The Relaxed Male

In this episode of The Relaxed Male, host Bryan Goodwin delves into the crucial distinction between tolerating and accepting in relationships, particularly marriage. Bryan emphasizes how tolerating can lead to resentment and emotional disconnection, while accepting allows for healthier communication and understanding. He discusses common relationship issues such as overspending and unsatisfactory love lives, highlighting the importance of addressing these problems through open dialogue and emotional honesty. Bryan also explores the societal pressures to tolerate undesirable behaviors and how this can negatively impact personal relationships. He encourages listeners to reclaim their power by accepting circumstances and working through them with their partners. By changing thought patterns and embracing acceptance, men can foster better relationships with their spouses and children. Bryan invites listeners to engage with him through email for further discussion and offers coaching services to help men improve their relationships by changing their mindset.

Bob Gardner joins Bryan Goodwin on episode 269 of The Relaxed Male, providing insights that challenge conventional approaches to pain and addiction. Bob, known as the "Freedom Specialist," shares a transformative perspective on how our mindset shapes our experiences and influences our health. At the start, Bryan highlights how Bob's work has shifted his own understanding of addiction, viewing it as a symptom of underlying emotional struggles rather than a mere behavioral issue. This conversation touches on the evolution of Bob's practice, initially focused on helping men with porn addiction, but expanding into broader realms encompassing life's challenges and embracing change. A key theme of the discussion is the power of the mind in shaping our experiences. Bob emphasizes that everyone is inadvertently harnessing their mental capabilities, whether they realize it or not, when they react to events around them. He recounts the story of a cancer patient whose condition improved dramatically after being told they received an effective treatment—only for their health to decline again once they learned it was a placebo. This highlights the mind's potent influence over the body and emphasizes Bob's view that our perceptions and beliefs shape our physical reality. Bryan probes deeper into how individuals can tap into their mental capacities. Bob elaborates, explaining that the question is often asked incorrectly, limiting possibilities. Instead of asking how to access the mind's power, individuals should recognize they are already engaging it. This ties into the concept of "entertainment," where the information we consume shapes our thoughts and responses. Bob reflects on how people often expose themselves to negative influences and emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with positive stimuli to cultivate a more constructive mindset. He recalls Einstein's insight about not solving problems from the same level of thought that created them, advocating for a shift in focus toward opportunities for positive growth. The conversation transitions to the natural limitations humans impose on themselves, stemming from societal conditioning that promotes self-doubt. Bob theorizes that such limitations arise from a resistance to life's natural flow, suggesting that many people are unaware of their potential due to the environment and narratives they've absorbed. He challenges the audience to consider alternative societies wherein limitations aren't part of the prevailing mental framework, suggesting that our desires and aims often grow from negative environments. They discuss the concept of grounding and being present in one's physical body, which leads to greater self-awareness and emotional regulation. This approach is especially relevant in situations where individuals turn to distractions or addiction in response to boredom or discomfort. Bob stresses simplifying the understanding of emotions: feelings of boredom or anxiety often boil down to a mismatch in physical states. By altering one’s physical condition, such as through movement or stretching, individuals can change their emotional state, circumventing the cognitive loops that lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Bryan illustrates the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as they navigate discussions around addiction. Both agree that understanding the physiological sensations underlying emotions is vital for managing challenges. Bob encourages listeners to pay close attention to their bodies, as it can lead to breakthroughs that a purely cognitive approach may not achieve. As the dialogue continues, Bob expands on the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness in overcoming past conditioning that informs present responses. They explore how modern distractions muddy our perceptions of reality, making it difficult for individuals to connect with their true selves. Bob advocates for intentional stillness as a means to foster deeper connections with...

In this episode of The Relaxed Male, host Bryan Goodwin tackles a tough question of the month from a listener named Marty, who finds himself in a difficult situation after cheating on his wife of nine years. With two young children and the possibility of another child on the way with the woman he cheated with, Marty seeks advice on how to confess to his wife and work towards regaining her trust. Brian shares insights from his own experiences and offers guidance on navigating the aftermath of infidelity, emphasizing the importance of accepting what one can control and the long road to rebuilding trust. Bryan delves into the complexities of relationships, discussing the reasons why cheating occurs and the steps necessary to improve a marriage. He highlights the significance of communication, emotional intimacy, and personal growth through the four pillars of a man's life: mind, body, community, and soul. Brian encourages listeners to take responsibility for their actions, work on self-improvement, and understand the impact of their choices on their relationships. Whether it's through open communication or seeking coaching, Brian offers practical advice for men looking to strengthen their relationships and live life on their own terms.

In this episode of The Relaxed Male, host Bryan Goodwin takes listeners on a reflective journey as he navigates the challenges of unmet expectations and life not going according to plan. Broadcasting from his truck, Bryan shares personal insights and experiences from the past few years, discussing the hurdles he has faced in his coaching business and the lessons learned along the way. He candidly explores the concept of success, the struggle with imposter syndrome, and the importance of redefining goals and expectations when life throws curveballs. Bryan emphasizes the significance of personal growth and self-improvement as foundational steps toward achieving better relationships, particularly with one's spouse. He shares his vision for helping men become better partners and the obstacles he has encountered in his coaching journey. Despite the setbacks, Bryan remains committed to his mission, offering free coaching sessions and continuing to produce content that aims to inspire and support men in their personal development. Join Bryan as he delves into the realities of pursuing dreams, the power of mindset, and the resilience required to keep moving forward when life doesn't go as planned.

In this episode of The Relaxed Male, we delve into the complex relationship between physical intimacy and emotional connection. Host Bryan Goodwin shares his personal experiences and insights on how different types of intimacy, including physical, emotional, and intellectual, play a crucial role in strengthening relationships. Bryan candidly discusses the challenges he faced in his own marriage, from dealing with a lack of sexual intimacy to navigating the roommate syndrome, where partners drift apart emotionally and physically. Bryan emphasizes the importance of intentionality in relationships, urging listeners to actively work on building various forms of intimacy with their partners. He shares how spending quality time together, engaging in open communication, and being present can enhance emotional and physical connections. The episode also touches on the societal expectations around sex and intimacy, and how these can impact men's perceptions of their self-worth. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own relationships and consider how they can be more intentional in fostering intimacy with their partners. Bryan offers practical advice and coaching opportunities for those seeking to improve their relationships and find fulfillment in their marriages.

In this episode of The Relaxed Male, we delve into the complex world of expectations and how they shape our reactions and relationships. Host Bryan Goodwin shares personal insights from his recent experiences with unrealized expectations, particularly in the context of a social media workshop that didn't meet his expectations. He discusses the common pitfalls of unvoiced expectations and covert contracts, especially in personal relationships, and how they can lead to frustration and resentment. Bryan recounts his journey through a social media masterclass, where he anticipated gaining valuable insights but instead encountered a sales pitch that left him feeling shortchanged. This experience led him to reflect on the importance of managing expectations and the role they play in our emotional responses. Throughout the episode, Bryan emphasizes the significance of understanding and articulating our expectations, both to ourselves and others, to avoid unnecessary disappointment. He also highlights the value of thought downloads as a tool for examining our thoughts and expectations. Listeners are encouraged to explore their own expectations and consider how they might be impacting their relationships and personal growth. Bryan offers a free month of coaching to help men navigate these challenges and improve their relationships with themselves and others.

In this episode of The Relaxed Male, we have a special guest, Todd, who is one of my clients. Todd is a father, husband, and coworker who has faced relationship challenges that many men encounter, whether at home or work. This episode provides a unique opportunity to experience firsthand how coaching with me can transform relationships from feeling like roommates to ones you can truly enjoy. We delve into Todd's journey, discussing the struggles he faced in his marriage, particularly financial disagreements with his wife. We also discuss how coaching helped him shift his perspective and improve their relationship. Todd shares how he learned to approach his wife with care and understanding, which led to positive changes in their dynamic. We also explore Todd's challenges at work, dealing with a coworker who has a different approach to leadership. Todd opens up about his frustrations with the lack of direction and how it impacts the team's performance. Through our conversation, we discuss effective communication styles, the importance of assertiveness, and how to lead a team by providing the necessary resources and support. This episode helps people see the practical aspects of coaching, showing how intentional thoughts and actions can lead to significant improvements in both personal and professional relationships. Join us as we uncover the tools and strategies that can help you navigate your own challenges and enhance your relationships.

In this episode of The Relaxed Male, we dive into the topic of getting unstuck and moving forward in life, especially after significant life changes like a divorce. Host Bryan Goodwin, a certified coach, addresses the common feelings of stagnation and fear that can keep us from pursuing new adventures and living life on our own terms. We explore the importance of introspection and identifying the thoughts that hold us back, and Bryan provides actionable steps to overcome these barriers. We also tackle the question of the month: "What do I do if I've been stuck after my divorce?" Bryan offers insights into breaking free from a rut, finding new friends, starting a new business, and embarking on a new journey. He emphasizes the importance of working on the four pillars of a man's life: mind, body, soul, and community. By focusing on continuous learning, physical fitness, finding one's purpose, and building a supportive community, men can transform their lives. Throughout the episode, Bryan encourages listeners to embrace failure as a part of growth and to take courageous steps toward their goals. He also highlights the value of having a strong community of friends who can support and uplift each other. Whether you're looking to start a new business, find new love, or simply live a more fulfilling life, this episode offers practical advice and motivation to help you get started. If you resonate with any part of this episode or know someone who might benefit from it, Bryan encourages you to share it with others. He also invites listeners to reach out for coaching and support, offering a month of free coaching to help you get unstuck and move forward with confidence.

In this episode of The Relaxed Male, we delve into the intriguing topic of how we often use our limitations as badges of honor. Host Bryan Goodwin explores why society tends to celebrate limitations and how this mindset can actually reinforce these constraints rather than liberate us from them. Brian discusses the phenomenon of labeling oneself with terms like ADHD, neurodivergent, or introvert, and how these labels can become self-fulfilling prophecies that hinder personal growth. Bryan emphasizes the power of the mind as a "do not get killed" device that can be programmed to see the world in a certain way. He illustrates this with the "green car syndrome," where our brains start noticing things we focus on, reinforcing our beliefs. The episode challenges listeners to reconsider the limitations they claim and to stop celebrating them as they can become obstacles to success. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Bryan encourages listeners to change their self-talk and programming. He suggests that by altering the narrative we tell ourselves, we can overcome perceived limitations and achieve greater success. The episode also touches on the societal tendency to label emotions and behaviors, often leading to unnecessary medication and avoidance of personal growth. Bryan invites listeners to reflect on their own limitations and consider how they might be holding themselves back. He offers practical advice on how to shift perspectives and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to share the podcast with others and to participate in a survey to help improve the show.

In this week's episode of The Relaxed Male, we delve into the common struggles men face when trying to improve their relationships, particularly with their wives. Host Bryan Goodwin, a certified coach, explores the barriers that hold men back from living the fulfilling life they desire. He discusses the motivational triad that keeps us in our comfort zones, the fear of failure, rejection, and even success, and how these fears prevent us from taking necessary actions. Bryan shares his personal experiences and insights on why New Year's resolutions often fail by February, and how we can overcome the inertia that keeps us from pursuing our goals. He emphasizes the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones, embracing discomfort as a currency for the life we want, and taking intentional actions towards our goals. The episode also touches on the concept of indulgent emotions like worry and confusion, and how they can lead to mental spin, preventing us from making progress. Brian encourages listeners to confront their self-doubt, and past thinking, and to take actionable steps towards their objectives, whether it's improving their marriage or achieving personal success. Listeners are invited to try a free month of coaching to help them break through their barriers and start living intentionally. Bryan offers practical advice on how to take the first steps toward change, emphasizing the need to write down goals and take action despite fear and discomfort. Links - Try Coaching - https://www.relaxedmale.com/trycoaching Take the Survey - https://www.relaxedmale.com/survey

In this episode of The Relaxed Male, host Brian Goodwin delves into the complexities of maintaining individual identities within a marriage. Using the biblical reference of two becoming one, Brian explores how couples can balance unity with independence. He discusses the common pitfall of losing oneself in a relationship by trying to appease a partner, leading to codependency. Brian emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and the detrimental effects of relying on a partner for affirmation and emotional well-being. Brian introduces the concept of differentiated relationships, where both partners maintain their individuality while working together as a team. He outlines four key skills necessary for such relationships: emotional independence, self-regulation, setting healthy boundaries, and conflict resolution. Brian shares insights on how to develop these skills and the benefits they bring to a marriage. Throughout the episode, Brian provides practical advice for men to stop being "nice guys" who avoid conflict and instead embrace healthy disagreements. He encourages listeners to engage in open communication with their partners, allowing for personal growth and stronger relationships. By fostering a differentiated relationship, couples can enjoy a more fulfilling and harmonious life together. Try Coaching - https://www.relaxedmale.com/trycoaching Take the Survey - https://www.relaxedmlae.com/survey

In this week's episode of The Relaxed Male, we're doing something a bit different by diving into an email from a listener. I, Brian Goodwin, your host, start with an apology for not responding to emails due to a technical oversight. I acknowledge the missed opportunities to connect with listeners and answer their questions. Moving forward, I commit to addressing one listener question per month on the show. We also discuss the renewed interest in the Brotherhood of Men group coaching package. Despite initial hesitation, I've decided to offer this group coaching opportunity, especially to those who have shown interest, at a discounted rate. The main focus of this episode is a listener's email about gaining respect as a recovering addict. We explore the challenges of rebuilding trust and respect in relationships, particularly after addiction. I share insights on how addiction is often a coping mechanism gone awry and emphasize the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions. We delve into strategies for rebuilding trust, such as being transparent and open with loved ones, and the importance of self-improvement. I encourage listeners to focus on personal growth through reading, exercising, and finding purpose, which can help in regaining respect and trust from others. Finally, I invite listeners to send in their questions and feedback to help improve the show and announce the upcoming launch of the Brotherhood of Men group coaching.

In this episode of Relaxed Male, your host Bryan Goodwin dives deep into the intricacies of personal responsibility and self-awareness in relationships. Bryan discusses how men often become their own worst enemies by repeating the same actions and expecting different results. He emphasizes the importance of taking control of one's thoughts and actions to improve personal circumstances and relationships. Bryan shares his personal journey of overcoming frustration and blame, highlighting how men tend to point fingers at others, especially their partners, for their problems. He explains how this mindset invites unnecessary suffering and prevents men from living life on their own terms. The episode explores the concept of "the model," which suggests that our thoughts create our emotions, and how understanding this can lead to better relationship dynamics. Bryan encourages listeners to examine what they make circumstances mean about themselves and to challenge the thoughts that lead to negative emotions. Bryan also discusses the "97% rule," advising men to hold back from saying most of the impulsive things that come to mind, and instead focus on building connection and intimacy with their partners. He stresses the importance of understanding and communication in relationships, urging men to listen to their partners and create circumstances that foster love and intimacy. Throughout the episode, Bryan offers insights into how men can stop punishing themselves and their partners by giving up their "manuals"—the set of expectations they have for others—and instead focus on what they can control: their own thoughts and actions. He invites listeners to explore coaching as a tool for personal growth and better relationships.

In this episode of The Relaxed Male, host Bryan Goodwin delves into the common feeling of being stuck in life and how to overcome it. Bryan discusses the emotional and psychological aspects of feeling stuck, often referred to as mental spin or confusion, and explains how these feelings are rooted in fear and uncertainty. He shares personal experiences of feeling stuck in his own business endeavors and emphasizes the importance of understanding these emotions to move forward. Bryan outlines the concept of indulgent emotions and how they keep us in our comfort zones, preventing growth and progress. He encourages listeners to confront their fears and take intentional actions to break free from the cycle of feeling stuck. By examining our thoughts and emotions, we can identify what holds us back and find motivation to push through the discomfort. The episode also highlights practical steps to overcome the feeling of being stuck, such as conducting thought downloads, setting intentional goals, and finding alternative motivations. Bryan suggests finding accountability partners or seeking coaching to stay committed to personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of living life intentionally and embracing challenges to achieve fulfillment and success. Join Bryan as he provides insights and strategies to help men live life on their terms, overcome obstacles, and build better relationships. Tune in next week as he explores the excuses we make for our struggles and how to address them. Try Coaching - htttps://www.relaxedmale.com/trycoaching

Welcome to the first episode of 2025 on The Relaxed Male! As we step into the new year, it's crucial to reflect on the past year and learn from our experiences. In this episode, I, your host Brian Goodwin, delve into the importance of reviewing the past year to fuel your progress in the new one. We discuss how acknowledging your achievements and setbacks can empower you to move closer to your goals. Reflecting on my own journey with Relaxed Male, I share the ups and downs of 2024, including the challenges and lessons learned. Despite facing obstacles, I remain committed to helping men break free from societal expectations and live life on their terms. This year, I aim to continue growing the Relaxed Male community and refine our message to attract more men seeking to improve their lives. We explore the concept of the four pillars of a "raw ex man"—mind, body, soul, and community—and how strengthening these can lead to a fulfilling life. I also share my personal goals for 2025, including health improvements, expanding my coaching practice, and enhancing my marriage. Join me as we discuss practical steps to achieve your goals, such as setting SMART goals, journaling, and creating vision boards. I encourage you to take action, whether it's by seeking coaching, joining a supportive community, or simply starting with small, consistent steps. Let's make 2025 a year of growth and empowerment. If this episode resonates with you, please share it with others who might benefit from it. Together, we can help more men become the best versions of themselves.

In this episode of The Relaxed Male, we delve into the concept of grace and how it can transform your life in the coming year. As the holiday season wraps up, many of us reflect on family gatherings and the challenges they bring. Host Bryan Goodwin encourages listeners to consider a different approach for 2025 by allowing grace to flow into their lives. Grace, defined as unearned forgiveness, is explored as a powerful tool for improving mental health and personal freedom. Bryan discusses the importance of forgiving others, even those who have hurt us deeply, and how this act of grace can liberate us from the burdens of resentment and grudges. He emphasizes that true grace comes from a place of strength, not weakness, and challenges listeners to forgive not only others but also themselves for past mistakes and failures. The episode encourages men to step out of their comfort zones, embrace forgiveness, and set goals for the new year. Bryan introduces the upcoming "Storm Masters Challenge," a program designed to help men harness their inner strength and navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience. Join Bryan as he guides you through the process of letting go of past grievances, embracing grace, and preparing for a transformative year ahead. Whether it's forgiving a combative uncle or letting go of self-imposed grudges, this episode offers valuable insights into living a life free from the constraints of resentment.

As the holiday season approaches, it's the perfect time to reflect on the past year and prepare for the new one. In this episode of The Relaxed Male, we delve into the importance of reviewing our lives and setting goals for 2025. Host Bryan Goodwin, a certified coach, guides us through the process of self-examination and goal setting, emphasizing the significance of the four pillars of a relaxed male: mind, body, soul, and community. Bryan shares his personal journey with Relaxed Male, discussing the challenges and successes he's faced over the past seven years. He highlights the importance of setting realistic goals and celebrating achievements, no matter how small. By conducting an after-action review, we can learn from our successes and failures, paving the way for personal growth. The episode also explores the significance of having a strong community and the role it plays in personal development. Brian encourages listeners to focus on building relationships and expanding their network, as these connections can greatly influence our success and happiness. Looking ahead to 2025, Brian shares his goals, including losing 50 pounds, attending a conference, and making new contacts. He emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision and the determination to achieve it, while also being prepared for challenges along the way. Join Bryan as he offers insights and practical advice on how to make the upcoming year a successful and fulfilling one, by focusing on personal growth and building a supportive community. https://www.relaxedmale.com/trycoaching

The podcast focuses on the concept of taking one's wife off a metaphorical pedestal in a relationship. The host, Bryan, discusses how men often idealize their wives, creating an unrealistic and ultimately harmful dynamic in their marriages. Bryan explains that when men place their wives on a pedestal, they create an impossible standard of perfection. This idealization actually prevents genuine connection and love. By elevating their wives to an unreachable status, men inadvertently create distance and pressure that makes it difficult for their wives to be themselves. The host, identifying as a recovering "nice guy," shares insights into how this pedestal mentality stems from feelings of unworthiness. Men often believe they don't deserve their wife's love, so they compensate by worshipping her. However, this approach backfires. It makes the wife uncomfortable and creates an unsustainable relationship dynamic where she feels constant pressure to maintain an impossible image. Bryan emphasizes that wives are human beings with complex emotions and changing states. They go through various phases - sometimes feeling sexy and energetic, other times tired and overwhelmed, especially during different life stages like parenthood. When men expect their wives to maintain a constant, idealized state, they set themselves up for disappointment and resentment. The key to a healthy relationship, according to Bryan, is accepting your wife's full humanity. This means allowing her to experience and express her emotions without trying to fix or judge them. It means being comfortable with her changing appearance, mood, and priorities. By removing her from the pedestal and treating her as an equal partner, men actually create space for deeper love and connection. Bryan also addresses the challenge this presents for men, who are naturally inclined to solve problems and take action. He advises listeners to resist the urge to immediately fix their wife's emotions and instead simply be present and accepting. Towards the end of the podcast, Bryan promotes an upcoming workshop called "Storm Master" aimed at helping men improve their relationships by understanding and managing their internal emotional landscape. He encourages listeners to share the podcast with others who might benefit from its insights about relationship dynamics and personal growth. The overall message is profound in its simplicity: true love means accepting your partner completely, without conditions or unrealistic expectations, and allowing them the freedom to be fully human.

This week on The Relaxed Male, we have a special guest, Dawn Wiggins, host of the podcast Dear Divorce Diaries. We dive deep into the world of marriage counseling and explore what couples can expect from therapy. Dawn shares insights on how to navigate the painful journey of divorce and offers strategies to prevent it by fostering healthier relationships. We discuss the concept of conflict avoidance, a common issue many men face, and how it impacts relationships. Dawn explains the importance of emotional processing and the dangers of becoming "comfortably numb" through distractions like work, screens, and substances. We explore how men can step into conflict constructively and create relationships worth fighting for. Dawn shares her experiences with homeopathy and its impact on emotional well-being, offering a fresh perspective on alternative medicine. We also touch on the importance of grounding oneself in a belief system and how it can provide stability during conflicts. Throughout the episode, we emphasize the significance of self-acceptance and understanding repetitive patterns in relationships. Dawn provides practical advice for men to improve their connections with their partners by observing and addressing deeper issues. Join us for an enlightening conversation that challenges traditional views on masculinity and offers actionable steps for personal growth and relationship improvement. Information on Our Guest Dawn Wiggins Therapy She specializes in EMDR, Tapping, Marriage therapy, and psychotherapy. With her offices based in Florida, she does in-person and online sessions. Dawn also is a divorce coach helping women learn to process their thoughts and emotions so that they are able to grow from their experience. Divorce Coaching - https://mycoachdawn.com/ Dawn's Therapy Website - https://www.dawnwigginstherapy.com/ Podcast: Dear Divorce Diary- https://mycoachdawn.com/divorce-podcast/ Dawns Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MyCoachDawn X - https://x.com/dawn_wiggins Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dawnwiggins/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@DawnWigginsLMFTBocaRaton Threads - https://www.threads.net/@dawnwiggins

In this final episode of our series on intimacy, we delve into the realm of physical intimacy. Over the past ten weeks, we've explored various forms of intimacy, including emotional, intellectual, spiritual, experiential, social, creative, conflict, aesthetic, and work. Today, we focus on the nuances of physical intimacy, a topic that often garners significant attention and curiosity. Physical intimacy is more than just the act of sex; it encompasses a range of interactions, from holding hands to sharing a hug. These gestures release chemicals like oxytocin, fostering a sense of connection and bonding. We discuss how societal norms can sometimes hinder men from expressing their emotions, which are crucial for building emotional intimacy with their partners. We also touch on the importance of conflict intimacy, which allows couples to engage in healthy disagreements and grow stronger together. This episode emphasizes that physical intimacy is deeply intertwined with other forms of intimacy, and improving these areas can enhance one's overall relationship. For those seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of intimacy, I offer insights into how to work on emotional, intellectual, and spiritual connections. By focusing on these areas, physical intimacy will naturally follow, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced relationship. Join me as we wrap up this enlightening series and prepare for next week's episode featuring a special guest, Don Wiggins.