The Dad Edge Podcast

The Dad Edge Podcast is a movement. It is a strong community of Fathers who all share a set of values. Larry Hagner, founder of The Dad Edge, breaks down common challenges of fatherhood, making them easy to understand and overcome. Tackling the world of Fatherhood can be a daunting task when we try to do it alone. The mission of The Dad Edge Podcast is to help you become the best, strongest, and happiest version of yourself so that you can help guide your kids to the best version of themselves. Simple as that. Everything you need and all of our resources can be found at thedadedge.com/podcast

Marriage Under Pressure & Weathering Life's Hardest Storms featuring Greg Olsen 03/20/2026

Marriage Under Pressure & Weathering Life's Hardest Storms featuring Greg Olsen 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: The Men's Forge: You Think Podcast with Greg Olsen: Available wherever you get your podcasts Follow Greg Olsen on Instagram: @gregolsen88 Episode Link & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40544425

The Hard Journey Back from the Edge of Divorce featuring Tara & Tim Katzman 03/18/2026

The Hard Journey Back from the Edge of Divorce featuring Tara & Tim Katzman 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: The Men's Forge: Dad Edge Business Boardroom: Episode Link & Resources (Episode 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40513695

Finding God, Grit, and Purpose in the Desert featuring Terrence Ogden 03/16/2026

Finding God, Grit, and Purpose in the Desert featuring Terrence Ogden 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: The Men's Forge: Official Project Grit Instagram: Official Project Grit Website: Episode Link & Resources (Episode 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40475440

How Young Men Can Shape Their Life & Future Starting Now featuring Dan Cocran 03/13/2026

How Young Men Can Shape Their Life & Future Starting Now featuring Dan Cocran 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: The Men’s Forge: Episode Link & Resources (Episode 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40404815

The Conflict Cycle That Keeps Married Couples Stuck & Unhappy 03/11/2026

The Conflict Cycle That Keeps Married Couples Stuck & Unhappy 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: Episode Shownotes: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40383470

The One Rule Every Dad Needs (Be Where You Are While You’re There) featuring Jon Bernthal 03/09/2026

The One Rule Every Dad Needs (Be Where You Are While You’re There) featuring Jon Bernthal 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: Episode Link & Resources (Episode 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40352095

Why High Achievers Still Feel Empty After Success & How to Fix It featuring Brad Stulberg 03/06/2026

Why High Achievers Still Feel Empty After Success & How to Fix It featuring Brad Stulberg 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): Roommates to Soulmates Preview: Episode Link & Resources (Episode 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40331650

What to Do When You Feel Disrespected in Your Marriage 03/04/2026

What to Do When You Feel Disrespected in Your Marriage 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: Episode Link & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40298915

The Lone Wolf Mentality Is Killing Modern Men featuring Frank Schwartz 03/02/2026

The Lone Wolf Mentality Is Killing Modern Men featuring Frank Schwartz 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: Frank Schwartz Facebook: The Men’s Forge Live Event: Episode Shownotes: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40259985

The Leadership Shift That Changes Your Marriage and Your Kids 02/27/2026

The Leadership Shift That Changes Your Marriage and Your Kids 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: The Men’s Forge Live Event: Micro Factor Pack: Phormula-1 + Ignition (Post Workout Stack): Collagen with Dermaval: Protein Beef Sticks: Episode Shownotes: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40230210

Why High-Performing Men Struggle in Marriage featuring Marc Hildebrand 02/25/2026

Why High-Performing Men Struggle in Marriage featuring Marc Hildebrand 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: Dad Edge Business Boardroom (Mastermind): Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40206155

Rewiring Your Brain to Break Self-Sabotage & Emotional Reactivity featuring Ashleigh Di Lello 02/23/2026

Rewiring Your Brain to Break Self-Sabotage & Emotional Reactivity featuring Ashleigh Di Lello 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: Follow Ashleigh on Instagram: Collagen (1st Phorm – what I personally use): Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: Dad Edge Business Boardroom (Mastermind): Episode Shownotes: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40185505

Collaborative & Proactive Solutions with Your Children that Don't Require Punishment featuring Dr. Ross Greene 02/20/2026

Collaborative & Proactive Solutions with Your Children that Don't Require Punishment featuring Dr. Ross Greene 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: Dad Edge Business Boardroom (Mastermind): Dr. Ross Greene — Lives in the Balance (Free Resources): Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40167290

Why Men Win at Life When They're Supported by a Brotherhood featuring Marc Hildebrand 02/18/2026

Why Men Win at Life When They're Supported by a Brotherhood featuring Marc Hildebrand 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: Dad Edge Business Boardroom (Mastermind): Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40140570

The Entrepreneur’s Regret: Success Without Sacrificing Your Family featuring Mat Lewczenko 02/16/2026

The Entrepreneur’s Regret: Success Without Sacrificing Your Family featuring Mat Lewczenko 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: Mat Lewczenko on LinkedIn: Mat Lewczenko on Instagram: Mat’s Podcast (Buzzsprout): Mat Lewczenko — Additional Resource: Mat’s Book – Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40110350

A Veteran’s Fight with PTSD to Become The Warrior Dad featuring TJ Baird 02/13/2026

A Veteran’s Fight with PTSD to Become The Warrior Dad featuring TJ Baird 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): Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40088505

Fixing Your Wife’s Problems Is Hurting Your Marriage (What to Do Instead) 02/11/2026

Fixing Your Wife’s Problems Is Hurting Your Marriage (What to Do Instead) 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): Dad Edge Alliance (Marriage, Parenting, Health, Leadership): Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40061280

Discipline Is the Path to Healing and Strength in Fatherhood featuring Kelly Siegel 02/09/2026

Discipline Is the Path to Healing and Strength in Fatherhood featuring Kelly Siegel 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: Kelly Siegel on Facebook: Kelly Siegel on LinkedIn: Harder Than Life Podcast: Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40023450

The Missing Training That Builds Strong Marriages and Families featuring January Donovan 02/06/2026

The Missing Training That Builds Strong Marriages and Families featuring January Donovan 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: January Donovan Website: Instagram: YouTube: Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/40007975

Becoming the Anchor When Your Marriage Is Under Pressure 02/04/2026

Becoming the Anchor When Your Marriage Is Under Pressure 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): Dad Edge Alliance (Marriage, Parenting, Health, Leadership): All Episode Notes & Symptom Resources (Google Doc): Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/39981240

The Path to Men Healing Faster, Improve Recovery, and Reducing Inflammation featuring Dr. Adam Boender 02/02/2026

The Path to Men Healing Faster, Improve Recovery, and Reducing Inflammation featuring Dr. Adam Boender 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: Opti-Greens 50: Post-Workout Stack: Collagen with Dermaval: Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/39937010

Healing From Divorce & Rebuilding Strength, Identity, and Fatherhood featuring Ryan Michler 01/30/2026

Healing From Divorce & Rebuilding Strength, Identity, and Fatherhood featuring Ryan Michler 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: Dad Edge Alliance: Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: 1st Phorm Dad Edge Challenge: Divorce Not Death Program: Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/39927115

Raising Teenage Daughters Without Losing Connection or Confidence 01/28/2026

Raising Teenage Daughters Without Losing Connection or Confidence 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): Dr. Lisa Damour Website: Dr. Lisa Damour on Instagram: Dr. Lisa Damour on YouTube: Dr. Lisa Damour on Twitter/X: Dr. Lisa Damour on Facebook: Dr. Lisa Damour Podcast: How to Manage a Meltdown (PDF): Meg Meeker on The Dad Edge Podcast: Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/39901620

The Skills Men Need for Marriage Health and Leadership at Home 01/26/2026

The Skills Men Need for Marriage Health and Leadership at Home 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): Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: 1st Phorm Dad Edge 8-Week Challenge: Men’s Forge 2026 Event: All Episode Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/39852985

What Couples Get Wrong About Sex in Long-Term Relationships featuring Dr. Nicole McNichols 01/23/2026

What Couples Get Wrong About Sex in Long-Term Relationships featuring Dr. Nicole McNichols 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: Conversation Cards for Kids (Ages 5–Teen): Dr. Nicole McNichols – Faculty Spotlight (University of Washington): New York Times – Modern Love Podcast Feature: Book — You Could Be Having Better Sex Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/39822150

When Marriage Feels Hopeless How to Rebuild Connection and Attraction 01/21/2026

When Marriage Feels Hopeless How to Rebuild Connection and Attraction 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: The Legendary Marriage Book: Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/39801675

Why Emotional Intelligence Is the Missing Skill in Modern Fatherhood featuring Mick Hunt 01/19/2026

Why Emotional Intelligence Is the Missing Skill in Modern Fatherhood featuring Mick Hunt 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: Instagram: @mickunplugged LinkedIn: @mickhunt Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/39768985

Parenting Big Emotions Without Yelling Punishing or Guessing featuring Alyssa Campbell 01/16/2026

Parenting Big Emotions Without Yelling Punishing or Guessing featuring Alyssa Campbell 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): Seed & Sew Website: Seed & Sew on Instagram: Seed & Sew on Facebook: Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/39742760

Rebuilding Trust in Marriage and Confidence in Fatherhood 01/14/2026

Rebuilding Trust in Marriage and Confidence in Fatherhood 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): Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/39717695

Why Intimacy Breaks Down After Kids & How to Rebuild Connection featuring Mark and Brianna Carey 01/12/2026

Why Intimacy Breaks Down After Kids & How to Rebuild Connection featuring Mark and Brianna Carey 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: Intimacy Evolution Website: Webinar Registration: Intimacy Evolution on Instagram: Brianna Carey on Instagram: Mark Carey on Instagram: Episode Show Notes & Resources: 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. /episode/index/show/gooddadproject/id/39677110

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