Men Talking Mindfulness: Mental, Physical, and Emotional Health for Leaders Under Pressure

What if the most game-changing shift in your life is a three-letter word you’ve been afraid to use?In this episode of Men Talking Mindfulness, hosts Will Schneider and Jon Macaskill sit down with Jim Alling—former President of Starbucks, COO of T-Mobile USA, and CEO of TOMS—to explore how the simple word yes, paired with gritty gratitude and servant leadership, can transform the way men lead, live, and relate.Jim shares how saying yes to the right things—family, values, service, and curiosity—helped him navigate massive responsibility: tens of thousands of employees, billions in revenue, and the pressure of leading globally recognized brands. He also gets honest about the real cost of hustle culture, what burnout feels like at the top, and why the most effective leaders are often the most human.In this conversation, you’ll hear:• How one mentor at Starbucks taught Jim the “power of yes”• Why he chose family and his child’s health over a secure corporate path• What gritty gratitude looks like when life is hard—not polished• The difference between performative leadership and servant leadership• Why men who “have it all together” often feel empty inside• How to say yes without becoming a doormat (values, boundaries, clarity)• How humility, humor, and service kept Jim grounded across Nestlé, Starbucks, T-Mobile, and TOMSIf you’re a man caught between success and burnout—or you lead people and want to make a real difference without losing your soul—this episode is for you.You’ll walk away with:✅ A new understanding of yes as a doorway to purpose✅ A servant-leadership blueprint that still delivers results✅ Tools to integrate gratitude into pressure and responsibility✅ Encouragement to lead as your whole self—not just your titleSponsorPeptides for Health by Mark L. Gordon, M.D. is a new two-volume series exploring the science and clinical application of therapeutic peptides.Release Dates• Medical Edition Vol. 1: December 22, 2025• Consumer Edition Vol. 1: January 20, 2026Discount Code: PFH25Offer Windows• Medical Edition: Dec 20, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026• Consumer Edition: Jan 20 – Feb 20, 2026Proceeds support the development of the Children of Veterans Program.Preview both editions:https://tbihelpnow.org/biohack-yourselfLinks & Resources🔗 More episodes & resources: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com💼 Mental fitness & coaching with Will: https://willnotfear.com🎤 Book Jon to speak with your team: https://jonmacaskill.comIf this episode resonates, please follow the show, leave a rating and review, and share it with one man who needs to hear it.This episode was co-produced by Robert Lopez of https://www.cratesaudio.com/Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

If you’ve been dealing with constant dizziness and brain fog and you can’t figure out why you feel off, spacey, or not fully in your body, this episode is for you. Dizziness and brain fog are not just random symptoms or signs of aging – they’re often your brain’s way of screaming that your balance system is overloaded and undertrained. Constant dizziness and brain fog can also quietly wreck your focus, drain your energy, spike your anxiety, and sabotage how you show up at work, in the gym, and in your relationships. In this episode, you’ll learn why what feels like a “mind problem” is often actually a balance problem – and how to start changing it from the ground up.Human Performance Specialist Caydrick Bloomquist breaks down the hidden role of your brain’s balance network in mood, focus, stress, and sleep, and why most guys never get taught how to train it on purpose. Caydrick’s work in Neuro-Functional Training and Mental Fitness shows that when you start working directly with your balance and awareness systems, you can shift how you feel faster and more powerfully than just trying to “think positive” or meditate harder. Instead of floating through your day half-present and half-dissociated, you learn how to get back in your body, stabilize your system, and actually feel like yourself again.You’ll hear how balance drills and vestibular-focused work – including spinning, head movements, and targeted visual-vestibular exercises – can literally help rewire your brain. These inputs tell your nervous system, “You’re safe and in control,” which can calm anxiety, clear brain fog, and reduce that ongoing dizzy, floaty feeling in a way that sitting still often can’t touch. If meditation has felt too slow or frustrating for you, this conversation gives you a more active, body-based way to train awareness, presence, and emotional regulation.We also explore why your balance system is really your awareness system – constantly feeding your brain information about where you are in space. When that system is off, your brain feels unsafe and ramps up symptoms like dizziness, weird vision, brain fog, irritability, and emotional overreactions. When you tune this system up, you don’t just stand steadier; you think clearer, react calmer, and sleep deeper because your brain finally trusts your body again.If you’re a man who’s tired of living with constant dizziness and brain fog, feeling like your brain is always half a second behind, this episode gives you a new map for what’s actually going on – and a path forward. You’ll walk away with a new understanding of why you feel the way you feel, plus practical ideas and a fresh respect for the “hidden hardware” driving your mood, focus, and performance.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This episode is a deep dive into why having fun is not optional for men’s mental health—it is the silver bullet that so many guys are missing. From the outside, men are told to grind harder, stay stoic, and carry everything alone, but inside, loneliness, stress, and emotional exhaustion are quietly stacking up. Having fun becomes a radical act of rebellion against isolation, shame, and emotional numbness. John and Will unpack how having fun and playful presence can pull men out of their heads and back into their hearts, bodies, families, and communities, opening the door to real connection, creativity, and relief.Loneliness in men is now recognized as a genuine health risk, not just a feeling to tough out, and it is strongly linked to anxiety, burnout, depression, and even physical illness. In this conversation, John and Will explore how lightening up and making space for joy can interrupt that spiral. When men stop treating life as a never-ending performance review and start allowing play, silliness, and hobbies that feel good, their nervous systems calm down, stress chemistry shifts, and it becomes easier to open up, reach out, and let people in.You’ll hear how simple practices—like reclaiming old passions, trying new playful activities, or bringing a sense of humor into daily routines—can build resilience and emotional flexibility. Research shows that enjoyable leisure and playful mindsets boost mood, sharpen focus, improve problem-solving, and enhance relationships, all of which are crucial for men who feel stuck, burnt out, or alone. This episode connects those insights directly to real life: how having fun with friends, partners, kids, or even solo can be the bridge from isolation to intimacy, from rigid seriousness to grounded presence.The tone is honest, unpolished, and real—no fake positivity, no macho posturing. If you’re a man feeling the weight of loneliness, or you love a man who seems checked out, this conversation offers both language and tools to shift the story. You’ll walk away with a new understanding of why having fun is not childish or trivial—it is a serious strategy for protecting men’s mental health, rebuilding friendships, and rediscovering what it feels like to be fully alive.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Chapters:00:00 - Introduction02:54 - Playfulness as a Tool for Connection05:45 - The Consequences of Losing Playfulness08:57 - Creativity and Brain Development11:51 - Playfulness in Adulthood14:51 - The Role of Fun in Mental Health17:41 - Breaking Free from Societal Expectations20:36 - Finding Joy in Everyday Life23:41 - The Courage to Be Playful26:53 - The Connection Between Play and Success29:47 - Embracing Vulnerability and Fun32:44 - The Adventure of Playfulness35:28 - The Playful Spirit of Jesus38:32 - Final Thoughts on PlayfulnessHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

If you’ve ever laid in bed wired, exhausted, and dreading tomorrow’s alarm, this episode is your playbook on how to improve sleep quality as a man who actually has things to do. In this no‑BS conversation, we dig into how to improve sleep quality so you can boost recovery, calm your mind, and stop feeling like you’re running on fumes. You’ll hear how to improve sleep quality using simple, repeatable habits instead of gimmicks, and why better sleep might be the most powerful “performance enhancer” you’re not truly using yet.Sleep is way more than closing your eyes; it’s your nightly reset for testosterone, mood, focus, and emotional resilience, and guys who short-change sleep pay for it with anxiety, irritability, weaker gains, and a higher risk of burnout and health issues. That’s why this episode with Sleep Genius founder and former Navy SEAL Robert Sweetman goes deep on practical sleep hygiene, stress management, and recovery tactics designed for high-performing men who still want to show up strong for their families, teams, and missions.You’ll learn how to lock in a consistent sleep schedule without feeling like a monk, how to set up a “sleep cave” that’s dark, cool, and distraction‑free, and how to use light, timing, and movement during the day so your brain actually wants to shut down at night. Rob unpacks battle-tested tools from elite environments—like deliberate wind‑down routines, mental off‑loading, breathing, and mindfulness—to help calm your mind before bed so you’re not replaying your to-do list at 2 a.m.You’ll also hear how better sleep accelerates muscle recovery, reduces injury risk, and improves decision‑making and reaction time, giving you an edge in training, career, and life. We link the science to real‑world habits you can use tonight—no magic supplements required. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear, simple plan for how to improve sleep quality, boost recovery, and calm your mind so you can wake up more energized, more grounded, and more dangerous—in all the right ways.Buy Robert’s book here - https://www.amazon.com/62Romeo-SLEEP101-Weeks-Sleep-Restoration/dp/B0F8MLZQM2Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/Chapters:00:00 - Introductions02:50 - Rob Sweetman on Improving Sleep12:19 - Sleep Hygiene and Mental Health26:31 - How Light and Sound Affect Sleep29:06 - Light, Sound, and Sleep Quality32:29 - Brown Noise for Better Rest33:50 - Noise, Temperature, and Sleep37:50 - Building Consistent Sleep Routines40:00 - New Sleep Solutions for the Military41:58 - Developing Military Sleep Pods43:37 - Better Sleep Tools for Warfighters48:45 - Coaching High Performers on Sleep52:02 - Common Sleep Disruptors53:26 - Healthy Sleep Habits58:11 - Sleep Tracking: Pros and Cons01:01:06 - Why Deep Sleep and REM Matter01:02:36 - How Meal Timing Affects Sleep01:05:02 - Processed Foods, Obesity, and Health01:07:27 - Intermittent Fasting Insights01:08:51 - Eating Habits That Support Sleep01:11:13 - Closing Thoughts and GiveawayHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to George’s Self-Discovery Journey—a raw, real conversation inspired by the acclaimed movie, The Subtle Art of Losing Yourself. In this episode, George blazes a trail through the wild Scottish Highlands, bringing to life the core themes of his transformational film. If you’re ready for something beyond the usual self-help chatter, this self-discovery Journey plunges you into discomfort and uncertainty—where letting go of control is the only way to discover your truth.George shares moments of falling apart and finding strength, trading comfort for courage. Be prepared for stories of surrender, of inner critics silenced in the mud and rain, and of what happens when you lose yourself to finally find what matters. No filters, no perfection—just the honesty of starting over, learning to cope, and the gritty reality of rediscovering yourself from the inside out. Whether you’re struggling with burnout, searching for meaning, or daring to break old patterns, let The Subtle Art of Losing Yourself be your invitation to real personal change.Here is the Youtube link to he Subtle Art of Losing Yourself : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KArWcMldPMMore about George and his work here: https://www.youtube.com/@George-ThompsonFeeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. Looking for a great Speak or Coach - Jon Macaskill can help - learn more here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmacaskill/More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Chapters:00:00 – Introductions03:00 – How Film Mirrors Personal Discovery09:29 – Creativity, Presence, and the Filmmaking Flo15:43 – Parts Work Explained & Our Link to Nature24:09 – Staying Authentic While Creating Online28:38 – Leadership, Purpose, and a Shifting World29:32 – Finding Meaning in Service Through Social Platforms32:02 – Responding to Criticism with Self-Affirmation35:11 – The MMA Method for Daily Growth36:06 – Rewriting Self-Image Through Affirmations37:27 – Facing Fear with Presence and Mindfulness40:13 – The Practice of Returning to the Present41:51 – Nature, DNA, and Interconnected Life46:11 – Holding Unity in a Dualistic World48:27 – Personal Growth and Accepting the Self51:01 – Vulnerability, Openness, and Community ConnectionHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Step into the next frontier in healing as we unravel the transformative world of ibogaine therapy in this groundbreaking conversation with Jonathan Dickinson of AMBIO Life Sciences. Ibogaine therapy isn’t just another trend—it’s a revolution for people who are ready to conquer TBI, PTSD, depression, anxiety and addiction. From the battlefield to the homefront, veterans and special operators are discovering how ibogaine therapy is changing everything they thought they knew about recovery, healing, and hope. With Stanford University’s groundbreaking research at the center of this episode, and the buzz from Netflix’s new documentary "In Waves and War," the world is finally waking up to how powerful ibogaine therapy can be. This documentary lays bare the real struggles and triumphs of veterans making the courageous choice to reclaim their lives—shining a spotlight on stories that echo everything Jonathan and AMBIO are living day after day.Get ready to challenge what you think about addiction and trauma as Jonathan shares with Men Talking Mindfulness the science, the stories, and the remarkable outcomes that make ibogaine therapy a true game changer. Whether you’re struggling with the invisible wounds of traumatic brain injury, haunted by memories, or fighting to break free from depression or addiction, ibogaine therapy might just be the lifeline you’ve been searching for. Hear how brave veterans and special operators stepped up as pioneers, partnering with Stanford to unveil the brain-healing, life-rebuilding power of ibogaine therapy.  We dive deep into integration, mental wellness, and why men are flocking to ancient solutions like ibogaine therapy. This isn’t about magic bullets or shortcuts—it’s about stepping you’re of isolation, getting help, owning your journey, and finally healing. Welcome to a new era of recovery, one where courage and connection drive true healing.More about Ambio Life Sciences and your Work with Ibogaine here:https://www.ambio.life/Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction03:52 – Ibogaine’s Effects on PTSD and the Brain08:59 – What Makes Ibogaine Healing13:08 – Ibogaine’s Cultural Roots and Modern Use18:24 – Ibogaine and the Ancestral Mind24:50 – Compassion, Pain, and Ibogaine Recovery30:15 – How the Brain Heals in Recovery33:11 – Misconceptions About Ibogaine Therapy38:05 – Global Legal Status of Ibogaine44:41 – Inside the Ibogaine Treatment Journey52:24 – Navigating Post-Psychedelic “Gray Days”57:34 – Integration After Psilocybin01:02:36 – High-Dose Ibogaine: Intensity & Control01:04:17 – Staying Aware Through Ibogaine’s Intensity01:09:28 – The Arc of Psychedelic Transformation01:14:06 – Healing and Mindfulness in ChaosHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meditation changed everything for Chris Lee. From Green Beret to father and high-performance coach, meditation wasn’t just a tool—it was a lifeline that helped Chris thrive on the battlefield and at home. In this episode, you’ll discover how meditation gave Chris an edge when pressure mounted, and how meditation helped him become a better leader, a more connected dad, and a genuinely fulfilled human being. Chris’s journey proves that meditation isn’t just about sitting still—it’s about transforming anger into calm, stress into resilience, and uncertainty into clear purpose.Hear real stories of how Chris Lee used meditation to push past old limits and unlock patience, clarity, and strength. He combines insights from elite special forces training with practical meditation advice fit for any man navigating work and family life. With hard-won lessons and a dose of humor, Chris shows us why meditation belongs in your daily routine—whether you’re chasing success, battling overwhelm, or simply looking to be a stronger, more present man.Dig into Chris Lee at: https://fieldofresilience.com/Aboutor on his IG at: https://www.instagram.com/coach_chris.lee/?hl=enTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction01:48 - Engaging in Meditation02:50 - One Breath Grounding Practice03:32 - Chris's Journey to Meditation04:11 - The Evolution of Chris's Practice06:11 - Walking Meditation Insights08:44 - Self-Compassion in Meditation10:20 - Meditation's Impact on Relationships12:14 - Realizing the Benefits of Meditation14:40 - Transition from Military to Mindfulness18:27 - The Need for Awareness21:13 - Career Shift to Coaching23:33 - Meditation as a Superpower25:00 - The Journey to Inner Peace27:25 - Removing Labels Through Meditation30:02 - Resistance in Meditation31:41 - Non-Doing in Meditation34:18 - Finding Time for Meditation36:02 - Tracking Progress and Metrics39:15 - Mindful Choices and Alcohol42:57 - Creating a Daily Meditation ProtocolFeeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. Looking for a great speaker or Coach hit up Jon Macaskill at https://jonmacaskill.com/More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Self-doubt. It’s loud, it’s sneaky, and it’s the voice in your head that tells you you’re not enough - even when you’re crushing it. In this episode, we dive deep into self-doubt, unpacking how it grips men and secretly drives our choices, our relationships, and the stories we tell ourselves. If you've ever found yourself second-guessing your instincts, replaying that conversation (again), or holding back because of that relentless self-doubt, you’re definitely not alone. We’ll get brutally honest about where self-doubt comes from, why it sticks around, and how you can finally break its grip and reclaim your personal power.Get ready for candid stories about the internal wars men fight every day, actionable strategies for smashing self-doubt, and a few laughs at the absurd stuff our brains conjure up when no one’s watching. Expect practical takeaways, surprising insights into men’s mental health, and tools you can use to step out of the self-doubt shadow—starting right now. If you’re tired of self-doubt stealing your confidence and joy, this episode is your call to take back your manhood and make your mind your ally, not your enemy.Chapters:00:00 – Introductions05:19 – Embracing Worth and Authentic Leadership19:31 – Owning Your Inner Voice23:43 – The Journey to Confidence and Well-Being25:26 – Power of Personal Affirmations27:04 – Purpose, Brotherhood, and Self-Belief32:16 – Growth Through Self-Doubt33:51 – Seeking Feedback, Building Confidence35:09 – Vulnerability and the Strength to Ask for Help36:07 – Men and Overcompensation: Rewriting the Narrative37:04 – Redefining Vulnerability with Courage40:26 – Emotional Connection and Brotherhood41:20 – The Illusion of Confidence42:38 – Insecurity vs. True Confidence45:13 – Legacy and the Path of Growth46:40 – Strategies for Self-Reflection and EmpowermentFeeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Most men fear what they don’t understand - and nothing confuses or frustrates them more than the hormonal changes women experience in midlife. Jon and Will sit down with renowned women’s health expert Dr. Lisa Larkin to decode the menopause transition and reveal how understanding it can transform relationships, health, and communication. From navigating mood shifts and libido changes to recognizing breast cancer risks and the benefits of lifestyle and hormone therapy, Dr. Larkin exposes how women’s health - especially between ages 40 and 55 - has been neglected for far too long. This eye-opening conversation challenges stigma, empowers both partners to talk openly about menopause, and shows men why knowledge is the key to stronger, more connected relationships.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction03:02 - Bridging the Gender Gap in Midlife Women’s Health06:12 - How Menopause Shapes Relationships10:04 - What Every Woman Should Know About Midlife Health13:41 - The Truth About Breast Cancer Risk20:53 - Genetics, Sex, and the Overlooked Sides of Women’s Health27:19 - Menopause at Work: Why Support Matters32:13 - Treatment, Awareness, and Real Support for Menopausal Women34:13 - The Real Story Behind Menopausal Hormone Therapy51:03 - The Hidden Risks of High-Dose Testosterone Pellets54:48 - How Hormonal Changes Affect Love and ConnectionFeeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this deeply personal piece, Jon shares something raw and different ... a song born straight from his journaling practice.After years of living by duty, discipline, and performance, Jon found himself realizing he’d lost touch with the part of him that once felt fully alive.That reflection became a song called “Called Home to Yourself.”Through honest storytelling and emotional depth, Jon opens up about what it means to wake up after years on autopilot... to remember the child you once were, the fire you once carried, and the freedom of feeling seen again.This song isn’t about perfection (nor is it perfect)... it’s about presence.It’s about rediscovering who you are beneath the roles, the ranks, and the noise of everyday life.If you’ve ever felt that quiet ache... that pull toward something real... this episode is for you.Because sometimes, the bravest thing we can do is stop running, listen, and come home.Listen to “Called Home to Yourself” — written and performed by... well, AI!!Hosted by Jon Macaskill | Men Talking MindfulnessHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode with Karen Salmansohn, discover how thinking about death can be your greatest inspiration for living a purposeful, to-die-for life. “Your To-Die-For Life” flips the script on death, showing how embracing mortality turns every day into an urgent call to action—ditch regrets, seize your bucket list, and put meaning first. Death isn’t just an end; it’s a catalyst for bold choices, authentic relationships, and a legacy that matters. Learn practical, research-backed tools to let death fuel your courage, passion, and authentic self-expression. If you want to move from living on autopilot to a life that thrills you, tune in and let death motivate you to live fully now.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction00:16 - The Stories We Leave Behind00:36 - Introducing Karen Solomonson and Her Insights01:39 - Grounding Practice: Centering Ourselves02:33 - Contemplating Mortality for Value-Based Decisions03:11 - Aristotle's Wisdom: Starting with the End in Mind04:06 - Learning Lessons for Personal Growth05:09 - The Importance of Core Values05:51 - Legacy: How We Show Up in Life06:48 - The Impact of Feelings on Memory07:30 - Living Authentically vs. Seeking External Validation08:01 - Writing Your Eulogy: A Path to Clarity08:13 - The Power of Mortality Awareness09:05 - Identity-Based Habits: Who Do You Need to Become?10:30 - Creating Identity-Based Statements12:05 - Finding Core Values: A Practical Approach14:07 - The Seven Core Values to Avoid Regrets15:14 - Authenticity: The Key to True Expression16:07 - Bravery: Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone16:47 - Curiosity: The Path to Growth18:23 - Discernment: Prioritizing What Matters19:24 - Empathic Love: Building Meaningful Connections20:55 - Fun: The Importance of Enjoying Life23:53 - Gratitude: Appreciating What You Have25:14 - The Role of Mortality in Urgency and Action26:28 - Living with Intention: Making Every Day Count30:23 - Breaking Free from Negative Narratives32:33 - The Lab of Life: Embracing Growth34:00 - The Struggle for Fulfillment: Eudaimonia vs. Hedonia36:40 - Reawakening Your Identity: The Power of Self-Reflection42:11 - Surrounding Yourself with Supportive People45:03 - The Importance of Positive InfluencesFeeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Connor Beaton, founder of ManTalks, joins MTM. He in a transformative conversation about shadow work and its profound impact on personal choices and mental well-being. Throughout the discussion, Connor delves deep into the concept of the "shadow self," exploring how acknowledging and integrating the hidden, often suppressed aspects of our personalities leads to greater self-awareness and genuine change. We candidly address the role of shame in our lives—how it can serve as both a motivator and a destructive force—and why many people unconsciously use shame-based narratives as a way to push themselves, often resulting in cycles of self-sabotage and emotional stagnation. Connor illustrates how confronting shadow elements like guilt, regret, and self-doubt enables us to break free from repeating negative patterns. Listeners will learn actionable strategies for revealing and working through feelings of shame, while gaining tools for healthier inner dialogue and compassionate self-reflection.You'll learn how self-compassion, accepting past mistakes, and building more authentic relationships—cornerstones of Connor’s approach to men’s emotional growth and healing.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/Chapters00:00 - Introduction 02:46 - The Transformative Power of Shadow Work05:48 - Defining the Shadow: Repression and Its Consequences08:47 - The Role of Shame in Men's Lives11:44 - Personal Journeys: Crisis and Transformation14:56 - Shame and Its Manipulative Power18:00 - Separating Personhood from Behavior20:56 - Relationships as Mirrors for Self-Discovery23:47 - The Role of Mindfulness in Shadow Work27:04 - Psychedelics and Accessing the Unconscious30:04 - The Body's Role in Self-Realization32:58 - Conclusion: The Journey of Self-DiscoveryHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Men Talking Mindfulness aims to empower men's personal and emotional growth through mindfulness. We offer engaging content and practical tools in a supportive community, guiding men toward a balanced, mindful, and fulfilling life.This is an episode Jon recorded with Chris Lazier and Shaun Emerson from the If You've Come This Far podcast... lots of fun stuff to know about Jon - a lot that we never knew before!Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

From the depths of addiction to the frontlines of redemption, Ben Owen’s story is a testament to the power of transformation. In this episode, Jon and Will sit down with Ben, the founder of We Fight Monsters, to uncover how he turned personal pain with addiction into purpose, leading a movement that combats addiction, human trafficking, and broken systems from the streets of Memphis to beyond. Ben reveals the brutal realities of recovery, mental health, the importance of mindfulness in chaos, and the unbreakable resilience that fuels his mission to reunite families and rebuild lives. This is not just a story about survival -  it’s about what happens when you decide to fight for something bigger than yourself.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Chapters00:00 - Introduction03:12 - Ben Owen's Journey to Recovery06:01 - The Birth of We Fight Monsters09:06 - Transforming Lives in Memphis11:51 - The Role of Mindfulness in Recovery14:37 - Building Trust and Community17:42 - Confronting Human Trafficking20:34 - The Power of Resilience23:42 - Creating Economic Opportunities26:31 - The Importance of Family Reunification29:47 - Engaging with Law Enforcement32:22 - The Role of the Community35:43 - The Owen Army and Expanding the Mission38:35 - Mindfulness in Action41:28 - The Future of We Fight MonstersHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What happens when young men struggle to find their place in a rapidly changing world? Joseph Fuller joins hosts Jon and Will to explore the challenges facing young men today - from the decline of traditional male jobs, and the stigma around trades, to the crucial role of mentorship, education, and social skills in shaping identity and opportunity. This is adding to the escalating mental health crisis. Together, they unpack how cultural shifts away from college education are redefining masculinity, why trades remain “AI-proof,” and what society can do to better support young men in navigating careers, mental health, and self-worth in the 21st century.Learn more about Joseph Fuller: https://www.harvardmagazine.com/2025/05/harvard-men-gender-gap-education-employmentFeeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Chapters00:00 - Introductions02:48 - Cultural Identity and Self-Worth in Men05:50 - The Decline of Traditional Male Jobs09:12 - Education and Skills Gap12:01 - The Impact of Social Skills on Employment14:54 - The Role of Sports and Physical Activity17:43 - The Importance of Mentorship and Guidance20:48 - The Stigma Around Trades and Vocational Education23:57 - The Role of Male Teachers in Education26:31 - The Crisis of Male Identity in Modern Society29:24 - Solutions for the Future of Young MenHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

So what happened here? So close to the finish line, Jon tells us why he decided to drop out of the Physique Competition and end this grueling fitness Journey.Learn what MTM is all about at:mentalkinmindfulness.comHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if the biggest threat to your leadership isn’t lack of skill or ambition, but the silent weight of too many choices? Jon and Will unpack the hidden toll of decision fatigue - the mental exhaustion that can cloud judgment, lower productivity, and derail even the most capable leaders. They explore how nutrition, boundaries, and mindfulness can restore mental clarity, why making decisions when energy is highest leads to better outcomes, and the power of simplifying routines to protect your focus. You’ll discover how rest and recharge are not luxuries but essentials, and why having a mentor or coach can cut through the noise to bring clarity. This conversation is a guide to reclaiming your energy, making sharper decisions, and leading with confidence.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Chapters00:00 - Introduction01:10 - Understanding Decision Fatigue and Mental Energy11:57 - Clear Goals as the Key to Beating Decision Fatigue15:33 - The Role of Intentional Goals in Mental Clarity16:59 - Leadership Challenges in Decision Fatigue18:21 - Mindfulness and Self-Awareness for Leaders19:17 - Practical Strategies for Clarity and Energy23:20 - How to Replenish Energy for Better Choices25:18 - The Hidden Impact of Judicial Decision Fatigue26:41 - Sleep and Nutrition as Decision-Making Essentials29:26 - The Power of Personal Boundaries31:08 - Boundaries and Routines for Stronger Decisions34:05 - Proven Tips to Boost Productivity and Clarity35:16 - Nutrition’s Role in Sharper Decision-Making40:25 - Smarter Choices Through Effective Strategies41:56 - The Best Ways to Recharge for Peak Performance42:34 - Final Thoughts: Share, Review, and ConnectHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Most people go through life without ever being truly initiated.In this raw and revealing conversation, Will and Jon are joined by rites of passage guide Darren Silver to unpack why transformation requires more than just time — it requires challenge, community, and a deep connection to nature. They explore the wounding at the heart of real initiation, the loss of cultural rituals, and how fathers, plant medicine, and honest reflection can guide us through the most important transitions of our lives. This is a conversation about healing, masculinity, and what it takes to answer the question: Are you truly living, or just getting by?Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Chapters00:00 – Introduction03:09 – Nature and Life Transitions07:54 – Personal Transformation Through Rites of Passage20:15 – Mystery and the Transformative Journey24:48 – Transformation and Inner Change28:22 – Growth, Responsibility, and Rites of Passage37:51 – Identity, Belonging, and the Adolescent Edge39:11 – Identity and Belonging in Adulthood45:40 – Community Recognition and the Need for Rites50:05 – Responsibility and the Journey Home51:59 – Relationship Support During Transitions54:00 – Change and the Path to Inner Peace01:05:22 – Happiness and Human ConnectionHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if leadership meant putting people before profit? In this inspiring episode, Howard Behar, former president of Starbucks, shares how servant leadership and putting people over profits shaped the company's culture. He discusses how a people-first leadership philosophy leads to authentic connection, trust, and accountability in the workplace. Behar reveals that putting people over profits empowers employees and nurtures a values-based leadership approach. From presence and vulnerability to empowering employees and focusing on the bottom-up approach, Howard demonstrates that success comes from putting people over profits, cultivating workplace culture, and leading with empathy, purpose, and genuine human connectionFeeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/Chapters00:00 - Introduction02:59 - Mindfulness and Self-Awareness06:10 - Creating a People-First Culture08:52 - The Importance of Compassionate Listening11:47 - Navigating Difficult Conversations14:38 - The Role of Values in Leadership17:46 - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Leadership20:35 - Compassionate Emptiness in Leadership23:38 - The Power of Questions26:30 - Feedback and Responsiveness29:23 - Aligning Purpose and Values32:40 - The Six Ps of Leadership35:37 - Intentional Communication38:35 - Creating Safe Spaces for Dialogue41:25 - The Impact of Leadership on Culture44:14 - Living with Intention47:17 - The Journey of Continuous ImprovementHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if the thing you turn to for relief is actually rewiring your brain against you? In this powerful episode, Dr. Trish Leigh exposes the hidden neurological effects of pornography - how it hijacks your dopamine system, fuels addiction, and quietly erodes motivation, mental health, and relationships. We dive deep into the evolutionary roots of sexuality, the influence of technology on behavior, and the daily habits needed for recovery. From parenting in the digital age to rebuilding intimacy and overcoming erectile dysfunction, this is a raw, science-backed conversation about breaking free from porn and taking back control of your life.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Chapters:00:00 - Introduction02:48 - The Dopamine Dependency Cycle05:50 - The Evolutionary Perspective on Sexuality08:53 - The Role of Technology in Sexual Behavior11:54 - Parenting in the Age of Digital Exposure14:56 - The Importance of Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence17:59 - The Path to Recovery from Pornography Addiction20:54 - Healthy vs. Maladaptive Masturbation Patterns23:46 - The Connection Between Pornography and Erectile Dysfunction26:38 - Building Healthy Relationships and Intimacy29:58 - Strategies for Overcoming Pornography Addiction32:55 - The Importance of a Morning Routine35:55 - Navigating Sexuality and Testosterone38:46 - The Role of Communication in Relationships41:46 - Final Thoughts and Resources for RecoveryHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.