Saying Yes Means Saying No

In this solo episode, I open up about one of the most overwhelming seasons my family has faced—fall. Between school demands, sports, band, and everything else, our schedule was maxed out and our connection suffered. Jessica and I found ourselves constantly busy but emotionally distant, operating more like teammates than soulmates.

I share how we recognized the symptoms of "roommate syndrome," what we did to course-correct, and why protecting margin in your life and marriage is non-negotiable. I also introduce my brand-new course launching in January, From Roommates to Soulmates, designed for husbands who are ready to rebuild emotional connection and intimacy.

[0:00] – Introduction

[2:31] – Why fall marks the beginning of chaos for many families

[3:07] – Introducing the From Roommates to Soulmates course

[4:15] – What roommate syndrome looks like and why it's dangerous

[5:20] – Cultural lies men believe about marriage and fatherhood

[6:45] – The silent struggle of disconnection

[8:06] – Our family's real-life overscheduling mistake

[10:28] – When joy turns into exhaustion

[10:54] – The "Sunday Night Reset" strategy

[11:27] – How shared calendars and huddles create clarity

[12:13] – Learning to say no with purpose

[13:16] – Protecting margin and prioritizing connection

[14:42] – Why our "Date Days" are sacred

[15:38] – Free gift: Questions for the Car PDF

[16:41] – Start deeper conversations with your kids today

1. Busyness Is the Enemy of Intimacy

Just because you're doing a lot doesn't mean you're connecting. Overscheduling your family can slowly erode the relationships that matter most.

2. Roommate Syndrome Is Real—But Reversible

When you and your partner start functioning as co-managers instead of lovers, it's time to course-correct. Connection requires intention.

3. Margin Is Not a Luxury, It's a Necessity

If your calendar is full but your marriage feels empty, it's a sign you need to guard time for each other and for rest.

4. Clarity and Communication Prevent Chaos

Tools like family huddles and shared calendars aren't just logistical—they're emotional anchors that keep the household united.

5. Leading Your Family Starts With Leading Yourself

Recognizing when you're off-track and initiating reconnection is the mark of strong leadership—both as a husband and a father.

• Free Resource – Questions for the Car: https://thedadedge.com/kidquestions

• Show Notes for this episode: https://thedadedge.com/1395

If this episode resonated with you, rate, review, follow, and share it with another dad who needs it. Let's lead our families with presence and purpose.

Live legendary.