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Real Men Hug
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Real Men Hug

Author: Ben Kraker / Jim Van Stensel

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Step into the realm of "Real Men Hug," where authenticity reigns supreme. Our podcast offers a refreshing blend of candid conversations, heartfelt exploration of emotions, and invaluable insights into mental well-being, tailor-made for both men and the women who hold them dear.

Discover us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred platform, ready to accompany you on your journey. Don't forget to tap that like button and subscribe for a regular dose of wisdom. And if our episodes resonate with you, share the love with your tribe and leave a review that brightens our day!

Tune in bi-weekly, every other Thursday, as hosts Jim Van Stensel and Ben Kraker lead the charge into meaningful discussions that promise growth and connection.












14 Episodes
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In a world where adult friendships often take a backseat, hosts Ben and Jim embark on a journey through the complexities of maintaining meaningful connections amidst the chaos of various life stages, including raising young children. Drawing from their own experiences and heartfelt insights, they navigate the highs and lows of friendship with candor, humor, and understanding.From sharing laughter over shared hobbies to weathering the storms of life together, Ben and Jim explore the essence of...
In this episode of Real Men Hug, hosts Jim and Ben sit down with Jamie and Mahlon from Roundtable Mindset to explore the impact of societal gender norms on various aspects of life. Together, they delve into the significance of mutual respect, open dialogue, and personal growth beyond traditional expectations.Throughout the conversation, Jamie and Mahlon emphasize the importance of challenging outdated practices and fostering inclusivity in understanding gender roles. They share insights on ho...
Dive into a riveting collaborative dialogue between Real Men Hug and Roundtable Mindset as they bravely confront the age-old assumptions and societal norms that shape our perceptions of gender roles. In this illuminating episode, listeners are invited to challenge the rigid confines of traditional masculinity and femininity, as the hosts fearlessly explore the intricacies of roles within marriages and families.Through candid anecdotes and introspective musings, the hosts peel back the layers ...
"Mawage. Mawage is what brings us together today." The iconic words of The Impressive Clergyman from The Princess Bride perfectly set the stage for today's episode!Join hosts Ben and Jim as they open up about the highs and lows of marriage. They candidly share experiences from their own individual marriages with humor, honesty, and empathy.From everyday triumphs to unexpected hurdles, Ben and Jim dive deep into the complexities of married life.But it's not just about weathering storms; it's a...
In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Ben and Jim delve into the complexities of toxic positivity, shedding light on its detrimental effects on emotional well-being. Through personal narratives and reflections, they navigate the societal pressures that often compel us to suppress our vulnerabilities under the guise of unwavering positivity.Exploring the societal pressures that dictate how men should express themselves emotionally, Ben and Jim debunk the myth that strength equates to stoici...
In this episode of Real Men Hug, join Jim and Ben as they kick back and reminisce about their adventures of growing up around, and ultimately returning to, their hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan. From chowing down on Yesterdog's mouthwatering (depending on who you ask...) delights to cruising along the serene White Pine Trail, they paint a vivid picture of the good times they've shared.Jim and Ben dive into what makes Grand Rapids special - the tight-knit community. They swap stories ...
Dive into the deep end with us as Jim candidly unravels his career voyage, laying bare the trials he's faced. From career disappointments to grappling with depression and anxiety, he shares his journey with the honesty and candor that you find regularly on our podcast. Ben lends his insights and observations, having witnessed Jim's professional challenges. Together, they stress the vital role of community and seeking aid amidst adversity. Tune in for an authentic and relatable exchange.Suppor...
In this episode of the Real Men Hug podcast, hosts Ben and Jim immerse themselves in the realm of nerdy hobbies, sharing how these pursuits have enriched their lives. They fondly recall their adventures, from Ben's geocaching exploits to Jim's spirited escapades at Renaissance fairs, where he often donned the guise of the legendary Dread Pirate Roberts. Alongside their nostalgic reminiscences, they discuss the enduring appeal of classic PC games like Duke Nukem and King's Quest, reflecting on...
In this episode, Jim and Ben focus on Ben's journey of identity transformation. They explore how personal experiences such as relational strain, vocational loss, and personal growth have shaped and reshaped who they are. The conversation delves into the influence of external voices on Ben's initial career choices and both of their ongoing pursuit of living authentic lives. This episode highlights how challenges, though difficult, often contribute to a deeper understanding of one's true s...
In this episode of Real Men Hug, hosts Ben and Jim open up about the essentials of setting boundaries. They chat about why it's crucial for your emotions and personal growth, sharing stories about navigating pushback from loved ones and underscoring the importance of good communication.Tune in as Ben and Jim get real about those awkward moments when boundaries get crossed, emphasizing the need to stand your ground. Listen in and uncover the transformative power of no.Support the Show.
In this touching episode, hosts Jim and Ben share poignant tales about Jim's wife and Ben's daughter, revealing how childhood trauma shaped their lives. Hear heartfelt stories that showcase resilience and the enduring impact of past experiences. Explore the healing power of acknowledgment, therapy, and community. Episode 3 is a heartfelt journey celebrating strength in overcoming life's adversities.Support the Show.
In this eye-opening episode of Real Men Hug, we dive into Jim's story. Born as the emotional one in a family of five siblings, he was always deemed 'abnormal.' Struggling with feeling emotions in a family that viewed such sensitivity as weakness shaped his childhood and his path. Years later, we witness Jim's transformation into a pillar of emotional strength; someone capable of consoling others. Hear about the internal conflicts he grappled with, his journey towards embracing his emotional s...
Stuck between the pursuit of self-expression and the pressure of appearing 'strong', Ben's story strikes a chord with all those who've been through the ringer. An inspiring tale of resilience, this episode sheds light on the multiple triggers of suicidal thoughts and the pursuit of hope in the darkness. Ben's story takes us through a profound journey of self-discovery and acceptance of emotions, and his story also shows that with the right people, sharing emotions and feelings could be a life...
Real Men Hug || Teaser

Real Men Hug || Teaser

2023-11-3001:16

Get ready for Real Men Hug, a groundbreaking podcast challenging the norms of masculinity and embracing vulnerability. Join Jim and Ben in this exclusive pre-release teaser where they provide a sneak peek into candid conversations about men's emotions, struggles, and the journey to redefine what it means to be a man in today's world. Listen in for a taste of the raw, unfiltered discussions coming your way on January 4th. Discover a safe space for men and their allies to explore authentic...
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