ManTalks Podcast

Talking points: relationships, masculinity, culture This is a question I get all the time from men. They date a woman who takes on what feels like a very masculine energy, and they're not sure how to handle that without doubling down on battles, roles, and standoffs. Here's how to build a grounded, fulfilling, satisfying partnership instead. (00:00:00) - Intro and the reasons women adopt traditionally masculine traits (00:08:40) - What do you do? Number one: let go of “who’s right” battles (00:12:12) - Stop fighting for the “masculine role” in the relationship (00:16:54) - Evoke emotion *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Talking points: men, psychology, culture Roy Baumeister is a mighty pillar in the world of psychology, with groundbreaking work on willpower, self-control, negativity bias, and much more. I had the honor of chatting with him about all of these things in the context of men. How do we develop robust self-esteem? Is it work breaking free of isolation? Are there unique social pressures? This is chock full, team. (00:00:00) - On how men need to prove themselves, and the different social pressures between men and women (00:07:59) - Roy on risk-taking in men and women (00:14:01) - Roy’s most cited work, why we fixate more on the bad things, and men’s self-destructive behavior (00:27:48) - Strategies you can use to replace unhealthy coping mechanisms (00:34:09) - How important is it for men to have robust and diverse social circles? (00:45:10) - What is “ego depletion”? (00:52:21) - The effect of porn on self-control, and wisdom for men struggling with self-esteem *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Talking points: attachment, genetics, psychology Attachment as a framework for working on and healing your relationships is powerful stuff. But it’s also complex. I wanted to nerd out a bit this week with all of you over this fascinating study on attachment, genetics, and environment—with a PSA at the end. Dig in and let me know what you think! You can find the abstract of the study and request a full PDF here: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/385437792_Genetic_and_environmental_contributions_to_adult_attachment_styles_Evidence_from_the_Minnesota_Twin_Registry (00:00:00) - Intro (00:04:28) - Why it’s interesting and a potential game changer, and why heritability doesn’t mean it’s game over *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Talking points: culture, masculinity, the shadow This was one of those wide-ranging convos that made me lose track of time. David and I cover a ton in this as you'll see from the timestamps, with some great info on "core energetics", personality types, and more. Dig in. (00:00:00) - How David approached interviewing such a polarizing figure, and do all men have such a rigid mask? (00:09:04) - How do you support men in a way that allows them to actually open up? (00:15:40) - Is it all just an act, and killing your shadow versus integrating (00:22:35) - What is core energetics and the five personality “patterns”? (00:31:10) - Which pattern best describes American culture, and what do you think we need to do? (00:37:14) - Do we HAVE to play the polarization game to get anywhere? (00:44:54) - What David would say to men who are hiding opinions that might get them in trouble (00:58:01) - What is the “lower self”? (01:07:22) - Advice for men who actively resist their own emotions David Sutcliffe is a Somatic Therapist, a Certified Core Energetics Practitioner with over 15 years experience. He has a private practice out of Austin, Texas, and holds workshops across the United States and Canada. He is also a trained hypnotherapist, a mindset expert, and has extensive experience with meditation, yoga, shamanism, physical fitness, nutrition, and wellness. A former actor, he is well known for his roles in the popular TV series Gilmore Girls and Private Practice, and movies Under The Tuscan Sun and Happy Endings. Connect with David -Website: https://www.davidsutcliffe.com -YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ZJ1KD4 -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidsutcliffe33/ *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on

Talking points: relationships, communication, sex, masculinity Whether we want to admit it or not, there are always times where things in the bedroom just don’t work out. Alex is out there helping men deal with their most common challenges, and de-stigmatizing communication about it. I appreciate the simple yet solid advice he brings to the table; lots of good stuff in here. Listen in. (00:00:00) - How a man’s ability to perform affects how he sees himself, and working with sexual shame (00:11:33) - Dealing with common sexual challenges for men (00:20:40) - On balancing emotional vulnerability with “holding your frame” (00:26:29) - What contributes to ejaculation issues? (00:32:13) - On embarrassment around sexual dialogue, and how porn alters our expectations of ourselves (00:40:16) - The importance of connecting to breath (00:47:35) - How can a partner help a man who’s struggling with PE or ED? Alex Grendi, a former professional soccer player, is now a men’s coach specializing in helping individuals overcome performance anxiety, such as premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction, to build confidence and enhance relationships. Drawing on personal experience and training, he developed the “Superior Lovers” program, combining best practices to deliver transformative results in just three months. His mission is to empower men to embrace their authentic selves, deepen connections, and find fulfillment in their lives and relationships. Connect with Alex -Website: https://www.alexgrendi.com/ -YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Alex.Grendi -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alex.grendi/ *** This Black Friday, why bother getting more stuff when you could work on yourself? All ManTalks courses are currently 20% off, and save even more when you bundle all 3. Check out: https://mantalks.com/blackfriday/ Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks...

Talking points: relationships, mythology, archetypes, culture The title might ruffle some feathers, but sometimes, the best way to look at an issue is through a story. The symbolism has a way of highlighting many complex things at once. This week, I want to talk about an almost common trope in modern dating, but through the lens of a classic story: Cinderella. (00:00:00) - Intro, using the story as a lens, and the effect of the “wicked stepmother” (00:04:13) - The shadow of the feminine and masculine, and the archetype of Prince Charming (00:10:15) - The value of Cinderella as an archetype and symbol *** This Black Friday, why bother getting more stuff when you could work on yourself? All ManTalks courses are currently 20% off, and save even more when you bundle all 3. Check out: https://mantalks.com/blackfriday/ Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Talking points: history, mythology, archetypes, culture I’ve recently been asked to dig more into the deeper stuff, and who better to delve into the history of the ancients than Alex Petkas. We dig into how important history and story can be, how modern society has watered down the hero archetype, and who we can learn from in ancient history to re-inspire us. This is great ep to dig into if you’re searching for actual heroes, not just what you see on TV. (00:00:00) - What was the role of the “hero” in ancient history, and is it important for a healthy society? (00:12:40) - What happens when you kill off the hero in you, and the balanced masculinity of Odysseus (00:22:47) - How to restore a more generative hero archetype, and how we’ve made heroes one-dimensional (00:30:41) - What Plutarch can teach men (00:40:59) - Ancient heroes men can learn from, or who the hell is Eumenes of Chardia? (00:55:14) - The power of narrative Alex Petkas is writer, entrepreneur, and founder of The Cost of Glory, a bridge for the virtues of ancient heroes and the modern world’s demands. With a PhD in Classics from Princeton University, Alex has transcended traditional academic boundaries to bring the power of ancient wisdom into contemporary leadership. Recognizing that figures like Plato, Aristotle, Plutarch, and Cato were not just intellectual giants but also formidable leaders and entrepreneurs, he blends their timeless insights with modern leadership needs, offering actionable strategies that resonate with today’s leaders. Alex challenges the modern disregard for classical education, championing its vital role in moral and intellectual development. His mission is to reignite the heroic spark within men, empowering them to tackle contemporary challenges with unmatched courage and clarity. Connect with Alex -Website: https://www.costofglory.com/ -The Authoritative Speakers Guide: https://costofglory.kit.com/gift -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpetkas/ *** This Black Friday, why bother getting more stuff when you could work on yourself? All ManTalks courses are currently 20% off, and save even more when you bundle all 3. Check out: https://mantalks.com/blackfriday/ Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts,

talking points: anxiety, psychology, relationships If you've ever been with someone who struggles with anxiety, this one's for you. A lot of men lean heavily into trying to fix things, even making it their entire mission. Here are some alternative steps that respect responsibility, autonomy, and help strengthen the relationship. (00:00:00) - Intro, my working definition of anxiety, and the many places it comes from (00:05:42) - Signs of anxiety in your partner (00:10:47) - So what do you do? On reinforcement and co-regulation (00:14:59) - Attune to her signs, and physical touch (00:17:36) - How to balance leaning into discomfort with backing off *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Talking points: masculinity, psychology, myth, Jung Hot on the heels of the legendary John Lee, I interviewed another founding elder of men's work: Michael Meade. This is a powerful discussion focused on how essential "descent" is for men, and how it's almost completely disappeared from society in favor of endless, destructive growth and commodified "mastery". Powerful words from one of the wisest teachers out there, in my opinion. (00:00:00) - The importance of descent in a man’s life (00:11:51) - The signs of descent, and the role of technology (00:22:28) - How the old worldview has collapsed, and the result is collective despair and grief (00:29:39) - How do you deal with the feeling that things are ending? (00:35:20) - The intersection of myth and AI; will they come together? (00:41:29) - Where does the descent actually lead, and the symbolism of water and sword (00:55:13) - How to “get the water” Michael Meade, born and raised in New York City, is a renowned storyteller, author, and scholar of mythology, anthropology, and psychology. He combines hypnotic and fiery storytelling, street-savvy perceptiveness, and spellbinding interpretations of ancient myths with a deep knowledge of cross-cultural rituals. His ability to tap into ancestral sources of wisdom to help people of today heal their communities has inspired thousands of people throughout the world. His unique translations of age-old myths and symbols into culturally relevant, everyday language earned him an honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from Pacifica Graduate Institute. Michael is also the founder of Mosaic Multicultural Foundation and author of The Genius Myth, The Water of Life, The World Behind the World, Fate and Destiny, and Why the World Doesn't End. He is co-editor of The Rag and Bone Shop of the Heart, and editor of the cross-cultural anthology on rites of passage: Crossroads: A Quest for Contemporary Rites of Passage. Connect with Michael: -Podcast: Living Myth: https://www.mosaicvoices.org/podcast -Website: https://www.mosaicvoices.org/ *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard of attachment theory but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the

Talking points: psychology, depression, These are 3 conditions you may have never heard of before, but based on my experience working with men for 10+ years, they’ve got a significant presence. They’re also under-discussed. (00:00:00) - Dysthymia, aka low-key depression (00:04:25) - Alexithymia, when you can't describe emotions (00:07:06) - Derealization, when nothing feels real Further Reading -Dysthymia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dysthymia -Alexithymia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexithymia -Derealization: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Derealization *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podc

Talking points: masculinity, culture, mythopoetics, Robert Bly, Iron John Maybe you've heard it said that there are lots of "olders", but barely any elders. John Lee is one of the latter, in my opinion. A critical player in men's movements of the 90s and close friends with Robert Bly, John is a wealth of knowledge, insight, and honest talk—and no stranger to deep work. Listen in, team. (00:00:00) - Intro, and what brought John to where he is today (00:06:23) - The impact Robert Bly had on the mythopoetic men’s movement, and what that was (00:20:36) - Why Iron John is still relevant (00:31:41) - Are men struggling with different things now compared to the start of the mythopoetic men’s movement? (00:38:58) - The dark father archetype, and the difference between Robert Bly and Jordan Peterson (00:43:20) - What can the study of myth do for the average man, and how the manosphere falls short John Lee is a pioneer in the fields of self-help, anger, codependency, creativity, recovery, relationships, and men’s issues. In the mental health field, he is considered the therapist’s therapist and regularly trains and mentors therapists on how to work with clients and how to work on themselves. He has taught his techniques and theories to thousands of individuals, couples, families, groups, corporations, and therapists all over the world. After 35 years of touring nationally and internationally, John Lee calls Austin, Texas his home. Connect with John -Website: https://johnleebooks.com/ -Seminar; From Hero To Elder: https://wakingheartschoolofwisdom.com/events/from_hero_to_elder/ *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts |

Talking points: relationships We all know how a couple handles conflict can be the difference between love that’s thriving and resilient and something that is…well, the exact opposite: leading through conflict. Listen in for five aspects of the that don’t get talked about often enough, in my opinion. (00:00:00) - Intro, and a practical definition of conflict (00:03:14) - Address your conflict kryptonite (00:05:59) - Ownership over blame (00:07:57) - Stop seeing conflict as a path to disconnection, and have conflict “agreements” (00:10:44) - Breathe, ground, assess (00:13:30) - The best question to ask *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Talking points: mindset, purpose, military, masculinity A sincere honor to chat with J.R., and I’m blown away by his perspective and honesty on the hardship he’s faced—and overcome. We cover a lot of ground: the importance of male friendship, the struggles veterans can go through, the importance of vulnerability AND accountability. Throughout it all, J.R.’s outlook shines through. Listen in, team. (00:00:00) - JR’s defining moment (00:11:45) - What happened to JR during his deployment (00:23:58) - How men and veterans get stripped of purpose and identity, what contributes to that, and how we can do better (00:38:04) - What JR would say to men who see the state of things and retreat into isolation, and the importance of building emotional for yourself (00:55:50) - What JR would teach the next generation of men J.R. Martinez’s life story is one of resilience and transformation. A Louisiana-born Army veteran and Iraq War survivor, Martinez faced tragedy early in his military service when a roadside bomb explosion left him with severe burns covering over a third of his body. His recovery included 34 months of treatment and 33 surgeries, a challenging journey that revealed his strength and inspired a new purpose. Martinez began sharing his story, quickly becoming a sought-after speaker, captivating audiences at military bases and for major organizations like Delta and Wells Fargo. His personal mantra, “Adapt & Overcome,” resonated deeply, embodying his commitment to resilience and gratitude. He’s also become an advocate for organizations like the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors and Glasswing International, earning awards like the Ivy Award and the National Red Cross Spirit Award. In 2008, Martinez ventured into acting with a role on All My Children, which opened doors in entertainment. He won the 2011 season of Dancing with the Stars, capturing audiences nationwide. His memoir, Full of Heart, became a New York Times bestseller, and he later pursued higher education, a milestone for his family. Today, Martinez continues to inspire through speaking engagements, acting, and advocacy, sharing his journey of strength and hope with audiences worldwide while balancing family life with his wife, Diana, and their children. Connect with JR -Website: https://jrmartinez.com/ -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjrmartinez -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamjrmartinez -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jradapt/ *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Check out some free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on

Talking points: attachment, psychology, relationships Men tend to underestimate how important the feeling of safety is for their partners. Not a dig, just something I’ve seen time and time again. And if you’re partner has an avoidant or anxious attachment style, your part in creating a sense of safety in the relationship can be complicated. Listen in for some straightforward tips. (00:00:00) - Intro, and why women sometimes “test” you (00:03:45) - Here’s what changes when she has an avoidant or anxious attachment style (00:06:39) - And here’s what to do if she’s anxious (00:10:14) - Tactics if she’s avoidant *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Check out some free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Talking points: mindset, psychology, meditation, spirituality Meditation and mindfulness get a lot of air time these days, especially on the more “crunchy” side of wellness spectrum. But is it all it’s cracked up to be? I sat down with Shai to really dig into this, from the wildly esoteric and spiritual side of the question to the more practical, tactical side. Because what’s the point of enlightenment if it doesn’t make things, well, a little lighter? (00:00:00) - Shai’s feeling of being “outside” the usual human experience, the difference between detachment and dissociation, and using things like meditation to avoid life (00:09:52) - What IS consciousness, and the West’s obsession with enlightenment (00:25:45) - Why are humans even capable of self-reference? What’s the point? (00:34:16) - Do these complex, philosophical ideas help with our day-to-day lives? (00:43:20) - How can men develop greater mental flexibility and combat closed-mindedness? (00:56:55) - What to do to get your calm back in a conflict (01:02:07) - The ultimate test of mental flexibility: putting yourself in a loved one’s shoes (01:09:41) - On reigniting imagination and using it for good Shai Tubali is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Leeds, UK. He has a doctorate in philosophy of religion from the School of Philosophy, Religion, and History of Science at the University of Leeds. He’s the author of the monograph Cosmos and Camus: Science Fiction Film and the Absurd (Peter Lang) and a contributor to the Routledge Companion to Absurdist Literature, as well as a prolific published author, having written over twenty books, including award-winning and bestselling titles. Among his diverse publications, one can find prose, poetry, practical books on meditation and self-development, and philosophical treatises on South-Asian philosophy and classical Greek philosophy. Connect with Shai -Website: https://shaitubali.com/ -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaitubali/ -Flexible Mind: https://yourflexiblemind.com/ -YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQwf6sSC-F2sH4uDOmJkKsw *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Check out some free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at

Talking points: mindset, psychology Aristotle said, “I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who conquers his enemies; for the hardest victory is the victory over self.” Speaking from my own experience, he’s definitely wasn’t wrong. Here’s what nearly every man on the planet has to battle—and how to reclaim your power. (00:00:00) - Intro and why this is an important topic (00:03:37) - What causes a lack of impulse control? Two massive reasons (00:10:40) - How to actually develop a deep, quality capacity for impulse control *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Check out some free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Talking points: culture, geopolitics This interview is probably among the most unique I’ve had on the show. I don’t usually cover straight-up politics, but Andrew’s work has fascinated me for a while. And as the world seems to getting more up in arms (literally and figuratively), I find myself wanting to learn more about where all of this started and how we as men can respond. (00:00:00) - Common misconceptions about the CIA (00:11:47) - Why foreign secrets are such a big deal (00:24:51) - Andrew’s perspective on current global unrest, Iran, and just how complex it is (00:38:31) - What’s difficult to understand about geopolitics, and why there seems to be so much conflict (00:48:19) - Is there any form of governance that truly permits any freedom, and where the balance could lie (00:57:47) - The perspective shift that changed Andrew’s life (01:08:51) - Andrew’s take on what’s going to happen next with Ukraine, Russian, and Iran (01:16:33) - Is US global supremacy in jeopardy? If it is, what does that mean for the average citizen? Andrew Bustamante is a former covert CIA intelligence officer, decorated military combat veteran, successful Fortune 10 corporate advisor, proud husband and father. After 20 years running human and technical intelligence operations for private and government clients worldwide, Andrew founded EverydaySpy.com -- the first-ever digital spy training platform. Headlining both US and International media, Andrew’s training events have been praised for their innovative, authentic, and life-changing impact. When he isn’t giving interviews, running spy exercises, or supporting private intelligence contracts, Andrew lives with his wife (also an ex-CIA Officer) and two children in Colorado. Connect with Andrew -Website: https://everydayspy.com/ -YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/everydayspy -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayspy/ *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Check out some free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram |

Talking points: intimacy, relationships Game changers aren’t usually simple, especially when it comes to intimate relationships. But this is a surprisingly easy, straightforward step that I’ve seen work time and time again. So listen in and let some wonderful things happen. (00:00:00) - Expectationless desire and why it’s important (00:05:37) - What to do, and what it looks like (00:08:36) - Final thoughts *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Check out some free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Talking points: culture, parenting One of the most informative fifty minutes I’ve ever recorded; and now that I’m a father of two, it’s pretty well timed! Grateful for Lisa’s insight, her years of experience, and her great sense of humor. This is the episode to listen to if you (like pretty much every parent) are looking for sound advice that you can act on literally right now. (00:00:00) - Intro, and what are parents being taught that isn’t actually beneficial? (00:06:40) - How do we raise kids who like themselves? (00:11:22) - Timers: a great parenting “hack” (00:16:25) - Ways of developing a more robust connection with your child, and the shift between raising a child, a preteen, and a teenager (00:23:37) - How can parents help their kids build skills and develop competency? (00:29:02) - The cost of perfectionist parenting, and what to do during tantrums (00:44:35) - Do’s and don’t when dealing with teenagers Lisa Bunnage is a Parenting Coach with BratBusters Parenting Services. She has been working with children for 40+ years in schools, hospitals and youth detention facilities. She uses a mix of down-to-earth common sense and humor to teach parents how to get respect from their children. Connect with Lisa -Website: https://bratbusters.com -Podcast: https://bratbusters.com/podcast/ -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bratbustersparenting/ *** This episode is also brought to you by BetterHelp. Easily match with a therapist who can help you through the tough times and empower your relationships with everyone—including yourself. Visit BetterHelp.com/mantalks today to get 10% off your first month. Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Check out some free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Talking points: culture, masculinity, social issues Inspired by a recent article in the WSJ. Young men are facing some serious difficulties right now. We need to not just be aware of what’s going on, but follow that up with coherent, intelligent action. I’m not some genius who can declare national-level policy changes, but I KNOW what works on an individual level. If you’re a man who’s struggling in the face of increasing isolation and an uncertain future, here are five things you can work on right now. (00:00:00) - Intro (00:03:32) - The data presented (00:09:44) - Young men now have to struggle against modern culture more than ever (00:14:05) - Why can men do on an individual level in the face of all this? Number one: stop blaming women. (00:18:06) - Number two: set right your relationship to risk (00:20:30) - Number three and four: engage in healthy confrontation, and make friends with people you respect (00:24:53) - Number five: you’ve got to set in shape. Prioritize actually living IN your body *** Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Check out some free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more episodes, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices