Mindfully Masculine: Personal Growth and Mental Health for Men-logo

Mindfully Masculine: Personal Growth and Mental Health for Men

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Charles and Dan are just two guys talking about relationships, masculinity, and authenticity. Join them as they discuss books and media, as well as their (sometimes messy) personal stories, to encourage men to join the fight for their mental, physical, and emotional health--because a world of healthy, resilient men is a thriving and more secure world for everyone.

Location:

United States

Description:

Charles and Dan are just two guys talking about relationships, masculinity, and authenticity. Join them as they discuss books and media, as well as their (sometimes messy) personal stories, to encourage men to join the fight for their mental, physical, and emotional health--because a world of healthy, resilient men is a thriving and more secure world for everyone.

Language:

English

Contact:

4074594159


Episodes

Tough Guys and Tooth Fairies: Clean That Mouth!

3/18/2024
Ever wondered about the unexpected connections between oral hygiene and German's chocolate cake? Settle in as we embark on a lively journey through the world of self-care for men, starting with those pearly whites. Our latest Mindfully Masculine Podcast episode isn't just a treasure trove of dental wisdom—it's a rollicking adventure through personal anecdotes and myth-busting that will leave you both informed and chuckling. We peel back layers of oral care marketing and share our own experiences with the latest dental gadgets and routines. Hold on to your toothbrushes because we're dissecting everything from the efficacy of floss picks to the smooth, minty allure of alcohol-free mouthwash—and why it might not be for everyone. Our discussion doesn't shy away from the nitty-gritty of mouth care equipment, debating the merits of electric toothbrushes and tongue scrapers. Plus, get a front-row seat to Charles's 20-day Crest product suite experiment, where I test the limits of at-home (tooth) whiteness. By the time we're through, you'll be equipped with personal perspectives on everything from flossing techniques to the truth behind that fresh, tingly sensation. Wrap up your dental deep dive with us as we delve into the world of teeth whitening and oral health tips. Whether it's weighing the pros and cons of professional treatments or exploring the health impacts of your sugar and fat intake, we're covering all the bases. And for those contemplating the cost and convenience of dental tourism or invisible aligners, we've got firsthand insights to guide you. So join our candid conversation, and let's navigate the maze of mouth care together—because a healthy smile is always in style. Support the show

Duration:00:45:10

From Sidelines to Spa Days: Exploring Men's Wellness

3/11/2024
Ever been caught between the adrenaline rush of a sports game and the zen-like tranquility of a spa day? Charles and Dan, strike that balance in our latest Mindfully Masculine episode, as we swap tales from our spa experiences and weigh in on the recent Super Bowl buzz. Our chat delves into Travis Kelce and Coach Andy Reid's sideline exchange, where we touch on the intricacies of respect, authority, and race in sports. But it's not all about the gridiron; self-care aficionados and rookies alike will find solace as we peel back the layers on facials, even for the bearded among us. Picture the perfect facial treatment—now imagine navigating that with a five o'clock shadow. That's the conundrum we unpack, sharing the highs and lows of spa care while sporting facial hair. We also reminisce over the indulgence of a certain pumpkin facial mask, enjoyed year-round, and chuckle over our attempts to ration the podcast's coveted crumble cookies. But it's not just fluff; we critically examine the claims behind various spa treatments, pondering whether they stand up to scientific scrutiny or if they're just another dose of feel-good hedonism. To wrap up, consider this a crash course in savvy spa consumerism. From upselling maneuvers to navigating the sea of advanced skin treatments like LED therapy, we equip you with the know-how to make informed decisions. We share our own journeys, advising on the importance of easing into skincare routines and the underrated value of a trusted aesthetician relationship. Whether you're a grooming guru or a newcomer to the world of men's self-care, our episode offers a fresh perspective on looking good, feeling great, and staying sharp—inside the spa and out on the field. Support the show

Duration:00:32:17

Sheet Mask Shenanigans

3/4/2024
Ever thought a hydrating face mask was just a slick way to scare off anyone at the door? Well, we took the plunge, beards and all, and let's just say, our coffee sipping technique needed some serious innovation. We wax comical about our latest foray into the world of men's self-care, sharing our skirmishes with the slippery adversaries known as sheet masks. But it's not all laughs—we also chat about the Tiny Habits method and how your better half could be your allies on this journey towards glowing skin and maybe, just maybe, glowing personalities. Then there's the trip down memory lane to the days when facial masks were a one-trick pony: clay or peel-off, take it or leave it. We compare war stories of beauty mishaps (that time Dan turned into a lobster pre-date night, anyone?), discuss the finesse needed in mask application, and take a moment to ponder the satirical genius of "American Psycho." Korean sheet masks make an appearance, too, as we balance the wonders of convenience with the need for a discerning eye while shopping online. Spoiler alert: Dan's got a game-changing under-eye gel mask recommendation that might just make you the most awake-looking person in any Zoom meeting. Wrapping up, we swap tales of Valentine's Day from a single guy's perspective, busting myths and toasting to "Pal-entine's Day" and self-love with the same zeal we'd apply to our newly favored face masks. And for a dose of pure heartfelt cheer, Charles recounts the joy of donning the Easter Bunny suit at a local nursing home — because who says you need to be a kid to find magic in a person-sized rabbit? Stay tuned for candid banter, unexpected skin care wisdom, and the kind of stories that make life a little bit brighter. Support the show

Duration:00:30:02

Shaving as Self-Care: A Man's Guide

2/26/2024
Have you ever considered the simple act of shaving as a cornerstone of self-care? This episode is a soothing balm for those looking to enhance their grooming routine, with insights on why embracing the blade—or not—can be a deeply personal choice. Charles and Dan examine the tools that keep us looking sharp, from high-tech razors to the most indulgent of soaps. Plus, we share the warmth and comfort of life's little luxuries, like a heated steering wheel on a chilly Pennsylvania morning. Strap in for tales of travel and the anticipation of future adventures that fuel our wanderlust and personal growth. Round off your listening experience with a dive into the cultural revelations that come from stepping outside our comfort zones. We're not just talking about shaving and self-care; we're exploring the impact of interacting with international communities and reflecting on environmental policy differences. Plus, there's a nod to Taylor Swift's savvy release strategies, because who doesn't love a bit of pop culture mixed with their personal development? Support the show

Duration:00:38:42

Winter Whiskers and Pretty Faces

2/19/2024
Picture the scene: you're sidled up in the frosty pre-dawn of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, bundled up and brimming with excitement, awaiting the famous groundhog's springtime prophecy. It's almost Groundhog Day, and we're cracking the lid on this time-honored tradition, from securing the perfect spot to witness Phil's annual weather prediction to the history that burrows deep to its Germanic roots. Expect tales of camaraderie in the chills of February and the warm glow of a shared experience, as Charles and Dan chat about looking forward to this quirky day and the surprising trivia of a certain legendary movie. Stepping out of the cold, let's turn up the heat on skincare. Our faces brave the elements, so they deserve a little pampering, right? This episode is packed with our personal grooming tips and product recommendations as we navigate the sea of facial cleansers and shower routines. I'll reveal why shower shaving is a game changer and how keeping duplicate grooming items in strategic places saves your skin and your sanity. Dive into our journey with various under-eye creams, including the battle between high-end luxury and budget-friendly options, and learn how to weave a night cream practice into your nightly rituals. But it's not just about keeping our skin in check; it's also about understanding and supporting each other. Acne can be a formidable foe, and as we share our own skin struggles, we unpack the importance of a consistent skincare routine and the value of expert advice. We attempt to bring all our insights to the table, making this episode a heartfelt blend of practical tips and empathetic conversation. Whether you're a Groundhog Day enthusiast, a skincare novice, or simply on the hunt for some cozy camaraderie, join us for an episode that digs beneath the surface and nurtures both tradition and personal care. The referenced Orca hat: https://a.co/d/4dO8VbR Support the show

Duration:00:40:18

Spa Serenity for the Modern Man

2/12/2024
Ever had one of those days where the universe seems to conspire against your domestic bliss? Well, pull up a chair and chuckle along as we recount some recent homelife hi-jinx–from rogue RVs causing water outages to backflow bedlam in the garden. But it's not all sprinkler systems and studio aesthetics; we also share our takeaways from Podfest, where the mix of venue vibes and speaker surprises left us with plenty to mull over. Now, let's swap garden gloves for bathrobes as we strip down the misconceptions of spas as a man's world of self-care. Imagine unraveling the day's stress with the magic touch of a skilled massage therapist or glowing up your game with a rejuvenating facial. We'll take you through our own spa escapades, dishing out tips on snagging great deals and navigating the etiquette maze of co-ed steam rooms. Whether it's a lavish day-long retreat or a quick-fix chair massage, we're here to guide you through the self-care jungle. So sit back, relax, and let us be your personal wellness gurus. Support the show

Duration:00:25:13

Tattoos are Self-care?

2/5/2024
Have you ever stared at a tattoo and wondered about the story it tells? Charles and Dan are peeling back the ink this week on Mindfully Masculine, as we tackle the complex dynamics of self-care and identity in the realm of tattoos and beyond. We're diving into the reasons why some men choose to remain a blank canvas, sharing personal tales that range from cultural influences to the potential for regret with permanent body art. But it's not all serious business; we'll whisk you away on a culinary detour, discussing how our taste buds have matured from filet mignon to the robust flavors of a New York strip. Tattoos often stand as silent sentinels of personal history, but what happens when they no longer represent who we are? We get candid about the emotional weight of inked memories and the significance of choosing a symbol that evolves with you. Not only do we explore the personal side of tattoos, but we also scrutinize the practicalities—from the painful realities of removal to the necessity of aftercare. Let's not forget the role of habits and systems in shaping success; we're revealing how the enchantment of life can be found in the simplest of routines, from the skincare regime that guards your canvas to the supplements that fuel our bodies. As the conversation takes a turn towards the sunny side, we sift through the nuances of sunscreen safety and skincare. You'll hear about our personal experience with mineral-based sunscreens and the challenge of finding a balance between health and aesthetics. Before we wrap up, we extend an invitation for you to join our mindful journey. Tattoo enthusiast or not, we're here to explore the intricacies of modern masculinity with you. So, subscribe or follow Mindfully Masculine—let's continue to build habits, break stigmas, and talk about steak in ways that might just surprise you. Support the show

Duration:00:52:50

Skin Deep Conversations on Grooming, Tanning, and Nutrition

1/29/2024
Ever wondered how to navigate the complex seas of men's skincare without capsizing under the weight of scented moisturizers and aftershaves? Let Charles and Dan be your seasoned crew on this voyage. We're confessing our skincare sins, from our often neglected routines to the greasy aftermath we all dread. But it's not all smooth sailing; we're tackling the tough questions about when to moisturize, the battle of the fragrances, and the simple alternatives that could save your skin from the deep end. As our journey progresses, we cast a line into the sun-kissed waters of tanning and the risks versus rewards of chasing that bronzed deity look. Chafing—a plight as old as thighs themselves—is candidly discussed alongside practical tips to keep you gliding through life sans friction. And as for that golden glow? We're charting a course for achieving it without inviting the unwanted stowaways of UV damage, all while considering the environmental impact our sun protection choices make. Before we dock, we take a detour through the foggy realm of nutrition research, dissecting the reliability of self-reported studies with the precision of seasoned sailors. And as the ink dries on our discussion about the colorful world of tattoos, we invite you to become part of our crew by following or subscribing. Trust us, it's smoother sailing ahead with every episode of the Mindfully Masculine podcast, where we ensure your next port of call is always informed, enlightened, and engaging. Support the show

Duration:00:43:56

Are Your Fingers and Toes Gross?

1/22/2024
Ever wondered how manicures could boost your overall health? Strap in for a riveting journey through self-care and personal growth with insights from Garrett Munce, as we lay out the connection between exercise, diet, sleep, and your mood. Dan's return to the weights paints a vivid picture, while the audiobooks in my ear these days offer golden nuggets on thriving in your personal and professional life. Rising with the sun or hitting snooze; what's your battle cry? We chew over the conundrum of crafting the perfect morning routine, balancing discipline with the body's cry for rest. Digging into the grooming habits that spell out self-care for men, we crack open the lid on maintaining both hand and foot hygiene. It's not just about looking good, it's about feeling prime - and we share our own salon escapades and homegrown hacks that keep us in top shape, no polish necessary. Lastly, let's talk about those salon visits that often come with an unexpected side of comedy. We share a chuckle over the offer of nail color—shoutout to Carson Daly's black nail—and trade stories about the unexpected joys and perils of public bathrooms. We wrap things up by tipping our hats to the likes of Adam Carolla, whose humor and craftsmanship underscore the message: self-improvement can certainly come with a side of laughter. Join us for a hearty conversation that'll leave your spirits lifted and perhaps inspire a pampering session of your own. Books That Charles Mentioned: The Road Back To You The On-purpose Person The Big Stick Support the show

Duration:00:42:46

The Myths of Unconditional Love and Relaxing Baths

1/15/2024
Ever wondered if unconditional love is truly possible, or just a beautifully wrapped myth? Charles and Dan crack open this topic and so much more on our latest Mindfully Masculine podcast. From the unexpected social connections made through pickleball to the crucial role of self-care in the modern man's life, we share our personal anecdotes and insights. The conversation then deepens as we scrutinize the concept of unconditional love, questioning its existence and the potential harm in expecting love without conditions from anyone, be it our partners, children, or pets. Picture this: you're knee-deep in a relationship where you're giving it your all, but something feels off. That's neediness knocking at your door, and it's a tell-tale sign of an imbalance in the give-and-take dynamic. We dissect this tricky subject, reflecting on how social media skews our love expectations and the importance of a balanced social life. And for those moments when you need to recharge? We'll guide you through the self-care maze, weighing the pros and cons of baths and showers, even invoking the 'Iceman' Wim Hof to discuss the invigorating effects of cold showers. As the curtain falls on our podcast episode, we leave no stone unturned, diving into the finer points of skincare with essential oils and colloidal oatmeal, and sharing personal experiences that blend the reflective with the practical. Setting realistic expectations for love and relationships, we conclude with heartfelt advice on maintaining effort in partnerships and embracing self-kindness. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to Mindfully Masculine, this episode promises to resonate with your quest for a more introspective and balanced masculine journey. "Tamborine" by Chris Rock https://www.netflix.com/title/80167498 Support the show

Duration:00:45:00

CBD, Self-love, and Property Damage

1/8/2024
The good, the bad, and the ugly from our move to Winter Garden. We'll regale you with the story of how a simple water spigot incident led to a campground-wide drought. Our misadventures are a testament to the chaos that ensues when time management takes a back seat – and it's a ride you won't want to miss. Then, we swerve into the less spoken-of lanes of wellness and personal care. From the corridors of cannabinoids to the intimate truths about masturbation, we're not shying away from the conversations that might make some (mostly Charles) blush. We dissect the uses and effects of THC and CBD, unveiling their potential beyond the buzz, and dive into the health benefits of self-pleasure without the usual whispered tones. And for the gents out there, we get real about the fine line between habit and addiction concerning pornography and masturbation, stressing the importance of knowing when to seek help. It's a candid and educational foray into topics that often stay under the covers, brought into the light with care and honest dialogue. Support the show

Duration:00:30:08

Eating, Breathing, Sleeping, Pooping

1/1/2024
Have you ever sipped on a green juice and wondered if it's truly the elixir of health? Strap in, as we dissect fasting and detoxes with raw honesty, sharing not just our own roller coaster experiences, but the hard-hitting skepticism that surrounds them. We engage in a vibrant discussion about the allure of quick health fixes, from the energizing highs of fasting to the often-debated efficacy of detox regimes. Get ready for a candid exploration of personal anecdotes, the impact of natural cycles on sleep, and whether the feel-good factor is due to toxin eviction or the body's innate responses. Juice cleanses - they're not just for the health zealots. Join us as we recall the trials of subsisting on liquid nourishment, inspired by tales of transformation and an undeniable curiosity. We unravel the narrative of choosing berries over burgers and the tug-of-war with persistent cravings. Beware of the post-cleanse world; we confront the challenge of sustaining weight loss and the reality of reverting to our processed food paramours. Our journey through dietary revelations doesn't end with the last sip; we share the organic denouement of our juice journey, spilling insights on health and well-being. But there's more to our well-being than what we consume and expel. We weave into the critical conversation the underestimated champion of health—sleep. We share insider secrets to achieving that perfect slumber, from bone broth fasts to the balance of electrolytes. Hear personal tales about sleep environments and the surprising accessories that might just revolutionize your night. We round off our chat with a foray into the impacts of breathing techniques on sleep, the social stigmas surrounding mouth breathing, and the ever-present challenge of hearing loss in our families. All this, plus a quirky nod to the unconventional ways one might profit from nature's call! Support the show

Duration:00:58:31

Merry Christmas and Get Off The Couch!

12/25/2023
You thought wearing a custom "cat dad" sweater would be just a funny holiday gimmick? Turns out, it sparked an entire episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and even some unexpected wisdom. From the warmth of old college tales to the cool victories of an accomplished legal eagle friend, this chat has it all. And if you're curious about non-traditional healing, you're in for a treat—Dan shares the surprising relief he discovered through alternative therapies like acupuncture and cupping for his tennis elbow. Navigating the modern world's diet dilemmas, we examine the evolutionary quirks of fat storage and the tricky balance of calorie intake versus physical activity. We get candid about our personal journeys with ketosis and exercise, revealing how they've shaped our appetites and energy levels. We also celebrate the universal plus sides of physical activity, like how it bolsters heart health, no matter how differently our bodies might dance to the tune of workouts and caffeine buzzes. As we wrap up, we extend a heartening hand to anyone who feels daunted by the gym scene, sharing actionable advice and encouraging words to help you find your fitness groove. Discover how simple pleasures like stretching can lead to profound health benefits, and why now is the best time to jump on the home fitness train. So, whether you're a gym pro or still finding your footing, tune in for an episode that's all about moving forward to a healthier, happier you—ugly sweaters optional, but highly recommended for added fun! Support the show

Duration:00:37:23

Supplements That Are Worth The Money

12/17/2023
In this episode, we discuss how Dan got cupped and poked. We also review some of the products purchased for our "Self-Care Go Bag". Then we discuss which diet supplements are actually worth the money, and how thinking that something is good for us, *might* make it good for us, through "the placebo effect". If you like, love, hate, or merely tolerate our podcast, please follow/subscribe on your chosen podcast app! Support the show

Duration:00:57:11

Stick a Pin In It

12/12/2023
In this episode, we continue discussing "Self-Care for Men" by Garrett Munce. We'll discuss the effectiveness of acupuncture, and also talk about time management, and share strategies that can reduce stress and anxiety. Support the show

Duration:01:02:47

"Self-Care for Men"

12/3/2023
In this episode, we address final thoughts on "Atomic Attraction", and move on to the first part of "Self-Care for Men: How To Look Good and Feel Great" by Garrett Munce. We'll open with defining the term "self-care", and go on to discuss the first component: a meditation practice--including your options, and all the benefits you'll experience. Full episode also available on YouTube. Support the show

Duration:00:47:03

Some of the Worst Advice

11/29/2023
OK, in this episode, we finally close the book (ha!) on "Atomic Attraction" by Christopher Canwell. To say this book is a "mixed bag" might be an understatement. We feel that it's starts off strong, but the games and manipulations that the author recommends toward the end feel excessive. In this episode, we'll cover topics including: How scarcity builds value Why pretending to be scarce is a bad idea Why friendship is not a path to romance Why requiring a woman to invest in your relationship is important (to her and you) Why men who spend time arguing with women don't understand women That you're angry and defensive becuase you're afraid How jealousy thrives in insecurity and scarcity Insanely bad ideas to rebuild a woman's attraction And, we'll introduce our next book, "Self-care for Men" by Garrett Munce. Here's a video that we reference during the show: https://youtu.be/0lGDyUj2L0o?si=9HWxtbIY-GXrInyE Support the show

Duration:01:15:57

Rerun! Episode 57: Talking Sleep and Tiny Habits

11/20/2023
Due to some really fun technical difficulties, we'll be releasing our new episode (audio and video) a couple of days late this week, but as we get to New Year's Resolution season, we wanted to share one of the episodes we recorded this time last year, when we covered the book "Tiny Habits" by BJ Fogg. Give it a listen, and if you'd like more info about building new habits (or replacing some not-so-good ones), check out our series that started with this episode. 0:00 Discussing Illness, Exercise, and Dance Lessons 13:03 Swimming Pool, Cruise, and Small Pleasures 27:38 Impact of Switching to Black Coffee 32:36 Creating Effective Habits and Goals 38:51 Emotions and Habit Formation Support the show

Duration:00:50:44

Pop Quiz, Hot Shot

11/13/2023
Let's talk about "testing"! Not the boring kind from school--the exciting kind from relationships. Throughout romantic relationships, partners will "test" each other (consciously and subconsciously), usually in an effort to confirm that their partner actually is who, and what, they claim to be. We hold the position that this is a normal, healthy part of relationships, and that a man's most effective response to being tested is to be authentic, and to continually work at being the strongest, healthiest, and happiest version of himself. Give this episode a listen, and let us know what you think! Support the show

Duration:01:27:40

Can You "Win" Arguments With Your Partner?

11/6/2023
Every time you have conflict with your partner, you make a choice whether to fight *against* the person you love, or fight *alongside* the person you love. The way you win an argument with your wife or girlfriend is to get on the same side as quickly as you can, and join forces against the problem. In this episode, we'll discuss how to see the perspective of the woman in your life, how to understand what she may be feeling, and how you can both get on the same page to tackle life's challenges. In our chat, we shed light on the perils of 'nice guy syndrome', and the implications of covert contracts. From the importance of understanding our emotions to maintaining a sense of humor in difficult conversations, we unpack the intricacies of gender dynamics, emotional communication, and anxiety in relationships. As we conclude, we offer fresh perspectives on how to navigate and enhance your relationships. We challenge some of the positions of the author of "Atomic Attraction" and attempt to elaborate on the importance of engaging with a partner's emotions in a way that adds value. We underpin the significance of not expecting others to take responsibility for our emotions and discuss different approaches to testing in relationships. Support the show

Duration:01:18:54