Host Josh Vagers shares an honest update about a season of change and loss: a new job, family milestones, the passing of loved ones, and the shock of losing a good man too soon. He reflects on grief, mental health, and the power of faith, prayer (the rosary), and brotherhood to heal. Josh emphasizes practical lessons from his men's group—"have people and be people"—and the importance of accountability, preparedness, and teaching sons healthy spiritual and relational habits, while previewing upcoming podcast episodes.

In this episode, we dive into the realm of holistic health with Dr. Michael Lehman, a licensed naturopathic doctor from Washington State. Dr. Lehman shares his insights on supporting the body's natural healing processes through integrative medicine, emphasizing foundational health practices like proper nutrition, hydration, and sleep. Join us as we explore the importance of consistency in health goals, the role of fellowship and accountability in personal growth, and the balance between self-care and caring for others. Discover the bewildering world of dietary choices, from organic options to nutritional supplements, and how to tailor these to your unique needs. As we segue into the great outdoors, Dr. Lehman offers invaluable advice on preventing and addressing tick-borne illnesses such as Lyme disease, particularly timely during the height of turkey season and as we progress into summer. Learn preventive measures, symptom awareness, and the importance of tick checks to safeguard your health. This episode is a rich tapestry of healthful living, blending the spiritual, physical, and communal aspects that contribute to a fulfilling life. Tune in to empower your wellness journey and embrace the full spectrum of life experiences.

This episode delves into the unexpected selection of a new Pope, highlighting the surprise and discussions it has sparked within the Catholic community and beyond. As commentators dissect the implications of electing a younger American pope, questions arise about the church's direction amidst global polarization. With insights into the historical context and challenges the Church faces, this episode explores how Pope Leo XIV might steer the religious institution through a new era, balancing tradition with the need for modern reforms. Listen as we unpack the complexities and potential impacts of this significant moment in the Catholic Church's history.

In this episode of The Forging of Men, delve into insightful discussions on personal growth, fatherhood, and the pursuit of excellence. Our host sits down with AJ, known as the Coffee Viking, who shares his journey towards becoming a better father and how he integrates outdoor adventures and fitness into everyday life. Listeners will explore the importance of overcoming the fear of failure in fitness, raising children with a strong foundation, and the value of mentorship in the world of hunting. Discover practical wisdom for balancing health, family, and personal aspirations, while also gaining unique tips on supplementing life with positive influences and memorable experiences. Join us as we ignite a thought-provoking conversation on creating a life of intent and purpose, all underscored by the joys of outdoor pursuits and the power of community support. Whether you're a parent, a fitness enthusiast, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode offers enriching content for everyone.

In this episode, we are joined by Jimmy Mitchell.  Jimmy is the Assistant Principal for Missions at Jesuit (an all boys school in Tampa Flordia), is the chief curator of Love Good ministry, and is also the author of Let Beauty Speak.  He has also spent time touring as a Catholic musician and speaker, as well as spearheading an all boys ministry call Fraternus.  Jimmy and I delve deep into the dynamics of all-boys education, the importance of fraternal community, and the challenge of masculine identity in today's culture. Join us for an insightful conversation about the spiritual and communal growth of young men, the significance of faith-oriented mentorship, and how to navigate the cultural arrows that challenge traditional masculinity.  Get ready to be inspired and challenged.

In this episode of The Forging of Men, join us as we discuss the pivotal role faith plays in fatherhood, emphasizing the importance of speaking the truth in love, even when it isn't easy. We explore how understanding who our enemies are can be a powerful tool for personal growth, challenging us to be better fathers and men.  All of this discussion is anchored in Ephesians Chapter 4 We also reflect on the practical life skills learned through ministry training and the significance of a supportive community. Together, we unpack the spiritual warfare we're all engaged in, illustrating how faith can be a compass in our divided world. With insights from scripture and personal stories, this episode inspires fathers to build their children's lives on a foundation of strength, love, and resilience.

The Forging of Men podcast takes fathers on an inspiring journey of self-transformation, resilience, and brotherhood with Collin Cottrell!!!  Join us as we delve into the stories of they dying ego, the power of discipline, restoring broken relationships, and finding victory in our failures Collin went being overweight and struggling with purpose to losing 100 pounds and running ultra marathons.  His inspiring story is full of practical wisdom and will have value for EVERY father who is looking to get recentered, find resilience, and rediscover true purpose. Tune in and be inspired by the compelling stories that fuel the spirit of courage, discipline, and perseverance, and discover how you can apply these life-changing principles to your own journey.

Welcome to The Forging of Men podcast, the show dedicated to guiding fathers in raising the next generation of great men through faith, fitness, and outdoor adventures. This episode delves into the redemptive power of archery as a therapeutic tool for veterans, featuring narratives of resilience and personal growth.Discover how our guest's path through trauma in Afghanistan led to the creation of a nonprofit focused on providing archery equipment and mentorship to veterans, helping them regain purpose and camaraderie.We explore the psychological and spiritual aspects of using archery as a form of healing and the importance of mentorship in building a supportive community.Additionally, the episode highlights the shared experience of expressing faith and masculinity, setting personal goals beyond the typical New Year's resolution.This episode is brought to you in part by Rugged Rosaries and First Form Supplements, dedicated to supporting the journey of men towards physical, mental, and spiritual strength.

Welcome to a new episode of The Forging of Men, where we aim to help fathers mold their sons into the next generation of robust, resilient men through nurturing them in faith, fitness, and outdoor adventures. This episode sheds light on the importance of self-mastery, resilience, and healthy relationships, while also giving a sneak peek into the individuals and companies we wish to collaborate with to offer enriched content. Join us in our offline adventures like "Forging of Men 101," our retreat aimed at equipping dads with skills in camping, archery, masculine prayer, and fishing, as well as Desert Days, a digital detox excursion in the wilderness. Becoming comfortable with oneself is crucial for building meaningful relationships, and these adventures offer a unique opportunity to foster this connection. Together, we can forge the next generation of great men. If you want to be a part of our movement and have connections or suggestions for potential collaborations, we would love to hear from you. Let's journey together to create a storm that safeguards our families and shapes robust, resilient, and resourceful sons. Get ready to forge ahead!

Welcome to another episode of The Forging of Men, where we aim to guide fathers in raising their sons through an immersive journey of faith, fitness, and outdoor adventure. In this episode, we delve into the profound lessons of the Book of Ezekiel, exploring its messages of hope, patience, courage, and renewal. This is the final episode in our Ezekiel series.  Join us as we discuss the high standards set for teachers and the awe-inspiring message of restitution found within Ezekiel’s prophecies. Discover the intricate details of the temple's architectural symbolism, revealing deeper connections to the crucifixion, sacrifice, and redemption central to the Christian faith. We reflect on the significance of recognizing the humanity in others, as shown in the Valley of Dry Bones experience, and how these lessons are imperative in today's world. Through engaging discussions, personal reflections, and spiritual insights, we navigate Ezekiel’s transformative themes. Stay tuned as we share prayerful conclusions and unveil our next study focus. Let's set our hearts upon learning and growing together.

Welcome to "The Forging of Men" podcast, where we explore how fathers can raise their sons into the next great generation through faith, fitness, and outdoor adventure. In this episode, we delve into the wisdom from the Book of Ezekiel, focusing on the critical role of spiritual leadership and the call to evangelize. Discover the parallels between Ezekiel’s messages and modern fatherhood, as we discuss the importance of guiding our sons through trials and tribulations. We highlight the powerful metaphor of the shepherd, emphasizing the responsibility of nurturing and protecting those in our care. Join us as we examine how faith and free will intersect, and the unique calling of men to lead by example in both family and community. Through personal anecdotes and scriptural insights, we aim to inspire a deeper understanding of our duties to guide the next generation.

In this episode, we dive deep into the intricate web of Ezekiel's prophecies, focusing on the judgments against the nations surrounding Israel. We explore the historical and theological implications of these ancient warnings, highlighting how words and actions hold significant weight in the eyes of God. We discuss the timeless themes of betrayal and loyalty, drawing parallels from Ezekiel's time to contemporary issues, emphasizing the critical line between God’s mercy and justice. The conversation veers into the fascinating topic of faith, blending history, art, and theology to uncover how faith transcends mere rationality. Join us as we navigate through the complex chapters of Ezekiel, offering insights and reflections on the paradox of time, the power of words and deeds, and the lessons from ancient history that remain relevant today. Whether you’re a seasoned theologian or curious newcomer, this episode promises a deep and thought-provoking exploration of faith, history, and divine justice.

Welcome to "The Forging of Men," a podcast dedicated to guiding fathers in raising the next great generation of men through faith, fitness, and outdoor adventure. In this episode, we delve into the profound teachings within the book of Ezekiel, exploring themes of personal responsibility and spiritual growth.As we discuss the challenges and expectations placed upon us, our conversation highlights the importance of independent faith, emphasizing that one cannot rely solely on the grace of others. This episode unfolds the rich metaphors prevalent in Ezekiel, likening the spiritual journey to marriage and parent-child relationships, all while pointing towards the ultimate expression of divine love—the Eucharist.Join us as we reflect on how stepping back into the wilderness, both literally and figuratively, can offer valuable perspective and cultivate deeper understanding. Embrace the forge, for it is here where strength is built, and character is honed. Tune in and be inspired to lead by example in faith and fortitude.

In this episode of "The Forging of Men," hosts Tim and Josh delve into the challenges and responsibilities of raising the next generation of men grounded in faith, fitness, and outdoor adventure. They discuss the importance of mentoring sons, not just by doing things for them but by showing them how to overcome obstacles and expectations. The conversation takes a reflective turn as they explore the current state of religious denominations, focusing on the Catholic Church's growth amidst shifting societal norms. Tim and Josh examine the complexities of faith, addressing how the Methodist Church's schism highlights the challenges faced by various Christian communities. Drawing from the Book of Ezekiel, they discuss the profound messages of accountability and hope, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and proclaiming objective truths. The hosts also explore the symbolism of the Hebrew letter Tav and its historical connections to the Eucharist and the coming of Christ. Join Tim and Josh as they navigate the complexities of faith, the importance of a broken heart in spiritual growth, and the responsibility of living a life that reflects one's beliefs. This episode encourages listeners to embrace their faith journey with humility and a fear of the Lord, seeking wisdom and strength in the face of life's challenges.

Welcome to "The Forging of Men," a podcast dedicated to guiding fathers in raising their sons into a new generation of great men through the pillars of faith, fitness, and outdoor adventure. In this episode, we delve into the complex world of Ezekiel, exploring the vivid imagery and prophetic messages within the text. Join us as we navigate the challenges of interpreting Ezekiel's visions, discussing the significance of apocalyptic literature and the prophets' perceptions of God's throne. We also examine the harsh realities and moral lessons embedded in the text, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and evangelization in the face of wickedness. With references to the Eucharist, the Chronicles of Narnia, and the concept of tolerance, this episode offers a layered discussion on faith and its timeless relevance. Whether you're a seasoned theologian or new to biblical studies, you'll find valuable insights and reflections to ponder. Stay tuned for a thought-provoking conversation on the sweetness of scrolls, the role of prophets, and the lessons we can draw from Ezekiel for our own lives and communities.

Welcome to a new chapter of "The Forging of Men" podcast as we dive into an enriching Bible study series, starting with the book of Ezekiel. Join your host and his friend Tim Summers, both amateur Bible scholars, as they explore the depths of faith through the lens of this profound biblical text. In this episode, we journey through the historical context of Ezekiel, uncovering the significance of his prophecies during the turbulent times of Israel and Judah. Discover the themes of exile, redemption, and the powerful symbolism within Ezekiel's visions, as well as their relevance to modern times. Our hosts delve into the intriguing parallels between Ezekiel's life and ministry and the teachings of Jesus, providing insights into the role of faith and reality in shaping the next great generation of men. With a touch of humor and personal anecdotes, this episode offers a fresh perspective on ancient wisdom. Tune in to learn how acknowledging reality and embracing faith can lead to true freedom, as we explore the lessons Ezekiel offers for fathers raising sons in today's world. Don't miss this compelling discussion on faith, history, and the forging of resilient men.

In this insightful episode, our hosts dive deep into the often misunderstood concept of toxic masculinity. They dissect common behaviors that are frequently labeled as toxic and provide a nuanced understanding of these actions through the lens of sacrifice versus self-interest. From examining the attributes of strength, leadership, and protection, to discussing scenarios like catcalling, bar fights, and bullying, the conversation aims to redefine these traits in a more positive and constructive light. The hosts emphasize the importance of context and intent, and how proper identification of these behaviors can lead to more meaningful discussions and solutions. Listeners will gain a better understanding of how to distinguish between genuine toxic behavior and actions that are simply misinterpreted due to a lack of proper terminology. The episode also highlights the role of language in shaping societal perceptions and the need for clear, specific definitions to foster healthy, respectful interactions between genders. Join us as we explore the complexities of masculinity and learn how to navigate these conversations with empathy and clarity, ultimately aiming to build a more respectful and understanding community.

In this engaging episode, we dive deep into the core question of whether society provides sufficient opportunities for boys and men to express their masculine traits positively. We explore the consequences of stifling these natural tendencies and discuss various outlets like sports, scouting, and martial arts that can channel masculine energy constructively. The conversation also touches upon the concept of "toxic masculinity," debating its implications and suggesting that the term might be a misnomer. Instead, we propose that the issue lies in how masculine traits are directed—whether for selfish gain or sacrificial service. We emphasize the importance of teaching young men to wield their inherent strengths, like physical presence and aggression, responsibly and selflessly for the betterment of society. Through personal anecdotes and examples from popular culture, this episode underscores the significance of understanding and nurturing these traits, ensuring that boys grow into men who can confidently and positively contribute to their families and communities.

Welcome back to The Forging of Men. In this episode, we delve into a conversation that began in our recent Men's Group, tackling complex questions about masculinity, especially in today's culture. We aim to provide a comprehensive recap of our discussions, featuring insights from our panelists: Jim, Joe, and Jonathan. The discussion takes a deep dive into the definitions and perceptions of masculinity, starting with a recent breakout session on toxic masculinity and emasculation. We explore the differences between these concepts and the notion of authentic masculinity, using examples from both historical and modern contexts. We also examine the inherent biological and psychological differences between men and women, discussing how these play out in parenting, protection, and provision. The conversation touches on the impact of technological advancements and economic pressures on traditional gender roles, highlighting how these factors have blurred the lines of masculinity and femininity. Join us as we seek to define what it means to be a man in today's world, how to raise the next generation of men, and navigate the challenges posed by modern society. Whether you're a father, mother, or simply interested in the topic, this episode offers valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions.

Welcome to part two of our special two-part episode of The Forging of Men! If you haven't listened to the first part titled The Forge of Brotherhood, Equipping Young Men for Life, we highly recommend you check it out first. In this episode, we dive deeper into the pivotal role of self-mastery, faith, fitness, and outdoor adventure in shaping the next generation of great men. Join us as we explore the transformative impact of Toolbox Tuesday, an innovative program designed to instill confidence and practical life skills in young men. Our guest, Nick Blackwell, shares his inspiring journey as an educator and father, offering invaluable insights into the importance of adaptability, passion, and mentorship in raising resilient, confident boys. From heartwarming stories of overcoming personal challenges to actionable advice for educators and parents, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration. Discover how fostering an environment where boys can learn, fail, and grow equips them with the tools they need to navigate life's complexities. Don't miss this compelling conversation that underscores the essence of true masculinity and the power of community in shaping future leaders. Enjoy the episode!   For questions on Toolbox Tuesday, and to reach out to Nick directly, email him at nick.blackwell@musowls.org