Struggling Early Years of Marriage

In this solo episode, I pull back the curtain on everything happening inside the Dad Edge ecosystem as we close out January and head into February. If your marriage feels disconnected, your health slipped during the holidays, or you've been looking for real skills—not motivation—this episode lays out exactly what's available and how to plug in.

I share my own story of marriage struggle, why only a small percentage of couples truly feel connected, and how becoming a student of marriage completely changed the trajectory of my relationship. From February's marriage-focused tactical agenda inside the Dad Edge Alliance, to the 1st Phorm 8-week challenge, to major announcements around preview calls and the Men's Forge event, this episode is about clarity, opportunity, and intentional action for men who want their marriage and leadership to look different in 2026.

Timeline Summary:

[0:00] Keeping the blooper and why imperfection matters in fatherhood

[1:35] Larry reflects on the first 10–12 years of marriage struggles

[2:27] When marriage turns into co-parenting and roommate syndrome

[3:07] Becoming a student of marriage and why things finally changed

[3:27] Only 12% of marriages report deep connection

[3:52] Introducing the Dad Edge ecosystem

[4:11] Overview of the Dad Edge Alliance

[4:50] February tactical agenda inside the Alliance

[5:09] Why February always focuses on marriage skills

[5:28] Week 1: Attraction, identity, and masculine presence

[6:11] Week 2: Leading without chasing or needy energy

[6:35] Week 3: Boundaries that create desire

[6:55] Week 4: Emotional safety and attraction

[7:39] Why February is the best month to join the Alliance

[8:01] Roommates to Soulmates cohort selling out quickly

[8:41] Holiday weight gain and the need for a physical reset

[9:01] 1st Phorm Dad Edge 8-week challenge overview

[9:42] Challenge dates and community support

[10:19] January Dad Edge 1st Phorm Dad of the Month recognition

[11:01] Alliance preview call announcement

[11:24] What men will learn on the preview call

[12:17] Moving away from social media noise

[14:06] Men's Forge 2026 announcement

[14:51] Why this event is different

[15:41] Where to find all links and next steps

[16:04] Gratitude and closing encouragement

Five Key Takeaways

1. Most men were never taught how to lead a marriage, which is why skill-building—not willpower—creates change.
2. Attraction in marriage evolves, and men must adapt leadership, presence, and identity.
3. Boundaries and emotional safety create desire, not chasing or people-pleasing.
4. Physical health fuels confidence and leadership, especially inside marriage.
5. Community accelerates growth, when men commit to accountability and action.

Links & Resources:

• Dad Edge Alliance (Marriage, Parenting, Health, Leadership): https://thedadedge.com/alliance
• Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: https://thedadedge.com/preview
• 1st Phorm Dad Edge 8-Week Challenge: https://1stphorm.com/dadedge
• Men's Forge 2026 Event: https://themensforge.com
• All Episode Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1431

Closing Remark

Gentlemen, if you want your marriage, health, and leadership to look different in 2026, this is your moment to engage. Thank you for your continued support, your reviews, and your commitment to doing the work. From my heart to yours—let's continue to live legendary.