviewing your outgoing messages before you send something you'll regret [35:44] The only co-parenting app you can use solo — no co-parent buy-in required [36:46] Setting message frequency limits — Sol's solution to the 30-messages-a-day ex [38:25] The AI bodyguard — how Best Interest changes lives one filtered message at a time [41:14] Why men specifically get themselves in trouble — anger in the courtroom is the fastest way to lose custody [43:47] What newly separated men need to know — start with a divorce coach, not a bulldog attorney [45:19] Get to therapy now — learning where you feel stress in your body is not soft, it's survival [46:41] Internal Family Systems and somatic work — why trapped emotions show up as physical sensations   Five Key Takeaways Co-parenting is still a relationship — and without the right tools, the same patterns that broke the marriage will destroy the co-parenting dynamic too. Anger in the courtroom costs men custody. If you haven't done the work to regulate your emotions before you walk in, all the advice in the world won't save you in that moment. The best co-parenting boundaries are the ones you can enforce yourself — without needing your ex to cooperate or agree to anything. Start with a divorce coach, not a bulldog attorney. A good divorce coach will save you money, reduce conflict, and help you avoid the court system altogether where possible. Therapy is not optional. Learning where you feel stress in your body, understanding your triggers, and processing trapped emotions isn't soft — it's what lets you show up as the parent your kids need.   Links & Resources Dad Edge Business Boardroom: https://thedadedge.com/boardroom The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Best Interest Co-parenting App: Available on the App Store and Google Play — search "Best Interest" Co-parenting Beyond Conflict Podcast with Sol Kennedy: Available wherever you get your podcasts Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1466): https://thedadedge.com/1466   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: you don't have to let your ex's words reach you unfiltered — and you don't have to send your worst ones either. Sol Kennedy built the thing he needed most when he needed it most. And what he built is now changing the daily lives of co-parents who are trying to stay grounded, protect their kids from the fallout, and build a new chapter without letting the old one keep pulling them back under. If you're co-parenting right now, or you know someone who is, share this episode. It might be the most practical thing they hear all year. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, Larry and Dad Edge coach Marc sit down to unpack one of the most common traps business owner dads fall into — hoping things will get better instead of building a strategy to make them better. Featuring recorded clips from Jaden, a real estate investor and five-year member of the Dad Edge Business Boardroom, this episode is a real, unfiltered look at what it actually feels like to be a high-performing business owner who has it dialed at work but is guessing at home. Jaden's story is one a lot of men will recognize — stressed, stretched, showing up for everything but not really present for anyone, and telling himself tomorrow would somehow be different without any real plan to make that true. Hope is not a strategy. And that one sentence — dropped by Larry's toughest sales mentor years ago — becomes the through-line for the whole episode. Marc and Larry break down why business owners specifically are so underserved when it comes to marriage and fatherhood, why the men around you shape who you become whether you're intentional about it or not, and what happens when you stop reacting and start running a new operating system. Not just in your family — in everything. If you're a business owner who's winning at work and guessing at home, this one was made for you.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:02] What happens when we try our best but don't have the skills — and why winging it in marriage and fatherhood is a recipe for quiet misery [2:33] Why business owner dads are among the most underserved men out there [3:33] Starting a business is like having another kid — and most men are carrying both without the right support [5:45] Jaden's story: five-year Boardroom member, real estate investor, and a man who was just hoping tomorrow would be different [7:21] Hope is not a strategy — why hope without a plan turns against you over time [8:31] Marc's experience as a police officer and Larry's in sales — guessing in the early days and what changed when they found the right room [11:19] Hope is not a strategy — the mentor who stopped Larry cold and changed how he approached everything [13:58] What Jaden started learning inside the Boardroom — generative questions and the skill of processing in real time [15:04] Walking the cube: facts, story, emotions, action — and how it replaces emotional dumping with intentional response [16:39] It becomes your operating system — not a skill you have to work at, but how you fundamentally operate [18:18] These skills don't just change your family — they change your business too because you take your head everywhere [19:29] The tools that become part of your identity: emotional validation, generative questions, psychological safety, walking the cube [20:11] The software upgrade analogy — your marriage won't run optimally on an outdated operating system [21:39] Jaden's advice for men on the outside: you cannot do this work alone. It's a 12-foot ladder with only two rungs. [23:00] Larry asks Jaden where he'd be without the Boardroom — and the pause that said everything [24:21] Mark's insight: surround yourself with people who already have what you want — that's the cheat code [25:42] What Larry thought when he joined his first mastermind in 2015 — and why he called back 11 minutes later [28:27] What Larry found on that first Monday morning call — every question he was afraid to ask was suddenly welcomed [30:07] The call to action for every business owner dad listening right now   Five Key Takeaways Hope is not a strategy. Hoping your marriage or your relationship with your kids gets better without a plan is not optimism — it's guessing. And guessing sucks. You take your head everywhere. The skills you build at home show up in your business, and the chaos you carry from work shows up at home. Upgrading your operating system changes everything. The men around you shape who you become — whether you're intentional about it or not. Surround yourself with men who already have what you want, and you'll take on their habits, beliefs, and results. These skills don't take more time — they eliminate the time you waste reacting, apologizing, and cleaning up the mess of not having them. You cannot do this work alone. A brotherhood that can name the next rung of the ladder for you is not a luxury — it's the difference between spinning in place and actually climbing.   Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance & Business Boardroom: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1465): https://thedadedge.com/1465   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: stop hoping and start building. Every man listening to this has the same 24 hours. The difference between the man who looks up in ten years with the life he wanted and the man who wonders where it all went is not talent, not luck, and not harder work. It's strategy. It's skills. It's the room he chose to be in. If you're a business owner who's winning at work and guessing at home — this is your move. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Doug Smith — award-winning author of The Path of Rocks and Thorns, policy expert, trauma-informed leadership coach, adjunct professor, and a man who spent six years in a Texas prison cell for four counts of robbery committed in the grip of crack cocaine addiction. This is not a redemption story wrapped in a tidy bow. It's a raw, honest, and deeply human conversation about what happens when a man loses everything — and what he discovers about leadership, recovery, and fatherhood in the process. Doug walks us through what crack addiction actually feels like — the all-encompassing high and the equal and opposite fall — and what it took to rebuild a life after prison, including a bipolar disorder diagnosis, years of therapy, and a spiritual practice pieced together inside a Texas prison cell. He also shares the extraordinary leadership work he did while incarcerated, helping build a sexual assault prevention program that led to a dramatic increase in reporting and prosecution inside Texas prisons — work that continues to have an impact to this day. But the heart of this conversation is fatherhood. Doug's daughter was five when he went in. She was almost eleven when he came home. He shares the terrifying day he was released, the first reunion with his daughter, and how they reconnected through play and letters rather than words. And then he shares the hardest part — what happened when his book came out and his daughter's buried anger finally surfaced, and the hike where he sat in that anger with her without defending himself. Larry meets him there with his own story of a father who left twice — and the dinner conversation twenty years ago where forgiveness finally had room to breathe.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:02] Introducing Doug Smith — author, policy expert, trauma-informed coach, and formerly incarcerated for four counts of robbery [1:23] What prison was actually like — more boring than people imagine, and unexpectedly clarifying [2:31] The decline into crack addiction — what the high feels like and what the low does to your soul [5:14] The black spot on the soul — how crack takes you lower with every use and never lets you climb back up [6:50] What withdrawal from crack cocaine actually does to your brain and body [9:04] How Doug recalibrated inside prison — exercise, meditation, spiritual practice, and learning to feel good without drugs for the first time in his adult life [11:18] His mental health diagnosis — bipolar disorder, personality disorder, and how he eventually moved past treating a label [13:21] Who Doug is today — policy expert, adjunct professor at UT Austin, trauma-informed leadership coach, and author [15:28] What leadership actually means — it's not a business term, it's the relationship between the results you're creating and your contribution to them [16:18] The sexual assault prevention program Doug built inside a Texas prison — and the dramatic results it produced [22:47] How sexual assault in prison is always about power — and why staff are often the perpetrators [23:16] How old his daughter was when he went in — and his daily prayer to get home while she was still a child [24:51] The terrifying day he was released — why his brain wouldn't accept it as real [26:05] Flying down the stairs to hold his daughter — and sitting with her while she wept [26:49] How they reconnected on day one — spreading out her letters and going through them together [27:13] Larry's midroll reflection: you're home, but are you really there? [29:14] How his daughter responded after the initial reunion — the games, the capybara play, and Riley the racing rat [32:07] The years of building trust — and how his daughter's anger didn't surface until the book came out [33:10] His daughter's reaction to the book: everyone's celebrating his story, but nobody asked what she went through [34:48] The hike where everything came out — and how Doug received her anger without defending himself [37:14] How his daughter had organized her life around his incarceration — volunteering with kids of incarcerated parents, camp counseling, and a college essay that got her into UT Austin in three weeks [39:51] The unresolved trauma that was still there beneath the resilience — and what it took for her to finally be angry [40:17] Larry shares his own story — a father who left twice and the dinner conversation that changed everything [43:44] Larry's dad's ownership, humility, and apology — and how seeing a human being allowed forgiveness to begin [45:33] What Doug's relationship with his daughter looks like now — rebuilding on new terms as adults [47:41] His daughter's powerful message: I needed the encouragement before. Don't tie my worth to my grades. [48:13] The richer conversations that come when the old context for a relationship is gone [51:16] Larry's reflection: without the mess there is no message — and what Doug's story means to the men listening [52:18] The Dante's Inferno metaphor from Doug's prison book club — you have to go all the way through to climb back up   Five Key Takeaways Losing everything can be unexpectedly clarifying. When the things that were making your life miserable are stripped away, you get to learn who you are without them — and that can be the beginning of something real. Leadership is not a business concept. It's the relationship between the results you're creating in the world and your contribution to those results. Everyone is always leading something. You can be home and still not be present. A lot of men are physically in the house but emotionally absent — and their kids feel it. No prison cell required. Resilience and unresolved trauma can coexist. Doug's daughter organized her whole life around his incarceration before she ever allowed herself to be angry about it. Healing isn't linear and it isn't always visible. You have to go all the way through it. You can't go around pain, grief, or hard emotions. Like Dante — you have to travel through the deepest part before you can climb again.   Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance & Business Boardroom: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com The Path of Rocks and Thorns by Doug Smith: Available on Amazon Doug Smith's website: https://the-degree.com Email Doug directly: doug@the-degree.com Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1464): https://thedadedge.com/1464   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: you have to go all the way through it. Doug Smith didn't get to skip the hard parts. He had to travel all the way through addiction, incarceration, and the anger of a daughter he had failed — before he could climb back up. And what he built on the other side of that is extraordinary: a career dedicated to the exact people he used to be, and a relationship with his daughter being rebuilt on honest, adult terms. The mess became the message. It always does. If this episode hit you where it needed to, share it with a man who is in the middle of his own darkest season and needs to know there's a way through. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Kelvin Davis — fashion trailblazer, author of Be a Good Man Not a Nice Guy, creator of Notoriously Dapper, one of the first Black big-and-tall models for Gap and Target, and dad of two daughters. This one covers a wide range of territory — style, masculinity, nice guy syndrome, divorce, co-parenting, and raising daughters as a single dad — and somehow manages to be one of the most fun and most real conversations we've had on this show. We start with style — and not the surface-level kind. Kelvin breaks down why how you dress is actually a statement about how you see yourself, how the right fit and color unlocks a level of confidence that can't be faked, and why most guys are unknowingly dressing for a version of themselves they no longer are. Then we get into the heart of the show: the difference between a good man and a nice guy. Kelvin draws the line clearly — nice guys are motivated by approval and the avoidance of conflict, good men are grounded in purpose, principles, and accountability. He gets deeply honest about his own nice guy patterns, including a porn addiction and seeking emotional connection outside his marriage, and how staying in a relationship he knew wasn't right ended up costing him and his daughters dearly. We dig into his divorce — how the girls responded, the pressure to pick sides, the importance of therapy, and what happened when his daughters moved to Tennessee and their relationship actually deepened over FaceTime. And we close with a powerful conversation about what Kelvin believes a dad's real job is: not to be liked, but to get your kids ready for the world.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:01] Introducing Kelvin Davis — style, Notoriously Dapper, big and tall modeling, and Be a Good Man Not a Nice Guy [4:58] Kelvin's backstory — knowing from age eight that fashion was his calling and going back to speak at his old elementary school [9:23] Larry's story with style expert Tanner Gazi — and the fat kid still living inside him who wears dark colors to hide [12:58] What style actually is — and why the right fit unlocks confidence that cannot be faked [14:03] How to build a base wardrobe — know your true size, nail the fit, then add accessories to elevate everything [16:52] What happens when you walk into a room dressed confidently — including the people who love it and the ones who resent it [19:53] How Kelvin learned to stop caring what people think — and why we all care to some degree [23:50] Introducing Be a Good Man Not a Nice Guy — how Kelvin defines the difference [24:36] Nice guys are motivated by approval and conflict avoidance — good men are grounded in purpose and values [27:25] Covert contracts, people pleasing, and why nice guys always eventually fall apart [29:01] Kelvin's nice guy symptoms — avoiding accountability, gaslighting, saying yes to everyone at the cost of himself [31:33] The one place Kelvin's nice guy syndrome never showed up — fatherhood [33:34] Why dads who weren't loved well as kids tend to over-serve their kids — and why holding the line is still the right move [35:08] What Kelvin's daughters would have picked up on if he'd stayed in a marriage where he wasn't showing up as his true self [37:03] The guilt and shame of a pregnancy that forced a marriage — and admitting the foundation was never really there [40:37] Seeking emotional connection outside the marriage — and the fear that keeps nice guys trapped [41:38] The unexpected peace of living alone for the first time after the divorce [43:37] How the girls responded when he moved out — the pressure to pick sides and what Kelvin told them [45:32] Kids hear everything — the damage done when adults talk about each other in front of their children [46:22] Therapy for the girls starting in 2022 — what the therapist revealed about the older daughter's emotional burden [47:31] His job was to carry his own anger — not put it on his daughters [49:28] His 15-year-old's personality emerging — meeting her where she is and becoming more of a collaborator [50:43] Since the girls moved to Tennessee, their relationship has deepened more over FaceTime than it ever did in person [52:08] Creating psychological safety — how connection is the foundation of all influence as a dad [53:28] When mom was more friend than parent — and why the oldest pushes back on her but never on Kelvin [55:46] My job is not to be your friend — it's to get you ready for the world [57:21] Larry's 18-year-old in the 1,000 pound club — and the moment your kid surpasses you is the moment you know you did your job   Five Key Takeaways Style is not vanity — it's communication. How you dress tells the world and yourself who you are. If you've been hiding behind dark colors and ill-fitting clothes, ask yourself what you're really trying to hide. The difference between a nice guy and a good man is what drives them. Nice guys chase approval and avoid conflict. Good men are grounded in purpose, values, and accountability — and people feel that difference. Your kids are watching everything — including how you treat their mother, who you are when your guard is down, and whether the man at home is the same man everyone else gets. They will model it. Your job as a dad is not to be liked — it's to get your kids ready for the world. That means holding the line, teaching respect, and preparing them for authority figures, hard seasons, and life without you. Psychological safety is what makes your kids come to you. Connection comes first. Without it, you have no influence — no matter how many rules you set or sacrifices you make.   Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance & Business Boardroom: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Be a Good Man Not a Nice Guy by Kelvin Davis: Available on Amazon Notoriously Dapper website: https://notoriouslydapper.com Follow Kelvin on Instagram: @kelvindavis Follow Notoriously Dapper on TikTok: @notoriouslydapper Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1463): https://thedadedge.com/1463   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: your kids don't need you to be their friend — they need you to be the man they can model their entire life after. Kelvin Davis built a brand around showing up as your true self — unapologetically, consistently, and confidently. But it took a failed marriage, a divorce, and years of self-work to get there. And out of all of it, he's built a deeper relationship with his daughters than he ever had when they lived under the same roof. That's what happens when a man stops performing and starts leading. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a dad who needs to hear it. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, Larry and Uncle Joe are back for another live Q&A with real men from the Dad Edge Alliance bringing their real questions. This one goes deep — and fast. The first question comes from a man walking through divorce he didn't want, trying to reconcile his faith with a marriage that's falling apart. Joe has lived this exact story — fasting, praying, sleeping in a separate bedroom for 18 months, doing everything he could — and speaks into it with the kind of wisdom that only comes from having actually been there. Larry adds his own perspective, including the heartbreaking story of losing a son to trisomy 13, and what he learned about God's ability to redeem even the worst seasons of life. The second question comes from Shepherd — a man who is newly divorced, in a new relationship seven months in with a wonderful woman of faith, but feeling the friction of competing priorities: his kids, her desire to be put first, a potential reverse vasectomy, and the nagging question of whether this is really the right person. Joe and Larry both weigh in with hard, loving, and deeply honest answers — including Joe's own cautionary tale about getting into a relationship too fast after a divorce, and the painful price his kids paid because of it. This is one of those Q&A episodes where every man in the audience will see himself in at least one of these questions.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:02] Welcome to the Q&A — and a quick shoutout to the new Dad Edge shop [2:15] Question 1 — Anonymous: I'm a Christian going through a divorce I didn't want. My wife is a strong believer too. I need guidance. [2:34] Joe's answer: his own experience going through divorce as a believer, sleeping in a separate bedroom for 18 months, and what he learned [4:10] Being a follower of Christ and being a mature follower of Christ are two completely different things [5:37] Seeking the one with your two — how Joe and Ivy operate their marriage around loyalty to Christ first [6:50] The A plus B equals C equation with God — and why that theology will wreck you [7:37] What Joe would do differently: stop panicking, stop pushing, and focus on maturing as a man [10:01] Larry's perspective: it's okay to be angry with God — Father Stephen Gadberry on The Sean Ryan Show [13:11] God removes things we think are good for us — and sometimes this is a preparation for something better [14:39] Larry's story: losing a son to trisomy 13 in 2014, the decision to keep the baby, and the stillbirth at 22 weeks [17:33] Standing in that bathroom, looking up, and asking God why — and what came out of that season [18:00] Joe's response: our father redeems everything — even the worst stuff [19:39] Joe's own three marriages — and how God used all of it [20:08] Living a life you don't deserve — Joe's reflection on grace, mercy, and what he gets to enjoy today [21:28] Joe shares a personal health challenge he's currently walking through — and why his mercies being new every morning is not just a saying [23:21] Question 2 — Shepherd: I'm seven months into a new relationship after divorce. She wants to be put first over my kids. I'm at a crossroads. [28:13] Joe's answer: she doesn't have kids, so there's a disconnect — and until there's a covenant, your kids come first [29:58] The conversation you need to have now — not after you say I do [31:09] How Joe met Ivy — determined never to remarry, then God showed up anyway [32:23] Larry's take: know your non-negotiables before you go further — and be honest about what they are [35:08] This is what you signed up for — and if you love me, this is the way it's going to be [36:17] Joe's red flags: she's pushing for the covenant before it's time, and the reverse vasectomy conversation deserves serious prayer [37:18] Joe's cautionary tale: getting into a relationship too fast after divorce — and the price his kids paid [40:11] His kids paid a high price for his lack of wisdom — proceed with caution, pray first [41:04] There's wisdom in many counselors — and the value of having brothers who aren't afraid to call out your blind spots   Five Key Takeaways Being a follower of Christ and being a mature follower are two different things. Maturity in faith means loyalty to the covenant even when feelings don't support it. God doesn't owe you C just because you did A and B. The A plus B equals C equation with God will wreck you. His heart for you is good — even when life isn't. It's okay to be angry at God. Tell him. He already knows. And he meets us in our deepest, most honest emotions — not in the polished version. When you're newly divorced and entering a new relationship, proceed with caution. Get into your kids, get into your faith, and make sure your inside world is where it needs to be before you attach to someone new. Know your non-negotiables before you go further in any relationship — and have the hard conversations now, not after you say I do.   Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance & Business Boardroom: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Dad Edge Shop: https://thedadedge.com/shop Father Stephen Gadberry on The Sean Ryan Show — search on YouTube Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1462): https://thedadedge.com/1462   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: God redeems everything — even the stuff that feels like it's destroying you right now. Joe went through divorce as a believer, three times, watching his kids pay a price for his lack of wisdom. Larry stood in a bathroom watching his son be born still, looking up and asking why. And both of them are sitting here today telling you it gets better — not because life got easier, but because God's mercies are new every morning and all things really does mean all things. If you're in a dark season right now, don't go through it alone. Lean into the brothers around you and let them speak into your blind spots. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Demir Bentley — Wall Street analyst turned productivity coach, co-founder of Life Hack Method, author of Winning the Week, and dad of three daughters under six. This one goes deep on two things most dads desperately need: a better system for planning their week, and a real conversation about what it means to raise confident, loved daughters. Demir opens up about his time on Wall Street — 80 to 100 hour weeks, a hustle culture identity so baked in he didn't know who he was without it — and the health crisis that forced him to change everything. His digestive system began shutting down, he required three surgeries, and his doctors told him to cut his hours below 40 or face serious consequences. That pressure produced the Winning the Week method — a simple, three-pillar planning framework that helped him get the same work done in a fraction of the time. We break down exactly how to run a real planning session — a calendar interrogation, not a calendar review — and why your calendar is lying to you right now. We get into why planning on Friday instead of Sunday is a game changer, what open loops are doing to your brain on the weekend, and how sharing the mental load with your wife is one of the most important leadership moves a man can make at home. And then Demir drops one of the most memorable parenting concepts this show has ever heard: the idea of being the Keeper of Vibes — not just the lowest heartbeat in the room, but the painter of the energy canvas your family lives inside every day.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:02] Introducing Demir Bentley — Wall Street to lifestyle design, productivity coach, dad of three daughters [3:38] Freedom as a core value — and why Demir's shirt and hair are a statement, not an accident [5:00] Being a girl dad — and Larry's experience running a daddy daughter retreat with men who had never lit up like that before [8:33] Demir's slow start to fatherhood — and why a phone call from a friend before his first daughter was born may have saved him [10:44] What Winning the Week is — and where it came from [11:04] Wall Street, hustle culture, and the religion of outworking the competition [13:30] The health crisis that changed everything — salaryman sudden death syndrome, three surgeries, and a doctor telling him to cut his hours in half [14:36] Who am I if I'm not the guy who works 100 hours a week — the identity crisis behind the health crisis [20:22] How the Winning the Week method was born out of raw necessity [23:31] Pillar one — the calendar interrogation: your calendar is lying to you and here's how to catch it [26:47] Pillar two — real prioritizing: if there's no tear in your eye when you're cutting things, you're not cutting enough [27:27] Pillar three — the task list: stop hiding your commitments and start owning your time supply [28:53] Marrying the tasks to the calendar — the test fit that tells you if you have 10 pounds of priorities in a 5 pound bag [31:06] Start from the top down — your values first, then your calendar, then your priorities [31:28] The number one complaint wives have about their husbands — and how planning fixes it [33:06] Sharing the mental load and invisible labor — the new definition of leadership at home [36:35] Leading by example: how planning together on Friday beats planning together Sunday night [37:18] The team huddle — how Demir and his wife plan separately then align on a walk together [39:24] Why good planning still produces anxiety — and why meeting after the sigh changes everything [42:49] Why your brain won't let go of the weekend — open loops, unfinished sentences, and the science behind Sunday dread [44:35] Why planning on Friday instead of Sunday gives you your whole weekend back [46:39] Switching gears to daughters — what it really means to raise strong, confident girls [47:10] The Keeper of Vibes — Demir's most important role as a dad and the canvas he's painting every single day [49:47] Be the thermostat, not the thermometer — and what it means to hold the energy space for your whole family   Five Key Takeaways Your calendar is lying to you. Every meeting, every drive, every task takes longer than you think. A real planning session is a calendar interrogation — sweat every entry until it's honest. Real prioritizing hurts. If you're not cutting things that matter to you, you're not prioritizing — you're just rearranging. The hard tradeoffs are the whole point. Open loops kill your weekends. When you leave Friday without closing the week, your brain keeps the loop running — on date night, on the couch, in the middle of the night. Plan on Friday and actually rest. Sharing the mental load is modern leadership. Your wife shouldn't be the only one holding the calendar of family life. Taking full ownership of even one domain — sports, appointments, whatever — changes the entire dynamic at home. Be the Keeper of Vibes. You are not just the lowest heartbeat in the room. You are the painter of the energy canvas your family lives inside. What are you painting every day?   Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Dad Edge Business Boardroom: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind Winning the Week by Demir Bentley: https://winningtheweek.com Life Hack Method Website: https://lifehackmethod.com Life Hack Method Free Training: https://lifehackmethod.com Follow Demir on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehackmethod_/ Follow Demir on Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/demirandcarey/ Follow Demir on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/demirbentley/ Life Hack Method on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LifehackBootcamp Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1461): https://thedadedge.com/1461   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: you cannot lead what you don't plan, and you cannot be present for the people you love if your brain is still stuck in last week. Demir went from 100 hour weeks and a body that was shutting down to building a life centered on freedom, family, and intention. The method isn't complicated. The calendar interrogation, the real prioritization, the task fit — it's thirty minutes on a Friday that gives you your whole life back. And then there's the canvas. What energy are you painting into your home every single day? Because your kids and your wife are living inside that painting whether you're intentional about it or not. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Jon Fogel — pastor, dad of four, PhD candidate in developmental psychology, and bestselling author of Punishment Free Parenting. Jon is one of those rare guys who can make you laugh so hard you forget you're learning some of the most important parenting insights you've ever heard. We open with chaos — including the time his wife went into labor at Goodwill, insisted on finishing the bathroom tile and installing a toilet before going to the hospital, and the time Jon almost missed the birth of his fourth child because he stopped for Jimmy John's on the way back. But then it gets real. Jon breaks down why punishment doesn't work — not as a philosophy, but as brain science. When you punish a child, you activate the threat response system, which is the exact part of the brain that shuts off learning. We dig into what to do instead, the landmark Bobo doll experiment proving kids follow the behavior of the men in their lives above everyone else, and how rupture and repair actually builds stronger relationships than if you'd never messed up at all. Jon also walks us through Set My Feelings Free — his kids' book packed with emotional regulation games you can start using today to stop tantrums before they start.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission [1:02] Introducing Jon Fogel — pastor, author, PhD candidate, and Whole Parent [6:07] Why the parenting space desperately needs more men in it [14:02] Jon's family — and the birth stories that will make you lose it [26:12] Why Jon goes calm in a crisis but loses it over spilled milk [45:34] The core message of Punishment Free Parenting — brain science, not philosophy [49:12] Kids don't have the same negativity bias as adults — they want to see you in the best light [50:18] Your kids aren't trying to give you a hard time — they're having a hard time [51:07] Rupture and repair — why messing up and fixing it builds the strongest bonds [55:39] The dad buried in his phone is a bigger problem than the dad who sometimes loses his temper [57:42] The Still Face Experiment — and what a parent staring at a phone really communicates [1:00:37] The Bobo doll experiment — kids follow the men in their lives above everyone else [1:03:37] You don't have to fix your kids. Fix yourself. Your kids are fine. [1:09:08] Why punishment shuts off the brain's learning system — and what to do instead [1:17:16] Get Curious, Not Furious — the question every parent needs to ask [1:20:12] The Doctor House analogy — stop managing symptoms, find the underlying problem [1:24:05] Set My Feelings Free — emotional regulation games disguised as fun [1:29:34] Why you should never check under the bed for the monster   Five Key Takeaways Punishment activates the threat response system — the part of the brain that shuts off learning. Relationship and curiosity do the actual teaching. Your kids are almost never trying to give you a hard time. They're having a hard time and you're witnessing it. Get curious, not furious. The Bobo doll experiment proved it — kids follow the behavior of the men in their lives above everyone else. Fix yourself. Your kids are fine. Every time you mess up and genuinely repair it, the relationship gets stronger than it was before. Rupture and repair builds the deepest bonds. Kids solve problems through play. When screens replace play, they lose their primary tool for processing the hard stuff — and we're modeling that every time we reach for our phones.   Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates Join the Dad Edge Mastermind: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Punishment Free Parenting by Jon Fogel: Available wherever books are sold Set My Feelings Free by Jon Fogel: Available wherever books are sold Whole Parent Academy: https://wholeparentacademy.com Follow Jon on Instagram: @wholeparent Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1460): https://thedadedge.com/1460   Closing You cannot punish your kids into becoming who you want them to be — and you can't punish yourself into becoming the parent you want to be either. Get curious before you get furious. Repair when you rupture. Model what you want to see. And give your kids the tools to regulate themselves when the world gets hard — because you won't always be there, but the way you showed them how to handle it will be. Go out and live legendary.

In this solo episode, Larry gets straight to the point: the reason most men feel stuck isn't a lack of motivation — it's a lack of direction. Not the five-year-plan kind of direction, but the daily kind. What are you building in your marriage right now? What are you doing this week to move the needle? Because if you don't choose a direction, life will choose one for you — and it's usually the one that leaves you reactive, exhausted, and quietly frustrated. Larry shares what's coming up in the Dad Edge community in April, breaks down what the Alliance is really about in plain English, and makes the case for why this is the moment to stop consuming content and start executing. He also announces the first ever First Form Dad of the Month — a man in the Alliance who has been quietly doing the work, keeping his promises to himself, and leading from the front without making a big deal about it. This one is short, direct, and worth every minute.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:02] The real reason most men feel stuck — it's not motivation, it's direction [1:45] What happens when you don't choose a direction and life chooses one for you [2:01] What's coming up in the Dad Edge community — events, programs, and announcements [3:02] The Men's Forge event — what it is, who it's for, and why it's not a hype fest [4:44] Why being in a room with the right men changes everything [5:44] The April theme inside the Alliance — purpose, direction, and leadership for men [6:06] The real reason men fail — not laziness, but an unclear target [7:04] What the Alliance actually is in plain English — brotherhood, plans, execution, and no egos [7:58] What April inside the Alliance looks like — getting clear on what you actually want and building a weekly rhythm that makes winning normal [9:22] What men who show up and do the work actually experience — no longer feeling behind, making faster decisions, becoming more consistent at home [10:07] The Roommates to Soulmates preview call — April 1st at 7pm Central — who it's for and what to expect [11:43] Announcing the first ever First Form Dad of the Month — Jason Rowe — and why he earned it [13:05] First Form product spotlight — Magic Charms, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and Red Velvet Cake flavors [15:09] Closing message — the world is loud, drift is real, and today is the day to do one thing your future self will thank you for   Five Key Takeaways You're not stuck because you're lazy. You're stuck because your target is blurry. When direction gets fuzzy, discipline gets fuzzy right along with it. If you don't choose a direction on purpose, you'll drift toward whatever is loudest and most urgent — and you'll look up one day and realize you've been living the same week for five years. The Alliance is not a vent session. It's men telling the truth, getting tactical, and leaving every call with something they can actually execute. Winning becomes normal when you're focused. Consistency over time beats motivation every single time. Do one thing today that your future self will thank you for. That's it. That's the whole assignment.   Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Dad Edge Alliance & Business Boardroom: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind First Form Supplements: https://1stphorm.com/dadedge Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1459): https://thedadedge.com/1459   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: direction is a decision, and today is the day to make it. The world is loud. The fires are always burning. And it is incredibly easy to spend your whole life responding instead of building. But the men who are winning at home — in their marriages, with their kids, in their health — are not the ones who figured out some secret. They're the ones who got clear, got consistent, and chose the right room. Don't let April be another month on autopilot. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Matthew McConaughey — Oscar-winning actor, author of the bestselling memoir Greenlights, and a man who thinks about fatherhood, legacy, and what it means to truly live with the same intensity he brings to everything else. This is not a conversation about Hollywood. It's about what it means to be a man and a father who doesn't half-ass the most important things in his life. Matthew opens up about his own father — a larger-than-life man who taught him three rules that shaped everything: don't say can't, don't hate, and don't lie. We get into the stories behind each of those lessons, the "don't half-ass it" moment when Matthew told his dad he wanted film school instead of law school, and what it takes for a father to recognize that his son has made up his mind — not asking permission, but declaring a direction. We also talk about Camilla, taking his kids everywhere he goes on set, and why three older actors all told him the same thing: they chose work over family time and would do it differently if they could. Then there's the passage from Greenlights that stopped Larry mid-workout — about living your legacy now, and the idea that most of us don't fly too close to the sun. We don't fly nearly high enough. Our alarms go off too early. This one is timeless.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:02] Why this replay is one of the top ten episodes in Dad Edge history [2:18] What Matthew hoped would come from this conversation: waking men up to what being a dad really means [4:29] What brings Matthew joy: bringing people together and watching them build their own independent friendships [6:31] The role most relative to who he is as a husband and father — and why his family has always come with him on every job [8:52] Camilla's one condition before they started a family: "You go, we go" [11:02] Three older actors all said the same thing: they chose work over family, and they regret it [12:39] The 80% statistic: most of your one-on-one time with your kids is gone by the time they're 12 [14:00] Fatherhood is a verb — on screen time, saying no with love, and why the easy answer is almost always the wrong one [18:33] The birds and bees talk from his father: a lesson about respect for women that stuck word for word [20:34] Don't say can't — the lawnmower story and the lesson that there's always another way [21:57] Don't hate — saying "I hate you" at his own birthday party, and what happened next [22:28] Don't lie — the stolen pizza, four chances to tell the truth, and what Matthew actually remembers [24:10] "Don't half-ass it" — the film school conversation and what it means when a father hears conviction in his son's voice [28:04] His dad was alive for just five days into Matthew's first acting job — the first thing he committed to that wasn't a fad [30:55] How Matthew pursues Camilla in the middle of kids, career, and constant demands on his time [35:26] Why Matthew and Camilla go on dates every week — and what they tell the kids about why mom and dad go alone [35:43] The passage from Greenlights that stopped Larry in the gym: "Live my legacy now" [38:33] The inverted Icarus problem: most of us don't fly too close to the sun — our alarms go off way too early [41:59] The science in the rearview mirror — how everything connects, even the things that looked like mistakes [42:36] Ten years from now: what Matthew hopes to be celebrating with his family   Five Key Takeaways Fatherhood is a verb, not a label. It's not about helping make the baby — the work starts after. Teaching, shepherding, saying no, explaining why — that is the job. The three rules Matthew's father gave him — don't say can't, don't hate, don't lie — are not just household rules. They are the weapons a man needs to negotiate the world. When your child comes to you convicted — not asking permission, but declaring a direction — your job as a father is to recognize that and say "don't half-ass it." Most of us don't fly too close to the sun. Our alarms go off too early. We put a ceiling on our own potential before we've even started to soar. Your marriage needs intentional pursuit — even in the busiest seasons of parenting. It doesn't just hold itself.   Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey: https://a.co/d/017KxpPw Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1458): https://thedadedge.com/1458   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: stop waiting for the right moment to live your legacy — it's already happening right now. Matthew McConaughey's father gave him three rules, one five-second pause, and a standard he's been carrying ever since. Don't say can't. Don't hate. Don't lie. Don't half-ass it. The men whose kids will remember them the way Matthew remembers his dad are the ones who show up every day knowing that fatherhood is not a label you earn once. It's a verb you live out in a thousand small moments that add up to everything. If this episode hit you where it needed to, share it with a father who needs the reminder. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Joe Gatto — comedian, founding member of Impractical Jokers, author, and one of the most genuinely funny and surprisingly deep guys I've ever had on this show. Yes, we laugh. A lot. But what surprised me most about this conversation is how quickly it got real. Joe lost his dad to pancreatic cancer at 19 years old — and watching his father face death with grace, humor, and a smile on his face left an imprint on Joe that shaped everything: the man he became, the dad he is today, and even the comedy career that followed. We get into marriage and how humor can be the glue that holds a couple together through a tumultuous season — but also how humor can become a way to avoid the conversations that actually need to happen. Joe is honest that the last couple of years have been tough, and he talks about learning to know when it's time to stop laughing and start talking. And Joe's kids' book — Where Is Barry? — gets the full story: how his son Remo losing his stuffed animal one night turned into a beautifully illustrated book about calming down, thinking logically, and handling life's little chaos moments.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:01] Introducing Joe Gatto — Impractical Jokers, touring comedian, author, and a guy who's way more real than you'd expect [4:23] Growing up in Staten Island: big Italian family, big backyard, and a nerdy kid who quizzed his dad with encyclopedia multiple choice tests [5:40] How comedy shaped Joe's childhood — Home Improvement, Mel Brooks, Jim Carrey, and movie nights with dad [8:10] The relationship with his dad — and losing him to pancreatic cancer at just 19 years old [10:00] His dad's response to the diagnosis: "Get a fake ID, we're going to Vegas" [11:02] What it was like to be in the ambulance when his father passed — and the smile on his face at the very end [13:16] Larry's reflection: "You had more of a dad in 19 years than a lot of men have in a lifetime" [14:20] How Joe's dad shaped the comedian, the father, and the man he is today [15:02] Joe's new tour Let's Get Into It — tracing his journey from a geeky kid with no friends to who he is now [16:23] The iconic memory: dad comes home in a full suit, kids are in the pool — and he just jumps in [17:21] How Joe recreated that exact moment for his own kids without even planning it [18:36] What Joe's kids would say about him if you asked them without him in the room [19:37] His 9-year-old daughter who wants to be a DJ — and why Joe said yes without hesitation [20:06] His 7-year-old son who asks questions like "why is the middle finger bad?" — and how Joe handled it [24:08] The origin story of Impractical Jokers — day jobs, a bartender, a firefighter, and four friends doing comedy for fun [33:24] The important line: humor can hold you together, but there's a time to stop laughing and start talking [35:09] Where Is Barry? — the children's book inspired by his son Remo losing his stuffed animal [38:48] Joe's son's first reaction to the finished book: "Where's Milana? My sister should be in it too" [39:25] Why Joe believes teaching kids to cope with adversity is the number one job of a parent [41:22] Leading by example: how kids see everything, reflect everything, and learn how to handle life by watching you [42:06] Separating emotion from response — and catching things when they're little, not when they're boulders [42:43] Why Joe always apologizes to his kids — and why he never says "because I said so" [47:05] Joe's advice: surround yourself with people who make you better, and be the person who brings others up [48:19] On balance: it's impossible — just be where you are, and say yes to the five minutes that matter most   Five Key Takeaways The moments your kids will remember forever aren't the big planned ones — they're the split-second decisions to jump in the pool in a full suit. Be present for the small moments. Humor is a powerful connector in marriage and family — but it has to know its place. There's a time to laugh through things together and a time to put the jokes down and have the real conversation. Teaching your kids to cope with adversity is the single most important job you have as a parent. Not grades. Not manners. Coping — because you won't always be there, but their ability to handle life will be. Never say "because I said so." If you can't explain why you're making a decision, question whether you're making the right one. Kids deserve a reason, and giving one builds trust. Balance is a myth. You can't do everything equally all the time. But you can be fully where you are — and say yes to the five minutes your kid is asking for, because those five minutes will be the best part of their day.   Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Where Is Barry? by Joe Gatto — available on Amazon Follow Joe Gatto on Instagram: @joe_gatto Joe Gatto's website: https://www.joegattoofficial.com/ Episode Link & Resources (Episode 491): https://thedadedge.com/491   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: the moments that shape your kids forever are usually the ones you almost didn't take. Joe Gatto watched his dad jump into a pool in a full suit on a summer evening — a split-second decision that Joe still talks about decades later. And without even thinking about it, Joe recreated that same moment for his own kids when they called him away from work. Three minutes. Full clothes. Right in. That is the legacy. That is what your kids will tell their kids about. You don't have to be perfect. You don't have to have all the answers. You just have to show up, say yes when it counts, and teach them how to handle life when you're not around to help. If this episode made you laugh and think — which it will — share it with a dad who needs both today. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I'm joined by my co-host Uncle Joe for one of our live Q&A sessions — where real men from the Dad Edge Alliance bring their real questions, and we do our best to give them real, honest answers. This one covers a lot of ground. We open with a powerful question from Rich — a man who spent nearly 30 years as an agnostic, gave his life to Christ six months ago, and now wants to know how to lead his 11 kids toward faith without forcing it on them. Joe brings wisdom from his own walk, and I share a deeply personal story about going to church with my son Ethan — how one pastor's offhand comment cracked something open in me, and how an honest, vulnerable conversation in a car changed the entire trajectory of my relationship with my son around faith. The second question is one that hits close to home for a lot of men in this community: when things have been bad in your marriage for a long time and you finally start getting wins — how do you avoid going complacent? Joe and I both dig into this one from personal experience. Joe speaks to the PTSD that builds up inside a man after years of a hard marriage, how fear and insecurity can quietly self-sabotage the very progress you've worked so hard for, and why faith — not fear — has to lead. I talk about consistency, keeping the sword sharp, and why marriage is exactly like the gym. We close with a bonus coaching moment on communication — why "you make me feel" is a conversation grenade, and how to ask for clarity in a way that actually works.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:01] Welcome to the Q&A — live questions from real Dad Edge Alliance members [1:42] Reminder: Roommates to Soulmates Cohort preview call on April 1st at 7pm Central [2:50] Question 1 — Rich: I gave my life to Christ six months ago after 30 years as an agnostic. How do I lead my older kids toward faith without forcing it? [6:07] Joe's answer: You lead by example, walking it out in front of them — including when you fail and change course [8:33] Joe's story: his son Colin told his wife "the dad I have now is not the dad I had ten years ago" [9:21] The power of community in faith — why you cannot walk this walk alone [9:55] What Joe does every two weeks: a Zoom Bible study with his entire grown family [11:02] Your outside world is always a reflection of your inside world — get your inside right first [13:47] Larry's answer: his personal journey from cultural Catholic to full believer — and what changed in the last year [15:17] The situation with Larry's son Ethan — a controversial church, a girlfriend pushing conversion, and how Larry navigated it without muscling him [16:35] How Larry approached it: curiosity over control — asking questions instead of issuing warnings [17:14] Larry goes to church with Ethan and hears a pastor say: "I had a great dad — but I had to find God by myself" [19:12] The conviction that hit Larry on the way home: "I'm failing you just like his dad failed him" [21:33] The honest conversation in the car — and Ethan's response that Larry never expected [23:10] How Larry invited Ethan into a Bible study as a fellow learner, not a teacher — and what it has done for their relationship [25:22] Question 2 — Anonymous: When things have been bad for years and you finally start getting wins in your marriage, how do you avoid getting complacent? [25:56] Larry's answer: expect your wife to pull back at first — she's afraid to hope. Keep the sword sharp and never take your foot off the gas [28:01] Joe's answer: be mindful of the PTSD and insecurity that builds up inside a man after years of a hard marriage [29:21] How fear and insecurity can quietly self-sabotage the progress you've worked so hard for [30:16] Let faith lead, not fear — fear has never once led Joe somewhere he was glad he went [31:03] A real-time example: a man texting Joe that morning — his wife said she wants to stop counseling and he went into panic mode [32:26] How to get clarity instead of telling yourself a story [34:23] The right way to ask for clarity — why "you make me feel" is a grenade and what to say instead [36:31] Words have power. Be effective, not just right. [37:27] Bonus: never text your wife emotional content — everyone reads it through their own filter   Five Key Takeaways You lead your kids toward faith the same way you lead them in everything else — by living it in front of them, including letting them see you fail and change course. You don't have to be an expert to lead your kids spiritually. Invite them to learn alongside you. "Let's figure this out together" is more powerful than "let me teach you." Your outside world is always a reflection of your inside world. If you want things to change around you, start with what's happening inside you. When your marriage starts turning around, don't get complacent. Marriage is like the gym — you don't work chest for eight weeks and then wonder why it's gone. Consistency is everything. Stop telling yourself a story about what your wife meant. Get clarity. And when you do, don't say "you make me feel" — own your interpretation and ask with curiosity, not accusation.   Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1456): https://thedadedge.com/1456   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: the most powerful thing you can do for the people you love is get yourself right on the inside first. Whether it's leading your kids toward faith, rebuilding your marriage, or just showing up differently than you have before — it all starts with the man in the mirror. Not the version of you that has all the answers, but the version that's humble enough to say "I don't have it all figured out, but I'm willing to learn." That's the man your kids need. That's the man your wife needs. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a man who is in the middle of his own turning point. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Nikki Sixx — founder of Mötley Crüe, rock legend, bestselling author, and a man whose story goes so much deeper than anything that ever happened on a stage. This conversation is not about the music. It's about what happens when a boy grows up without his father, carries that wound through decades of addiction and chaos, and finally — through sobriety, therapy, forgiveness, and faith — becomes the kind of dad his own kids can always run to. Nikki opens up about growing up without his dad in the picture, how the story he was told about his father wasn't the full truth, and the slow and painful process of forgiving both his parents. He shares the defining therapy session where a frumpy office, a dusty couch, and one sentence from his therapist — "you don't have to love your mom" — cracked something open in him that changed everything. We talk about sobriety, and Nikki is direct: it always gets worse before it gets better. When you remove the substance, you have to face what's underneath. But if you can survive that first year, your whole life reorganizes. He's 20 years sober, and what he's built on the other side of that — as a husband, a father of five, a writer, and a creative — is nothing short of remarkable. And Larry's son Ethan jumps in with a question that leads to one of the most important moments of the episode: Nikki's warning to today's teenagers about the very real and deadly danger of fentanyl-laced drugs — from someone who has lived every version of this story.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:01] Introducing Nikki Sixx — founder of Mötley Crüe, author, and one of the most unexpected guests in Dad Edge history [2:28] Growing up on vinyl, discovering music, and the self-discovery of being a young man in a different era [5:13] Both Larry and Nikki share the experience of growing up without their fathers — and how it shaped them [6:00] Writing The First 21 — the story of Frankie Farina, his dad's name, and what Nikki discovered about his father that surprised him [7:15] How the absence of a father manifests differently in every man — and why Nikki's came out as anger in his late teens [10:36] Larry's own story: being reunited with his father at 30 and building a relationship over 16 years [13:30] Getting to maturity means facing reality — and what Nikki's kids get to see by watching their dad work through his own stuff [14:22] Being gone on tour while raising kids — the guilt of absence and the work of making amends [15:35] No gold records on the walls: how Nikki deliberately kept his celebrity out of the home to protect his kids [16:32] "Not wanting to be my dad made me a better dad — but forgiving my dad might make me an even better one" [17:16] At 62 with a two-year-old: what legacy do you want to leave, and how do you get there without carrying old baggage? [18:31] Put down the baggage — it's heavy, it's exhausting, and it's crushing the people who love you most [19:23] The therapy session that changed Nikki's life: a dusty office, beams of light, and "you don't have to love your mom" [21:19] Letting go of the victim story and reclaiming the good — his dad was creative, his mom was charismatic, and Nikki carries both [23:28] Creating a home where your kids can always call dad — no matter what, no matter when [24:19] How unforgiveness clouds your ability to love the people right in front of you [25:36] Why Nikki shares his story publicly — so someone else doesn't have to wait as long to have their moment [29:18] When your daughter says "dad, you seem so happy" — the moment you know it's working [30:11] Ethan tells Larry "I love my life" — and why that's the greatest thing a father can hear [31:04] Moving from LA to Wyoming: finding simplicity in nature, watching moose in the yard, and what wildlife teaches about family [37:24] 20 years of sobriety — and why Nikki says it is an absolute gift [37:43] The hard truth about getting sober: it always gets worse before it gets better, and most people quit too soon [41:28] Larry's 90-day sobriety challenge with 30 men — and what clarity feels like when you strip alcohol away [43:41] Why humans are the only animals that can completely change the shape of their mind and body — and what that means for how we live [45:21] Men's stag meetings, male support systems, and why Nikki found brotherhood in sobriety that he never had growing up [47:37] Ethan's question for Nikki: what advice would you give a teenager in this generation? [48:39] Nikki's urgent warning about fentanyl — the drugs today are not what they were, and they are killing healthy young athletes at parties [50:19] How Nikki got sober: losing every friend, throwing himself into health and fitness, and writing Doctor Feelgood   Five Key Takeaways The story you were told about your father may not be the full truth. Until you do the work to find out who he really was, you're carrying someone else's version of your own life. Unforgiveness doesn't hurt the person you're holding it against — it closes you off from the people right in front of you who love you and need you. Sobriety always gets worse before it gets better. When you remove the substance, you have to face what's underneath. That is the work — and it's worth it. The greatest thing you can build as a father is an environment where your kids feel safe enough to call you when things go wrong — not hide it from you. The drugs today are not what they were. Fentanyl doesn't care how healthy or young you are. This is not a conversation to put off with your kids.   Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com The First 21 by Nikki Sixx: Available on Amazon Follow Nikki Sixx on Instagram: @nikkisixxpixx Episode Link & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/343 Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: the baggage you're carrying is not just yours to bear — it's being felt by every person in your home. Nikki Sixx spent decades carrying wounds from a father who left and a mother who filled in the gaps with half-truths. And it wasn't until he put that baggage down — through sobriety, through therapy, through the hard work of forgiveness — that he could fully show up for his wife and his five kids. That is the work. It's not glamorous, it's not fast, and it doesn't happen all at once. But on the other side of it is a man his daughter looks at and says, "Dad, you seem so happy." That is the goal. If this episode hit close to home, share it with a man who needs to hear it. Because every man deserves to put the weight down. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with former NFL tight end Greg Olsen — a man who built one of the most decorated careers in professional football, but whose greatest story has nothing to do with what happened on the field. We talk about Greg's upbringing in an all-boys household led by a high school football coach father who pushed hard, loved harder, and never let his kids settle for less than their best. Those lessons — accountability, perseverance, and doing the hard things when no one's watching — are ones Greg still carries and now passes on to his own kids. We also get into the youth sports landscape today, the difference between a helicopter parent and what Greg calls a "Zamboni parent," and why letting your kids face real adversity early is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. Greg's philosophy is simple: you can teach skills, but you cannot coach desire. But the heart of this conversation is TJ. Greg opens up about the moment an ultrasound revealed that his son TJ had hypoplastic left heart syndrome — a condition where only one side of the heart is functional and is 100% fatal if left untreated. He walks us through what it was like to be a husband, a father to other kids at home, and a starting NFL player — all while his newborn son was recovering from open heart surgery. And how he and his wife Cara made a conscious decision every single day to stay aligned, take turns being strong for each other, and refuse to let the weight of the uncontrollable destroy what they had built together. This episode will challenge you, move you, and remind you that the measure of a man is not how he performs when everything is going well — it's how he leads when he has absolutely no control. Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:01] Why this replay hits differently the second time — and what makes Greg Olsen's story so powerful [2:44] Greg's upbringing: an all-boys household, a football coach dad, and a life built around sports and high expectations [7:29] Why Greg wouldn't trade his demanding childhood for anything — and the lessons he still carries today [8:46] When dad is also coach: the life lessons sports instilled in Greg that carried him to the NFL [9:27] The harder a coach pushes you, the more they believe in you — and why parents today have lost sight of this [11:39] The Zamboni parent: why over-protecting kids from adversity sets them up to fail in the real world [14:02] Finding the balance — building kids' confidence while still holding them to a real standard [23:43] How Greg coaches his own kids differently: effort is the only thing he'll call out from the sideline [26:24] The parents who don't show up to practice but have all the answers on game day — Greg's take [29:05] The moment everything changed: finding out at an ultrasound that TJ had a serious congenital heart defect [30:33] What hypoplastic left heart syndrome is — and why it's 100% fatal if left undetected [32:24] How Greg and his wife Cara made a conscious decision to stay aligned through the unthinkable [34:25] Wearing three hats at once: spouse, parent at home, parent at the hospital — and still performing on the field [36:19] The hardest part for a fixer: facing something you cannot work, solve, or control [37:17] Larry shares his own story of losing a son — and the helplessness every man feels when he can't protect his family [39:39] Greg's response: how he navigated grief, kept the family moving, and put his own needs last [41:59] Why you can't sit on the couch feeling sorry for yourself — even when no one would blame you [44:02] Larry's 14-year-old son's questions for Greg: what kept you focused at my age? [45:17] The moment at 14 that clicked — getting a scholarship offer from the University of Miami and realizing this could be bigger than high school [47:03] Long-term vision over short-term comfort: why every hard decision Greg made in high school was worth it [49:48] Why today's kids face more distraction than ever — and what Greg would tell them [50:04] The kind of friends that will make or break you — Greg's advice on who to surround yourself with [53:32] What Greg would tell his 14-year-old self: stop and smell the roses, because the hard stuff is coming [57:04] What Greg wants from every kid he coaches: great attitude, great teammate, and fiercely competitive Five Key Takeaways The harder a coach or parent pushes you, the more they believe in you. When they stop pushing, they've stopped seeing potential. Protecting your kids from every hard thing is not love — it's setting them up to fail. Let them face adversity early, while the stakes are still low. When crisis hits your family, the most important decision you can make is to stay aligned with your spouse. If you two fall apart, everything falls apart. Men are wired to fix things — but some of life's hardest seasons require you to simply show up, support, and surrender control. That's not weakness. That's leadership. You can teach skills, but you cannot coach desire. If your kid has a competitive fire and a great attitude, they will find their way — in sports and in life. Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com You Think Podcast with Greg Olsen: Available wherever you get your podcasts Follow Greg Olsen on Instagram: @gregolsen88 Episode Link & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1454   Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: a man's greatest test is not how he performs under the lights — it's how he leads when the outcome is completely out of his hands. Greg Olsen had every reason to fall apart. A newborn son fighting for his life. Two other kids at home. A wife who needed him. A season that wouldn't pause. And yet, he and Cara chose every single day to stay aligned, to keep moving, and to give their kids the most normal, love-filled life they could. That is the standard. That is what it means to lead a family. If this episode moved you, share it with a father who is carrying something heavy right now and needs to be reminded that he is not alone. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Tara and Tim Katzman — a real couple from our own Dad Edge community who were standing at the doorstep of divorce and chose to fight for their marriage instead. This is one of the most downloaded episodes in Dad Edge history, and when you hear their story, you'll understand why. Tim was a workaholic consumed by his business, available to clients around the clock while his wife and kids got whatever was left — which was almost nothing. Tara reached a breaking point where leaving felt like the only sane option. She was done. She told him daily she wanted a divorce. And yet something shifted. We dig into what that turning point actually looked like — the flatline-or-mad emotional state Tim was stuck in, the moment Tara came prepared for a fight and got ownership and an apology instead, and how Tim went from never setting a boundary with a client to shutting work off at 4pm and protecting his family time fiercely. Their 18-year-old daughter even noticed — calling out that "dad is out of his people-pleasing era." We also get into what it means to go from doing the right things to actually being a different man — and why that distinction matters more than any tactic or checklist. Tara describes going from keeping mental receipts and bracing for fallout every time she spoke, to fully melting into her husband. Tim describes going from avoiding his wife to not being able to spend enough time with her. If your marriage feels like a checklist, if you're disappearing into work, or if you've already heard the words "I'm not in love with you anymore" — this episode is proof that it is possible to turn it all the way around. Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:01] Why this episode is one of the most downloaded in Dad Edge history — and what makes it so real [1:47] Setting the scene: Tim the workaholic, Tara on the verge of walking out, and a marriage running on fumes [3:24] Switching Wednesday Q&As to real stories of wins from men and couples in the community [5:42] Tim and Tara introduce themselves — four kids, a pool business, and a 22-year relationship that started at 16 [7:32] Growing up in divorced households with no blueprint for what a healthy marriage looks like [10:18] The forced house move that made everything worse — and the moment Tara hit her absolute lowest [12:10] What the disconnection really looked like day to day: ships passing in the night, Tim treating family like a bother [13:50] When the kids started getting the same treatment — and why that was Tara's breaking point [17:34] The meditation exercise that shifted Tim's perspective and turned down the volume on work urgency [18:34] Setting boundaries with clients for the first time — and Tara having to tell him to stop ignoring people [19:40] Their 18-year-old daughter notices the change: "Dad's out of his people-pleasing era" [20:52] Tim's side of the story: feeling completely alone while sleeping one foot away from his wife every night [23:58] Tara's plan to leave — and the screaming match that became the turning point [27:47] Tara's honest reaction when Tim said a podcast was going to fix things: she laughed [29:50] The first signs of real change — Tim hearing her, owning his mistakes, and apologizing to the kids [31:33] The difference between covert contracts and genuine ownership — and which one Tim chose [35:42] Tara describes what it feels like to finally be safe enough to bring anything to him without bracing for fallout [37:06] How the relationship has completely transformed — travel, connection, and a bond Tara never believed was possible [39:26] Tim's perspective now: from avoiding conflict to not being able to get enough time with her [41:25] The moment Tara started "melting" — and what it means when a woman can finally drop her defenses [43:17] Masculine and feminine energy — why Tara stepping into her femininity changed the dynamic of everything [45:00] If you could go back and give yourself advice — what Tim and Tara would tell themselves 2-3 years ago [47:56] The difference between doing and being — when the work becomes who you are, not just what you do Five Key Takeaways Disconnection rarely looks like dramatic blowups — it looks like two people sharing a house but not a life, talking only about what has to get done. A real apology combined with real follow-through is more powerful than years of arguing. Ownership without excuses changes everything. When a man becomes the lowest heartbeat in the room — calm, present, and safe — his wife and kids will naturally move toward him. The work you do on yourself doesn't stay contained to one area. When Tim changed, it transformed their marriage, their kids, their business, and their friendship. There is a difference between doing the right things and being a different man. When it becomes your way of being, you stop having to try — it's just who you are. Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Dad Edge Business Boardroom: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1453): https://thedadedge.com/1453 Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: it is never too late to turn your marriage around — but you have to be willing to truly change, not just try harder. Tara and Tim were 18 years in, kids watching, divorce on the table daily, and they found their way back to something neither of them believed was even possible. Not because life got easier. Because Tim decided to become a different man. If this episode spoke to something you're carrying right now, don't wait. The longer you wait, the more distance builds. Share this with a man who needs to hear it. Because when a man leads well at home, everybody wins. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Terrence Ogden, founder of Official Project Grit — a man who transformed a life of addiction, jail time, and rock bottom into one of the most inspiring stories of resilience, grit, and faith you'll ever hear. We start with the Immortal 32 Ruck — a 75-mile road march from Gonzales, Texas to the Alamo, now in its seventh year, inspired by the 32 men who answered the call at the Alamo knowing it was a one-way ticket. But what makes Terrence's story so gripping is where he came from. Years as a severe heroin addict, cycling in and out of jail, until a mentor named Kenny Baker reached out a hand and changed everything. That spirit of one man helping another became the DNA of Project Grit. We also get into Terrence's most extraordinary feat: a solo, self-supported 1,046-mile ruck across the entire state of Texas — 40 days, no crew, with food caches buried in the desert weeks in advance. He shares what it taught him about faith, discipline, and a peace found not in the absence of chaos, but in the presence of God within it. We close with a powerful call to any man carrying something heavy in silence. Terrence's message is simple: we are tribal by nature, and you will never find your true purpose until you're willing to ask another man for help. Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to raise leaders of families and communities [1:01] Introducing Terrence Ogden — founder of Official Project Grit and one of the toughest non-veterans you'll ever meet [1:46] The Immortal 32 Ruck: a 75-mile road march from Gonzales to the Alamo held every year around Texas Independence Day [4:18] Terrence recaps the seventh annual event — 51 starters, 35 finishers, record-breaking heat in Texas [7:32] How Official Project Grit was born — and why it starts with Terrence's story of addiction and redemption [8:19] The mentor who changed everything: Kenny Baker, the man who pulled Terrence out of the gutter [10:32] The Soul Crusher: the defining moment at mile 40 that gave birth to Project Grit's true mission [13:25] Ad break — Roommates to Soulmates Cohort preview call [15:11] Rucking as an equalizer: how a knee injury transitioned Terrence from ultramarathons to rucking [20:28] The power of reaching out — Larry's personal story of texting a friend in a dark moment [23:06] Six years sober and on the edge: Terrence's most gripping near-relapse story and the friend who saved him [28:15] The battle cry — a message for any man who is lone-wolfing it right now [30:04] Discipline before confidence: Terrence's leadership philosophy and how he's raising his kids [32:49] The 1,046-mile Texas ruck: 40 days, solo, self-supported, food caches buried in the desert [39:10] Finding peace in the desert — and why peace isn't the absence of chaos but the presence of God [41:54] The spiritual parallels to 40 days in the desert — temptation, faith, and miraculous provision [48:07] What's next: the Gritty 50 event, a book, and an upcoming documentary [50:37] Final words for the man in the dark — why reaching out to a brother changes everything Five Key Takeaways You don't have to be born tough — grit is built through facing adversity head on, one hard decision at a time. Every man needs a "running buddy" — someone who will call you out, show up for you, and help you make the right decision when your own mind is working against you. Discipline comes before confidence. Motivation fades, but discipline gives you the structure and confidence to overcome whatever comes your way. We are tribal by nature. Lone-wolfing it is a trap — strength, purpose, and redemption are almost always found by letting another man in. Peace is not found in the absence of chaos — it's found in the presence of God within the chaos. Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Official Project Grit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialprojectgrit Official Project Grit Website: https://officialprojectgrit.com Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1452): https://thedadedge.com/1452 Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: no man was meant to carry his heaviest load alone. Terrence Ogden went from a heroin addict cycling in and out of jail to rucking 1,046 miles solo across the state of Texas — not because he was born tough, but because one man reached out a hand when he was at rock bottom. And Terrence paid that forward. Whether you're in a season of darkness right now, or you know someone who is — this episode is a reminder that the bravest thing a man can do is pick up the phone and say, "I need help." If this conversation moved you, share it with a man in your life who needs to hear it. Go out and live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Cocran, a young leader who is on a mission to help men in one of the most overlooked seasons of life—the years between 18 and 30. While many resources exist for married men, fathers, and established professionals, very few focus on young men who are still trying to find their footing in the world.   Dan shares the inspiration behind the Forging Your Future Young Men's Summit, an event designed to help young men build confidence, discover purpose, and develop the leadership skills they need to thrive in their careers, relationships, and communities.   We dive into the challenges young men face today—lack of mentorship, isolation, confusion around purpose, and the pressure to figure life out without guidance. Dan explains why community, mentorship, and intentional development are essential during this critical season of life.   We also talk about the responsibility fathers have to mentor the next generation—not just their own sons, but the young men around them. Because when men step up and invest in younger men, it doesn't just change one life—it changes families, communities, and future generations.   If you're raising sons, mentoring younger men, or simply want to understand the challenges facing the next generation of men, this conversation will open your eyes to why leadership and mentorship matter now more than ever.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction to the Dad Edge mission and the movement to create leaders of families and communities [1:02] Reflecting on the uncertainty many men experience in their early twenties [1:46] Why the years between 18 and 30 are often overlooked in male development [2:24] The importance of mentorship, guidance, and community for young men [2:45] Introducing Dan Cocran and the vision behind the Forging Your Future Young Men's Summit [3:21] Why there are few resources designed specifically for men ages 18–30 [3:56] The modern challenges young men face when trying to find direction and purpose [4:12] Why fathers should care deeply about the development of the next generation of men [4:27] Reflecting on how many men feel lost during their early adult years [4:43] Why mentorship and leadership development can dramatically change a young man's trajectory     Five Key Takeaways The years between 18 and 30 are one of the most critical stages of development for men. Many young men struggle today because they lack mentorship, direction, and supportive communities. Fathers and older men play a vital role in guiding and investing in the next generation. Community and accountability help young men build confidence and purpose. When men intentionally mentor younger men, they strengthen families and communities for generations.       Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates The Men's Forge: https://themensforge.com Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1449): https://thedadedge.com/1449     Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: young men need guidance now more than ever. The years between 18 and 30 can shape the trajectory of a man's entire life. When young men have mentors, community, and strong examples to follow, they don't just survive those years—they build the foundation for leadership, purpose, and impact. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a father, mentor, or young man who could benefit from this conversation. Because when men step up to guide the next generation, the ripple effects are felt for decades. Go out and live legendary.

In this Wednesday Q&A episode, Uncle Joe and I respond to a powerful question from a dad who's struggling with impulsive reactions, shutting down during conflict, and feeling like he can't get out of the same argument patterns with his wife. If you've ever caught yourself reacting instead of listening, or walking away from conversations feeling frustrated and disconnected, this episode will hit close to home.   We unpack the truth that two things can be true at the same time—both partners can be overwhelmed, both can be carrying heavy loads, and both can feel unseen. The key isn't competing over who has it harder; it's learning how to step out of the competition and into collaboration. We talk about how to create psychological safety during hard conversations, how to interrupt unhealthy patterns, and why curiosity is far more powerful than defensiveness.   Uncle Joe also shares a powerful perspective about what he calls the "rucksack principle"—taking an honest inventory of what you're carrying and being willing to sacrifice things that may be important to you but aren't serving the health of your marriage or family. If you're feeling overwhelmed, reactive, or stuck in recurring conflict, this episode offers practical tools and a new perspective on leadership at home.     Timeline Summary: [1:01] Wednesday Q&A kickoff with Uncle Joe and the Dad Edge community  [2:00] Listener question about impulsive reactions, yelling, and shutting down in marriage  [4:45] The powerful truth that two things can be true at the same time  [5:56] The "100-pound rucksack" analogy for overwhelm in marriage  [7:50] How to interrupt the conflict cycle with a new conversation approach  [10:00] Creating psychological safety by changing physical positioning in conversations  [13:20] Uncle Joe's perspective on inspecting your own "rucksack" first  [16:00] What real love looks like: patience, sacrifice, and humility  [21:30] The power of daily journaling and reflection to improve emotional awareness  [24:00] Why most men struggle with relationships because of a skill gap—not bad intentions      Five Key Takeaways Two things can be true at the same time—both partners can feel overwhelmed and still need support. Competing over who has it harder only deepens conflict in marriage. Psychological safety is created through curiosity, listening, and calm tone—not defensiveness. Great leadership in marriage starts by examining your own "rucksack" first. Most relationship struggles come from a skill gap—not a lack of love or commitment.   Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates Episode Shownotes: http://thedadedge.com/1450   Closing If you've been feeling reactive, overwhelmed, or stuck in the same conflict patterns at home, remember this: leadership in marriage starts with self-awareness.   Start by checking your own rucksack. Get curious instead of defensive. Create space for real conversations instead of competition.   If this episode resonated with you, make sure you rate, review, follow, and share it with another dad who needs to hear it.   Go out and live legendary.

What does it really look like to be a present father when life pulls you in a thousand different directions?   In this powerful conversation, I sit down with actor Jon Bernthal—known for roles in The Punisher, The Walking Dead, Ford v Ferrari, and The Wolf of Wall Street—but what you'll hear today isn't about Hollywood. It's about fatherhood, humility, responsibility, and the deep influence a father can have on a son's life.   Jon opens up about his childhood, the mistakes he made growing up, and the unwavering presence of a father who never gave up on him—even during the hardest seasons. We talk about the lessons Jon learned from those experiences and how they shaped the man, husband, and father he is today.   We also dive into what intentional fatherhood looks like in real life: owning your mistakes, being present with your kids, and leading by example. Jon shares how he balances the demands of acting with showing up for his family—sometimes flying across the country overnight just to coach his kid's game.   If you've ever struggled with being present, balancing work and family, or wondering what kind of legacy you're leaving as a dad—this episode will hit home.   Timeline Summary   [0:01] Why this powerful Jon Bernthal episode is being re-released and why the message still matters  [2:06] Jon Bernthal the actor vs. Jon Bernthal the husband and father  [5:18] The powerful lessons Jon learned from his father growing up  [18:35] Growing up reckless and how his father never gave up on him  [22:02] How mistakes and failures shaped the man he became  [33:12] Balancing a demanding career with being present for family  [36:45] Why intentional presence with your kids matters more than perfection  [37:08] The simple principle Jon lives by: "Be where you are while you're there."  [44:47] Why failure and mistakes are part of being a good father  [54:26] The power of a father who never gives up on his child      Five Key Takeaways Presence is one of the greatest gifts a father can give his kids. Failure is part of fatherhood—and it's often where the biggest growth happens. Kids learn responsibility when parents model humility and ownership. A father's belief in his child can change the trajectory of that child's life. The simple discipline of "being where you are while you're there" transforms relationships.     Links & Resources   Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1451): https://thedadedge.com/1451     Closing If there's one message from this episode that stands out, it's this: your presence matters more than your perfection.   Your kids don't need a flawless father. They need a father who shows up, owns his mistakes, and never stops believing in them.   If this episode resonated with you, make sure you rate, review, follow, and share it with another dad who needs to hear it.   Go out and live legendary.

What does it actually mean to pursue excellence without losing your peace, your family, or yourself in the process?   In this episode, I sit down with New York Times bestselling author Brad Stulberg to unpack the tension so many driven men feel: the desire to achieve at a high level while still living a meaningful and grounded life. Brad shares insights from his book The Way of Excellence and explains why humans are wired to strive — but not necessarily wired to feel content once we achieve.   We dive into the trap many high-performing men fall into: constantly chasing the next milestone, promotion, or accomplishment while never feeling satisfied. Brad also shares powerful insights for fathers on how to help their kids develop a healthy relationship with effort, competition, and self-worth. If you're a driven man who struggles to slow down and enjoy the journey — or you want to raise kids who value effort and character over outcomes — this conversation will challenge how you think about success.   Timeline Summary   [0:00] Introducing Brad Stulberg and the idea behind The Way of Excellence [2:29] Why humans are wired to strive but not wired for contentment [8:57] The trap of "heroic individualism" and chasing achievement [11:04] Why success alone often leaves people feeling empty [20:08] The mountain metaphor for achievement and fulfillment [26:04] The importance of pausing to appreciate the journey [29:00] Helping kids avoid tying self-worth to results [34:46] Why youth sports should focus on development over winning [41:01] Separating identity from performance [48:55] The real goal of youth sports: helping kids want to play again next year     Five Key Takeaways Humans are wired to strive, which means the next achievement rarely brings lasting satisfaction. True excellence is about pursuing something worthwhile that aligns with your values. Focusing only on outcomes causes us to miss the meaning of the journey. Kids need to learn that effort and growth matter more than results. Fulfillment comes from aligning ambition with presence, purpose, and values.   Links & Resources The Way of Excellence (Book): https://www.amazon.com/Way-Excellence-Greatness-Satisfaction-Chaotic/dp/0063385945 Roommates to Soulmates Preview: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates Episode Link & Resources (Episode 1448): https://thedadedge.com/1448   Closing If you're a driven man constantly chasing the next milestone, this episode is a reminder to pause and ask yourself an important question: What does excellence actually mean for my life?   Success without alignment will always feel empty. But when your ambition is grounded in values, presence, and purpose — that's where real fulfillment lives.   If this episode resonated with you, make sure you rate, review, follow, and share it with another dad who needs to hear it.   Go out and live legendary.

In this powerful Q&A episode, Uncle Joe and I tackle one of the most common — and emotionally charged — challenges men face: feeling disrespected by their wives and not knowing how to respond without escalating the situation. We unpack why reacting in anger never works, why most men were never taught conflict resolution skills, and how to move from emotional reactivity to grounded leadership.   Uncle Joe also shares his raw personal story — three failed marriages, a radical transformation in faith, and what it really means to earn respect instead of demanding it. If you've ever struggled with triggers, short fuses, or feeling misunderstood at home, this episode will give you both tactical tools and deeper perspective.     Timeline Summary [1:02] Reintroducing Uncle Joe and the story behind his name [4:11] Three failed marriages and the transformation that followed  [10:59] The marriage question: What do you do when you feel disrespected?  [15:52] Why most men were never taught conflict resolution  [18:23] Fighting for what you don't want vs. clearly stating what you do want  [19:58] Creating rules of engagement for healthy conflict  [22:13] Knowing your triggers and lengthening your fuse  [28:27] Respect is earned through leadership, not demanded  [31:57] Real peace isn't the absence of chaos — it's stability in the storm      Five Key Takeaways Most men were never taught healthy conflict resolution — it's a skill you must intentionally learn. When you argue for what you don't want, you create more confusion — clarity changes everything. Emotional triggers are rarely just about your spouse — they're often tied to your own story. Respect in marriage grows when you lead consistently and earn trust daily. Real peace is developed internally — not dependent on external calm.       Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates Cohort & Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates Episode Link & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1447   Closing   If you're struggling with triggers, short fuses, or feeling disrespected at home — don't ignore it and don't explode over it.   Learn the skill. Do the work. Lead first.   If this episode helped you, make sure you rate, review, follow, and share it with another dad who needs it.   Go out and live legendary.

If you want to understand what real brotherhood looks like — not surface-level friendships, not lone wolfing it, not "I've got this" energy — but true fellowship forged through shared hardship, this episode is for you.   Today I sit down with Frank Schwartz, aka Dark Helmet, President of F3 Nation. We dive deep into faith, fellowship, fitness, and what actually changes a man. Frank shares how going from 40 pounds overweight and spiritually empty to leading a global movement of men completely transformed his identity. We talk about sad clown syndrome, why success on paper doesn't equal fulfillment, why most men isolate when they're struggling, and how shared suffering builds trust faster than anything else.   If you've ever asked yourself, "Is this it?" — you're going to want to hear this one.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Introducing Frank Schwartz (Dark Helmet) and the mission of F3 Nation [12:06] The three Fs: Fitness, Fellowship, and Faith — and why they must build in that order [18:05] The Lone Wolf Lie and why men isolate when they're struggling [24:02] Growing up with impossible standards and how that shaped identity [28:56] Sad Clown Syndrome — winning on paper but empty inside [39:00] The pull-up moment that redefined what brotherhood really means [48:49] Do you have what it takes? The answer every man needs to hear     Five Key Takeaways Discipline starts physically — but real transformation is internal. Surface-level friendships will never sustain a man in crisis. Shared suffering accelerates trust faster than conversation alone. Success without brotherhood often leads to quiet emptiness. Every man asks "Do I have what it takes?" — and the answer is yes.     Links & Resources F3 Nation: https://f3nation.com Frank Schwartz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leadwithvirtue The Men's Forge Live Event: https://themensforge.com Episode Shownotes: http://thedadedge.com/1446       Closing     If you're tired of lone wolfing it… if you're successful on paper but feel disconnected… if you know there's more inside you but you haven't unlocked it yet — this episode is your invitation.   Get around strong men. Put yourself in the arena. Do hard things shoulder to shoulder.   If this episode resonated, make sure you rate, review, follow, and share it with another dad who needs to hear it.   Let's go live legendary.

In this solo episode, I share what's coming in March inside the Dad Edge Alliance, including a full breakdown of how we're helping dads move from authoritarian parenting to grounded leadership and collaboration. I also announce The Men's Forge live event, the next Roommates to Soulmates cohort, and highlight an incredible 1st Phorm transformation story from inside our community.   If you've been feeling the drift — in your parenting, your marriage, your energy, or your leadership — this episode is your reset.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Who this episode is for — dads stuck in power struggles or marriage drift [4:19] Why holding kids accountable feels harder than asking them to do something [5:51] Moving from authoritarian parenting to grounded leadership [7:06] Mastering regulation before correction [8:16] Building accountability without authoritarian energy [9:59] The Men's Forge live event announcement [13:22] Guest speaker lineup including G.S. Youngblood [15:03] F3 Nation President Frank "Dark Helmet" Schwarze joining the event [17:01] Dad Edge 1st Phorm Dad of the Month transformation [18:53] Roommates to Soulmates course update and preview call details     Five Key Takeaways: Authoritarian parenting creates compliance — but often erodes trust. Regulation before correction is a leadership skill every dad needs. Collaboration builds accountability far better than control. Intimacy fades when emotional leadership is missing at home. Transformation accelerates in community, not isolation.     Links & Resources Roommates to Soulmates: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates The Men's Forge Live Event: https://themensforge.com Micro Factor Pack: https://1stphorm.com/products/micro-factor/?a_aid=dadedge Phormula-1 + Ignition (Post Workout Stack): https://1stphorm.com/products/post-workout-stack/?a_aid=dadedge Collagen with Dermaval: https://1stphorm.com/products/collagen-with-dermaval/?a_aid=dadedge Protein Beef Sticks: https://1stphorm.com/products/protein-sticks?a_aid=dadedge&a_bid=970de3cd Episode Shownotes: http://thedadedge.com/1445     Closing Remark If you're tired of the battles at home, the roommate vibe in your marriage, or feeling worn down physically and emotionally — don't wait for crisis.   Take action.   Join us. Step in. Lead differently.   From my heart to yours — go out and live legendary.

In this powerful behind-the-scenes conversation, Marc and I sit down to unpack Eric's story — a successful entrepreneur, father of five, and longtime member of the Dad Edge Business Boardroom. Eric opens up about the strained season in his marriage, the subtle warning signs he ignored, and the moment his wife Katie made it clear that change needed to happen.   This episode is about more than marriage repair. It's about ownership. It's about learning skills most men were never taught — emotional validation, empathy, leadership at home — and realizing that waiting for crisis only makes the climb steeper. If you're a busy business owner who feels scattered, distracted, or "almost disconnected" at home, this conversation will hit close to home.       Timeline Summary: [0:00] The distraction trap of entrepreneurship and busyness  [4:48] Eric shares the difficult season in his marriage before joining  [7:18] The early warning signs and Katie's wake-up call  [9:06] Why waiting for crisis puts men into panic mode  [13:48] Learning emotional validation and empathy as new skills  [16:11] Skills vs. identity change — upgrading your operating system  [19:17] The public signs that Eric's marriage was turning around  [22:31] Why you must change first instead of waiting for your wife to  [26:47] Eric's biggest advice: find a community of strong men  [29:32] The power of psychological safety and brotherhood      Five Key Takeaways The drift from good to terrible is gradual — then sudden. Don't wait for the cliff. Panic is not the best place to rebuild a marriage. Address the rumblings early. Emotional validation and empathy are skills — not personality traits. Identity change happens through environment and repetition. If you want your marriage to change, you must change first.     Links & Resources: Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/preview Dad Edge Business Boardroom (Mastermind): https://thedadedge.com/mastermind Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1444     Closing Remark: If you're feeling that quiet tension at home — the subtle disconnect, the busyness, the emotional distance — don't wait for an ultimatum to force your hand.   You don't have to do this alone.   If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Every share helps us reach more men who are ready to lead at home the way they lead in business.   From my heart to yours — go out and live legendary.

Do you ever feel like there's a relentless critic living inside your head?   The one that questions your worth, second-guesses your decisions, and tells you that you're not enough — as a husband, father, or leader?   In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, I sit down with Ashleigh Di Lello, founder of Bio Emotional Healing, to unpack the neuroscience behind the inner critic, self-sabotage, chronic stress, and identity. Ashleigh shares her extraordinary story — from being told at 13 she wouldn't survive a rare viral illness, to rebuilding her body and career as an elite dancer, to losing everything again after a failed surgery left her in chronic pain. What she discovered about the brain, the nervous system, and self-compassion doesn't just apply to injury — it applies to every man stuck in anxiety, pressure, and silent self-judgment.   This isn't about positive thinking. It's about understanding how your nervous system works, how identity is formed, and how to rewire the patterns that keep you reactive, disconnected, and exhausted. If you're tired of white-knuckling life and ready for real tools grounded in neuroscience, this episode is for you.     Timeline Summary [0:00] The inner critic most men silently battle [2:05] Ashleigh's diagnosis at 13 and being told she wouldn't survive [18:45] Using mental rehearsal to rebuild neural pathways [26:43] Losing her career after a failed surgery [30:45] Studying neuroscience to "flip the pain switch" [35:12] What harsh self-criticism does to the brain [44:16] The five-minute "container" exercise [59:06] Rewriting identity through intentional self-talk     Five Key Takeaways Harsh self-criticism activates fight-or-flight and blocks growth. Self-compassion is neurological safety — not weakness. Your brain validates whatever identity you reinforce. You can't lie to your brain, but you can guide it. What you suppress gains power — structured processing creates freedom.   Links & Resources: Ashleigh Di Lello Website: https://www.ashleighdilello.com Follow Ashleigh on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleighdilello/ Collagen (1st Phorm – what I personally use): https://1stphorm.com/products/collagen-with-dermaval/?a_aid=dadedge Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/preview Dad Edge Business Boardroom (Mastermind): https://thedadedge.com/mastermind Episode Shownotes: http://thedadedge.com/1443     Closing Remark If this episode hit home — if you recognized that voice in your head — I challenge you to try the five-minute container exercise this week. Lead yourself with steadiness. Lead your family with clarity.   If you found value in today's conversation, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Every share helps us impact more fathers, families, and future generations.   From my heart to yours — go out and live legendary.

In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Dr. Ross Greene, clinical psychologist and creator of the Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS) model, to unpack why traditional rewards and punishments often make behavior worse — not better. We dive deep into why "because I said so" stops working, what your child's frustration is actually communicating, and how to shift from authoritarian control to collaborative leadership that builds trust, accountability, and critical thinking.   If you've ever thought, "Why is this not working anymore?" this episode will give you a radically different lens — and practical tools you can use immediately.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Why power struggles are so common in parenting [2:00] Introducing Dr. Ross Greene and the CPS model  [6:17] Why rewards and punishments don't solve the real problem  [8:33] Concerning behavior as a frustration response  [12:04] The 3-step collaborative problem-solving process explained  [16:19] Real-life example: solving teeth brushing battles with a 3-year-old  [30:56] Curfew conflict and how to navigate teenage resistance  [37:16] How collaborative parenting builds critical thinking  [41:56] Why authoritarian parenting may cause long-term harm  [47:06] Developmental variability — why every child is different  [49:23] Why noncompliance is informative, not defiance  [56:31] Accountability through collaboration — not punishment      Five Key Takeaways Concerning behavior is a signal, not a character flaw. It communicates an unsolved problem.  Rewards and punishments modify behavior — they don't solve the underlying issue.  The 3-step CPS process (Empathy, Define Adult Concern, Invitation) reduces conflict and builds trust.  Noncompliance is information. It tells you an expectation may exceed your child's current skill set.  Collaborative leadership builds accountability, emotional regulation, and critical thinking.      Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: http://thedadedge.com/preview Dad Edge Business Boardroom (Mastermind): https://thedadedge.com/mastermind Dr. Ross Greene — Lives in the Balance (Free Resources): https://livesinthebalance.org Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1442   Closing Remark   If this episode challenged how you think about discipline, accountability, and leadership at home, don't just sit on it — put it into practice. Try the empathy step tonight. Lead with curiosity. Solve one unsolved problem.   If this conversation impacted you, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. The way we parent today shapes the leaders of tomorrow.   From my heart to yours — go out and live legendary.

In this powerful behind-the-scenes conversation, I sit down with Marc Hildebrand — former LAPD sergeant turned high-performance coach — to unpack what men are actually thinking before they decide to step into brotherhood. We break down the hidden anxiety, ego, embarrassment, and "mind talk" that keeps men isolated, stuck, and spinning in quiet defeat.   You'll hear raw audio from one of our members, Tim Cox, as he shares what life looked like before he joined — the mental spiral, the weight gain, the doctor's warning, the loneliness, and the breakthrough that changed everything. This episode isn't just about business or health. It's about identity. It's about the stories we tell ourselves. And it's about the moment a man decides he's no longer doing life alone.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Why men feel defeated before they ever ask for help [3:37] Marc Hildebrand's transformation from overweight LAPD sergeant to coach [9:20] Tim's confession: anxiety, mind talk, and feeling like a fraud [11:01] The danger of "should" statements and internal pressure [17:22] Ego, embarrassment, and the fear of being seen [24:58] The doctor's ultimatum: insulin or change [27:01] Dopamine, food, and emotional coping [30:52] Rock bottom isn't a place — it's a decision [34:22] Why you shouldn't wait until crisis hits [37:54] "You're not alone" — the most powerful realization [41:03] The myth of the lone wolf [44:21] Inside Base Camp: the first 6 weeks of transformation [46:19] The BRAVE Man Code framework explained [49:57] Thinking differently and leveling up identity [53:39] Why Larry left a lucrative corporate career to build The Dad Edge     Five Key Takeaways Rock bottom is not a location — it's a decision to stop going lower. Ego often disguises itself as embarrassment and self-protection. Isolation amplifies anxiety — brotherhood dissolves it. Health transformation starts with identity, not tactics. You don't have to wait for crisis to change direction.     Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: http://thedadedge.com/preview Dad Edge Business Boardroom (Mastermind): https://thedadedge.com/mastermind Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com     Closing Remark If you've been telling yourself you'll change when it "gets bad enough," this is your sign not to wait. You're not alone — and you don't have to figure this out by yourself.   If this episode hit home, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Let's change the trajectory of fathers, families, and future generations.   From my heart to yours — go out and live legendary.

In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Mat Lewczenko — entrepreneur, coach, and author of The Entrepreneur's Regret — to unpack what it feels like to be winning on paper while quietly losing at home. Mat shares his story of growing up as a Polish political refugee, building success through grit and discipline, and eventually finding himself at the top of his professional game… but emotionally empty, disconnected, and on the verge of self-sabotage.   We talk about the silent epidemic facing high-performing entrepreneurs — entrepreneurial drift — and what it takes to reclaim your nights, weekends, relationships, and sanity. This episode is a wake-up call for any man chasing more while feeling less.     Timeline Summary [0:00] The concept of "Rock Top" — succeeding outwardly while unraveling inwardly [1:41] Mat's family escaping Poland as political refugees before martial law [3:02] Growing up in an immigrant household built on pride, discipline, and ownership [10:10] Early lessons on earning what you want and respecting what you own [17:47] The tension between giving kids a better life without raising them soft [24:58] Mat's pivot from theater professor to real estate entrepreneur [30:29] The breaking point — winning at work while losing at home [31:31] The porch conversation where his wife said, "You don't get to do this" [35:29] Realizing he couldn't even name his core values [36:33] The North Star Values process and regaining alignment [40:52] The three pillars — Leadership, Love, and Life [41:30] Why being "all in" where you are eliminates guilt and fragmentation [45:28] The danger of climbing the wrong mountain [47:06] Why you must go back through the clouds to choose a new summit [54:28] Small hinges swing big doors — 15 intentional minutes a day [58:32] Presence over presents — how to win back connection at home     Five Key Takeaways Rock Top is real — you can be crushing it professionally while quietly collapsing personally. Clarity of core values simplifies decision-making and eliminates internal friction. Entrepreneurial drift happens gradually, then suddenly — awareness must come before crisis. Being fully present where you are removes guilt and fragmentation. Small, consistent intentional actions create massive relational change.     Links & Resources The Dad Edge Business Boardroom: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind Mat Lewczenko on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mat-lewczenko/ Mat Lewczenko on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mat.lewczenko/?hl=en Mat's Podcast (Buzzsprout): https://www.buzzsprout.com/1956169/episodes Mat Lewczenko — Additional Resource: https://ifgrxppecbxjqjkoyvl7.app.clientclub.net/courses/offers/82985e7c-be3c-41c2-b004-8e703e688431?fbclid=IwRlRTSAP-xitleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe9kqpb3eiIFwdvocjWzIhjjxamujPzRooAIcu6RVT7W6_R-3B3c7XJyb5y5Q_aem_pxafoSiJqIhIG7u_vMzVeQ Mat's Book – https://a.co/d/02QOVPcr Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1440     Closing Remark   If you're climbing fast but feeling empty at the top, this episode is your invitation to reassess the mountain you're on. You don't have to lose your family to win in business. If this conversation hit home, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Let's build success that we don't regret.   From my heart to yours — go out and live legendary.

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, I sit down with Thomas "TJ" Baird — a 32-year Army veteran with 20 deployments — to talk about the real battle that followed the battlefield. TJ shares what it was like growing up with a father who was frequently deployed, only to find himself repeating that same pattern with his own daughter.   But this isn't just a military story — it's a fatherhood story. It's about PTSD, pride, brotherhood, humility, and the moment a man decides he's done living in the dark. TJ opens up about the night he realized he needed help, the ultimatum that changed everything, and the internal war between staying stuck and choosing the path toward peace. If you've ever struggled in silence or felt the weight of your past shaping your present, this episode will hit home.     Timeline Summary [0:00] The image that defines the episode — destruction on one side, sunrise on the other [2:10] 32 years of service and 20 deployments across the globe [9:20] Realizing he was becoming the father he once resented [24:17] His daughter telling him at age six, "Dad, you're too scary" [26:28] Writing Warrior Dad as a tribute to his daughter [35:07] The battlefield moment — seeing war to the west and sunlight to the east [42:12] Why most men stay stuck instead of choosing growth [47:38] The turning point — giving himself permission to get help [50:40] Walking into behavioral health as a senior enlisted leader [52:06] Leading by example so younger soldiers wouldn't suffer in silence     Five Key Takeaways You can unknowingly repeat the very patterns you once resented. There is always a path toward peace — but you have to choose it. Growth requires surrendering ego and asking for help. Brotherhood and accountability accelerate healing. Your family is waiting at the finish line — not your career.     Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call (RSVP): http://thedadedge.com/preview Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1439     Closing Remark If this conversation resonated with you — if you've been carrying something heavy in silence — let this be your sign to step toward the light. You don't have to do it alone. Please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast if this episode impacted you. From my heart to yours, go out and live legendary.

In this Q&A episode, Uncle Joe and I dive into one of the most common—and misunderstood—struggles in marriage: emotional connection. We respond to a powerful question from Alex, a husband who genuinely wants to show up better for his wife but feels stuck, unsure how to respond to her emotions, and frustrated that his efforts don't seem to land.   This conversation breaks down why men default to "fix-it mode," why that instinct actually creates disconnection, and how emotional safety—not solutions—is what most women are truly seeking. We unpack practical, real-world skills for listening, validating, and reconnecting with your wife, especially after years of habit and complacency. If your wife has ever said, "I don't feel connected to you," this episode will give you clarity, direction, and a better way forward.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction [1:02] Opening conversation about Valentine's Day and intentional connection [2:55] Alex's question about building emotional connection with his wife [4:10] Hearing hard feedback: "I don't feel connected or loved" [5:14] How long-term habits quietly shape marriage dynamics [6:03] Why men feel uncomfortable with big emotions [7:12] The difference between fixing problems and creating connection [8:10] Why women share emotions—to feel seen, not saved [9:00] Transactional conversations vs. emotional safety [10:14] Joe explains why feedback is actually a gift [10:59] Pebbles vs. boulders and minimizing your wife's feelings [11:56] Why "it's not a big deal" damages trust [12:17] Understanding how your wife feels loved [13:19] Acts of service and practical ways to reduce her stress [14:11] Real-life example of how small actions rebuild connection [15:19] Curiosity as the foundation of emotional intimacy [16:46] Leading with humility and listening through awkward silence [17:31] Treating your wife like you did when you first dated [19:02] Complacency as the silent killer of attraction [20:13] Why long-term relationships require intentional effort [21:09] Being challenged as an act of love [22:11] Brotherhood, faith, and the mission of the Dad Edge Alliance [23:08] Invitation to the Dad Edge Alliance preview call [23:47] Closing encouragement and next steps     Five Key Takeaways Emotional connection is built through presence, not problem-solving. Fixing minimizes feelings—listening creates safety. What feels small to you may feel huge to your wife. Curiosity and humility rebuild intimacy faster than tactics. Treating your wife like you did in the beginning keeps the relationship alive.     Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call (RSVP): http://thedadedge.com/preview Dad Edge Alliance (Marriage, Parenting, Health, Leadership): https://thedadedge.com/alliance Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1438     Closing Remark If this episode gave you language or perspective you didn't have before, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Emotional connection isn't about being perfect—it's about being present, curious, and consistent. From my heart to yours, go out and live legendary.

Some men are shaped by comfort. Others are forged in chaos. In this episode, I sit down with Kelly Siegel, founder of the Harder Than Life movement, to unpack what it actually takes to break generational cycles, rebuild trust with yourself, and lead your family with discipline and integrity—no matter where you came from.   Kelly shares his raw story of growing up in extreme abuse, addiction, and instability, and how sobriety, radical self-discipline, and daily non-negotiable routines completely transformed his life. We talk about nervous system healing, trusting yourself again, enforcing boundaries instead of talking about them, and what it looks like to be the father you never had. This conversation is intense, honest, and deeply hopeful for any man who refuses to let his past dictate his future.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Why excuses keep men stuck and how discipline breaks the cycle [1:39] Introducing Kelly Siegel and the Harder Than Life movement [2:22] Growing up in extreme chaos, abuse, and addiction [2:50] Turning trauma into fuel instead of identity [5:21] Seven years of sobriety and the decision that changed everything [7:31] Handling judgment, criticism, and online hate without losing integrity [8:55] Keeping your word to yourself when no one is watching [10:10] Childhood abuse and how it dysregulates the nervous system [12:03] Why sobriety unlocked clarity, discipline, and purpose [14:48] Cutting off toxic family relationships to protect healing [18:52] Forgiveness as freedom—not reconciliation [19:48] EMDR, hypnotherapy, and deep therapeutic work [22:03] Kelly's exact daily routine and why structure creates safety [24:26] Learning to love yourself when you never experienced it growing up [26:04] Cooking breakfast daily and building connection with his daughter [27:53] Asking better questions to deepen parent-child connection [29:38] Trusting yourself as the foundation of confidence [33:04] Boundaries vs. standards—and the power of enforcement [35:36] Why hard challenges build unshakeable self-trust [40:33] Breaking generational cycles and raising a confident daughter [45:44] Finding the gifts inside even the most painful childhoods [50:31] Why you don't owe access to people who hurt you [54:03] Strong fathers as the solution to cultural chaos [57:29] Healing yourself to heal the world     Five Key Takeaways Discipline creates freedom, especially for men who grew up in chaos.  Trust is built by keeping promises to yourself, not by motivation or hype.  Boundaries only work when they're enforced, not just talked about.  Healing your nervous system changes how you lead, parent, and love.  You can break generational cycles, even if no one modeled it for you.      Links & Resources Kelly Siegel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly.siegel.71/ Kelly Siegel on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialkellysiegel Kelly Siegel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-siegel-0146a3/ Harder Than Life Podcast: https://www.harderthanlife.com/podcasts/ Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1437     Closing Remark   If this episode challenged you to stop making excuses and start keeping promises to yourself, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Your past does not define you—but your daily discipline will. From my heart to yours, go out and live legendary.

Most men and women enter marriage wildly untrained—and then wonder why connection, intimacy, and trust slowly erode over time. In this powerful and deeply thought-provoking conversation, I sit down with January Donovan, founder of the Woman School and Wholeness Coaching School, to explore why information alone will never change a marriage—and why training is the missing ingredient for lasting connection.   January shares her personal story of trauma, mentorship, and formation, and explains how emotional command, discipline, tonality, and boundaries shape the way men and women show up in relationships. We talk about why modern culture resists discipline, how "freedom" without formation leads to loneliness, and why both men and women must train intentionally if they want marriages that actually get better over time. This episode will challenge the way you think about growth, leadership, and what it really means to live fully alive.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Why most people feel unprepared for marriage and parenting [2:06] Introducing January Donovan and her work training women globally [3:02] Why information alone never leads to real change [4:10] January's origin story and the wounds that led her to this work [6:12] The power of mentorship and intentional formation [8:33] Growing up with deep insecurity and identity wounds [10:17] Unprocessed trauma, abortion, and living in quiet desperation [11:52] How disciplined training reshaped January's life [13:18] Why women resist the word "discipline" [14:50] Formation vs. freedom and the danger of untrained choice [16:07] Emotional command and generational anxiety [17:37] Why marriage requires the same training as any profession [19:35] Decision-making, tonality, and communication gaps [21:12] Why motherhood feels overwhelming without training [22:02] Studying your spouse as a form of love [23:12] Larry reflects on minimal marriage prep vs. decades of marriage [25:10] Why people resist investing in growth [27:06] Distraction, shallow desires, and information overload [28:35] Re-educating sexuality and restoring healthy masculinity and femininity [32:30] Dad Edge Alliance preview call invitation [36:14] Why training together is the future for men and women [40:18] Micro-skills that shape daily life and marriage [43:07] Tonality and how women can build or break men emotionally [47:02] Proactivity, masculinity, and relational safety [49:25] Gossip, integrity, and protecting your spouse's reputation [53:20] Excellence, interior freedom, and choosing your highest good [59:02] Casting a long-term vision for marriage and legacy     Five Key Takeaways Marriage doesn't fail because people don't care—it fails because they were never trained. Information without formation leads to frustration, not transformation. Discipline and emotional command create freedom, not restriction. Tonality, presence, and self-regulation shape attraction and safety in marriage. Men and women must train together if they want relationships that thrive long-term.     Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/preview January Donovan Website: https://januarydonovan.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/january.donovan_/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JanuaryDonovan Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1436     Closing Remark If this episode challenged how you think about marriage, growth, or leadership, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Beautiful lives don't happen by accident—they're trained for. From my heart to yours, go out and live legendary.

In this live Q&A episode, Uncle Joe and I tackle some of the heaviest—and most common—situations men face inside marriage: supporting a wife through serious mental health challenges, staying grounded when divorce is still on the table, and learning how to lead with consistency instead of panic.   We respond to real questions from men inside the Dad Edge Alliance who are walking through postpartum depression, PMDD, emotional volatility, and marital uncertainty. This conversation is about becoming an advocate instead of a victim, choosing consistency over crisis-mode behavior, and learning how to lead yourself well—regardless of whether your marriage outcome is guaranteed. If you're in a season where hope feels thin and the work feels exhausting, this episode will remind you what leadership actually looks like when things are hard.     Timeline Summary [000] Opening reflections on fatherhood, sleepless nights, and perspective [3:18] Setting expectations for live Q&A and imperfect conversations [4:41] Corey's question: supporting a wife with postpartum depression and PMDD [6:19] Understanding PMDD as a hormonal sensitivity disorder [8:33] Why mood shifts are not character flaws or choices [9:58] Becoming an advocate instead of minimizing mental health struggles [11:05] Practical leadership: nutrition, structure, and reducing stress [12:25] Why a man's emotional and spiritual health matters most in crisis [13:10] Research on spiritual disciplines and emotional regulation [14:11] Becoming a "merchant of hope" in your household [15:00] Why men must take care of their inner world first [16:02] Corey shares his early experience inside the Dad Edge Alliance [17:02] Playing the long game and resisting discouragement [18:07] Using brotherhood instead of isolation [18:48] Announcement: Dad Edge Alliance preview call [20:15] Where to find episode resources and symptom notes [21:05] Second question: staying consistent while divorce is still mentioned [24:56] Identifying behaviors that contributed to marital breakdown [26:04] Why wives wait to see if change is real [27:16] Consistency as a non-negotiable value [28:46] Doing the work regardless of outcome [31:01] Why self-led change benefits you no matter what [32:24] Showing up as a grounded, playful, present father [33:37] Why it often gets worse before it gets better     Five Key Takeaways Mental health struggles are not character flaws, and leadership starts with education and empathy. Consistency builds trust, especially when a spouse is waiting for the "other shoe to drop." Men must do the work for themselves first, not as a strategy to save a marriage. Hope is contagious, but only if the man leading the home is grounded and regulated. Brotherhood prevents isolation, especially when marriage feels uncertain.   Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call (RSVP): https://thedadedge.com/preview Dad Edge Alliance (Marriage, Parenting, Health, Leadership): https://thedadedge.com/alliance All Episode Notes & Symptom Resources (Google Doc): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_4GeLtmhvbZg-ZzKvBWQyz5aneCcHCYOYfD-r0uzNnE/edit?usp=sharing Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1435     Closing Remark If you're walking through a season where leadership feels heavy and outcomes feel uncertain, remember this: your consistency, integrity, and growth still matter. Thank you for being men who show up, ask hard questions, and refuse to drift. From my heart to yours—keep going, and live legendary.

If you feel inflamed, exhausted, stuck in recovery mode, or like your body just doesn't bounce back the way it used to, this episode is for you. In this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Adam Boender, chiropractor-turned-peptide educator, to unpack how men can reclaim their health, energy, and recovery—without shortcuts or hype.   Dr. Adam shares how peptides actually work at the cellular level, why most men don't have a deficiency problem but a communication problem inside their bodies, and how strategic tools like peptides, nutrition, and movement work best when paired with discipline and intention. We go deep on recovery peptides, fat loss versus weight loss, GLP-1 medications, food quality, inflammation, and why no supplement or peptide replaces doing the hard work. This episode is a masterclass in health, responsibility, and long-term performance for men who want their bodies—and lives—back.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Why this episode is for men who feel inflamed, tired, and stuck [1:41] How Larry and Dr. Adam connected after a serious knee injury [2:38] Recovering from a ruptured patellar tendon and the urgency to heal [3:03] Dr. Adam's background as a chiropractor turned peptide educator [3:27] Teaching clinicians how to use peptides safely and effectively [4:08] Why peptides are still misunderstood by most men [6:20] From one-on-one practice to helping clinicians impact thousands [8:38] Family illness and the catalyst for Dr. Adam's career shift [10:16] Why "one-to-many" impact matters in healthcare [11:15] How peptides supported Larry's accelerated recovery [12:23] Getting off crutches and braces weeks ahead of schedule [13:33] Why peptides work best when paired with discipline and rehab [16:12] What peptides actually are and how cellular communication works [18:20] Epitalon: the "reset peptide" for sleep, recovery, and longevity [20:37] BPC-157 as the "multivitamin" of peptides [22:10] Gut health, inflammation, and joint recovery explained [24:17] How BPC-157 increases blood flow and healing in joints [26:13] Recovery break and nutrition fundamentals [28:04] Why BPC-157 and TB-500 are often paired together [29:16] TB-500 and stem cell signaling for tissue repair [31:09] Copper peptide for collagen, joints, and longevity [35:09] Injectable vs. oral peptide absorption [36:21] GLP-1 medications explained simply [38:12] Fat loss vs. weight loss and why protein intake matters [41:03] Why muscle preservation is critical during fat loss [43:03] Genetics, obesity, and the myth of "bad genes" [48:36] Peptides as tools—not magic bullets [50:54] Defining true health as the ability to heal [53:05] Why processed food is breaking our bodies [55:07] Eating real food as the foundation of health [57:32] Fueling your body like a high-performance machine     Five Key Takeaways: Peptides improve cellular communication, but they don't replace discipline, movement, or nutrition.  Inflammation and poor recovery are often communication problems, not deficiencies.  Fat loss is not the same as weight loss, and preserving muscle must be the priority.  Genetics load the gun, but lifestyle pulls the trigger, especially with health outcomes.  True health is the body's ability to heal, not just the absence of disease.      Links & Resources MicroFactor Pack: https://1stphorm.com/products/micro-factor/?a_aid=dadedge Opti-Greens 50: https://1stphorm.com/products/opti-greens-50/?a_aid=dadedge Post-Workout Stack: https://1stphorm.com/products/postworkout-stack?a_aid=dadedge Collagen with Dermaval: https://1stphorm.com/products/collagen-with-dermaval/?a_aid=dadedge Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1434     Closing Remark If this episode challenged how you think about health, recovery, or responsibility, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. There are no shortcuts—only tools, discipline, and intentional action. Take care of your body, and it will take care of the life you're building.

Divorce doesn't just end a marriage—it can shatter a man's identity, confidence, and sense of direction. In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, I sit down with my close friend Ryan Michler, founder of Order of Man, to talk openly about what it really looks like to navigate divorce as a man—and come out stronger on the other side.   Ryan shares his personal experience of being divorced for nearly three years, including the identity loss men feel when they're no longer husbands or full-time dads, the mistakes many men make by orienting their lives around their ex, and why healing starts when you make yourself the project. We also dive into rebuilding relationships with kids, handling co-parenting with integrity, resisting isolation, and why brotherhood is non-negotiable in seasons of separation. If you're divorced, separated, or supporting a man who is—this episode is required listening.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Why this episode is for divorced and separated dads [2:35] Introducing Ryan Michler and his journey through divorce [3:37] Losing identity as a husband and father after divorce [4:59] Feeling like "less of a man" after separation [6:02] Why orienting your life around your ex is a mistake [7:21] Making yourself the project after divorce [9:01] Isolation, vices, and the danger of being alone too much [10:45] Why brotherhood accelerates healing [12:15] Journaling, self-regulation, and daily discipline [14:06] Rebuilding physical health and confidence [15:32] Redefining masculinity and self-worth [17:15] Being honest—but appropriate—with kids about divorce [19:02] Staying present in your kids' lives beyond "your time" [21:11] Customizing connection with each child [23:23] Never giving up on estranged relationships [25:08] Civility, boundaries, and co-parenting with integrity [29:02] Why consistency matters more than outcomes [31:22] Divorce Not Death program overview [34:40] The Men's Forge experience and why it's different [38:15] Bringing sons to Men's Forge and legacy building [41:41] What boys learn by watching their fathers lead [45:54] Final encouragement for men navigating divorce     Five Key Takeaways Divorce shakes a man's identity, but it doesn't have to define his future.  Healing begins when men stop orienting around their ex and start orienting around growth.  Isolation amplifies pain, while brotherhood shortens the recovery curve.  Consistency and integrity rebuild trust with kids, even when relationships feel strained.  Men who make themselves the project come out stronger, healthier, and more grounded.      Links & Resources Men's Forge Event: https://themensforge.com Dad Edge Alliance: https://thedadedge.com/alliance Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/preview 1st Phorm Dad Edge Challenge: https://1stphorm.com/dadedge Divorce Not Death Program: https://divorcenotdeath.com Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1433     Closing Remark If this episode spoke to where you're at—or where you've been—please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Divorce is not the end of your story. With discipline, brotherhood, and intention, it can be the beginning of a stronger chapter. Go out and live legendary.

Connecting with teenage daughters can feel like trying to break through a locked door—especially when rejection, distance, and silence start to replace the closeness you once had. In this Q&A episode, I'm joined by Uncle Joe as we tackle two deeply relatable questions from dads who are doing their best but feel stuck, unsure, and disconnected.   We dive into what it really takes to win a teenage daughter's heart without forcing connection, why consistency matters more than instant results, and how dads can stop taking rejection personally while still staying emotionally available. We also address marriage and money decisions, showing how curiosity, values, and asking better questions can transform conflict into teamwork. This episode is packed with wisdom, reassurance, and practical strategies for dads who refuse to give up on their kids or their marriage.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Welcoming listeners to the final Q&A episode of January 2026 [2:37] A dad's question about connecting with his 14-year-old daughter [4:10] Why teenage girls often pull away during adolescence [4:33] Recommended reading: Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters [5:12] Learning what matters to your daughter to win her heart [6:35] Why genuine interest builds emotional safety [7:16] Consistency over comfort when facing rejection [8:08] Not internalizing rejection from teenage daughters [8:57] How facial expressions communicate disappointment [9:15] "Aim for the heart" and understanding a child's unique wiring [10:19] Engaging with your daughter's interests without trying to be "cool" [11:21] Alliance member perspective on grit and perseverance [12:37] Why daughters notice effort even when they don't respond [13:03] Dr. Lisa Damour's insights on never giving up [14:08] Why your daughter will remember whether you stayed or quit [15:11] Second question: marriage, money, and trust [16:34] How "telling" shuts down conversations with your wife [17:08] Leading with curiosity instead of control [18:10] Asking questions that invite reflection and teamwork [19:36] Validating your wife's values before problem-solving [21:11] Enabling vs. empowering family members [23:23] Using shared family values as a decision-making framework [26:18] Why aligned values reduce conflict in marriage [29:18] Faith, provision, and living out core values [30:57] Resources for dads raising teenagers [31:16] Where to find all episode links and next steps     Five Key Takeaways Winning a teenage daughter's heart requires consistency, not instant validation.  Rejection isn't personal—it's developmental, and dads must stay steady through it.  Genuine curiosity builds connection far more than control or correction.  Asking better questions reduces marriage conflict, especially around money and family decisions.  Shared values create clarity, alignment, and peace in family decision-making.      Links & Resources Guiding Teenage Girls Into Adulthood (Dad Edge Episode): https://thedadedge.com/guiding-teenage-girls-into-adulthood-with-dr-lisa-damour/ Dr. Lisa Damour Website: https://drlisadamour.com/ Dr. Lisa Damour on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisa.damour/ Dr. Lisa Damour on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSt8mu1taNYAHTufbYwqglFHoevbZgNQl Dr. Lisa Damour on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/Ldamour Dr. Lisa Damour on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisadamourphd Dr. Lisa Damour Podcast: https://drlisadamour.com/resources/podcast/ How to Manage a Meltdown (PDF): https://drlisadamour.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/LD_Bookmarks_How_to_Manage_a_Meltdown.pdf Meg Meeker on The Dad Edge Podcast: https://thedadedge.com/meg-meeker/ Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1432   Closing Remark If this episode encouraged you to stay the course with your kids or approach your marriage with more curiosity and patience, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Your consistency today becomes your children's security tomorrow. Go out and live legendary.

In this solo episode, I pull back the curtain on everything happening inside the Dad Edge ecosystem as we close out January and head into February. If your marriage feels disconnected, your health slipped during the holidays, or you've been looking for real skills—not motivation—this episode lays out exactly what's available and how to plug in.   I share my own story of marriage struggle, why only a small percentage of couples truly feel connected, and how becoming a student of marriage completely changed the trajectory of my relationship. From February's marriage-focused tactical agenda inside the Dad Edge Alliance, to the 1st Phorm 8-week challenge, to major announcements around preview calls and the Men's Forge event, this episode is about clarity, opportunity, and intentional action for men who want their marriage and leadership to look different in 2026.     Timeline Summary: [0:00] Keeping the blooper and why imperfection matters in fatherhood [1:35] Larry reflects on the first 10–12 years of marriage struggles [2:27] When marriage turns into co-parenting and roommate syndrome [3:07] Becoming a student of marriage and why things finally changed [3:27] Only 12% of marriages report deep connection [3:52] Introducing the Dad Edge ecosystem [4:11] Overview of the Dad Edge Alliance [4:50] February tactical agenda inside the Alliance [5:09] Why February always focuses on marriage skills [5:28] Week 1: Attraction, identity, and masculine presence [6:11] Week 2: Leading without chasing or needy energy [6:35] Week 3: Boundaries that create desire [6:55] Week 4: Emotional safety and attraction [7:39] Why February is the best month to join the Alliance [8:01] Roommates to Soulmates cohort selling out quickly [8:41] Holiday weight gain and the need for a physical reset [9:01] 1st Phorm Dad Edge 8-week challenge overview [9:42] Challenge dates and community support [10:19] January Dad Edge 1st Phorm Dad of the Month recognition [11:01] Alliance preview call announcement [11:24] What men will learn on the preview call [12:17] Moving away from social media noise [14:06] Men's Forge 2026 announcement [14:51] Why this event is different [15:41] Where to find all links and next steps [16:04] Gratitude and closing encouragement     Five Key Takeaways Most men were never taught how to lead a marriage, which is why skill-building—not willpower—creates change. Attraction in marriage evolves, and men must adapt leadership, presence, and identity. Boundaries and emotional safety create desire, not chasing or people-pleasing. Physical health fuels confidence and leadership, especially inside marriage. Community accelerates growth, when men commit to accountability and action.     Links & Resources: Dad Edge Alliance (Marriage, Parenting, Health, Leadership): https://thedadedge.com/alliance Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/preview 1st Phorm Dad Edge 8-Week Challenge: https://1stphorm.com/dadedge Men's Forge 2026 Event: https://themensforge.com All Episode Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1431     Closing Remark Gentlemen, if you want your marriage, health, and leadership to look different in 2026, this is your moment to engage. Thank you for your continued support, your reviews, and your commitment to doing the work. From my heart to yours—let's continue to live legendary.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nicole McNichols, psychologist, professor at the University of Washington, and author of You Could Be Having Better Sex, for one of the most honest, research-backed conversations we've ever had about sex, intimacy, and connection in long-term marriage.   This isn't about sex positions, tricks, or "trying harder." It's about why good marriages lose momentum over time, how pressure and expectations quietly kill desire, and why emotional connection is often the real foreplay. Dr. Nicole breaks down why scheduling sex can backfire, how shame and guilt around sex are learned early, and how curiosity—not performance—creates the kind of intimacy couples actually crave. I also share personal stories from my own marriage about connection, timing, and why mediocre sex just to "check the box" no longer works. If you want a healthier, more connected sex life, this episode gives you a roadmap grounded in science and real-life experience.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Why this episode isn't about sex positions or tricks [1:26] Introducing Dr. Nicole McNichols and her background [2:09] Why scheduling sex can quietly backfire [2:36] How pressure and expectation kill intimacy [2:58] Emotional connection as the real foreplay [3:36] Why intimacy dates matter more than sex calendars [5:18] How Dr. Nicole became a "sex professor" by accident [6:10] Loneliness, disconnection, and the role of sexual health [7:08] Shame, stigma, and misinformation around sex—especially for women [9:14] Why healthy sex improves forgiveness, health, and longevity [10:25] The failure of shame-based sex education [12:10] Countries with sex-positive education and better outcomes [13:18] Identifying the sources of shame we carry into marriage [15:09] Why sex shouldn't be the first thing sacrificed in busy seasons [16:07] Why conversations about sex should happen with clothes on [17:00] Using curiosity instead of pressure to improve intimacy [18:11] Announcement: Dad Edge Alliance February focus on intimacy and attraction [20:03] Curiosity vs. agenda in hard conversations [21:17] Why scheduling sex alone doesn't work [22:09] Creating the right context and mood for intimacy [23:24] Sexual effort that creates pressure instead of desire [24:55] Emotional lead-up and responsive desire [26:01] Initiation–rejection cycles and resentment [27:23] "Intimacy dates" and reconnecting outside the bedroom [29:11] Larry shares a personal story about connection over convenience [31:26] Choosing quality connection over mediocre sex [33:17] Maintenance sex vs. meaningful sexual connection [35:04] Balancing connection and realistic expectations [37:22] Long-term rejection cycles and rebuilding intimacy [39:00] Hormones, menopause, and why libido changes aren't personal [41:29] Division of labor, resentment, and loss of identity [43:48] Gottman research and why distance doesn't heal intimacy [45:43] Making your partner feel seen and heard [47:23] Listening vs. fixing in emotional conversations [49:13] Resources for better conversations with your wife and kids [49:31] Dr. Nicole's book and New York Times features [50:44] Where to find Dr. Nicole and her work [53:08] Why improving your sex life is a powerful way to start 2026     Five Key Takeaways Pressure and expectation kill desire, while curiosity and emotional safety create attraction.  Emotional connection is often the real foreplay, especially in long-term marriages.  Scheduling sex without context can backfire if couples don't create space to reconnect first.  Sexual shame is learned, and identifying its sources is the first step toward healthier intimacy.  Better sex isn't about frequency—it's about quality, safety, and connection.        Links & Resources 25 Intimate Conversation Starters: https://thedadedge.com/25questions Conversation Cards for Kids (Ages 5–Teen): https://thedadedge.com/kidquestions Dr. Nicole McNichols – Faculty Spotlight (University of Washington): https://psych.uw.edu/newsletter/summer-2020/faculty/faculty-spotlight-on-nicole-mcnichols New York Times – Modern Love Podcast Feature: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/07/podcasts/modern-love-better-sex-tips.html Book — You Could Be Having Better Sex Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1430     Closing Remark If this episode gave you language, clarity, or hope around intimacy in your marriage, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Strong marriages don't drift into great sex—they build it intentionally, with curiosity, connection, and courage.

In this Q&A episode, I'm joined once again by Uncle Joe for a deep, honest conversation around one of the most painful places a man can find himself—feeling unwanted, disconnected, and hopeless in his marriage. We respond to a question from a husband who hasn't felt physical or emotional connection from his wife in over two years, and we unpack what really breaks down in marriages long before intimacy disappears.   This conversation goes far beyond surface-level advice. We talk about why most men were never trained for marriage, how resentment quietly builds, why treating marriage like a contract destroys connection, and how changing your internal narrative can shift everything. We also bring in perspectives from men inside the Dad Edge Alliance to show how humility, coachability, and intentional skill-building can restore trust, safety, and leadership at home. If your marriage feels distant or stuck, this episode offers clarity, hope, and a path forward.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Welcoming listeners to the third Q&A episode of January 2026 [1:19] Uncle Joe returns and the power of community-driven wisdom [2:13] Introducing a listener's marriage question about rejection and hopelessness [2:55] Why only 12% of married couples report feeling deeply connected [3:33] Asking the most important question: what have you actually learned about marriage? [4:26] Joe reflects on personal failure, divorce, and hard-earned lessons [5:14] Why hope exists if attraction once existed [5:35] How complacency and busyness quietly push marriage to the back burner [6:02] Marriage compared to learning an instrument—you can't wing it [7:21] Resentment, skill gaps, and whether marriages can truly be restored [8:05] Marriage as a covenant, not a contract [8:55] How destructive inner narratives shape behavior and connection [9:43] Transactional expectations and why they kill intimacy [10:41] Why "nice guy" energy erodes respect and attraction [11:30] Listening to understand instead of listening to defend [12:12] Mutual submission, humility, and shared leadership in marriage [13:15] Alliance member insight on asking for feedback from your wife [14:16] Faith, unity, and intentionally doing life together [15:49] Receiving feedback without ego or defensiveness [17:14] Emotional bank accounts and the power of daily deposits [18:50] Gottman's 5:1 and 10:1 ratios for healthy marriages [19:40] Giving your wife permission to coach you [20:45] Why conflict isn't the enemy—avoidance is [22:00] Reframing the role of a wife as a strengthener, not a subordinate [23:17] "It's not me vs. you, it's us vs. the problem" [23:43] Larry shares a personal season of anger and choosing humility [25:16] How couples can build something better than what they had before [25:51] Episode wrap-up and where to find resources     Five Key Takeaways Most men were never taught how to lead a marriage, and guessing your way through it creates disconnection.  Marriage breaks down through narratives and resentment long before intimacy disappears.  Treating marriage like a covenant—not a contract—changes everything.  Emotional deposits made consistently rebuild trust and safety over time.  When couples unite against the problem instead of each other, restoration becomes possible.      Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance: https://thedadedge.com/alliance The Legendary Marriage Book: https://thedadedge.com/legendarybook Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1429     Closing Remark If this episode resonated with where you're at in your marriage, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. You don't have to figure this out alone—skill-building, humility, and brotherhood can change the direction of your marriage and your family. From my heart to yours, go out and live legendary.

What does real leadership actually look like at home—not just at work? In this episode, I sit down with Mick Hunt, leadership and culture coach, to break down what emotional intelligence, boundaries, and masculine presence really mean for husbands and fathers.   Mick shares powerful insights on why being the "nice guy" often kills polarity and attraction in marriage, how emotional intelligence is a strength (not a soft skill), and why men need intentional transition rituals to show up fully present for their families. We talk about journaling as a daily leadership practice, setting boundaries without control, and how a father's emotional presence shapes the safety and confidence of his kids. This conversation is practical, grounded, and deeply relevant for men who want to lead with backbone and heart.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Introducing Mick Hunt and why leadership matters most at home [2:06] Morgan Freeman narrating Mick's videos and the unexpected connection [2:27] Why emotional intelligence is a critical leadership skill [3:01] How the "nice guy" approach kills polarity and attraction [3:29] Daily practices Mick uses to stay emotionally present with his kids [4:09] The importance of transition rituals between work and home [6:04] Mick's marriage story and reconnecting after decades of friendship [9:07] Emotional intelligence as awareness, regulation, and response [11:01] Why empathy doesn't mean losing authority as a husband or father [14:05] Self-awareness as the foundation of emotional leadership [15:18] Growing up with an emotionally unavailable father [17:13] Mick's simple daily journaling practice [19:17] Why writing trains the brain to separate fact from emotion [21:07] Boundaries as love—not control—in marriage and family [23:54] Defining boundaries through core values [24:16] Protecting "me time" to show up better for others [27:33] Why skipping transition time hurts marriages and families [28:38] A real story of ignoring boundaries and paying the emotional cost [31:27] Masculine presence and modeling healthy marriage for kids [33:11] Being the emotional anchor of the household [35:30] Teaching daughters confidence and sons how to care [38:44] Where to find Mick and his leadership resources     Five Key Takeaways: Emotional intelligence is a leadership advantage, not a weakness, for men at home and at work.  Being agreeable isn't the same as being emotionally present, and "nice guy" energy often kills attraction.  Transition rituals protect your family from your stress, allowing you to show up grounded and present.  Boundaries rooted in core values create safety, not distance, in marriage and parenting.  A father's emotional presence shapes confidence, safety, and leadership in his children.      Links & Resources Mick Hunt Official Website: https://mickhuntofficial.com Instagram: @mickunplugged LinkedIn: @mickhunt Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1428     Closing Remark If this episode challenged how you think about leadership, boundaries, or emotional presence at home, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. The most important leadership role you'll ever have is the one your family experiences every day.

Why do kids raised in the same home react so differently to the exact same situation? In this episode, I'm joined by Alyssa Campbell, author, educator, and founder of Seed & Sew, to unpack what's really happening beneath our kids' behaviors—and why understanding their nervous systems changes everything about how we parent.   Alyssa returns to the show to talk about her new book Big Kids, Bigger Feelings, and we go deep into the overlooked developmental stage of kids ages 5–12. We discuss why "shouldn't they know better?" is the wrong question, how regulation and access to skills are two different things, and why each child's unique sensory profile determines how they experience stress, connection, discipline, and learning. This conversation will give you clarity, compassion, and practical tools to parent each child for who they actually are—not who you expect them to be.     Timeline Summary  [0:00] Why kids raised by the same parents can behave so differently [2:33] Introducing Alyssa Campbell and her work in emotional intelligence [3:27] Alyssa's first book Tiny Humans, Big Emotions and its success [3:49] Celebrating Alyssa hitting the New York Times bestseller list [4:11] Introducing the new book Big Kids, Bigger Feelings [5:00] Why ages 5–12 are a massively overlooked developmental stage [6:03] Central nervous systems and why kids respond differently to the same stimulus [7:36] "Knowing better" vs. having access to skills in the moment [9:15] Dysregulation in adults—and why kids struggle even more [14:24] Why kids under 25 don't have fully developed prefrontal cortexes [16:03] How screens and overstimulation dysregulate kids [18:12] Why nervous system awareness builds empathy instead of frustration [22:45] The nine sensory systems every parent should understand [24:01] Vestibular, proprioceptive, and interoceptive senses explained [26:17] Sensory sensitivity vs. sensory seeking [28:12] Introducing the Seed Quiz as "GPS for your kid's brain" [29:05] How the Seed Quiz works for kids, parents, and families [31:10] Real-life school example of regulation transforming behavior [33:09] Why behavior improves when regulation improves [35:25] Trauma, environment, and how nervous systems evolve [41:03] Why understanding nervous systems transforms marriages too [42:06] Parenting two kids with opposite sensory needs [44:48] Why the same parenting response can calm one child and escalate another [45:30] Tapping out to your partner when regulation styles differ [47:01] Where to find Alyssa, her books, and Seed & Sew resources     Five Key Takeaways: Every child has a unique nervous system, which determines how they experience stress, connection, and learning.  Knowing what to do and being able to do it in the moment are not the same thing, especially when kids are dysregulated.  Behavior improves when regulation improves, not when punishment increases.  One-size-fits-all parenting often backfires because kids need different inputs to calm and connect.  Understanding nervous systems builds empathy, patience, and more effective parenting strategies.      Links & Resources Seed Quiz (Free Tool): https://seedquiz.com Seed & Sew Website: https://www.seedandsew.org Seed & Sew on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seed.and.sew/ Seed & Sew on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seedandsew.org Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1427     Closing Remark If this episode helped you understand your kids—and yourself—on a deeper level, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Parenting isn't about getting it right every time; it's about learning how to show up for the unique humans we're raising.

In this second Q&A episode of 2026, I'm joined once again by Joe Bailey for a raw, honest, and deeply practical conversation with men inside our Dad Edge Alliance. We tackle two of the most common—and emotionally charged—challenges dads face: navigating marriage when divorce feels like it's on the table, and learning when to step in (or step back) as parents with our kids.   Joe brings wisdom forged through failure, humility, and redemption as he shares lessons learned from three divorces and what it actually takes to rebuild trust, emotional safety, and leadership in marriage. We also dig into parenting—specifically how often we default to "no," how helicopter parenting robs kids of growth, and how learning to pause can transform our connection with our children. If you're a dad who wants to lead with ownership instead of ego, and presence instead of control, this episode is for you.     Timeline Summary  [0:00] Welcoming listeners to the second Q&A of 2026 with Joe Bailey [1:37] Live Q&A format with Alliance members on the call [2:03] Anonymous question: marriage arguments escalating and divorce being discussed [2:52] Joe shares his experience with three divorces and hard-earned lessons [3:49] Taking full ownership as the leader of the relationship [4:18] Winning the argument vs. winning your wife's heart [5:02] Separating identity from failure in marriage [5:21] Why agreement gives things power over your life [5:40] Emotional safety, being seen, and being heard [6:04] How your inner world creates your outer world [6:55] Why asking "What are you willing to do?" matters more than "Can we fix this?" [8:03] Leading with humility, apology, and commitment to growth [8:26] The importance of being coachable as a man and husband [9:35] Larry explains why the Dad Edge Alliance exists [10:37] More context: resentment and imbalance with kids and responsibilities [11:16] Why we're trained for careers—but not for marriage [12:15] Marriage compared to training and skill development [13:29] The mental load and resentment that silently builds in relationships [14:35] Larry shares his own wake-up moment with his wife [16:19] How to approach conversations with curiosity instead of defense [17:19] Expecting resistance and understanding trust rebuilds slowly [18:46] A real coaching story where separation was reversed after consistency [21:03] "Waiting for the other shoe to drop" and consistency over time [22:12] Second question: saying "no" too often to kids [23:12] Helicopter parenting and letting kids solve problems [24:27] Letting kids work it out unless safety is at risk [26:02] Stepping in when conflict becomes dangerous [28:16] Boys, aggression, and healthy outlets [29:45] Is saying "no" about safety—or convenience? [30:51] Searching for the "yes" and using delayed yeses [31:38] The day kids stop asking—and why it matters [32:16] How selfishness often drives our "no" [33:22] Episode wrap-up and directing listeners to the show notes     Five Key Takeaways   Marriage leadership starts with ownership, not blame or defensiveness.  Your inner world shapes your marriage, and emotional chaos creates relational chaos.  Trust is rebuilt through consistency over time, not quick fixes or intensity.  Kids grow through problem-solving, and dads don't need to jump in unless safety is at risk.  Saying "yes" whenever possible builds connection, while reflexive "no's" often come from selfishness or convenience.      Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance (Apply & Book a Call): https://thedadedge.com/alliance Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1426     Closing Remark If today's episode gave you clarity, hope, or a new way to lead at home, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. You don't have to white-knuckle marriage or fatherhood alone—brotherhood, humility, and consistency change everything.

Most couples don't drift apart because they stop loving each other—they drift apart because no one ever taught them how to stay connected. In this episode, I sit down with Mark and Brianna Carey, a powerhouse husband-and-wife team who work with couples on intimacy, communication, and emotional safety, to unpack what really happens to marriage after kids enter the picture.   We talk openly about why intimacy breaks down in the early years of parenting, why sex is rarely the real problem, and how resentment quietly builds when couples stop having honest conversations. Mark and Brianna share powerful insights around postpartum realities for both men and women, desire discrepancy, emotional safety, tonality, and the small misfires that slowly turn partners into roommates. If you want real tools to rebuild connection—not surface-level advice—this conversation will meet you right where you are.     Timeline Summary  [0:00] Why couples drift apart without ever stopping loving each other [2:08] Introducing Mark and Brianna Carey and their work with couples [3:15] Why sex is often the symptom—not the problem—in marriage [4:00] How kids, stress, exhaustion, and resentment fuel disconnection [6:03] Brianna's background in sexual health education and intimacy coaching [8:02] Why women often don't feel empowered to talk about sex [10:34] Desire discrepancy and why it's normal in long-term relationships [11:17] Invitation to the Dad Edge Alliance and Boardroom [14:00] Emotional intimacy and the depth of real connection [15:12] Assumptions, misfires, and missed bids for connection [17:15] Why individuality actually fuels attraction in marriage [18:25] Communicating directly about intimacy without pressure [21:31] The first domino of disconnection after having kids [22:54] Children as magnifiers of unhealed wounds and identity shifts [24:58] Postpartum realities for women—and why it's rarely discussed [25:17] Postpartum identity struggles for fathers [26:03] What "roommate syndrome" feels like for both partners [27:22] Feeling "touched out" and navigating physical boundaries [30:11] The pressure of the six-week postpartum clearance myth [33:02] How resentment forms and why it's so dangerous [34:00] Why talking about divorce can actually strengthen commitment [36:33] "Name it to tame it" and removing fear from hard conversations [43:14] Why most conflict is unresolvable—and how to manage it [45:07] Trauma, tonality, and recurring relationship patterns [47:49] How tone changes meaning more than words [50:19] Intent vs. impact and closing the communication gap [54:07] How Mark and Brianna work with couples together [55:24] Why intensity of support must match intensity of problems [58:27] Webinar announcement and upcoming relationship resources     Five Key Takeaways Intimacy fades when couples stop communicating—not when attraction disappears.  Desire discrepancy is normal, but silence around it breeds resentment.  Postpartum challenges affect both partners, including identity loss and emotional disconnect.  Tone and emotional safety matter as much as words when navigating conflict and intimacy.  Connection—not performance—is the fastest path back to intimacy.      Links & Resources: Dad Edge Alliance: https://thedadedge.com/alliance Intimacy Evolution Website: https://www.intimacyevolution.com Webinar Registration: https://intimacyevolution.kit.com/9a33bf4eaa Intimacy Evolution on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intimacy_evolution Brianna Carey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianna_carey Mark Carey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mark__carey Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1425     Closing Remark If this episode helped you see your marriage differently—or gave you language for conversations you've been avoiding—please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Strong marriages aren't built by guessing; they're built through connection, courage, and intentional leadership.

Leadership isn't about position, title, or authority—it's about who you are on the inside and how you show up every day for the people who depend on you. In this episode, I sit down with Brent Pohlman, bestselling author of Leaders Look Within and the upcoming book Leading with Zest, for a powerful conversation about values-based leadership, faith, health, and having the courage to lead from the heart.   Brent shares lessons from 31 years of marriage, raising a faith-centered family, and building a thriving workplace culture rooted in people-first leadership. We dive into why leaders must define a strong "why," how physical health fuels emotional and relational leadership, and how to have hard, triggering conversations without destroying morale—at work or at home. If you're a husband, father, or man who wants to lead with clarity, conviction, and integrity, this episode will challenge you in the best way.     Timeline Summary [0:00] Why leadership applies to every man—especially husbands and fathers. [2:07] Introducing Brent Pohlman and his leadership philosophy. [2:29] 31 years of marriage and building a faith-centered family. [2:53] Brent's son serving communion to Pope Francis and the power of faith legacy. [3:20] Leading from the inside out instead of ego. [3:45] Why leaders must define a strong, unshakable "why." [4:43] Marriage, faith, and learning each other after decades together. [6:16] Converting to Catholicism and claiming faith as your own. [7:26] Reactive leadership versus values-based leadership. [9:07] Faith moments that shape identity and conviction. [11:01] Why leaders must look inward to understand values and motivation. [12:16] Second-generation leadership and stepping into your own identity. [14:28] Defining a personal leadership "why" that doesn't change weekly. [15:26] The importance of physical health for leadership readiness. [16:03] Daily workouts, awareness, and being prepared for pressure. [18:08] Being fully present with your wife and kids. [19:30] Leading at home the same way you lead at work. [20:17] Developing people instead of managing them. [21:03] Coaching versus training in leadership development. [22:49] How direct conversations prevent cultural breakdown. [23:59] Calling people forward without damaging morale. [26:02] Fighting to be effective instead of fighting to be right. [27:11] The power of using someone's name in hard conversations. [30:03] Why people just want to be heard. [33:06] Avoiding reactive cultures and emotional time bombs. [35:08] Asking "What do you really want?" in conflict resolution. [37:15] Introducing Brent's upcoming book Leading with Zest. [38:41] People, process, and technology—in that order. [39:10] Protecting imagination and creativity in a tech-driven world. [42:16] Putting faith into action through workplace culture. [45:09] Where to find Brent, his books, and daily reflections.     Five Key Takeaways Leadership starts on the inside. You must know your values, faith, and motivations before you can lead others well. A strong "why" stabilizes leadership. Without it, leaders become reactive and inconsistent. Physical health fuels leadership presence. Energy, discipline, and consistency matter in how you show up. Coaching builds leaders; training builds skills. Growth happens through direct, caring conversations. People-first leadership creates thriving cultures—at work, at home, and in communities.     Links & Resources MicroFactor (1st Phorm): https://1stphorm.com/products/micro-factor/?a_aid=dadedge Level-1 Protein (1st Phorm): https://1stphorm.com/products/level-1/?a_aid=dadedge Brent Pohlman — Leaders Look Within: https://a.co/d/aIPZqXo Brent Pohlman — Leading with Zest: https://a.co/d/78BUngL Brent Pohlman Website: https://ceoofyourheart.com Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1424   Closing Remark If this episode challenged you to lead with more intention, health, and heart, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Leadership isn't about perfection—it's about showing up aligned, grounded, and willing to grow.

We're kicking off a brand-new year with something many of you have asked for—the return of our live Q&A episodes. In this conversation, I'm joined once again by Uncle Joe as we answer real questions from men inside our community about parenting, connection with daughters, discipline, stoicism, faith, and leadership at home.   This episode goes deep. We talk about building trust with kids who feel distant, why saying "no" too often damages connection, how fathers can lead without demanding reciprocity, and the difference between white-knuckling life versus living from identity. If you're a dad who wants deeper relationships with your kids and clarity around leadership, faith, and emotional presence, this episode will challenge and ground you.   Timeline Summary [0:00] Welcoming listeners to the 11th year of The Dad Edge Podcast. [1:37] Reflection on longevity, gratitude, and why this work still matters. [1:59] Announcement: Roommates to Soulmates eight-week course starting January 14. [2:19] What men will learn in the Roommates to Soulmates marriage training. [2:42] RSVP details for the January 7 preview call. [3:07] Welcoming Uncle Joe back to the show. [3:39] Listener question about connecting with daughters at different developmental stages. [5:14] Joe shares his experience raising three daughters. [6:33] Loving kids without expecting emotional reciprocation. [7:16] Why trust—not control—is the foundation of fatherhood. [8:08] Changing the default answer from "no" to "yes." [9:19] Joe shares the powerful "father promise ring" moment with his daughter. [10:41] Why fathers must make covenants to their kids—not demand them. [12:26] Larry shares his struggle connecting with his youngest son. [13:26] Letting kids lead connection through their interests. [14:12] Hiking, martial arts, and intentional one-on-one time. [15:19] Creating unique rituals with each child. [16:03] Capturing small moments for deep emotional connection. [18:12] Invitation to join the Dad Edge Alliance for live support and brotherhood. [19:51] Listener question about stoicism and discipline. [21:27] Larry explains why he moved away from stoicism. [22:29] Joe breaks down the appeal—and danger—of half-truths in stoicism. [24:07] White-knuckling life vs. living from identity. [25:00] Faith, identity, and emotional regulation. [27:28] Comparing stoicism with surrender and relationship-based leadership. [29:05] Psalm 23 and why dependence beats self-mastery. [31:30] Filtering wisdom through Scripture and lived experience. [34:41] How suffering builds empathy and leadership capacity. [35:19] Final thoughts, gratitude, and where to find resources.     Five Key Takeaways Connection with kids is built through trust, consistency, and presence—not control.  Fathers must lead relationships without demanding emotional repayment.  White-knuckling discipline leads to exhaustion; identity-based leadership leads to peace.  Kids feel deeply seen when dads meet them inside their interests.  True strength comes from surrender, faith, and relational grounding—not self-reliance alone.      Links & Resources Dad Edge Mastermind & Alliance: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind Roommates to Soulmates Course: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1423     Closing Remark   If this episode encouraged you, challenged your thinking, or gave you practical tools to lead better at home, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. These conversations matter—and your support helps us reach more men who are committed to becoming better fathers, husbands, and leaders.

To kick off 2026, I sit down with Dr. Paul Leonardi, author of the bestselling book Digital Exhaustion, for a conversation that felt incredibly timely—and personal. If you've been feeling distracted, mentally drained, short-tempered, or like your family is getting the leftovers of your energy, this episode puts clear language around what's happening inside your brain.   We dive deep into how constant app switching, nonstop notifications, and digital overload are quietly exhausting our attention, memory, marriages, and relationships with our kids. Paul breaks down the science behind digital exhaustion in a practical, grounded way, and I share a powerful moment when my 12-year-old voluntarily handed back his phone because he didn't like how it made him feel. This episode isn't about rejecting technology—it's about learning how to use it without letting it use us.     Timeline Summary: [0:00] Introduction [1:02] Welcoming listeners to 2026 and the 11th year of The Dad Edge Podcast. [1:40] Introducing Dr. Paul Leonardi and the concept of digital exhaustion. [2:22] How digital overload impacts attention, memory, marriage, and family life. [3:05] Parenting in a world our brains were never designed for. [4:12] Raising kids with devices and navigating unfamiliar territory. [6:07] Independence, social media, and emotional complexity in today's kids. [7:35] How online trends shape kids' identity and self-image. [9:58] What's actually happening in the brain during prolonged digital use. [11:16] The hidden "taxes" we pay for constant connectivity. [12:26] Driver #1: attention and constant context switching. [13:31] Driver #2: inference and filling in the blanks online. [15:26] Driver #3: amplified emotions—both positive and negative. [16:31] Why multitasking burns massive mental energy. [17:20] The impact of digital overload on memory and mental residue. [18:41] Outsourcing memory to devices and what it costs us. [21:15] When kids are actually ready for devices—and when they're not. [23:42] Why screen time isn't the real issue—interruptions and content are. [26:35] The emotional cost of likes, validation, and online comparison. [28:39] Larry shares the story of his son giving up his phone voluntarily. [31:11] Why kids struggle to articulate digital overwhelm. [32:06] The Facebook outage study and the surprising relief people felt. [35:10] Introducing the Roommates to Soulmates live course. [37:54] Digital exhaustion inside marriage and miscommunication over text. [38:58] "Make the match" — choosing the right communication medium. [43:12] "Be here, not elsewhere" and the power of undistracted presence. [46:09] How distraction has become socially normalized. [49:21] Why work interruptions at home send the wrong message. [51:39] Modeling priorities for kids through availability and presence. [56:21] Where to find Paul, his book, and additional resources.     Five Key Takeaways Digital exhaustion comes from attention switching, inference-making, and emotional overload, not just screen time alone. Multitasking is a myth—the brain burns massive energy switching contexts, leaving us mentally drained. Kids often feel overwhelmed by devices before they can explain it, which shows up as stress or behavior changes. Choosing the right communication tool matters, especially in marriage and parenting. Presence beats duration—ten fully focused minutes matter more than hours of distracted time.     Links & Resources Paul Leonardi — Digital Exhaustion Book: https://paulleonardi.com/digital-exhaustion-book/ Paul Leonardi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-leonardi-45b67321/ Dad Edge Mastermind & Alliance: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind Roommates to Soulmates Course: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1422     Closing Remark If this episode made you rethink how you're using your phone, your attention, or your presence at home, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. The way we show up—focused, intentional, and available—shapes not just our kids' childhoods, but the adults they become.

In the final episode of 2025, I take time to reflect, express deep gratitude, and share what's coming next for The Dad Edge as we head into 2026. This episode is about honoring what this community has built together over the past ten years, celebrating the wins, and casting a clear vision for what's ahead for men who want to lead their families with intention.   I walk you through several major announcements—from the return of Wednesday Q&A with Uncle Joe, to our brand-new Dad Edge Alliance membership platform, upcoming marriage and health initiatives, and powerful in-person experiences like Men's Forge. This episode is both a thank-you and a rallying cry for men who are ready to step into the next year with clarity, purpose, and brotherhood.     Timeline Summary: [0:00] Welcoming listeners and reflecting on the final episode of 2025. [1:23] Celebrating 10 full years of podcasting and the growth of The Dad Edge. [1:41] Gratitude for listeners, downloads, and being ranked #1 again. [2:22] Why fatherhood, marriage, and family are the most important work we do. [2:56] A heartfelt thank-you to the community for showing up all year. [3:13] Announcement: Wednesday Q&A episodes return with Uncle Joe in 2026. [3:49] How to submit your questions for the Q&A episodes via email. [4:06] Introducing the brand-new Dad Edge Alliance membership site. [4:49] Why moving away from Facebook, Slack, and WhatsApp changed everything. [5:24] Weekly call teams and global time-zone support for members. [5:47] January focus inside the Alliance: marriage, parenting, vitality, and money. [6:26] February marriage training focused on intimacy, passion, and connection. [6:44] Partnership with 1st Phorm and upcoming health initiatives. [7:18] Announcement of the 8-week transformation challenge starting February 1. [7:55] Coaching, accountability, and community inside the challenge. [8:54] Information call for the Roommates to Soulmates live course. [9:14] What the Roommates to Soulmates course will teach men about marriage. [10:02] Larry shares his personal experience with marriage disconnection. [10:39] Men's Forge announcement with Ryan Michler and Order of Man. [11:01] Event dates, speakers, and why nearly everyone returned from last year. [11:56] "Bring a Brother" and "Bring a Son" ticket options. [12:12] Why exposing teenage sons to intentional masculinity matters. [13:10] Announcing the December Dad Edge 1st Phorm Man of the Month. [13:55] Recognizing Shay Chase for leadership and health coaching impact. [14:39] Directing listeners to the full show notes and resources. [15:01] Final thank-you and encouragement heading into 2026.     Five Key Takeaways: Intentional fatherhood creates generational impact, and this community exists to raise the standard for men.  Brotherhood and accountability matter, especially when men are navigating marriage, parenting, health, and finances.  Marriage requires skill-building and leadership, not passive hope that things will improve.  Physical health fuels leadership at home, and structured challenges create momentum and consistency.  The next year can look different if men commit to standards, community, and intentional action.      Links & Resources Dad Edge Alliance Membership: https://thedadedge.com Roommates to Soulmates Course: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates 1st Phorm Partnership: https://1stphorm.com/dadedge Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1421     Closing Remark Gentlemen, thank you for an incredible 2025. Thank you for showing up, doing the work, and choosing to lead your families with intention. My hope is that we bring even more men to this table in 2026 so we can continue to change lives, marriages, and families for the better. Go out and live legendary.

What do you do when life changes in ways you didn't choose—and didn't see coming? In this deeply emotional and intellectually grounding conversation, I sit down with Dr. Maya Shankar, cognitive scientist, former White House advisor, and host of the podcast A Slight Change of Plans, to talk about change, identity, grief, and uncertainty.   Maya shares her powerful personal story of being accepted into Juilliard at a young age, only to have her violin career abruptly end due to a devastating injury. From there, we explore how unexpected change threatens our identity, why the human brain craves certainty, and how men, husbands, and fathers can navigate seasons where the future they imagined suddenly disappears. This conversation hit me personally as I opened up about my son preparing to leave for college, and Maya offers language, tools, and clarity for anyone navigating major life transitions.     Timeline Summary: [0:00] What happens when life changes and you don't get a vote. [1:28] Introducing Dr. Maya Shankar and the theme of unexpected change. [2:10] Being accepted into Juilliard at age nine and pursuing music at the highest level. [3:05] A career-ending violin injury and the grief that followed. [4:05] How loss threatens not just what we do—but who we are. [7:44] Learning violin by ear and developing passion without perfection. [9:03] A mother's fearlessness and the power of bold action. [11:06] Cold emailing, courage, and creating unexpected opportunities. [13:39] Being bullied as a child and finding safety in family and music. [15:16] Larry reflects on marriage drift and identity shifts. [18:06] Pivoting from academia to public policy and working at the White House. [21:51] The power of defaults and how behavioral science changed public outcomes. [25:17] Why uncertainty is harder on the brain than certainty—even bad certainty. [27:05] The illusion of control and how change shatters it. [27:31] Anchoring identity to why you do things, not just what you do. [29:45] Navigating infertility, loss, and redefining self-worth. [33:11] Why we resist change even when it's necessary for growth. [36:00] Marriage, evolution, and the "end of history illusion." [39:32] How hardship can lead to unexpected personal growth. [45:43] Gratitude as a tool for identity resilience. [48:25] Helping kids navigate change while managing your own emotions. [50:28] The grief of kids leaving home—even when it's a good thing. [54:26] Why we are more resilient than we think. [56:15] The importance of community during seasons of change. [59:19] Maya shares her book, podcast, and where to connect.     Five Key Takeaways Change threatens identity as much as circumstance, which is why it feels so destabilizing.  The brain prefers certainty—even negative certainty—over uncertainty, making transitions especially stressful.  Anchoring identity to your values and motivations creates resilience when roles and plans fall away.  We underestimate our ability to adapt and overestimate how painful change will be long-term.  Connection, community, and self-reflection are essential tools for navigating major life transitions.      Links & Resources Dr. Maya Shankar's Book: https://a.co/d/3u87zps Dr. Maya Shankar on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmayashankar/?hl=en Roommates to Soulmates Course: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1420     Closing Remark If this episode gave you language for a season of change you're navigating right now, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. You're not alone in the uncertainty—and you're far more resilient than you think.

In today's episode, I sit down with Eric Kennedy, founder of Recovery Vow and author of Marriage After Addiction, for one of the most raw and redemptive conversations we've ever had on this show. Eric spent 15 years deep in addiction—alcohol, cocaine, crack, jail time, suicide attempts, losing his marriage, and losing himself. This isn't a story of high-functioning addiction. This is rock bottom in every sense of the word.   Eric opens up about growing up with emotional neglect, how unresolved trauma fueled his addiction, and the moments that finally forced him to choose life. We talk about the long road to sobriety, rebuilding trust with his kids, walking through divorce and remarriage, and what radical ownership really looks like when you're trying to rebuild a marriage after years of destruction. Whether you've battled addiction yourself or you're carrying unspoken wounds from your past, this episode is a powerful reminder that healing, redemption, and generational change are possible.     Timeline Summary: [0:00] Introduction [1:02] Why addiction isn't the real problem—trauma, disconnection, and silence are. [1:40] Introducing Eric Kennedy and the depth of his addiction story. [2:08] Addiction beginning with alcohol and escalating to cocaine and crack. [5:14] Using substances to bury trauma, anxiety, and depression. [7:13] Growing up with an emotionally unavailable father. [11:23] Seeing his father drunk as a child and the lasting impact. [15:00] Addiction escalating alongside marriage and fatherhood. [22:44] A suicide attempt and waking up in an ambulance. [25:05] Driving to get drugs with his kids in the car. [29:29] Arrest, jail time, and asking for help again. [30:10] Entering a 30-day treatment program in Florida. [33:14] Gaining custody of his sons while newly sober. [35:32] Finding faith, community, and structure in recovery. [37:02] Meeting his wife Kristin and rebuilding a healthy marriage. [42:44] Radical ownership and rebuilding trust through action. [51:48] Being fully honest with his sons about his past. [53:31] Choosing life, sobriety, and fatherhood every day.     Five Key Takeaways Addiction is often rooted in unresolved trauma and emotional disconnection, not just substance abuse.  Recovery requires radical ownership and healthy selfishness so you can show up for your kids and relationships.  Trust is rebuilt through consistent actions over time, not promises or apologies.  Honesty with your kids can break generational cycles and rebuild connection.  Redemption is always possible, but it requires humility, structure, and daily commitment.      Links & Resources Eric Kennedy's Book — Marriage After Addiction: https://a.co/d/4uYCpvT Recovery Vow: https://recoveryvow.com MicroFactor (1st Phorm): https://1stphorm.com/products/micro-factor/?a_aid=dadedge Opti-Greens 50 (1st Phorm): https://1stphorm.com/products/opti-greens-50-stick-packs/?a_aid=dadedge Roommates to Soulmates Course: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1417     Closing Remark   If today's episode gave you hope or reminded you that it's never too late to change, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us reach men who need to hear that recovery, redemption, and reconnection are possible.

In this Christmas Eve solo episode, I shift gears from our recent focus on online safety and talk about one of the most common—and painful—issues I see in long-term marriages: roommate syndrome. That quiet drift where intimacy fades, connection feels awkward, and marriage starts to feel more like co-parenting logistics than a romantic partnership. If you've ever laid in bed next to your wife feeling disconnected, unwanted, or unsure how things got this way, this episode is for you.   I share my own experience falling into roommate syndrome after years of marriage, kids, exhaustion, and unmet expectations. We talk about resentment, covert contracts, why nagging is often a cry for connection, and how most men were never taught how attraction actually works in marriage. I also explain why marriage—like jiu-jitsu or any skill—requires training, intentional effort, and doing what most men aren't willing to do if you want a relationship that's truly on fire.     Timeline Summary: [0:00] What roommate syndrome feels like when intimacy has faded. [1:39] Why so many marriages slowly slip into "friend zone" dynamics. [2:02] The statistic that 57% of married couples experience this season. [2:28] How resentment, logistics, and exhaustion kill connection. [3:07] Closing out the online safety series and shifting topics. [3:50] Why Larry chose to release this episode on Christmas Eve. [4:26] Introducing roommate syndrome as a core marriage issue. [5:03] Larry's 22-year marriage and personal experience with disconnection. [6:17] How kids, work, and busyness slowly erode intimacy. [6:53] When sex starts to feel transactional or obligatory. [7:13] Why "nagging" is often a bid for attention and being seen. [7:33] Sitting on opposite ends of the couch scrolling instead of connecting. [7:56] Covert contracts and resentment in marriage. [8:17] Why solving instead of listening makes wives feel unseen. [8:56] Awkward date nights and avoiding real conversations about intimacy. [9:18] A client story that began with signed divorce papers. [9:41] How real change happens when a man does the work. [10:15] Why becoming the man you're meant to be changes everything. [10:57] Marriage requires training just like work or martial arts. [11:14] Understanding attraction and speaking the right "currency" in marriage. [11:51] Loving your spouse the way they receive love. [12:11] Introducing the Roommates to Soulmates live course. [12:56] Creating confidence, attraction, and intimacy without neediness. [13:17] Why uncommon marriages require uncommon effort. [13:38] The reality that only 10–12% of marriages feel "on fire." [14:03] Rejecting the belief that passion naturally dies over time. [14:32] Marriage as a skill set that can be learned and mastered. [15:05] Course details, limited spots, and next steps. [15:25] Christmas message and encouragement to live legendary.     Five Key Takeaways: Roommate syndrome doesn't happen overnight—it's the result of neglecting connection, intimacy, and intentional effort.  Resentment grows when expectations go unspoken and needs are assumed instead of communicated.  Attraction in marriage is a learned skill, not something that automatically sustains itself over time.  Men must lead attraction with confidence, not needy or transactional energy.  Exceptional marriages are uncommon because they require uncommon effort, training, and intentional action.      Links & Resources: Roommates to Soulmates Course: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates 1st Phorm (Dad Edge Partner): https://1stphorm.com/dadedge Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1418     Closing Remark   If this episode hit home and reminded you that marriage doesn't have to settle into mediocrity, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. You weren't meant to be roommates—you were meant to build a marriage on fire. From my heart to yours, have a Merry Christmas and continue to live legendary.