In this moving conversation, we sit down with Matthew Lyda—a brother within the Illuman community whose fierce tenderness and grounded presence invite others into deeper authenticity. At just 39, Matthew brings a rare self-awareness, offering reflections on his Men’s Rites of Passage, the unspoken grief many young men carry, and the sacred call to heal.

Together, we explore the contours of masculinity today—its distortions and its potential. From flaccid strength to the archetypal boundaries of Gandalf, from deep male friendship to interfaith wonder, Matthew reflects on what it means to live from belovedness in a fractured world. We also delve into how the Journey of Illumination, Council Circles, and Illuman’s interspiritual community have shaped his path and leadership.

Whether you’re a seasoned elder or a young man awakening to your own story, this episode is a soulful offering of grief, play, presence, and hope. Tune in to hear how the sacred masculine is not about dominance or denial, but about integration, service, and love.

MB01QW48VFLW2WR