n this episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, I sit down with James O’Keefe, founder of Unguarded Warrior — a men’s retreat movement focused on helping men reconnect, rediscover purpose, and break free from the masks we wear. Find James Here - https://www.instagram.com/unguardedwarrior?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/jamesokeefenrg?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==James opens up about his journey from darkness to self-discovery, touching on addiction, accountability, and the crisis facing modern masculinity.We talk about the importance of father figures, emotional honesty, and the power of slowing down to understand who we really are. James shares raw stories from his own life — including the lessons he’s learned alongside his wife, singer and actress Beverley Knight — and how inner work and self-awareness became the foundation of his growth.This conversation is a deep dive into mental health, self-mastery, forgiveness, and the small daily changes that transform lives. It’s about breaking negative cycles, owning your story, and becoming the man you’re meant to be.🎙️ Tune in now on all platforms — this one’s a powerful listen for anyone ready to do the inner work and take control of their life.Thanks to our Headline sponsors - Zinsser Episode Sponsors - Q1 Tapes , Brewers decorating Centres Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Advocacy01:35 The Importance of Inner Work04:47 Father Figures and Masculinity07:46 Personal Journeys and Struggles10:38 The Impact of Alcohol and Substance Abuse14:30 Language and Self-Perception17:39 Values and Purpose in Life20:20 Practical Steps to Identify Values23:23 Cultural Influences on Masculinity26:43 Reflections on Personal Choices29:12 Navigating the Culture of Substance Use31:39 The Impact of Alcohol on Self-Perception34:52 Breaking the Cycle of Addiction38:50 Transforming Habits and Mindsets41:17 Redefining Rewards and Punishments47:21 The Balance of Selflessness and Ego51:35 Personal Responsibility and Boundaries01:00:21 Mastering Emotions and Self-Reflection01:03:19 Breaking the Cycle of Negative Mindsets01:06:16 The Impact of Class and Society01:09:11 Mental Health in the Construction Industry01:12:14 Facing Financial Instability and Shame01:15:08 The Importance of Support Systems01:18:04 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth01:26:46 Embracing Life's Journey01:28:34 The Importance of Storytelling01:30:56 Lessons from Childhood01:32:22 The Role of Communication in Relationships01:34:55 Understanding the Inner Child01:38:02 The Power of Selfishness01:40:23 Validation and Emotional Management01:44:30 Coaching and Personal Development01:46:54 Forgiveness and Personal Growth01:49:39 The Power of Choice and Accountability01:52:37 Letting Go of Baggage01:55:59 The Nature of Happiness and Contentment01:59:04 The Calm in Chaos02:02:55 Problem Solving and Proactivity02:04:01 Inner Work and Self-Reflection02:06:41 The Journey of Self-Discovery02:11:51 Turning Points and Choices02:21:18 Choosing Abundance Over Fear02:25:35 The Power of Sharing and Showing