Young men are struggling in silence – and it's costing them their future.  Depression, disconnection, and outdated masculinity norms are fueling a quiet crisis.

In this episode, Chrissie sits down with Dr. Nate Balfanz, a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years of experience working with teens, young adults, and families.  Together they explore what's driving the crisis, how generational shifts in masculinity play a role, and what parents, communities, and young men themselves can do to turn the tide.

You'll Learn:

• Why today's young men are more disconnected despite being "more connected" online
• How generational shifts are reshaping masculinity and leaving boys without a clear roadmap
• Why vulnerability is not weakness but a key to resilience and identity
• What parents often miss when supporting their sons – and what to do instead
• How modeling, presence, and repair build long-term emotional strength

Key Takeaways:

• Masculinity without vulnerability leaves boys disconnected and isolated
• Social media magnifies feelings of "not belonging" in critical identity years
• Academic and career paralysis is often fear-based, not ability-based
• Parenting is less about correction and more about modeling resilience and repair
• The most powerful message: It's okay to not be okay

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: The Quiet Crisis of Young Men

03:58 – What's Driving the Crisis? Identity, Belonging, and Social Media

06:50 – Vulnerability, Masculinity, and Emotional Bottling

07:28 – Generational Shifts in Masculinity

16:24 – Education, Work, and the Gender Gap

18:57 – Dating, Relationships, and the Fear of Falling Behind

27:00 – Online Worlds vs. Real Connection

40:41 – Dr. Nate's Journey: From Athlete to Psychologist

47:37 – Sports, Identity, and Parenting as Mirrors

52:47 – Vulnerability as Strength & Reframing Struggles

58:52 – Effective Parenting: Presence, Listening, and Repair

1:08:15 – Mistakes Parents Make & Building Resilience

1:16:47 – Co-Regulation and Modeling for the Next Generation

1:23:19 – Final Message to Young Men & Closing Shift

 

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Behind the scenes: @chrissiecorner

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Podcast hub: https://whoareyounowpodcast.com

 

About Dr. Nate Balfanz

Dr. Nate Balfanz is a licensed clinical psychologist dedicated to supporting adult individuals, teens, and families through compassionate, evidence-based care.  His practice, Dr. Nate Psych (DNP), offers individual therapy, family counseling, and specialized services for stress, anxiety, depression, and personal growth.  With both in-person and virtual sessions, DNP makes high-quality mental health care accessible and personalized.

Dr. Nate Psych, 101 S El Camino Real, Suite 201, San Clemente, CA 92672

www.drnatepsych.com

team@drnatepsych.com | drnate@drnatepsych.com

949-880-7997

 

Hosted by Chrissie Morgan – physical therapist, master life coach, and creator of the Body Awareness Method, a framework for reconnecting with your four bodies: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual