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.

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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

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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

Are You Leading Your Kids or Just Bossing Them Around? The Dad Edge Blueprint for True Leadership

Ever feel like you're constantly telling your kids what to do, but it's just not sticking? What if there's a more effective way to guide them, one that fosters trust and connection instead of resentment? Today, Larry Hagner dives deep into the heart of true fatherly leadership.

Drawing from powerful training and timeless wisdom shared within The Dad Edge Alliance, Larry unpacks the critical differences between authoritarian parenting (control and commands) and authoritative parenting (clarity, empathy, and presence). He shares real-life stories from dads who are transforming their families by actively listening to their kids, setting consistent boundaries with understanding, and, most importantly, modeling the very behaviors they want to see.

Reignite your marriage: https://bit.ly/deamarriageyoutube

In this essential episode, you'll learn:

• The crucial distinction between "ruler" and "leader" in your parenting approach. Understand why authoritarian methods often breed rebellion, while authoritative leadership fosters respect and cooperation.
• Practical strategies to cultivate deep trust with your children. Learn how open communication, honesty, and following through on promises create an unbreakable bond.
• Why highlighting effort trumps mere achievement in building resilient and motivated kids. Discover how to praise perseverance and the learning process, fostering a growth mindset.
• How to create a home environment where your children feel truly seen, heard, and safe. Explore the elements of a psychologically safe space where vulnerability is encouraged.
• Actionable ways to disrupt the drift of autopilot parenting and become fully present with your kids. Understand the profound benefits of being engaged and attentive in everyday moments.

If you're ready to step into your greatest role as a father and lead your family with intention, passion, and purpose, this episode is packed with the gold you've been searching for.

This special "WINSday" edition is all about celebrating our members' successes and sharing the valuable lessons they've learned on their journey to becoming better dads. Sit back, tune in, and get ready to be motivated by the remarkable guests of the Dad Edge community.

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

Have you ever asked yourself:

• "Is money a constant source of stress in our family?"
• "How do we teach our kids financial smarts without being preachy?"
• "Are we making the right financial moves for our family's future?"

If these questions hit home, today's conversation offers practical wisdom for navigating your family's financial journey.

Larry Hagner sits down with Sophia Yudkowsky, a seasoned financial planner, who dives into the emotional side of money, the importance of a shared financial vision, and how to create individualized approaches to money management that work for your unique family. Sophia Yudkowsky also shares her personal journey, including her upcoming transition into motherhood and how her late mother, Abby, profoundly influenced her balanced approach to career and family.

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

In this essential episode, we dig into:

• Navigating Financial Emotions: How to stay steady during market ups and downs by having clear goals and open communication.
• Tailored Financial Education: Understanding each child's personality to teach them about money in a way that truly resonates.
• Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Identifying typical mistakes families make during the wealth-building phase and the importance of a solid long-term plan.
• Social Media's Financial Impact: How online trends can both inform and mislead your financial decisions.
• Future-Proofing Education: Debating the value of traditional college versus trade schools and how to prepare for future expenses while instilling financial responsibility.

Sophia Yudkowsky's insights are crucial for any family looking to build a healthy relationship with money and secure their financial legacy. This episode is packed with practical advice to make informed decisions that align with your family's unique values and goals.

www.thedadedge.com/528

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

www.mesirow.com/bio/sophia-yudkowsky

www.linkedin.com/in/sophia-yudkowsky

What If Obedience Isn’t the Same as Respect?

We all want to raise good kids — respectful, obedient, and successful.

But what if obedience is just compliance… no connection?

In this episode, I dive deep into the final chapter of Netflix’s Adolescence, and the heartbreaking unraveling of Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old boy whose silent pain led to tragedy.

His father, Eddie, never saw it coming. Why? Because the connection was missing, even though he thought he was doing everything “right.”

I open up about how even committed, hardworking dads like us can miss the quiet red flags our kids are waving. We explore how our need to discipline, protect, and “fix” can sometimes get in the way of the one thing our kids need most: to feel seen and safe.

This episode isn’t about shame. It’s about waking up.

Because your influence as a dad doesn’t come from authority—it comes from emotional safety.

If you’ve ever believed “my kid is doing fine,” this might be the most eye-opening 20 minutes you’ll spend all year.

I’ll also give you a practical framework to help you ask better questions, create deeper emotional connections, and build a relationship your kids will trust—especially when things get tough.

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

In this episode, I share:

• Why “How was your day?” might be the weakest way to check in
• The 3 fatherhood defaults that kill connection: Distance, Disapproval, and Discipline
• How to use the CARE method (Curiosity, Affirmation, Repair, Expectation) to reconnect with your child
• Why our kids confuse disconnection with disinterest—and how to fix it
• The real reason obedience without emotional connection doesn’t build trust

Here's what research supports about the power of action and intention:

• Studies show that couples who engage in regular, small acts of kindness report a 28% increase in relationship satisfaction.
• Research indicates that setting specific, shared goals increases the likelihood of improved communication and intimacy by 35%.
• Prioritizing quality time has been shown to reduce feelings of loneliness in relationships by 20%.

If you're ready to stop waiting for motivation and start actively building a stronger, more connected marriage, this episode is for you. Let's take that first step together.

www.thedadedge.com/friday209

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www.thedadedge.com/25questions

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

What does it really take for your teenager to trust you with everything? Are you creating a home where your wife feels truly safe to open up? Could a father-son conversation reveal the surprising answers?

Today I'm bringing you something truly special: a replay of one of the most meaningful live Q&A sessions I've ever recorded. This one goes way back to 2023, and I had my oldest son, Ethan, who was just 17 at the time (he's 19 now) join me, along with 35 awesome guys from The Dad Edge Alliance.

What made this conversation so powerful is that it was completely unscripted. Real questions, raw answers, and packed with the kind of gold you can only get from honest, open dialogue. Even though it was a live stream with our members, the themes we dove into are just as crucial today.

In this episode, you'll hear us tackle some major challenges that I know resonate with so many of you:

• Connecting with Your Wife When She's Emotionally Distant: Real strategies for bridging that gap.
• Creating Psychological Safety in Conversations: How to foster an environment where true communication can thrive.
• Navigating Discipline Without Losing Connection with Your Kids: Ethan even chimes in with his perspective on this one!
• The Power of the Experience Cube: We explore this incredible conflict resolution tool (originally taught by ClearLeadership.com) that's a game-changer for tough conversations with your wife, kids, and even at work.

But what truly blew me away during this Q&A was hearing, in his own words, what builds trust between Ethan and me. And spoiler alert: it's not about being the perfect dad. It's about something much more real: showing up, owning your mistakes, and spending genuine time together.

I'm not going to lie, you might even hear a little emotion in my voice when Ethan starts talking about this–it really hit home the importance of creating that safe space where our kids feel they can tell us anything.

So, whether you're a dad wanting to lead your family better, a husband striving for deeper connection, or just a man wanting to improve your relationships, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom. Sit back, relax, and get ready for some real talk that still rings true today.

This special "WINSday" edition is all about celebrating our members' successes and sharing the valuable lessons they've learned on their journey to becoming better dads. Sit back, tune in, and get ready to be motivated by the remarkable guests of the Dad Edge community.

www.thedadedge.com/alliance

www.1stphorm.com/dadedge

Have you ever achieved your biggest dreams, only to find they leave you feeling empty? 

What happens when the spotlight fades, and you're left facing the shadows within?

Today, Larry Hagner sits down with Michael Gazzo—a platinum DJ, internationally touring musician, and now a transformational coach with a story that's as captivating as his music. From remixing for pop icons like Ariana Grande to rocking global stages, Michael Gazzo seemingly had it all—until he realized external success couldn't fill the void within.

Michael Gazzo bravely opens up about the hidden battles behind the fame: the crushing burnout, the allure of the party scene, and the relentless pursuit of validation from the outside world. He shares deeply personal turning points, including a transformative silent meditation retreat in Hong Kong and confronting his deepest fears during days-long darkness retreats. 

Through these intense experiences, Michael Gazzo learned the profound power of pausing, looking inward, and finally healing the wounds he'd been running from since childhood.

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

In this raw and insightful conversation, we dig into:

• The honest realities of chasing your dreams and the unexpected emptiness that can follow.
• The courage it takes to confront long-buried childhood wounds and begin the journey of healing.
• The transformative power of authentic brotherhood and finding support in unexpected places.
• Michael Gazzo's perspective on fatherhood and the importance of vulnerability in raising the next generation.
• Practical insights on creating meaningful and lasting change, both in your own life and for your children.

If you're a dad, a dreamer, or anyone on a path of self-discovery seeking purpose beyond achievement, Michael Gazzo's story and wisdom will resonate deeply, offering a powerful reminder that true fulfillment comes from looking within.

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www.michaelgazzo.com

www.instagram.com/michaelvgazzo

Ever look at your kids and see echoes of your own struggles?

Today, Larry Hagner dives into a powerful and often uncomfortable truth: the unhealed wounds we carry as fathers can cast unseen shadows on our children.

Inspired by the Netflix series "Adolescence," this episode unpacks the subtle yet significant ways our unresolved childhood pain impacts our ability to connect with and truly support our kids.

Larry uses the story of Eddie and Jamie from "Adolescence" to illustrate how even well-intentioned dads can unintentionally pass down emotional scars if they haven't actively confronted and healed their own pasts.

It's not about blame; it's about awareness and the courage to break free from generational cycles.

In this raw and honest episode, you'll learn:

• The subtle ways your own unhealed childhood experiences can manifest in your parenting.
• How unresolved pain can create emotional distance and hinder genuine connection with your children.
• Why repeating the mistakes of our fathers is often an unconscious act rooted in our own unresolved issues.
• Practical steps you can take to begin confronting and healing your past wounds.
• The profound impact of emotional presence and intentionality in breaking generational cycles.

This episode is a powerful call to action for fathers to step up—not just as providers, but as emotionally aware men who are committed to healing themselves for the sake of their families. It's a guidepost on the journey to living and fathering more intentionally, creating a new legacy for the next generation.

www.thedadedge.com/friday208

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www.thedadedge.com/25questions

www.thedadedge.com/alliance