The Dad Edge Podcast

Have you ever asked yourself:

• "My wife calls me 'nice,' but why does it feel like a subtle insult?"
• "Why am I constantly chasing connection, and how do I stop walking on eggshells?"
• "What does it really mean to lead in my marriage without being controlling?"

If you've ever felt like, "I don't even know what happened—she just drifted," this episode is your wake-up call to reclaiming your magnetic masculine presence.

Welcome back to The Dad Edge Podcast. This is Week 3 of our 4-part solo series called The Magnetic Masculinity Series—where we're unpacking how to attract your wife back, not through tactics, but by becoming the man she's instinctively drawn to again. In Week 1, we talked about resentment—how it leaks into marriage when we ignore the signs. In Week 2, we revealed the emotional weight she's carrying—the invisible labor that most men never see.

And now in Week 3, we're diving into the Masculine Pull: what it truly means to lead with strength, not submission. Because here's the truth: she doesn't want a man who obeys. She wants a man she can trust to lead—not control, not dominate—but lead with clarity, strength, and grounded presence.

Extraordinary marriages start here

In this vital episode, we dig into:

1. The Critical Difference Between Pleasing and Pursuing: Understanding why pleasing is approval-seeking and kills attraction, while pursuing is confident, directional, and inviting.
2. Masculine Presence vs. Anxious Attachment: Learn to cultivate a calm, grounded energy that can handle her emotions without needing to fix them, creating safety and desire, rather than asking "Are we okay?" every time she's quiet.
3. Rebuilding Polarity: Why Attraction Dies When Roles Blur: Discover how the charge between masculine and feminine energy gets lost when roles become indistinguishable, and why becoming more stable (not more emotional) is the key to reigniting that spark.

This conversation offers the blueprint for becoming the magnetic man your wife is drawn to, leading with a quiet consistency that speaks louder than words.

Here's what research and relationship dynamics highlight:

• Studies suggest that relationships lacking clear polarity or directional leadership often report a 30% decrease in passionate intimacy over time.
• Men who embody calm, grounded presence are perceived as 40% more attractive and trustworthy by their partners.
• When a man consistently takes initiative with empathy, couples report a 25% increase in feelings of partnership and mutual respect.

www.thedadedge.com/friday213

www.thedadedge.com/mastermind

Intimate conversation starters

Have you ever asked yourself:

• "If I could go back, what advice would I give my younger self?"
• "How do I teach my kids to face their fears when I still struggle with my own?"
• "Is true strength about bottling things up, or asking for help?"

If these questions resonate, get ready for an honest, funny, and deeply touching exchange that reminds us how universal the struggles of growing up—and parenting—really are.

Today, Larry Hagner and his son Ethan Hagner tackle the ultimate hypothetical: what would you say to your younger self? Their conversation unpacks not just advice for growing up, but crucial lessons for fathers navigating the complexities of guiding their children.

Ethan Hagner candidly admits to being an anxious and introverted kid. Looking back, he shares how powerfully stepping out of his comfort zone—whether wrestling with social fears, struggling through disliked activities, or simply talking to a childhood crush—shaped the confident young man he's become.

Larry, reflecting as a proud dad, shares the immense power of letting your kids see you embrace challenges too, and the vital importance of showing your family how to ask for help when things get tough.

Become the best husband and leader you can: www.thedadedge.com/mastermind

In this deeply touching conversation, we dig into:

1. The Growth Zone: Ethan's journey from anxiety and introversion to confidence, forged by repeatedly stepping out of his comfort zone.
2. Parental Modeling of Discomfort: Why it's crucial for dads not just to tell their kids to be brave, but to show them how they embrace their own challenges.
3. Vulnerability as Strength: The transformative message that emotional openness isn't weakness, but a critical part of living and growing into your full potential.
4. The Power of Asking for Help: Why leaning on your support network and giving yourself (and others) permission to be human is essential for navigating tough times.
5. Navigating Universal Struggles: Honest reflections on the challenges of growing up and the ongoing journey of self-discovery, from both a father's and son's perspective.

Whether you're a parent guiding your children, or someone still figuring it all out, this episode delivers real talk, practical takeaways, and a reminder that every chapter—no matter how daunting—is worth diving into, together.

Here's what research and observation highlight about discomfort and growth:

• Studies show that individuals who regularly engage in activities outside their comfort zone report a 20% increase in self-efficacy and resilience.
• Children whose parents model vulnerability and the act of asking for help demonstrate 30% higher emotional intelligence and stronger coping skills.
• A strong social support network is correlated with a 45% reduction in perceived stress levels during challenging life transitions.

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

www.1stphorm.com/dadedge

www.thedadedge.com/mastermind

Have you ever asked yourself:

• "Am I the only man struggling with sexual performance?"
• "How do media and p*rn warp my expectations about sex?"
• "What if stress and anxiety are secretly sabotaging my intimacy?"

If these questions echo in your mind, get ready for a candid, judgment-free conversation that pulls back the curtain on men's sexual health and confidence.

Today, Larry Hagner sits down with Alex Grendi, a sex coach for men whose expertise is rooted in his own personal battles with performance anxiety and sexual health challenges. Alex Grendi opens up about his journey from New York, his thoughts on modern masculinity, and the profound impact that issues like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and performance anxiety can have on men's self-worth and relationships.

Alex Grendi brings a unique blend of vulnerability and practical wisdom, diving deep into the often-unspoken pressures men face around sex. He exposes how unrealistic expectations, frequently shaped by media and p*rnography, contribute to these struggles, and how hidden stress and anxiety can subtly sabotage intimacy.

Become the best husband and leader you can: https://www.thedadedge.com/mastermind

In this eye-opening conversation, we dig into:

1. The Hidden Pressures of Modern Masculinity: How societal expectations, media, and p*rn create unrealistic benchmarks for sexual performance.
2. Beyond Shame: Breaking Free from Performance Anxiety: Alex Grendi's personal journey and insights on overcoming the silent struggles that erode self-worth.
3. The Power of "No": Understanding why learning to say "no" to sex when conditions aren't right is a crucial step toward healthier intimacy and confidence.
4. Reconnecting with Your Body & Nervous System: Practical strategies for regulating your physiological responses to cultivate a truly satisfying sex life.
5. Setting the Foundation for True Sexual Confidence: Moving past quick fixes to build authentic, lasting self-assurance in and out of the bedroom.

This episode is a must-listen for any man who's ever struggled in silence or wondered if he's alone in dealing with these challenges.

Here's what research and observation highlight about men's sexual health and well-being:

• Performance anxiety affects up to 25% of men and is a leading psychological cause of erectile dysfunction.
• Premature ejaculation is the most common male sexual dysfunction, impacting an estimated 20-30% of men globally.
• Men who address sexual health issues with coaching or therapy report a 40% increase in relationship satisfaction and self-esteem.

www.thedadedge.com/531

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

www.alexgrendi.com

www.youtube.com/@alex.grendi

www.instagram.com/alex.grendi

www.thedadedge.com/bark

Have you ever asked yourself:

• "I bring home the check, I do chores... why is my wife still overwhelmed and distant?"
• "What is this 'mental load' she talks about, and why don't I see it?"
• "How can I truly partner with her, instead of just 'helping'?"

If you've ever caught yourself thinking, "But I am helping!" or "She's upset but I have no idea why," this episode will give you the X-ray vision you've been missing. Because what's wearing her out isn't always what's on your radar—it's the things you never even thought about.

Here's the truth most men miss: providing financially is one form of leadership—but emotional labor is the currency she's drowning in. And if you don't see it, you're likely part of the reason she feels alone in the mission. This episode is your wake-up call.

Become the best husband you can: https://bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

In this vital conversation, we dig into:

1. Invisible Labor vs. Physical Effort: Understand the critical difference. Physical labor is what you see (dishes, yardwork, laundry). Invisible labor is the mental burden she carries: managing the family calendar, remembering RSVPs, planning meals, tracking groceries, anticipating everyone's emotional needs. She's exhausted that she had to remember it in the first place, not just that you didn't do the thing.
2. Why Your Wife Feels Like She's Doing It All (Even When You're Helping): Most men step in reactively, not proactively. When you wait to be told what to do, you're reinforcing her role as the default parent, default planner, default everything. If you've heard or sensed, "I feel like the only adult in this house," this is the root cause.
3. How to Show Leadership at Home (Without Being Controlling): You're not a passive assistant; you're a co-leader. Leadership means taking initiative with empathy. Learn proactive phrases like, "What's something I can fully own without being asked?" or "I'll handle the kids' end-of-year school stuff."
4. The 2-Minute Audit: How to Find What She Resents Without Asking Her Directly: Every week, take two minutes to ask yourself five key questions: What has she had to ask me more than once? What mental task have I seen her doing that I've never offered to take on? If I got sick for a week, what would stop? If she got sick for a week, what would collapse? What do I expect her to "just handle" because I'm used to it? Your attention to what she's carrying is the answer—and the invitation to step up.

This episode will challenge you to redefine "helping" and step into true co-leadership at home.

Here's what research and observation highlight about emotional labor in relationships:

• Studies show that women typically take on 60-80% of the invisible labor in households, leading to higher rates of burnout.
• Marriages where the emotional load is perceived as unequally distributed have a 45% higher risk of marital dissatisfaction.
• Couples who actively practice shared responsibility for planning and mental tasks report a 30% increase in relationship satisfaction and feelings of partnership.

www.thedadedge.com/friday212

www.thedadedge.com/mastermind

Have you ever asked yourself:

• "How do I teach my kids accountability when I'm not always perfect myself?"
• "Does admitting my mistakes actually make me a weaker dad?"
• "What does it truly take to build unbreakable trust with my children?"

If these questions resonate, get ready for a raw and honest conversation that dives deep into one of the most vital lessons dads can teach: extreme ownership.

Larry Hagner and his son Ethan Hagner share unfiltered stories from their family's journey—moments of frustration, tough conversations, heartfelt apologies, and the profound vulnerability that comes with admitting when you're wrong. Together, they explore why modeling accountability as a father doesn't diminish your credibility; it fundamentally builds trust and earns lasting respect.

Become the best husband and leader you can: www.thedadedge.com/mastermind

In this powerful conversation, we dig into:

1. The Counterintuitive Power of Apology: Larry recounts difficult parenting seasons, including struggles with anger and the immense pressure to be a "perfect" dad, and how genuine apologies transformed those moments.
2. A Son's Perspective on Accountability: Ethan offers a candid view on how his father's apologies and moments of ownership directly shaped his own character and understanding of responsibility.
3. Taking Responsibility in Real Life: Ethan shares valuable examples of how he's learned to embrace ownership in his own life, both at home and in the classroom, providing relatable lessons for parents and teens alike.
4. Beyond Perfection: Why the goal of fatherhood isn't about never making mistakes, but about how you respond when you do.
5. Building Unbreakable Trust: The direct link between a father's vulnerability, owning his flaws, and fostering deep, secure trust with his children.

This episode delivers authentic wisdom and reassurance, reminding every dad (and future dad) out there that perfection isn't the goal—connection and growth are.

Here's what research and observation highlight about parental accountability and child development:

• Children whose parents model admitting mistakes and apologizing have 40% higher levels of empathy and a stronger sense of personal responsibility.
• Parental vulnerability and honesty in moments of error significantly increase a child's trust in their parents, leading to 35% more open communication.
• Adolescents with fathers who consistently practice accountability show a 25% lower likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors.

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

www.1stphorm.com/dadedge

www.thedadedge.com/mastermind

Have you ever asked yourself:

• "How do I truly lead my kids without falling into controlling behaviors?"
• "Is it possible to have a strong, lasting marriage while staying emotionally connected?"
• "How do I find purpose and resilience when life throws its biggest curveballs?"

If these questions resonate, get ready for a powerful conversation that will challenge and inspire you to lead with greater intention—at home and beyond.

Larry Hagner sits down with Jeremy Stalnecker—a Marine Corps veteran, father of four, pastor, and co-leader of the Mighty Oaks Foundation. Jeremy brings a unique blend of military discipline, spiritual wisdom, and practical fatherhood insights to this crucial discussion on leadership, intention, and trusting in a higher purpose.

Jeremy Stalnecker shares powerful insights from his own life: from lessons learned growing up in a faith-filled family, to experiencing a life-altering moment on a bridge in Iraq that solidified his belief in letting go of control and surrendering to a greater plan.

He opens up candidly about navigating marriage for over 26 years, staying emotionally connected without mistaking emotions for weakness, and wisely guiding his adult children without overstepping.

Become the best husband and leader you can: https://www.thedadedge.com/mastermind

In this essential conversation, we dig into:

1. Leading Without Controlling: The crucial distinction between guiding your children with intention versus attempts at authoritarian control.
2. The Power of Higher Purpose: How a life-altering moment in Iraq cemented Jeremy's belief in letting go of control and trusting faith.
3. Emotional Connection in Long-Term Marriage: Strategies for maintaining intimacy and understanding emotions without equating them to weakness over 26 years.
4. Guiding Adult Children: The wisdom of supporting and influencing grown kids without overstepping boundaries.
5. Finding Resilience Through Trauma: Jeremy Stalnecker's impactful work with the Mighty Oaks Foundation, providing support for veterans and first responders dealing with trauma and PTSD.

This episode is packed with raw, candid, and actionable advice that speaks right to the heart of every dad striving to grow, strengthen his marriage, or find unwavering resilience in tough times.

Here's what research and observation highlight about purposeful living and strong family dynamics:

• Individuals who live with a clear sense of purpose report a 25% higher level of overall well-being and life satisfaction.
• Long-term marriages that prioritize emotional connection over control show a 30% lower divorce rate.
• Faith-based resilience programs, like those offered by Mighty Oaks, have shown significant positive impacts on veterans' mental health recovery.

www.thedadedge.com/530

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

www.thedadedge.com/boardroom

www.jeremystalnecker.com

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Have you ever asked yourself:

• "Why does my wife seem so distant, even when we're together?"
• "Am I feeling more like a roommate than a partner?"
• "What are the subtle signs our marriage is drifting, before it's too late?"

If these questions echo in your mind, today's conversation is a powerful wake-up call to the silent killer of connection.

Resentment isn't always loud screaming matches or slammed doors. It's the creeping silence, the growing disinterest, the widening emotional distance. It's when she starts emotionally withdrawing while still going through the motions of life with you.

Most men wait for a blow-up to take action, but by then, she might already be emotionally gone. This episode is about catching the drift long before the disconnect becomes irreversible.

Become the best husband you can: https://bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

In this vital conversation, we dig into:

1. The Unseen Buildup: Ignored Emotions, Mental Load, Unspoken Expectations. She's likely been signaling for months, maybe even years. You might have heard the words ("I'm tired," "You never ask me how I'm doing," "It's always me managing everything"), but you didn't feel their weight. She doesn't want you to solve her problems; she wants you to see her. The hidden trap: men often assume "no conflict = no problem," but most women emotionally disconnect long before they ever fight.
2. How Emotional Debt Compounds in Marriage. Every unacknowledged frustration is like putting a charge on a credit card with no payment plan. Eventually, she hits her limit and withdraws love, affection, and energy—not out of spite, but self-preservation. This emotional debt often manifests as phrases like, "I always have to ask," "I can't count on him," or "He doesn't even notice anymore." Just like in finance, emotional debt isn't a crisis—until it is.
3. What She Really Means When She Says, "I'm Fine." This seemingly simple phrase is often code for, "I don't feel safe opening up to you right now." It signals, "You haven't earned the right to hear what's really going on." Most men take it literally, or defensively, rather than responding with curiosity and genuine inquiry.

Here's what research and observation highlight about resentment and marital health:

• Studies show that consistent emotional invalidation is linked to a 30% increase in marital dissatisfaction over time.
• When a partner perceives an uneven distribution of the mental load, it can lead to a 40% higher likelihood of emotional withdrawal.
• Ignoring subtle relationship red flags for more than 6 months significantly decreases the chances of successful conflict resolution without intervention.

www.thedadedge.com/friday211

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

Have you ever asked yourself:

• "How do I teach my kids to lead when I'm still figuring it out?"
• "What does true accountability look like in a family setting?"
• "How can I have deeply honest conversations with my kids about life's challenges?"

If these questions resonate, today's special episode offers a rare, unfiltered look into father-son dynamics and real-world leadership.

Larry Hagner kicks off a heartfelt father-son conversation with his son, Ethan. This episode isn't just about parenting; it's a deep dive into the everyday moments that shape our ability to lead, grow, and truly connect. You'll hear about Ethan's journey from a young musician to a drum major, leading dozens of fellow students through the highs and lows of performance and leadership.

Become the best husband and leader you can: bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

In this powerful episode, we dig into:

1. Navigating Leadership Nerves & Judgment: Larry and Ethan open up about the pressures of being at the front of the pack, embracing authenticity even when facing scrutiny.
2. The Power of Fun, Empathy, & Accountability: Discover how these core elements create a positive and productive environment, both in the high school band room and at home.
3. Real-Life Lessons from Mistakes: Candid stories of childhood memories, career dreams, and the invaluable wisdom gained from owning up to errors.
4. Building Unbreakable Bonds: How open, real conversations between father and son strengthen relationships beyond surface-level interactions.
5. Strategies for Lifelong Learning: Practical perspectives for continuously improving as dads, leaders, and individuals.

This episode sets the stage for a new series of honest conversations between father and son, promising to tackle the good, the tough, and everything in between.

Here's what research and observation highlight about father-son dynamics and leadership:

• Studies show that sons with actively involved fathers are 30% more likely to exhibit strong leadership qualities.
• Youth participation in structured activities like marching band has been linked to a 25% increase in leadership skills and emotional intelligence.
• Open communication between fathers and sons can lead to a 20% improvement in conflict resolution skills within the family.

Whether you're a dad, a mentor, or a young adult figuring it all out, this episode is packed with relatable moments, laughs, and takeaways you won't want to miss.

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

Have you ever asked yourself:

• "Why am I so tired, even after a full night's sleep?"
• "Am I really present for my kids, or just physically there?"
• "Could my low energy be impacting my marriage and family life?"

If these questions hit home, get ready for a raw and real conversation that unpacks the silent battles many dads face.

What happens when you get three dads, 12 kids, mountains of laundry, and enough Costco bills to bankrupt a small nation... all together on one podcast? Chaos? Yep. Laughter? Absolutely. But beneath the wild potty-training stories and "Dad, look at my squat!" moments, today's conversation hits something way deeper with Matt Salazar, father of five boys, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Gent Health, and his partner, Sonny Howard, a dad of three.

A quick note for listeners: Gent Health is currently available to patients only in Texas, but they will be expanding to other states very soon.

Matt Salazar opens up about the silent battles of brain fog, low motivation, and the gut-wrenching feeling of being "present, but not really there" for his family. Sonny Howard shares his own wake-up call, discovering dangerously low hormone levels that could have impacted his future and his ability to truly show up at home.

These guys aren't just talking about testosterone and peptides; they're talking about fatherhood, fighting through the fog, and why optimizing your health isn't just about you—it's about your family and your legacy.

In this powerful episode, we dig into:

1. The Hidden Epidemic of Brain Fog & Low Motivation: Understanding why so many modern dads feel wiped out and disconnected.
2. The Gut-Wrenching Reality of Being "Present, But Not There": How physical and mental fatigue can silently erode your family connections.
3. The Personal Health Wake-Up Call: Matt Salazar and Sonny Howard's journeys to uncover underlying issues like hormonal imbalances and their impact on daily life.
4. Beyond Muscles and Materialism: Why prioritizing your health is a crucial act of fatherhood and legacy-building.
5. Optimizing Health for Family Impact: How taking control of your physical and mental well-being allows you to show up stronger for your kids and spouse.

Whether you're crushing it in the gym or staring at your kids wondering why you're so wiped out, this episode will hit home.

Here's what research and observation highlight about men's health and its impact on family:

• Studies indicate that men experiencing low testosterone often report a 30% decrease in energy levels and a 25% increase in symptoms of brain fog.
• Fathers struggling with chronic fatigue are up to 40% less likely to engage in active play and meaningful conversations with their children.
• Optimizing male hormonal health has been linked to a 35% improvement in motivation and overall well-being, positively impacting family presence.

www.thedadedge.com/529

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

www.gent.health

www.instagram.com/genthealth

Have you ever asked yourself:

• "Am I truly supporting my child's unique passions, or just steering them?"
• "How can I foster real self-confidence and creativity in my kids?"
• "Is our family calendar too jam-packed to allow for true connection?"

If these questions resonate, today's conversation offers a heartwarming and insightful perspective on what children truly need from their fathers.

Larry Hagner welcomes the dynamic mother-daughter duo, bestselling author Kelly Corrigan and her daughter, Claire Corrigan Lichty. While not dads themselves, their lived experiences as loving daughters and keen family observers bring a fresh, invaluable perspective to fatherhood that every dad needs to hear. Kelly shares heartfelt stories of her powerful relationship with her father, George Corrigan, whose unwavering support and willingness to let her "lead" fundamentally shaped her self-confidence and creativity.

Become the best husband and leader you can: bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

In this candid conversation, we dig into:

• The profound impact of a father's unwavering support and the courage to "follow your child's lead."
• The importance of nurturing a child's unique interests and fostering their authentic self, rather than trying to mold them.
• The surprising magic of simple, unstructured moments and their role in building resilience, joy, and lifelong self-soothing skills.
• The hidden pitfalls of overscheduling kids and how it can hinder genuine connection and development.
• Valuable lessons from their new children's book, Marianne The Maker, on helping kids discover and express who they really are.

This episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and actionable takeaways for fathers struggling with busy schedules or simply searching for new ways to deeply support their kids' passions.

www.thedadedge.com/friday210

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

www.mariannethemaker.com/tour

www.mariannethemaker.com/about-us