The Dad Was Right There… But Didn’t See: Lessons from Netflix’s ‘Adolescence’ (Part 4)

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.

Larry’s Takeaways

1. Real connection starts with real questions.
2. Quick fixes don’t work in parenting.
3. Connection over correction.

What You’ll Learn

Links

www.thedadedge.com/25questions

www.thedadedge.com/alliance