ManTalks Podcast

I take you on a deep dive into the Father Wound through a Jungian lens. I explore how your relationship with your father shapes your identity, sense of worth, and connection to the masculine. You’ll learn how this wound shows up in perfectionism, rebellion, or emotional distance—and discover five practical steps to begin healing and “fathering yourself.” This conversation is about reclaiming inner authority, developing discipline, and embodying a mature, grounded masculinity.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:01 - Introduction & Overview02:16 - Defining the Father Wound07:07 - The Father Archetype & Order10:06 - How the Wound Shows Up in Men15:01 - The Impact on Relationships17:00 - The Unlived Life of the Father19:28 - The Five Healing Steps26:15 - Rituals & Emotional Integration27:40 - Closing Reflections***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I sit down once again with Stephen Jenkinson to explore his latest work on matrimony, ritual, and the mothering of culture. We talk about how weddings have lost much of their meaning, what it means to return to vows with real weight, and how ritual can nourish not just a couple but an entire community. Stephen shares how he reconstructs ceremony from broken shards of tradition and why it matters now more than ever.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 - Introduction01:19 - Matrimony vs. Marriage06:10 - The Mothering of Culture13:32 - Rituals, Ceremony & Lost Meaning25:52 - Blessing and Vows45:55 - Creating Old Order Matrimony52:34 - Reimagining the Wedding Ritual01:04:38 - Remembering Ritual & Culture01:08:16 - Closing Thoughts***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I break down what complex trauma really is - and how it quietly shapes the way many men think, love, and connect. I share the difference between acute trauma and complex trauma, how it’s formed in childhood through neglect or inconsistency, and how these early wounds show up in adult relationships. Most importantly, I give you real, actionable tools to begin healing and reconnecting with your sense of safety and self-worth.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 - The hidden struggle many men face02:23 - What complex trauma really means07:03 - How complex trauma is formed11:34 - The telltale signs and survival patterns17:55 - How to start healing complex trauma20:26 - Building safety in relationships24:11 - Learning to regulate your nervous system27:23 - Final thoughts and Carl Jung’s reminder***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I dive deep into what really happens to men in a sexless marriage — emotionally, psychologically, and biologically. I break down why rejection cuts so deeply, how it impacts a man’s confidence and identity, and what couples can do to rebuild trust, safety, and intimacy. Whether you’re in a relationship that’s lost its spark or trying to understand your partner better, this conversation offers a roadmap back to connection.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Why a sexless marriage hurts men02:53 – Rejection and the male nervous system05:25 – Hormonal and emotional fallout10:32 – When sex becomes a bargaining chip13:15 – Resentment and emotional withdrawal17:03 – How to start rebuilding intimacy22:54 – Practical steps for reconnection28:29 – Co-creating a new vision for your sex life31:06 – Final reflections and takeaways***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I explore the real roots of self-worth and why so many of us struggle with it despite doing “all the right things.” I share how childhood experiences shape attachment and how that impacts our ability to value ourselves as adults. I also break down the crucial practices that build self-worth — from expressing needs and boundaries to taking healthy risks. Finally, I open up about my own journey of failing my way to success and how you can begin your own process of healing.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – What really damages self-worth02:29 – Attachment and early development07:23 – Childhood shame and adult struggles11:41 – Hostility to needs and boundaries15:23 – Expressing desires and boundaries18:58 – The risks of lacking self-worth23:24 – Doing hard things builds value25:05 – ManTalks Alliance invitation***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I dive into the three “dark traits” that every great leader throughout history has had to master. From unpredictability to high stress tolerance to a lack of empathy, these qualities can make or break your leadership in relationships, business, and self-mastery. I unpack how to wield them without being consumed by them, drawing from history, psychology, and personal experience.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Why great leaders need dark traits02:05 – Trait #1: Unpredictability10:20 – Trait #2: High Stress Tolerance18:15 – Trait #3: Lack of Empathy27:48 – Integrating the dark traits29:08 – Carl Jung on wrestling with the shadow***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I dive into the anxious attachment trap and why it keeps sabotaging relationships. I share the hidden beliefs and behaviors that fuel insecurity, and I break down practical strategies to move toward secure attachment.You’ll learn how to interrupt the cycle, communicate clearly, and start building safety and stability in your relationships.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 - Understanding anxious attachment02:44 - Why it’s not your fault03:57 - Common red flags and behaviors05:54 - Pre-breakup anxiety explained07:04 - Why you attract avoidant partners10:16 - Breaking the cycle of anxiety12:50 - How to communicate anxiety without pushing partners away16:45 - Expressing your needs clearly17:59 - Self-soothing strategies for anxious attachment20:29 - Building security in your relationship***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I explore the rise of misanthropy and why so many people seem to be losing faith in humanity. I unpack how social media, economics, and cultural conflicts fuel this growing sense of distrust and despair. I also share why I believe practicing a radical faith in humanity is not only possible but necessary. Join me as I challenge the narratives of fear and invite you to see a different way forward.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Introduction: What is misanthropy?00:58 – Social media and amplified othering03:38 – Economics and generational insecurity04:47 – Gender conflict and family strain11:20 – The idea of “Virtuous Misanthropy”16:49 – Catastrophic thinking and the future22:35 – Radical faith in humanity23:38 – Closing thoughts and invitation***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I dive into Carl Jung’s concept of the Puer Aeternus—the eternal child, or what we might call the “man-child.” I explore how this archetype shows up in our lives through procrastination, fantasy, and avoidance of responsibility. I share myths like Icarus and Peter Pan, the shadow side of this archetype, and practical steps to move from the eternal boy to the integrated man.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:01 – The Puer Aeternus: Eternal Child02:42 – Fixation on Youth vs. Responsibility04:12 – The Provisional Life07:01 – Myth of Icarus08:12 – Peter Pan and Neverland10:33 – The Seduction of Youth13:24 – The Shadow Side16:34 – Step 1: Accept Limitations18:47 – Step 2: Embrace the Ordinary20:14 – Step 3: Facing Failure21:50 – Step 4: Commit to the Process23:29 – Step 5: Seek a Mentor25:28 – From Eternal Boy to Integrated Man26:21 – Brutal Honesty and Feedback27:43 – Closing Thoughts***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I sit down with Sandy to explore how childhood experiences and family dynamics shaped the way he shows up in his marriage and new role as a father. We dive into themes of complex trauma, feeling alone, and learning how to connect in the moment rather than after the fact. Together, we work through practical exercises on presence, nervous system awareness, and building safety in relationships. This is a raw, vulnerable dialogue about healing, fatherhood, and not carrying old patterns into the future.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Introduction00:37 – Childhood patterns and family role04:07 – Struggles in marriage and fatherhood07:34 – Feeling unseen as a boy11:17 – Working through tension in the body15:51 – “I’m not alone anymore”23:58 – Understanding complex trauma31:08 – Daily connection practice with partner36:50 – Breaking the freeze cycle42:05 – Learning from fatherhood44:30 – Closing reflections***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

Today, I discuss the common belief that men are intimidated by successful women. We explore where this narrative comes from, why it persists, and what’s really going on beneath the surface. Instead of intimidation, attraction often breaks down when certain traits and behaviors enter the relationship dynamic. Tune in for an honest look at success, gender roles, and what makes relationships thrive or fail.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Are men really intimidated by women?01:04 – The origins of this narrative01:58 – Success vs. attraction in relationships03:52 – Clarifying the message about women’s accomplishments04:38 – What men actually get frustrated with06:59 – Influence, power, and attraction dynamics07:42 – Traits that push men away08:32 – Why “intimidation” isn’t the real issue10:14 – Relationship struggles with role balance11:00 – Closing thoughts and reflections***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I dive into the archetype of the Trickster—the part of us that thrives on chaos, sabotage, and disruption, yet also carries the medicine of transformation.I explore how the Trickster shows up in mythology, film, and our daily lives, and why learning to embrace him can free us from stagnancy. You’ll discover how to build a relationship with this shadow energy and use it as a source of creativity, humor, and growth.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:01 – Introduction to the Trickster Archetype02:38 – The Joker as Chaos Embodied03:47 – Loki, Hermes, and Bugs Bunny05:29 – Chaos as Medicine07:29 – The Trickster Breaks Taboos10:16 – Growth Through Disruption12:02 – The Trickster in Religion and Myth14:08 – Denying vs. Embracing the Trickster16:54 – Trickster Heroes: Iron Man and Jim Carrey19:21 – Recognizing the Trickster Within21:44 – Confronting the Inner Saboteur23:40 – Why We Need the Trickster Today25:08 – Closing Reflections***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I break down why quitting weed is so damn hard and the science behind it. From brain rewiring and withdrawal to the skyrocketing potency of today’s cannabis, I explain the real reasons people struggle. I also share a proven step-by-step strategy to help you prepare, manage cravings, and quit for good. If you’ve tried before and slipped back, this roadmap is for you.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Why quitting weed is hard01:09 – Reason #1: Brain rewiring05:02 – Reason #2: Withdrawal is real06:58 – Reason #3: Potency of modern weed10:25 – Reason #4: New side effects12:42 – Reason #5: Social acceptance & access13:45 – Stage 1: Prepare & track usage16:56 – Stage 2: Managing withdrawal22:13 – Stage 3: Therapy & nervous system support24:38 – Step 4: Reward progress27:16 – Medical support options28:22 – Final thoughts & accountability***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

Connor sits down with storyteller Jameson Olsen to dive into the myth of Hercules and uncover its relevance for modern men. From the legendary labors to the tragedy that shaped his journey, Jameson unpacks how these ancient myths reflect the struggles of responsibility, temptation, betrayal, and redemption men face today. They explore the crossroads between vice and virtue, the weight of personal choices, and the timeless lessons hidden in myth. This conversation challenges men to confront their own trials, learn from archetypal stories, and find meaning in bearing the burden of life’s hardships.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 - Introduction00:36 - Retelling ancient stories for modern times02:57 - The trials of Hercules and lessons for men04:52 - The Choice of Hercules: virtue vs. vice08:15 - Modern vices and distractions13:13 - Hercules’ origins and fatherless upbringing15:43 - Tragedy: Hera’s curse and the loss of family20:25 - Redemption through the labors22:57 - The Nemean Lion: confronting the impossible29:27 - The Hydra: breaking destructive patterns40:16 - Cleaning the Augean stables44:40 - The mares of Diomedes: consequences of carelessness48:42 - Hippolyta’s belt and the gender divide54:07 - Bearing the heavy burden of disaster58:22 - Redemption, atonement, and moving forward01:03:20 - Using stories as mirrors for personal growth01:06:05 - Where to find Jameson Olsen***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at a...

I dive into why many men feel invisible to women in the dating world and relationships, exploring the concept of sexual marketplace value. I break down the reasons behind this invisibility and share practical steps to stand out, from auditing your personal presentation to building a strong social network. Join me as I discuss how focusing on self-improvement naturally boosts your attractiveness and visibility to women.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 - Introduction to Male Invisibility00:52 - Understanding Sexual Marketplace Value03:11 - Why Most Men Are Invisible04:43 - The Choice Paradox in Dating05:32 - The Storefront Analogy07:23 - Importance of Presentation09:20 - Value Dynamics for Men and Women11:44 - Social Networks and Social Skills13:12 - Actionable Steps to Stand Out14:41 - Building Scarcity in Interactions16:38 - Investing in Long-Term Assets19:17 - Improving Physical Presence20:38 - Signaling Value, Not Selling22:09 - Overcoming Mediocrity***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

Listen to this episode for a raw and powerful conversation about loss, grief, and reclaiming self-trust. Together, we explore how childhood wounds shaped his sense of worth and authority, and what it means to step into becoming the true authority of your own life. This is a deeply moving dialogue about forgiveness, healing, and learning to finally trust yourself.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 Welcome and introduction00:49 Confronting grief and loss07:10 Childhood trauma and its impact14:30 Speaking to his mother22:50 Reclaiming voice and feelings29:10 Inner child connection33:00 Choosing a new authority36:28 Owning self-worth and power44:12 Reflections on authority and healing47:39 Closing thoughts***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I explore the character of Aragorn from The Lord of the Rings as a model of virtuous masculinity. I break down how he embodies the protector, the healer, and the humble king, and what that means for us as men today. Aragorn shows us how strength and gentleness, ambition and humility, can coexist—and why the world needs more of that balance right now.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Introduction00:27 – The hands of the king03:13 – The protector king06:22 – The humility of power08:24 – Strength with purpose11:11 – Brotherhood and bonds13:39 – Magnanimity and greatness16:55 – Humility at the Black Gate18:26 – Strong and gentle19:23 – Redefining greatness22:04 – Closing thoughts***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I sit down with Roger for a powerful conversation about intimacy, leadership, and the courage it takes to be fully honest in a relationship. We explore how childhood wounds can carry into adult partnerships, and the work it takes to break free from old cycles of shame and avoidance. Roger opens up with deep vulnerability, and together we unpack what it means to step into responsibility and create real connection.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Opening & Welcome00:52 – Roger’s Relationship Struggles04:08 – Intimacy & Connection Challenges07:56 – The Cycle of Avoidance13:29 – Childhood Roots with Mom20:05 – Healing the Inner Boy28:22 – Facing the Partner with Honesty35:30 – Learning to Be Okay with Disappointment42:35 – Separating Self from Validation47:29 – Commitments for Change52:19 – Micro Moments of Leadership53:18 – Closing Reflections***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I dive into how your shadow self might be quietly sabotaging your love life — and what you can do about it. Drawing from Jungian philosophy, I explore why we’re drawn to partners who embody the very traits we’ve disowned in ourselves. I share practical ways to spot your shadow at work in your relationship and how to begin integrating it for deeper connection and intimacy.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 Welcome & Jung’s insight on fate00:50 Your shadow’s hidden intelligence02:37 What is the shadow?04:20 How to know when your shadow is active07:13 The nice guy/people pleaser dynamic09:18 Nature abhors a vacuum in relationships11:57 Relationships as mirrors for self-reclamation14:17 Steps to integrate your shadow15:19 Closing thoughts & final Jung quote***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I sit down with Anthony Rispo to dive deep into social cognition, human behavior, and the cultural shifts affecting men and women today. We explore how disagreements can fracture relationships, the erosion of nuance in public discourse, and the role social media plays in polarizing people. Anthony also shares his insights on gender dynamics, the state of therapy for men, and the growing narrative around being “better off alone.” This is a thought-provoking conversation that isn’t afraid to push into complex and sometimes controversial territory.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Anthony’s background and journey into psychology04:20 – Research interests and social cognition explained08:51 – The impact of disagreement on relationships14:14 – Political polarization and identity formation26:09 – Gender differences and dating dynamics29:09 – The brain’s role in social cognition38:39 – Therapy, masculinity, and practical approaches for men49:23 – Dark traits, therapy, and ideology53:49 – Being alone and cultural narratives57:52 – Consequences of rejecting traditional structures01:04:35 – Anthony’s personal story and standing against groupthink***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram