The Dad Edge Podcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In today's episode, I sit down with Brent Gleeson, former Navy SEAL, combat veteran, entrepreneur, leadership expert, and author of his newest book All In. But this conversation isn't about résumés or accolades. It's about grief, discipline, marriage, fatherhood, and the systems that allow a man to truly live "all in" where it matters most.   Brent opens up about losing his father unexpectedly in 2023—a moment that forced deep reflection and radical change. We talk about the three pillars his dad lived by, how eliminating alcohol completely transformed Brent's marriage and leadership, and why discipline isn't about doing more—but about saying no to the wrong things. This episode is a masterclass in systems, habits, and intentional living for men who want to lead their families with clarity and conviction.     Timeline Summary: [0:00] Introducing Brent Gleeson and why this conversation goes far beyond achievements. [2:09] Losing his father in 2023 and the three pillars that shaped Brent's life. [2:57] How discipline is modeled—not preached. [3:28] Why saying yes to everything means saying no to the right things. [5:11] Family, work, and fitness as non-negotiable pillars. [8:05] The economic pressure and personal stress leading into 2023. [10:33] Being present for his father's final moments and the impact of that loss. [13:28] Going "all in" after grief and eliminating alcohol completely. [15:03] Why alcohol was no longer serving his marriage, health, or leadership. [17:21] How quitting drinking changed Brent's temperament, joy, and presence. [20:03] Larry shares his own experience stepping away from alcohol. [23:00] The cue–routine–reward framework for breaking habits. [28:39] Introducing Brent's "Remarkable Results Pyramid." [30:37] Why marriage must come first in the family system. [33:18] Committing to growth by intentionally cringing at who you were six months ago. [36:05] Why kids are always watching how parents treat each other. [39:30] Brent's 20–20–20 morning routine and disciplined evening habits. [41:25] Preparing daily to show up better as a husband, father, and leader. [46:03] Adjusting routines without abandoning discipline. [50:43] Why overscheduling kids destroys family balance. [54:27] Saying no to excessive activities and rejecting comparison parenting.     Five Key Takeaways   Discipline is about alignment, not intensity. What you say no to matters just as much as what you say yes to.  Grief can be a catalyst for clarity. Losing his father forced Brent to re-evaluate habits, priorities, and presence.  Eliminating alcohol radically improved marriage and leadership. Removing numbing behaviors created more joy, patience, and connection.  Systems create results. Whether in business, marriage, or parenting, outcomes come from well-designed systems—not willpower.  Marriage must come first. When the relationship between mom and dad is prioritized, the rest of the family system functions better.      Links & Resources Brent Gleeson's Book — https://a.co/d/7DOrJPE Dad Edge Soulmates Program: https://thedadedge.com/soulmates 1st Phorm (Dad Edge Partner): https://1stphorm.com/dadedge Episode Show Notes & Resources: http://thedadedge.com/1419 Bark Monitoring for Families: https://thedadedge.com/bark   Closing Remark If this episode challenged you to rethink discipline, habits, or what it really means to go all in as a husband and father, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us reach more men who are ready to lead with intention instead of drift.

What if the real scoreboard for fatherhood isn't your bank account, your job title, or your kids' trophies—but how much your adult kids actually want to spend time with you? In this deeply moving conversation, I sit down with Tim Campbell, an 82-year-old father, author, and living example of what long-term connection and trust with your kids can look like—even after a lifetime of hardship.   Tim shares his journey of being married for 50 years, raising three children—two with significant disabilities—and navigating medical crises, bullying, fear, and exhaustion that would have broken most families. We talk about growing up with a Marine father who lacked emotional tools, the moment Tim realized he had become the dad he swore he'd never be, and how he rebuilt trust one moment at a time. This episode is a masterclass in breaking generational patterns, showing up authentically, and understanding why trust is the real gold in fatherhood.     Timeline Summary: [0:00] Rethinking the true scoreboard of fatherhood and legacy. [1:20] Introducing Tim Campbell and his 50-year marriage. [2:19] Raising three kids, two with significant disabilities, and surviving medical crises. [3:09] Why trust and connection are the biggest themes of Tim's fatherhood journey. [3:29] Growing up with a Marine father and limited emotional connection. [4:16] How crisis can either weld a marriage together or tear it apart. [4:41] Tim introduces his book Holding Up the Sky. [5:02] Writing a healing, imaginary conversation with his late father. [7:00] How trauma early in marriage revealed character and long-term strength. [8:25] Learning you don't have to win every argument to win the long game. [12:23] Vowing to break generational patterns from his own childhood. [14:09] Wanting to be a better dad—but not knowing how at first. [16:24] Realizing fear turned him into the father he never wanted to be. [17:11] A breaking-point moment that forced real change. [18:19] Why leveling with your kids builds trust during hard moments. [18:52] Learning from the next generation, not just the previous one. [21:17] Larry shares his own parenting experience with a child with disabilities. [22:44] A bullying moment involving Tim's son and how he responded. [23:45] "Trust is the real gold" and how it compounds over time. [24:41] Parenting adult children with disabilities and letting go. [26:23] Knowing you did fatherhood right when adult kids still want connection. [28:16] Revisiting the final chapter of Holding Up the Sky. [30:58] Imagining his father's response and finding peace. [33:06] Authenticity, masks, and being human with your kids. [36:01] Why sharing your own childhood stories builds instant connection. [37:13] Where to find Tim, his book, and additional resources.     Five Key Takeaways Trust is the real currency of fatherhood. It opens the door to love, communication, and long-term connection.  Crisis reveals character. Hard seasons can either fracture a family or weld it together depending on how we show up.  Fear can turn us into the parent we swore we'd never be if we don't consciously course-correct.  Getting down to your child's level—literally and emotionally—builds safety and trust.  Adult children choosing to stay connected is the truest measure of success.      Links & Resources Tim Campbell's Book — Holding Up the Sky: https://holdingupthesky.net Tim Campbell Website: https://timcampbellodysseys.net Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1416 Bark Monitoring for Families: https://thedadedge.com/bark   Closing Remark If this episode reminded you what really matters in fatherhood, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. And remember—titles fade, money comes and goes, but trust with your kids is the gold that lasts a lifetime.

In this deeply emotional solo episode, I continue our December series focused on protecting kids from online predators. I walk you through two real and devastating cases that show exactly how grooming, sextortion, and long-term digital harassment happen—often without parents having any idea it's occurring. These aren't edge cases. This is the reality of the digital world our kids are growing up in.   We break down a Roblox grooming case involving an eight-year-old girl, how predators slowly build trust and move conversations to private apps, and why platform bans don't actually stop them. I also share the heartbreaking story of Amanda Todd, a seventh grader who was hunted online for years by a predator who weaponized images, social media, and bullying across schools and borders. This episode is hard to listen to—but necessary—because awareness is the first step in protecting our kids.     Timeline Summary: [0:00] Why online grooming often goes unnoticed until it's too late. [1:48] How predators now access kids directly in their bedrooms through devices. [2:46] Why this generation of parents is navigating entirely new digital dangers. [3:52] Parenting the first generation of kids growing up fully online. [4:20] Introducing a real Roblox grooming case involving an eight-year-old girl. [5:24] How predators use in-game chat and "helping" to gain trust. [6:18] The move from public game chat to private apps like WhatsApp. [6:44] Grooming tactics that feel like friendship to kids. [7:09] How exploitation and sextortion begin once trust is built. [8:07] Why platform bans don't stop predators from returning. [9:06] Key lessons parents must understand about Roblox and open chat systems. [10:06] Larry shares a personal experience with a suspicious "wrong number" text. [11:54] Why text messages and private apps are also major risk areas. [12:25] Introducing the Amanda Todd case from British Columbia. [12:52] How sextortion followed Amanda across schools and years. [13:58] Why Amanda wasn't bullied—she was hunted. [14:27] The mental health toll of long-term digital harassment. [15:18] Amanda's nine-minute YouTube video explaining her story. [15:49] Arrest, conviction, and sentencing of her predator years later. [16:41] Why one image can give predators long-term control. [17:39] How predators weaponize anonymity, time, and technology. [18:38] Why Bark has helped Larry catch issues proactively for seven years. [19:26] How parents can honor victims by protecting their own kids. [20:11] Final call to action to monitor devices and stay engaged.     Five Key Takeaways Online grooming happens slowly and quietly, often disguised as friendship and "help" inside games like Roblox.  Predators almost always move kids from public chats to private apps, where there is no moderation or logging.  One image is all a predator needs to control, extort, and emotionally destroy a child over time.  Platform bans do not protect kids, because predators can create new accounts in minutes.  Parental awareness and monitoring can change outcomes, and proactive conversations can prevent lifelong trauma.      Links & Resources Bark Monitoring for Families: https://thedadedge.com/bark Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1415 Mentioned Link: https://www.amandatoddlegacy.org/aydin-coban.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com   Closing Remark These stories are hard—but they matter. The best way we can honor kids who've been hurt or lost is by protecting our own. Please rate, review, follow, and share this episode, and most importantly, stay involved in your kids' digital lives. From my heart to yours—let's do better.

What if the most dangerous addiction in the world isn't drugs, alcohol, or gambling—but revenge? In this eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Dr. James Kimmel Jr., Yale School of Medicine researcher, attorney, and author of The Science of Revenge, to unpack what actually happens in our brains when we feel wronged, humiliated, or disrespected.   Dr. Kimmel breaks down the neuroscience behind revenge, why it lights up the brain the same way cocaine does, and how seeking retaliation gives us a temporary dopamine hit that ultimately leaves us worse off. We talk about anger, forgiveness, sibling rivalry, marriage conflict, parenting mistakes, and why forgiveness isn't weakness—it's one of the most powerful tools we have to reclaim peace, leadership, and self-control as men and fathers.     Timeline Summary    [0:00] Why revenge may be the most dangerous addiction in the world. [2:10] Introducing Dr. James Kimmel Jr. and his research on revenge and forgiveness. [3:02] How revenge activates the same brain circuitry as drugs like cocaine. [4:38] Dr. Kimmel's background as both a lawyer and Yale researcher. [6:33] Marriage, faith, and building a family with shared purpose over 37 years. [9:12] Advice on long-term marriage and selecting the right partner early. [13:23] Why revenge seeking escalates conflict in families and relationships. [16:17] Defining revenge as an addictive, pleasure-seeking process. [17:17] How grievances activate the brain's pain and reward systems. [21:25] Why emotional pain registers as physical pain in the brain. [23:13] Dopamine, craving, and why revenge never actually satisfies. [25:32] How the prefrontal cortex gets hijacked during revenge seeking. [28:06] Revenge cycles in marriage and intimate relationships. [31:20] Losing control: when logic shuts down during retaliation. [33:27] Larry shares a real-life road rage trigger moment. [37:39] How quickly fight-or-flight turns into revenge seeking. [39:52] Why only about 20% of people become "revenge addicted." [42:16] Differences between men and women when seeking revenge. [43:28] Why revenge plots dominate movies like John Wick and The Lion King. [47:07] Sibling rivalry and how revenge shows up between brothers. [54:23] Parenting discipline vs. revenge-driven punishment. [58:25] Why forgiveness is essential for breaking the revenge cycle.     Five Key Takeaways Revenge activates the same brain circuits as drugs and gambling, making it addictive and compulsive for some people.  Emotional wounds register as real physical pain in the brain, triggering a desire to self-medicate through retaliation.  Revenge provides temporary relief but increases anger, anxiety, and depression after the dopamine fades.  Parents can unintentionally cross the line from discipline into revenge, especially when ego and shame are triggered.  Forgiveness is not weakness—it's neuroscience. It's one of the most powerful ways to reclaim control, peace, and leadership.  Links & Resources The Science of Revenge: https://bit.ly/4q1khVd Bark Monitoring for Families: https://thedadedge.com/bark Podcast Shownotes: http://thedadedge.com/1414     Closing Remark   If this episode challenged the way you think about anger, conflict, and forgiveness, please take a moment to rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us reach more men who want to lead with intention instead of reaction.

If you're a parent with a kid in youth sports—rec, competitive, or full-blown travel—today's episode will hit home. I sit down with Jonathan Carone, creator of Healthy Sports Parents, for a powerful conversation about what youth sports have become, why burnout is skyrocketing, and how well-meaning parents (including me in the early years) unknowingly make the experience more stressful for their kids.   We break down shocking stats—like why 70% of kids quit sports by age 13, why travel leagues are burning families out, and how overtraining is causing injuries in 9-, 10-, and 11-year-olds. Jonathan brings immense wisdom about the car ride home, sideline behavior, when to step in with coaches, and how to raise confident, resilient athletes without crushing the joy of the game.     Timeline Summary:   [0:00] The surprising reason most kids quit sports by age 13. [2:14] Larry shares his own evolution from "obnoxious sideline dad" to quiet encourager. [3:41] Introducing guest Jonathan Carone of Healthy Sports Parents. [4:10] Why travel sports are wrecking family time and burning kids out. [4:40] The truth about scholarships and NIL fantasies. [5:00] How the car ride home can make or break a kid's love for the game. [6:04] The pressure kids feel once sports stop being fun. [7:04] Why rec leagues are disappearing—and why that matters. [8:29] How travel sports exploded over the last 25 years. [10:25] A realistic look at what travel sports demand from families. [12:09] Early onset injuries from overscheduling and year-round seasons. [14:21] Real-life stories of parents whose kids never get a break. [16:06] Why travel sports can destroy family dinners and family culture. [17:05] The fear-based mindset driving parents to overcommit. [19:47] The burnout cycle and why most kids stop enjoying the sport. [20:05] The psychology behind parents who push too hard. [21:13] Self-love vs. self-glory and how they influence parenting. [22:29] The myth of scholarships and how rare they really are. [23:24] How unhealthy pressure destroys a child's love for physical activity. [24:13] Why running became punishment for our generation. [26:33] Protecting kids' mental health in the digital age with Bark. [31:43] What parents should be doing on the sidelines. [34:36] The car ride home: three things you should ALWAYS say. [35:42] When and how to give feedback the right way. [38:44] Using a 5-to-1 positivity ratio to help kids grow. [41:22] Being an "obnoxious encourager." [43:33] The power of tone and why it changes everything. [45:04] When coaches only play to win—and your kid never gets in. [47:04] Teaching kids to advocate for themselves, age by age. [49:20] How ADHD affects emotional regulation in sports. [53:14] The long-tail impact of how we parent through sports. [54:18] Generational change starts with how we show up today.     Five Key Takeaways Kids quit because the game stops being fun—not because of screens, school, or injuries. Pressure from adults is the biggest culprit.  Travel sports demand 6–15 hours per week before adding training or lessons, often at the cost of family dinners and downtime.  Overuse injuries are exploding in kids as young as 9 due to year-round seasons and lack of rest.  Parents often push due to fear, self-validation, or scholarship fantasies, even though less than 5% of athletes ever receive any scholarship money.  The car ride home should NEVER be coaching time. The only things kids need to hear are: "I loved watching you play," "Where do you want to eat?" and "What do you want to listen to?"      Links & Resources Bark Monitoring for Families: https://thedadedge.com/bark Healthy Sports Parents (Jonathan Carone): https://healthysportsparents.com Healthy Sports Parents on Social: https://www.instagram.com/healthysportsparents/ Episode Show Notes: https://thedadedge.com/1413     Closing Remark If this episode gave you a new perspective on supporting your youth athlete, take a moment to rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us reach more dads who want to lead with intention—on the sidelines and at home.

In this solo December episode, I continue a month-long series dedicated to educating parents about the real dangers our kids face online. After last week's story about Adam Tate, today I share two more real cases—one involving sextortion and another involving swatting—that every parent needs to understand. These aren't rare events. They're happening quickly, quietly, and often right under our noses while our kids sit in their bedrooms playing games like Roblox, Fortnite, and more.   You'll hear the heartbreaking story of 17-year-old Ryan Lass from San Jose, who took his own life within hours of being extorted by an overseas criminal network. Then we break down the tragic case of Andrew Finch, a 28-year-old father of two who was killed after a swatting prank triggered a full SWAT response to the wrong house. Both stories highlight how dangerous the digital world has become—and why we must be proactive, aware, and deeply involved in protecting our kids' online lives.     Timeline Summary: [0:00] Introduction [1:02] Why December episodes are focused on online safety and protecting kids. [1:50] Recap of last week's episode about Adam Tate and the Sean Ryan interview. [2:32] Why sinister online activity is escalating and why parents must stay informed. [3:02] Introducing two new stories: a sextortion case and a swatting case. [3:48] Explanation of "swatting" and why even young kids are now doing it. [4:48] Beginning Ryan Lass's story — a high school senior extorted online. [5:38] How a predator posed as a woman and launched a rapid blackmail attack. [6:07] FBI findings and identification of the international criminal ring. [7:41] Why Ryan's case matters: he was targeted, not reckless. [8:37] How modern predators manipulate teens using panic and pressure. [9:02] Parents' blind spots about who kids are connected to online. [10:17] Reminder that kids are connected to global predators—not just friends. [11:03] Introduction to Andrew Finch's swatting case. [12:06] The false 911 call describing a violent hostage situation. [12:57] How Andrew Finch was shot despite having no involvement. [14:01] Why swatting is deadly—and how it grew out of gaming communities. [15:39] The seriousness of online conflict and its real-world consequences. [16:33] How swatting and predator activity now infiltrate gaming platforms. [16:54] Why Bark is one of the most effective tools for monitoring kids' devices. [17:19] The need for proactive online supervision—like helmets for digital life. [18:18] A recent incident with my own son that Bark helped me catch early. [19:09] The urgency of protecting our kids from online predators. [19:32] Directing listeners to the show notes and resources at thedadedge.com/1412. [20:10] Additional resources including PenTester, YouTube links, and conversation guides. [20:27] Free "Conversations for the Car" PDF for kids ages 5–18. [20:45] Encouragement for parents: we fight this fight together.       Five Key Takeaways Predators are organized, trained, and global. Kids on gaming systems are interacting with far more than just "friends."  Sextortion happens extremely fast. In Ryan's case, the window from first contact to death was only hours.  Swatting is no longer just a gaming prank—it's deadly. The Andrew Finch tragedy shows how quickly it can turn fatal.  Parents must stay vigilant, informed, and engaged. Safety now requires ongoing conversations and digital monitoring.  Tools like Bark can save lives. Monitoring texts, DMs, and online chats can catch danger long before it escalates.      Links & Resources Mentioned   Bark Monitoring for Families: https://thedadedge.com/bark Ryan Montgomery Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2GPd36fFPuLsBSlZp6WUvc?si=BPYACSoWRRin9MatFHMGbg Facebook Story Referenced in Episode: https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=32876961955250751&id=100000911118224&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=nnmVU8LFIdec2oLO# PenTester (Ryan Montgomery's Cybersecurity Site): https://pentester.com/ Ryan Montgomery's YouTube Channel (@0dayCTF): https://www.youtube.com/@0dayCTF NBC Bay Area News — Sextortion Case of San Jose Teen: https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/4-arrested-sextortion-san-jose-teen-suicide/3865298/?utm_source=chatgpt.com ABC News — Swatting Incident Leading to Andrew Finch's Death: https://abcnews.go.com/US/la-man-arrested-swatting-incident-led-police-killing/story?id=52057251&utm_source=chatgpt.com Podcast Episode Shownotes: http://thedadedge.com/1412   Closing Remark If this episode helped open your eyes to the realities our kids face online, please take a moment to rate, review, follow, and share the show. Together, we can protect our kids and make the digital world a safer place for every family.

In this powerful and deeply emotional episode, I sit down with my good friend Sean Cochran, CEO of Men for Life, to have one of the rawest conversations we've ever shared on this podcast. Sean opens up about losing his first child to abortion at 19 and the seven-year spiral that followed—addiction, gambling, overdoses, isolation, and hitting rock bottom on the floor of a dirty hotel room. His story is one of unimaginable darkness, but also unbelievable redemption.   We explore how culture has silenced men in the abortion conversation, the devastating emotional impact so many men carry in secret, and Sean's journey from shame to recovery, fatherhood, and ultimately becoming a national voice for men who feel unseen in this space. We also dive into the mission behind Men for Life, the data behind father involvement, and how redefining authentic masculinity can change families and communities for generations.     Timeline Summary   [0:00] Sean begins sharing why abortion is not just a "women's issue." [2:03] The staggering data on how many men are affected by abortion every year. [3:56] Sean's personal story begins—19 years old, his girlfriend is pregnant. [5:06] Learning the abortion would happen despite his desire to keep the baby. [6:34] The counselor who told him "this doesn't affect you"—and how that shaped years of silence. [8:05] Addiction escalates: cocaine, ecstasy, gambling, and stealing. [9:25] Hitting rock bottom in a hotel room and believing he would die. [10:59] A moment of surrender and prayer that changed everything. [12:50] Entering treatment, beginning healing, and naming his son "Michael." [15:38] Rebuilding: finishing college, law school, starting a family. [17:04] Adopting three children—and the powerful contrast between two mothers' choices. [18:28] Realizing he was failing as a lawyer, husband, and father—and shutting down his law practice. [21:00] Discovering men everywhere carry hidden abortion wounds after speaking publicly for the first time. [23:03] How Sean was led—against his own plans—to become CEO of Men for Life. [26:05] The mission: creating a fatherhood program that transforms young men and saves lives. [28:00] Why authentic masculinity is rooted in service, courage, sacrifice, and Christ-like leadership. [30:00] How men can get involved and support Men for Life.     Five Key Takeaways Men are deeply impacted by abortion, yet culture has told them their voice doesn't matter. One in five men will lose a child to abortion by age 45—and most carry that pain alone. Sean's seven-year spiral was fueled by unprocessed grief, shame, and the belief that he "didn't matter." Father involvement changes outcomes: when men see an ultrasound and go through a fatherhood program, 97% choose life. Authentic masculinity isn't domination—it's service, courage, sacrifice, and living for something bigger than yourself.     Links & Resources Mentioned Men for Life Website: https://menforlife.org Contact Sean Directly: Email: sean@menforlife.org or https://menforlife.org/contact-us Sean's Instagram: https://instagram.com/lseancorcoran Dad Edge Mastermind: https://thedadedge.com/mastermind Episode Show Notes Page: https://thedadedge.com/1411   Closing Remark If today's episode moved you, inspired you, or helped you feel less alone, please take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast. Your support helps us reach more men who need these conversations.

In today's conversation, I sit down with Ian Cron — a psychotherapist, priest, bestselling author of The Road Back to You, and one of the world's leading experts on the Enneagram. This episode hit me far harder than I expected. Ian doesn't just explain the Enneagram… he helps us understand how our personality type shapes our marriage, our parenting, our leadership, and even the stories we tell ourselves.   But things get incredibly real when Ian puts me through a live guided inner-work exercise. Within minutes, he led me straight into one of the deepest beliefs I carry about success, provision, and worth — taking me face-to-face with the 12-year-old version of myself who still drives far more than I realized. It was raw, vulnerable, uncomfortable… and one of the most powerful moments I've had behind this microphone. If you've ever wondered why you do what you do, why you push so hard, or why your strengths sometimes undermine you, this conversation will stop you in your tracks.     Timeline Summary: [0:00] – Introducing the episode and why today's conversation hit harder than expected. [1:27] – Ian Cron's background as a psychotherapist, priest, and Enneagram expert. [2:12] – Ian explains the nine personality types in plain language. [2:42] – Why I chose to get vulnerable and let Ian guide me through inner work. [3:25] – A moment of intense authenticity as I sit face-to-face with my younger self. [11:51] – Nature vs. nurture — where personality comes from. [13:34] – Why self-awareness is essential for good living, marriage, and parenting. [15:31] – Applying Enneagram wisdom to understanding kids and their inner worlds. [17:22] – How knowing my wife's type changed our marriage. [18:27] – "What's best about you is also what's worst about you." [19:59] – Ian analyzes my type (3w2) and explains why he knew so much about me instantly. [21:42] – How threes may unintentionally run over people while chasing goals. [22:50] – Parenting kids who aren't wired like you — and avoiding making them copies. [24:12] – Why every type has strengths, weaknesses, and a path toward health. [26:32] – Understanding your kids' Enneagram types and customizing your parenting. [27:48] – When kids should take the Enneagram test. [29:03] – My own reflections on turning 50 and becoming more self-aware. [30:19] – How to begin inner work and understand your type's shadow side. [31:21] – The shift from first-half-of-life achievement to second-half-of-life meaning. [32:36] – Do Enneagram types change over time? [33:58] – Ian shares the hard truths about being a Type 4 and the work it required. [35:51] – What makes the Enneagram "painfully accurate" — and why it stings at first. [43:03] – Why dating app "compatibility" algorithms may be misleading. [46:16] – The danger of being married to someone exactly like you. [47:15] – Why I talk to the "achiever" part of myself and how Ian explains this phenomenon. [49:21] – Understanding internal "parts" and learning to lead them well. [52:06] – The moment my 12-year-old self emerges during the guided exercise. [1:02:14] – Why self-knowledge is the beginning of wisdom. [1:03:27] – Ian's resources: assessments, coaching, books, and his Typology podcast. [1:04:45] – Final reflections and directing listeners to the show notes.     Five Key Takeaways   The Enneagram reveals core motivations, not just behaviors. Understanding your type gives you a mirror into why you act, think, and feel the way you do.  Self-awareness is foundational to healthy marriage and parenting. When you understand your patterns, blind spots, and triggers, you show up more intentionally for the people you love.  Your strengths also contain your shadow. "What's best about you is also what's worst about you" — and growth requires facing both sides honestly.  Inner-work exposes old parts still running your life. The guided exercise revealed a wounded 12-year-old part of me still driving my need to achieve and provide.  Your type doesn't change, but you evolve within it. True maturity comes from learning to lead your personality, not letting it lead you.      Links & Resources: Ian's website & resources: https://www.ianmorgancron.com Ian's book: The Road Back to You: https://www.amazon.com/Road-Back-You-Enneagram-Self-Discovery/dp/0830846190 Bark x The Dad Edge: http://thedadedge.com/bark Show notes: https://thedadedge.com/1410     Closing Remark   If this episode gave you a moment of clarity, helped you understand yourself better, or challenged you to grow, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. From my heart to yours, thank you for listening — now go out and live legendary.