89. From Suicidal Thoughts at 8 to Helping Men Battling With Mental Health! - Dane Muller

Join us for a deeply moving and powerful conversation with Dane Muller—men’s coach, retreat facilitator, and co-founder of Heart Led Warriors. In this episode, Dane opens up about his journey through childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and personal transformation, sharing the pivotal moments that led him from breakdown to breakthrough.Through raw vulnerability, Dane unpacks the realities of self-worth, masculinity, and healing, offering insights into how men (and women) can create deeper connection, purpose, and leadership in their lives. He also shares the story behind Heart Led Warriors and the profound impact their retreats are having on individuals, couples, and families across Australia.About our guest:Dane Muller is the co-founder of Heart Led Warriors, a community-driven movement helping men, women, and couples reconnect to themselves and each other through immersive retreats and programs. With lived experience of trauma and recovery, Dane now leads with compassion, authenticity, and purpose—creating safe spaces for deep healing and emotional growth. He’s passionate about helping others break generational cycles and redefine what it means to lead from the heart.Follow Our Guest:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartled_warriors/Website: https://www.heartledwarriors.com.au/Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartledmenbydanemuller/Follow Us On:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestevehodgson/Show Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharewithsteve/Episode Highlights:00:00 - Episode Trailer01:15 - Dane’s turning point: freedom through connection04:12 - Suicidal ideation, sports, and seeking self-worth07:18 - Gratitude as the foundation of self-love10:42 - Childhood trauma, abandonment, and performance pressure14:00 - The shower moment that changed everything17:25 - Accountability, healing, and self-reflection20:12 - What it means to be a Heart Led Warrior22:33 - The inner battle we all face24:01 - Why relationships struggle in today’s world26:25 - Masculine and feminine dynamics in modern couples30:08 - What true vulnerability in men really looks like33:01 - Advice for women: support without mothering35:03 - Improving communication through love languages38:00 - Couples retreats: from near-breakup to reconnection41:00 - The real work begins after the retreat43:40 - How to grow if your partner isn’t ready46:15 - Leading by example as a father48:00 - What gives Dane hope for future generations50:21 - What success looks like for Dane today52:00 - Letting go of the old identity to grow55:14 - Expanding Heart Led Warriors beyond Australia58:10 - Creating safe spaces in men’s work01:00:15 - Redefining success through presence with family01:01:14 - Dane’s greatest teachers: his kids and his dog01:03:12 - The message Dane wants every man to hear01:06:37 - Breaking generational trauma through self-leadership