What’s the mask you wear — and what’s hiding underneath it? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, we sit down with Ashanti Branch, founder of The Ever Forward Club and creator of the Million Mask Movement. Together, we explore the emotional worlds of boys and men — the parts we hide, the stories we tell ourselves, and what it takes to live with authenticity and purpose. Ashanti’s story begins in Oakland, California, where he grew up without a father and was told from a young age to “be the man of the house.” That early pressure to be strong and emotionless shaped his understanding of manhood — until years later, as a teacher, he began seeing the same patterns in his students: bright young men hiding behind masks of toughness, humour, and indifference. That realisation led him to start The Ever Forward Club, a space for boys to talk about what’s really going on beneath the surface. What began as a lunch group in one classroom has since become a global movement, inviting men everywhere to take off their masks and rediscover who they truly are. In this conversation, we dive deep into the emotional lives of men and boys — from the influence of online role models to the longing for safety, connection, and belonging. We explore how vulnerability and strength are not opposites, but partners — and how each of us can start creating spaces where honesty and compassion can thrive. Hear more from Ashanti: Website & Socials:EFC Website: https://everforwardclub.org/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-clubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@everforwardclubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub/BookDiary of a Confused EducatorUpcoming EventsGlobal Young Men's Conference, Nov 8th: https://everforwardclub.org/global-young-mens-conference-2025    Timestamps: 05:15: The Ever Forward Program and Its Impact 08:10: Understanding the Masks We Wear 12:56: Emotional Struggles of Young Men 23:41: Navigating Expectations and Authenticity 24:35: The Influence of Online Figures on Young Men 29:17: The Power and Danger of Sound Bites 32:58: Understanding Addiction and Emotional Health 37:08: Messages of Hope and Finding Authentic Connections

When, and how, does a boy truly become a man? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I sit down with men’s guide and therapist Ewan Corlett to explore one of the most overlooked transitions in modern life — the journey from boyhood to manhood. Drawing from his own story of addiction, recovery and self-discovery, Ewan shares what it means to live as a self-led man — one who moves with integrity, emotional awareness, and purpose. Together, we explore the ancient and modern meanings of initiation, the difference between growing from boy to man versus child to adult, and and how reconnecting with our primal, grounded energy can help us lead more self-aware and fulfilled lives We also examine how the absence of strong male role models, and society’s confusion about masculinity, leaves many men searching for meaning — often in the wrong places. This is a conversation about courage, maturity, and transformation. It invites you to reflect on your own path, to confront the parts of yourself that are still waiting to grow, and to rediscover what healthy masculinity can look like — for you, your relationships, and the world around you.   Hear more from Ewan: www.ewancorlett.com @ewan.corlett info@ewancorlett.com   Timestamps: 03:41: Ewan's Journey to Self-Discovery 06:29: The Transition from Boy to Man 09:32: Rites of Passage and Male Initiation 11:23: Emotional Regulation and Safety 14:16: Abundance vs. Scarcity Mindset 14:32: The Role of Initiation in Society 15:40: Connecting with the Wild Man 18:29: Integrating Strength and Wisdom 21:44: Embracing Adversity and Ego 26:30: The Role of Fathers and Male Initiation 30:19: Creating Safe Spaces for Boys 31:23: Understanding Masculinity and Toxicity 36:38: Modern Day Initiation and Self-Discovery  

Do you ever feel like you’re constantly rushing from one thing to the next, without ever catching your breath? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I sit down with Dr. Adam Fraser, researcher, speaker, and author of The Third Space — to explore one of the most powerful yet overlooked parts of modern life: how we transition between the different spaces of our day. Adam’s research shows that our ability to pause, reflect and reset between moments can dramatically improve our mood, relationships, and performance — both at work and at home. Together, we unpack why so many men carry the stress of one role into the next, and how learning to use these “micro transitions” can help us show up calmer, more connected, and more intentional. Whether you’re a father, leader, partner or friend, this conversation offers practical tools to help you move through life with greater presence and purpose.   Hear more from Dr Adam: The Third Space Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Third-Space-Transitions-Balance-Happiness/dp/1459642708   Timestamps: 02:26: Understanding the Third Space 05:54: The Importance of Transitioning 12:12: The Three Phases: Reflect, Rest, Reset 17:35: Practical Applications of the Third Space 20:55: Emotional Availability and Relationships 28:10: The Fleeting Nature of Moments 30:06: The Importance of Being Present 32:17: Transitioning from Work to Home 35:27: Adapting to Remote Work 38:28: The Role of Rituals in Relationships 39:21: Nurturing Friendships 41:09: The Power of Communication 45:14: The Transformative Impact of the Third Space

What if your midlife crisis isn’t a breakdown — but a breakthrough? This week on The Meaning of Men we're joined by Olly Hermon-Taylor, a men’s coach and mentor who helps men navigate midlife transitions and rediscover meaning, authenticity, and direction. Olly shares his powerful personal story — from building a seven-figure business to losing everything and rebuilding from within. Together, we explore why so many men in their 30s, 40s, and 50s feel stuck or disconnected, and how this stage of life can become a turning point rather than an ending. We unpack the four archetypes — King, Warrior, Magician, and Lover — and how balancing them can bring clarity and wholeness. Olly also shares practical tools around core values, mission versus purpose, and learning to listen to life’s clues before crisis forces change. A grounded, honest, and hopeful conversation about midlife as a chance to remember who you truly are.   Hear more from Olly: https://www.instagram.com/ollyht https://www.linkedin.com/in/olly-hermon-taylor/   Timestamps: 00:00: The Struggles of Midlife Men 07:42: Olly's Journey to Self-Discovery 09:48: Understanding Midlife Crisis 17:04: Exploring Archetypes in Men's Lives 20:41: The Balance of Archetypes: King, Warrior, Magician, Lover 25:18: The Importance of Service in Masculinity 25:39: Understanding Purpose vs. Meaning 30:32: Core Values and Boundary Setting 35:51: Preparing for Life's Transitions 40:05: Embracing Your Unique Journey    

Could connection be the missing prescription in men’s health? This week on The Meaning of Men we're joined by Dr. Henry Aughterson, a junior doctor, researcher, and passionate advocate for community-based healthcare. Together, we explore the concept of social prescribing—a movement that connects people with local activities to boost wellbeing and tackle root causes of distress. Dr Henry explains how men often find it easier to connect “shoulder to shoulder” through shared activities. From  football clubs, gardening groups and choirs, he shows how these spaces reduce loneliness, foster purpose, and help men feel part of something bigger. His research reveals powerful stories of men who describe these groups as the single most important step in their mental health journey. We also dive into the broader message that vulnerability is not weakness but strength, and that self-care is vital if we want to care for others. This episode is an invitation to reimagine men’s health as something lived in community, grounded in meaning, and strengthened through connection.   Timestamps: 01:50: Journey to Medicine 04:44: Life as an NHS Doctor 04:50: Mental Health Challenges 11:39: Understanding Social Prescribing 22:29: The Role of Social Prescribing for Men 28:49: Addressing the Needs of Young Men 38:04: The Importance of Meaning in Healthcare

What if the key to raising healthier men starts with teaching boys to trust their emotions? In this episode of The Meaning of Men we sit down with Kimmi Berlin, founder of Build Up Boys, a pioneering organisation dedicated to helping young boys retain their innate emotional intelligence.  We explore why boys, often as young as five, begin trading pieces of their emotional wholeness for social acceptance — and the lasting consequences this has on their mental health, relationships, and sense of self. Kimmi offers practical strategies for parents, from replacing “you’re okay” with genuine curiosity, to teaching body autonomy, empathy, and conflict resolution through play. Together, we discuss how fostering these skills early can lead to healthier friendships, stronger families, and a generation of men more comfortable with vulnerability and connection. Hear more from Kimmi: www.buildupboys.com   https://youtube.com/@buildupboys7351?si=Wi9ObA8jXFE5z0tO   https://motherwellmag.com/2025/04/09/adolescence-call-to-action-build-up-boys/amp/   https://www.popsugar.com/family/promising-young-woman-illustrates-need-to-teach-consent-48213626   Timestamps:   07:04: The Importance of Early Emotional Education 13:09: Navigating Emotions: Anger and Beyond 21:17: Consequences of Emotional Suppression in Adulthood 25:13: Building Emotional Awareness in Boys 30:22: Fostering Emotional Intelligence at Home 32:55: Small Changes for Big Impacts 37:25: Positive Changes Observed in Boys 42:26: The Power of Kindness in Raising Boys    

In this episode of The Meaning of Men we sit down with Dr. Brendan Kwiatkowski-Hartman, a researcher, educator, and consultant, to unpack one of the most complex and often controversial topics facing men today: masculinity. Brendan’s journey into this work began with personal tragedy—the suicide of one of his students—which led him to question how much of boys’ struggles are rooted in biology and how much in the pressures of socialisation. Since then, he’s worked with schools, organisations, and communities to help reframe masculinity in ways that empower rather than restrict. In our conversation, Brendan unpacks why the term “toxic masculinity” often fuels division, and why boys and men need guidance on how to embrace masculinity positively instead of constantly being told what to avoid. Brendan shares how redefining masculinity around safety, authenticity, and alignment with our true selves can create healthier men and stronger communities. This is a conversation about curiosity, nuance, and reimagining masculinity in today’s world.   Hear more from Brendan: www.remasculine.com   Timestamps: 02:01: Brendan's Journey: From Teacher to Masculinity Advocate 03:50: Defining Masculinity: Beliefs, Behaviors, and Roles 06:32: The Demonization of Masculinity: Impact on Society 10:03: Toxic Masculinity: A Misunderstood Concept 11:58: Restrictive Masculinity: Harmful Beliefs and Behaviors 15:45: Reframing Masculinity: A Personal Evolution 19:18: The Fluidity of Masculinity: Personal Experiences 23:48: Authenticity in Masculinity: Finding Inner Confidence 25:58: The Balance of Masculinity 27:53: Navigating the Gray Areas of Masculinity 32:49: Understanding Rites of Passage 38:37: Breaking the Trauma Triangle 46:11: The Epidemic of Male Lonelines

What do men really want and need from therapy? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, we sit down with Dr Zac Seidler, Clinical Psychologist and Director of Research at Movember, to explore why therapy often fails men – and how that can change. Zac shares groundbreaking research showing that 44% of men drop out of therapy early, not because of cost or inconvenience, but because they don’t feel a genuine connection with their therapist. Together, we unpack the barriers men face in seeking help, from cultural expectations to therapeutic models that don’t reflect men’s lived experiences. Zac explains how therapists can adapt by being practical, direct, and goal-focused, while also recognising masculinity as a culture in itself. We also dive into Movember’s Men in Mind programme, designed to train therapists to better engage and support male clients.  This is an essential conversation about breaking stereotypes, reshaping therapy, and giving men the support they truly need.   Hear more from Dr Zac: Men in Mind programme: https://meninmind.movember.com/   More research and articles from Movember: https://movember.substack.com/   Timestamps: 13:24: Understanding Therapy: Men’s Experiences and Expectations 22:50: Creating Safe Spaces: The Importance of Connection in Therapy 24:58: The Call for Help in Men's Mental Health 27:31: Understanding Vulnerability and Communication 29:53: Navigating Traditional and Contemporary Masculinity 30:34: Stereotypes and Therapy: The Masculinity Barrier 33:28: Personal Connection in Therapy 36:30: Redefining Therapy: A Strength-Based Approach 41:46: Movember's Initiatives for Men's Mental Health Awareness  

What truly defines being a man today? In this episode of The Meaning of Men we sit down with Richard Reeves, one of the world’s leading thinkers on the challenges facing boys and men today. Richard is the founder of the American Institute for Boys and Men, chair of the UK Centre for Policy Research on Men and Boys, and author of Of Boys and Men. We explore why this moment represents a turning point in how society understands masculinity. Richard shares how conversations have shifted from simply proving there’s a problem to building real solutions—whether that’s tackling education gaps, improving male mental health, or creating systems that better support fathers. We discuss why progress for men does not have to come at the expense of women, the importance of role models in countering negative online influences, and the urgent need to reconnect men with purpose through work, family, and community. Richard also reflects on why fatherhood is not just vital for children, but equally transformative for dads themselves. This is a conversation about solutions, cultural change, and hope for the next generation. If you’ve ever wondered what it means to be a man today, this episode is a must-listen.Hear more from Richard:Book - Of Boys & Men: https://www.brookings.edu/books/of-boys-and-men/ Organisation - The American Institute for Boys & Men: https://aibm.org/Timestamps: 03:43: The Evolving Conversation on Boys and Men 06:35: The Thermometer of Societal Conversations 09:45Z: ero Sum Game: A New Perspective 12:30: Cultural Shifts and Their Impact on Men 15:31: The Need for New Masculine Scripts 18:27: Agency and Confidence in Modern Masculinity 21:39: Mental Health Challenges Facing Men 33:37: The Cumulative Impact of Male Suicide Rates 39:52: The Gender Gap in Education 45:24: Addressing Developmental Differences in Boys 47:22: The NEET Crisis: Young Men Disconnected 52:35: The Importance of Fatherhood 01:01:26: Advocating for Boys and Men: Policy Changes      

What if the struggles you face are really symptoms of hidden trauma? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, we’re exploring EMDR therapy and the transformational impact it has on resolving trauma.  My guest is author Michael Baldwin, who shares his remarkable journey of survival, struggle, and transformation. For decades, Michael lived with the unresolved effects of childhood abuse—symptoms like anxiety, phobias, nightmares, and an endless drive for achievement that never truly filled the void. That was until he discovered EMDR therapy, an evidence-based treatment that helped him finally process. Michael helps redefine what trauma really is—looking beyond things like natural disasters or combat to include “everyday” experiences like bullying, divorce, or neglect. We explore how these hidden wounds shape identity, relationships, and self-worth, often without us realising it. Michael also breaks down how EMDR works, why it’s supported by leading health organisations, and how it helped him heal not only himself but also repair his most important relationships. Hear more from Michael:  https://www.everymemorydeservesrespect.com Timestamps: 03:15: The Journey of Healing: Personal Experiences with Trauma 05:38: The Impact of EMDR Therapy: A New Approach 08:37: The Book: Every Memory Deserves Respect 08:40: Defining EMDR Therapy: A Simplified Explanation 11:07: The Structure of an EMDR Session 13:47: Recognising Unresolved Trauma: Signs and Symptoms 16:22: The Path to EMDR: A Personal Journey 18:59: Common Patterns of Unresolved Trauma in Men 22:51: The Journey Through Therapy 25:53: Understanding Trauma and Identity 30:42: Shame, Self-Compassion, and EMDR 36:19: Healing Relationships Through EMDR  

What does it really mean to be yourself when the world tries to define you? In this episode of The Meaning of Men we're joined by award-winning poet and author Dean Atta to explore identity, masculinity, and the courage it takes to live authentically. Dean opens up about his childhood growing up in a mixed-race, single-parent family, and the role writing played in helping him process emotions and claim his identity. He shares candidly about his journey of coming out as gay and the challenges of navigating the stigma he experienced. We also examine masculinity—how it’s too often reduced to stereotypes of strength and toughness—and what it really means to embrace vulnerability, creativity, and authenticity as forms of power.  This conversation is a heartfelt invitation to rethink what manhood means—and to embrace openness, self-acceptance, and a broader vision of resilience. Hear more from Dean: www.deanatta.com Confetti: A colourful celebration of love and life https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/dean-atta/confetti/9781408362082/ I Can't Even Think Straight: A queer coming of age story https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/dean-atta/i-cant-even-think-straight/9781444960969/ Person Unlimited: An Ode to My Black Queer Body https://buythebook.online/person-unlimited-dean-atta   Timestamps: 03:09: Identity and Background Exploration 04:57: The Journey of Coming Out 12:02: Support Systems and Chosen Family 15:10: Redefining Masculinity and Queerness 16:54: Navigating Identity and Safety 18:53: Redefining Masculinity 23:50: Exploring Strength and Vulnerability 26:21: The Role of Poetry in Identity 33:18: Acceptance and Healing Through Writing  

Are UK dads being set up to fail before they even start?   In this episode of The Meaning of Men we're joined by Alex Lloyd Hunter, co-founder of The Dad Shift, explore the urgent need for better paternity leave in the UK. Alex reveals the far-reaching consequences of our outdated system—from damaging mental health in both parents, to deepening gender inequality, and denying fathers the chance to build strong, lasting bonds with their children. We discuss how other countries across Europe are proving the benefits of generous, well-paid leave, the ripple effects of early father involvement on children’s development, and why changing the first weeks of parenthood could transform relationships, families, and even the economy. If you’re a dad, partner, employer, or simply someone who cares about a more equal and human future—this episode is one you won’t want to miss.   Hear more from The Dad Shift: https://action.dadshift.org.uk/a/back-better-paternity-leave??utm_source=&utm_medium=&utm_campaign=12-08-25-podcast-MoM   Timestamps 03:06: The Birth of The Dad Shift 06:15: Paternity Leave: A Comparative Analysis 09:39: Success Stories from Abroad 10:32: The Ripple Effects of Paternity Leave 14:24: Facing Resistance to Change 17:59: The Importance of Fathers 20:20: Benefits of Paternity Leave 23:15: The Evolving Role of Fathers 24:37: The Importance of Bonding and Relationships 26:41: Postnatal Depression and Its Impact on Fathers 29:31: The Pressure of Returning to Work 31:53: Presence vs. Attendance in Parenting 34:52: Workplace Support for Paternity Leave 38:20: The Dad Shift Campaign and Future Goals

When was the last time you did something purely for the joy of it? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, we’re joined by behavioural scientist and author Mike Rucker to explore why fun isn't a luxury—it’s a necessity for a more fulfilling life. Drawing on scientific research and insights from his book The Fun Habit, Mike explains how prioritising fun—much like sleep or exercise—can radically change the way we experience life. From improving our ability to be present with our kids, to creating space for deeper conversations with friends and partners, fun becomes a gateway to meaning and resilience. Mike also offers practical strategies for making fun a deliberate, repeatable habit, even within the busiest schedules. Whether you feel stuck in routine or simply want to enjoy life more, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and inspire you to take fun seriously. Because fun isn’t a distraction from a meaningful life—it’s a key part of building one.   Hear more from Mike: The Fun Habit Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fun-Habit-Pursuit-Wonder-Change/dp/1529054303 Timestamps: 03:35: The Importance of Fun in Daily Life 06:30: Reflections on Life Goals and Happiness 08:35: The Concept of Fun Habits 11:25: Intentional Fun vs. Passive Fun 13:19: The Neuroscience of Fun and Its Impact 15:43: Fun as a Tool for Well-Being 27:07: The Power of Fun and Laughter 30:40: Finding Your Unique Path to Happiness 35:25: Building Connections Through Shared Experiences 40:55: Incorporating Fun into Busy Lives 45:34: Reframing Parenthood and Fulfilment 52:16: The Importance of Fun in Life

In the season finale of The Meaning of Men, we’re exploring the enduring legacy of Viktor Frankl, the legendary Holocaust survivor, psychotherapist, and author of Man’s Search for Meaning — through the eyes of his grandson, Alex Vesely. Alex is a filmmaker, psychotherapist, and teacher who has dedicated much of his life to preserving and sharing Frankl’s work. In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the fundamentals of logotherapy, explore the three key paths to discovering meaning, and discuss why fulfillment often arises from struggle, not comfort. We also touch on the misunderstood role of humor in healing, the modern-day relevance of Frankl’s philosophy, and what it means to turn suffering into growth. Hear more from Alex:https://viktorfranklamerica.com/https://logotherapy-online.com/ Timestamps: 00:00: The Legacy of Victor Frankl 04:15: Understanding Logotherapy and Its Origins 06:47: The Search for Meaning in Adversity 09:50: The Role of Meaning in Human Existence 11:59: Existential Vacuum and Its Implications 14:22: The Importance of Fulfilment and Meaning 17:12: The Distinction Between Happiness and Fulfillment 19:32: The Second Mountain: A Journey to Meaning 21:37: Finding Meaning in Everyday Life 22:55:The Objective Nature of Meaning 23:46: Finding Meaning in Life's Challenges 24:25: The Three Paths to Meaning 26:50: Responding to Unchangeable Suffering 29:13: The Power of Perspective in Grief 30:26: Universal Suffering and Personal Growth 35:03: The Timelessness of Meaning 39:10: The Role of Humour in Logotherapy 44:24: The Ongoing Search for Meaning

What can science teach us about the true meaning of being a dad?In this episode of The Meaning of Men, we’re joined by evolutionary anthropologist Dr. Anna Machin to uncover the powerful, untold story of fatherhood. Drawing from over a decade of research and her acclaimed book The Life of Dad, Anna reveals what really happens to men—biologically, emotionally, and neurologically—when they become fathers. We challenge the outdated narrative that dads are somehow secondary or less instinctive parents. In fact, the science shows men undergo radical hormonal shifts, brain changes, and emotional transformations that deeply prepare them for parenting. We explore how dads shape their children’s development—from emotional regulation and resilience to mental health and social skills—and why male role models, biological or otherwise, are vital. We also dive into the often overlooked topic of postnatal depression in men, the pressures of traditional masculinity, and how society continues to sideline fathers at the very moment they’re most needed. Whether you’re a dad, planning to become one, or simply curious about the evolving role of men in family life, this conversation will move, inform, and inspire you. Fathers aren’t optional—they’re essential.Hear more from Dr Anna: Books: The Life of Dad: https://shorturl.at/2hsHv Why We Love: https://shorturl.at/nlaNh Instagram: @dr_aMachin Website: annamachin.comTimestamps: 06:34: The Importance of Fathers in Child Development 11:15: Evolutionary Insights into Fatherhood 15:49: Hormonal Changes in New Fathers 20:49: Bonding Through Skin-to-Skin Contact 25:47: The Role of Play in Father-Child Relationships 30:55: The Importance of Play in Fatherhood 33:19: Navigating Masculinity and Fatherhood 36:30: Understanding Postnatal Depression in Fathers 44:46: Co-Parenting: Building Bonds from Afar 52:30: The Role of Fathers in Teenagers' Lives

Why is grief something we all experience, yet rarely talk about? In this episode of The Meaning of Men we're joined by Ben Blackman. Ben is a therapist for Adventuring Loss, a leading online grief counselling clinic specialising in loss, trauma, and life transitions. After losing his father, Ben found himself confronted not only by the weight of loss, but by the silence surrounding it—particularly among men. That experience set him on a path to understand grief and loss more deeply, and to help others do the same. We explore different aspects of loss such as disenfranchised grief– when your pain is invalidated by society, especially for men who are often expected to stay silent, “man up”, or “just get on with it.” We also talk about death itself and why, as an inevitable part of life, it's vital to create spaces where people can express their fears, regrets, and questions without judgement. Whether you're grieving yourself, supporting someone who is, or just curious to better understand this emotional terrain, this conversation is a must-listen.   Hear more from Ben: www.adventuringloss.com @adventuringloss   Timestamps: 00.00: Understanding Grief: A Universal Experience 06:51: Ben's Journey: Personal Loss and Professional Growth 12:27: The Complexity of Grief: Individual Experiences 28:58: Understanding Grief: Anticipatory vs. Sudden Loss 35:49: The Importance of Open Conversations About Death 45:52: Supporting Others in Grief: The Power of Listening    

What if anger wasn’t the problem—but the way we misunderstand it is? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, we're joined by journalist and author Sam Parker, whose book Good Anger challenges the idea that anger is inherently destructive. Instead, he shows how—when understood properly—anger can be one of our most powerful tools for self-awareness, connection, and even healing. We explore the difference between anger and aggression, the damage caused by suppressing anger, and how men in particular can start expressing it in healthy, productive ways. Whether it's in our relationships, our work, or even our mental health, anger holds clues to our unmet needs and deeper wounds—if we’re brave enough to pay attention. This conversation is all about changing the narrative around anger—and learning how to use it, not fear it. Hear more from Sam: Good Anger book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Good-Anger-Radical-Rethink-Misunderstood/dp/1399417851   Timestamps: 06:59: The Concept of Good Anger 12:47: Distinguishing Anger from Aggression 17:00: The Impact of Suppressed Anger 21:30: Healthy Expressions of Anger in Relationships 27:45: Understanding Anger: Boundaries and Unmet Needs 33:03: The Complexity of Anger in Relationships 35:05: Self-Compassion and Anger: A Deep Connection 38:20: Building Healthy Habits Around Anger 45:48: Navigating Anger in the Digital Age  

What does it really take to launch and run your own business? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, we're diving into the world of entrepreneurship with Michael Brennan—an ordinary man with extraordinary ambition. Michael shares his journey of building a successful business, hitting burnout, and navigating the emotional and mental toll of stepping away from something you’ve poured your heart into. He shares the lessons he’s learned about resilience, ego, and the power of rebuilding from rock bottom. We also get into Michael’s latest venture, Bob—a business born during one of his lowest moments, now set to shake up the men's personal care space. Whether you're starting a business, facing a personal challenge, or just searching for your next big move, this episode is packed with honesty, insight, and inspiration. Hear more from Michael: Website: https://welcometobob.com/15% discount code for Bob: MEANINGOFMEN15 Timestamps: 03:12: The Entrepreneurial Mindset 03:55: Inspiration Behind Entrepreneurship 06:24: Enjoying the Journey of Entrepreneurship 07:29: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome 10:43: Setting Big Goals to Combat Fear 12:23: The Importance of Team and Collaboration 15:52: Balancing Business and Personal Life 20:14: The Impact of Stepping Back from Business 24:10: Mental Health and Identity Crisis 29:33: Finding Purpose and Service in Life 29:55: Ego and Entrepreneurship 39:12: Support Systems in Business 47:01: The Journey of Building Bob 53:13: Advice for New Adventures

Could avoiding discomfort be the very thing holding you back from true fulfilment? In this episode of The Meaning of Men we’re exploring the power of Strive—a mindset that redefines how we grow, perform, and find lasting fulfilment. My guest is renowned high performance researcher and author Dr. Adam Fraser, who reveals why struggle—not comfort—is the real catalyst for growth. We unpack the dangers of relentlessly chasing happiness, the myth of goal completion, and why fulfilment often comes from the challenges we’d rather avoid.  Whether you're looking to boost workplace productivity, or just need the motivation to go about your daily life, this episode explores the little-known truths about happiness and purpose, and how the joy is often in the striving―not the destination. Hear more from Adam: Strive book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Designed-Strive-Seeking-Important-Happiness/dp/0730337413 Timestamps: 03:38: Understanding the Strive State 07:14: The Role of Challenge in Growth 10:12: The Paradox of Comfort and Fulfillment 11:45: Happiness vs. Fulfillment 17:11: The Completion Myth and Its Implications 20:49: The Completion Myth and Its Impact 23:49: Men and Emotional Vulnerability 30:21: Parenting and Instilling a Strive Mindset 38:57: Creating Strive State Moments  

What do you do when the life you’ve built suddenly disappears? In this episode of The Meaning of Men we're joined by Adam Clayton, a former professional rugby player whose career was cut short by injury at 24. In the years that followed, Adam struggled with steroid addiction, a loss of identity, and the search for purpose. But hitting rock bottom became the start of something special. Adam now runs APEX Everest, a powerful community helping people conquer their own seemingly insurmountable challenges—through real conversation, shared experience, and physical endurance. We joined Adam to record this episode in the stunning Quantok Hills of Somerset to get a first hand experience of the impact APEX is having in helping to turn people's lives around - just like it did for him.   Timestamps: 03:21: From Rugby Dreams to Professional Reality 06:21: The Harsh Realities of Professional Sports 09:09: Injury and Identity Crisis 13:01: The Struggles of Post-Rugby Life 15:35: The Dark Side of Recovery: Steroid Use 19:45: Hitting Rock Bottom and Finding Hope 22:55: Confronting the Past: A Conversation with My Younger Self 24:30: The Balance of Ambition and Contentment 26:52: The Birth of Apex: Building Community Through Challenge 32:15: Understanding Men's Struggles: Confidence, Purpose, and Loneliness 35:12: Transformational Journeys: Stories of Growth and Healing 37:27: Overcoming Fear: The Power of Belief and Community 40:53: Healing Through Helping: The Journey of Self-Discovery 44:53: A Message of Hope: Taking the First Step Forward