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.

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartled_warriors/

Website: https://www.heartledwarriors.com.au/

Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartledmenbydanemuller/

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Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Episode Trailer

01:15 - Dane’s turning point: freedom through connection

04:12 - Suicidal ideation, sports, and seeking self-worth

07:18 - Gratitude as the foundation of self-love

10:42 - Childhood trauma, abandonment, and performance pressure

14:00 - The shower moment that changed everything

17:25 - Accountability, healing, and self-reflection

20:12 - What it means to be a Heart Led Warrior

22:33 - The inner battle we all face

24:01 - Why relationships struggle in today’s world

26:25 - Masculine and feminine dynamics in modern couples

30:08 - What true vulnerability in men really looks like

33:01 - Advice for women: support without mothering

35:03 - Improving communication through love languages

38:00 - Couples retreats: from near-breakup to reconnection

41:00 - The real work begins after the retreat

43:40 - How to grow if your partner isn’t ready

46:15 - Leading by example as a father

48:00 - What gives Dane hope for future generations

50:21 - What success looks like for Dane today

52:00 - Letting go of the old identity to grow

55:14 - Expanding Heart Led Warriors beyond Australia

58:10 - Creating safe spaces in men’s work

01:00:15 - Redefining success through presence with family

01:01:14 - Dane’s greatest teachers: his kids and his dog

01:03:12 - The message Dane wants every man to hear

01:06:37 - Breaking generational trauma through self-leadership