🎙️ Episode 17 – Breakdancing, Brotherhood, and Becoming a Son: The Michael Swalley Story
This is a Lion Legacy Conversation — a long-form interview highlighting the wisdom, resilience, and faith of remarkable men.
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In this compelling episode of The Lion Counseling Podcast, Mark Odland sits down with Michael Swalley — breakdancer, missionary, husband, father of four, and founder of Break Free Ministries. From small-town Minnesota to underground hip-hop communities across the globe, Michael’s journey is one of pain, purpose, and pursuit. With vulnerability and strength, he shares how fatherlessness, faith, and movement collided to spark a global ministry reaching men through creativity and community.
Whether you're a man haunted by the past or searching for deeper purpose, this episode will challenge how you see manhood — and sonship.
🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Hear:
Michael’s story of losing his father to suicide and finding his identity as a beloved son of God
Why men today are hungry to be seen, known, and mentored — even in unlikely places
How a Japanese exchange student named Ace was the first convert in a movement now spanning four continents
Why emotional honesty with your wife may be one of the most courageous steps a man can take
How movement, creativity, and brotherhood unlock healing in ways words can’t always reach
What breakdancing under a bridge in Hungary taught him about community and calling
A redefinition of masculinity that blends responsibility with tenderness, and sonship with strength
How the “check engine light” of your soul can become a roadmap to deep healing and purpose
Why legacy isn’t just about what you do — but about how deeply you receive the love of your Father in heaven
💥 If you’ve ever felt like you had to perform to be loved — or wondered if your story could really be redeemed — this episode will speak to your soul.
Learn more about Michael’s work at https://breakfree2024.com or follow @breakfreeministries on Instagram.
About the Show:
The Lion Counseling Podcast helps men escape the cages that hold them back and become the lions they were created to be. Hosted by Mark Odland, Certified EMDR Therapist, and Zack Carter, Counselor & Coach, we tackle real issues—masculinity, trauma, addiction, identity, purpose, marriage, and faith—with honesty, clarity, and courage.
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➡️ What part of Michael’s story resonated most with you?
