Men Talking Mindfulness

What happens when young men struggle to find their place in a rapidly changing world? Joseph Fuller joins hosts Jon and Will to explore the challenges facing young men today - from the decline of traditional male jobs, and the stigma around trades, to the crucial role of mentorship, education, and social skills in shaping identity and opportunity.

This is adding to the escalating mental health crisis. Together, they unpack how cultural shifts away from college education are redefining masculinity, why trades remain “AI-proof,” and what society can do to better support young men in navigating careers, mental health, and self-worth in the 21st century.

Learn more about Joseph Fuller: https://www.harvardmagazine.com/2025/05/harvard-men-gender-gap-education-employment

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel.

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/

Chapters

00:00 - Introductions

02:48 - Cultural Identity and Self-Worth in Men

05:50 - The Decline of Traditional Male Jobs

09:12 - Education and Skills Gap

12:01 - The Impact of Social Skills on Employment

14:54 - The Role of Sports and Physical Activity

17:43 - The Importance of Mentorship and Guidance

20:48 - The Stigma Around Trades and Vocational Education

23:57 - The Role of Male Teachers in Education

26:31 - The Crisis of Male Identity in Modern Society

29:24 - Solutions for the Future of Young Men

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

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We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

So what happened here? So close to the finish line, Jon tells us why he decided to drop out of the Physique Competition and end this grueling fitness Journey.

Learn what MTM is all about at:
mentalkinmindfulness.com

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

What if the biggest threat to your leadership isn’t lack of skill or ambition, but the silent weight of too many choices?

Jon and Will unpack the hidden toll of decision fatigue - the mental exhaustion that can cloud judgment, lower productivity, and derail even the most capable leaders. They explore how nutrition, boundaries, and mindfulness can restore mental clarity, why making decisions when energy is highest leads to better outcomes, and the power of simplifying routines to protect your focus. You’ll discover how rest and recharge are not luxuries but essentials, and why having a mentor or coach can cut through the noise to bring clarity. This conversation is a guide to reclaiming your energy, making sharper decisions, and leading with confidence.

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel.

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:10 - Understanding Decision Fatigue and Mental Energy
11:57 - Clear Goals as the Key to Beating Decision Fatigue
15:33 - The Role of Intentional Goals in Mental Clarity
16:59 - Leadership Challenges in Decision Fatigue
18:21 - Mindfulness and Self-Awareness for Leaders
19:17 - Practical Strategies for Clarity and Energy
23:20 - How to Replenish Energy for Better Choices
25:18 - The Hidden Impact of Judicial Decision Fatigue
26:41 - Sleep and Nutrition as Decision-Making Essentials
29:26 - The Power of Personal Boundaries
31:08 - Boundaries and Routines for Stronger Decisions
34:05 - Proven Tips to Boost Productivity and Clarity
35:16 - Nutrition’s Role in Sharper Decision-Making
40:25 - Smarter Choices Through Effective Strategies
41:56 - The Best Ways to Recharge for Peak Performance
42:34 - Final Thoughts: Share, Review, and Connect

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

Most people go through life without ever being truly initiated.

In this raw and revealing conversation, Will and Jon are joined by rites of passage guide Darren Silver to unpack why transformation requires more than just time — it requires challenge, community, and a deep connection to nature. They explore the wounding at the heart of real initiation, the loss of cultural rituals, and how fathers, plant medicine, and honest reflection can guide us through the most important transitions of our lives. This is a conversation about healing, masculinity, and what it takes to answer the question: Are you truly living, or just getting by?

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. 

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/

Chapters
00:00 – Introduction
03:09 – Nature and Life Transitions
07:54 – Personal Transformation Through Rites of Passage
20:15 – Mystery and the Transformative Journey
24:48 – Transformation and Inner Change
28:22 – Growth, Responsibility, and Rites of Passage
37:51 – Identity, Belonging, and the Adolescent Edge
39:11 – Identity and Belonging in Adulthood
45:40 – Community Recognition and the Need for Rites
50:05 – Responsibility and the Journey Home
51:59 – Relationship Support During Transitions
54:00 – Change and the Path to Inner Peace
01:05:22 – Happiness and Human Connection

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

What if leadership meant putting people before profit?

In this inspiring episode, Howard Behar, former president of Starbucks, shares how servant leadership and putting people over profits shaped the company's culture. He discusses how a people-first leadership philosophy leads to authentic connection, trust, and accountability in the workplace. Behar reveals that putting people over profits empowers employees and nurtures a values-based leadership approach. From presence and vulnerability to empowering employees and focusing on the bottom-up approach, Howard demonstrates that success comes from putting people over profits, cultivating workplace culture, and leading with empathy, purpose, and genuine human connection

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. 

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
02:59 - Mindfulness and Self-Awareness
06:10 - Creating a People-First Culture
08:52 - The Importance of Compassionate Listening
11:47 - Navigating Difficult Conversations
14:38 - The Role of Values in Leadership
17:46 - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Leadership
20:35 - Compassionate Emptiness in Leadership
23:38 - The Power of Questions
26:30 - Feedback and Responsiveness
29:23 - Aligning Purpose and Values
32:40 - The Six Ps of Leadership
35:37 - Intentional Communication
38:35 - Creating Safe Spaces for Dialogue
41:25 - The Impact of Leadership on Culture
44:14 - Living with Intention
47:17 - The Journey of Continuous Improvement

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

What if the thing you turn to for relief is actually rewiring your brain against you?

In this powerful episode, Dr. Trish Leigh exposes the hidden neurological effects of pornography - how it hijacks your dopamine system, fuels addiction, and quietly erodes motivation, mental health, and relationships. We dive deep into the evolutionary roots of sexuality, the influence of technology on behavior, and the daily habits needed for recovery. From parenting in the digital age to rebuilding intimacy and overcoming erectile dysfunction, this is a raw, science-backed conversation about breaking free from porn and taking back control of your life.

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. 

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
02:48 - The Dopamine Dependency Cycle
05:50 - The Evolutionary Perspective on Sexuality
08:53 - The Role of Technology in Sexual Behavior
11:54 - Parenting in the Age of Digital Exposure
14:56 - The Importance of Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence
17:59 - The Path to Recovery from Pornography Addiction
20:54 - Healthy vs. Maladaptive Masturbation Patterns
23:46 - The Connection Between Pornography and Erectile Dysfunction
26:38 - Building Healthy Relationships and Intimacy
29:58 - Strategies for Overcoming Pornography Addiction
32:55 - The Importance of a Morning Routine
35:55 - Navigating Sexuality and Testosterone
38:46 - The Role of Communication in Relationships
41:46 - Final Thoughts and Resources for Recovery

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

I loved this episode with Dave Smith, and so will you!

Dig into the full podcast here: https://pod.fo/e/2bd385

More about Dave and his work ➡️ https://www.davesmithdharma.com/

All things MTM here: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

What does it truly mean to live as a “peaceful warrior” in today’s chaotic world? If you are looking for a path to personal growth, then you are in the right place

Will and Jon sit down with Dan Millman, author of Way of the Peaceful Warrior, to explore mindfulness, self-discovery, and the deeper lessons of personal growth. Dan shares how life’s challenges act as spiritual weight training, why breath and meditation are essential tools for inner peace, and how embracing life fully - beyond moderation - can transform our journey.

From redefining success to letting go of comparison, this episode offers practical wisdom, inspiring sound bites, and a guided breathing exercise to help you reconnect with yourself and live with purpose.

Buy Dan's book here: https://www.peacefulwarrior.com/books/

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. 

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ 

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
02:54 - Defining the Peaceful Warrior
05:47 - The Role of Adversity in Growth
09:07 - The Journey of Writing 'Way of the Peaceful Warrior'
11:49 - Understanding the Mind and Brain Distinction
15:07 - The Practice of Mindfulness and Breathing
18:03 - The Concept of Happiness and Satisfaction
20:46 - The Role of Behavior in Shaping Life
24:00 - The Fictional Socrates and His Influence
34:23 - Socrates: The Prickly Teacher
36:48 - The Gate of the Warrior
40:09 - Paradox and Awareness
42:47 - Transforming Emotions
46:02 - The Dangers of Moderation
51:18 - The Importance of Boldness
52:14 - Striving for Excellence
55:27 - The Journey of the Peaceful Warrior

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

Trigger WARNING! This snippet might piss some people off. If it does reach out to Sashe directly on IG https://www.instagram.com/mind_heart_method/

Here is the link to the Full Episode: https://pod.fo/e/2c4119

Learn more all things MTM at https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

Olympic champion. Icon. And then… nothing.

Reinventing yourself, what does it take? Apolo Ohno knows. He spent his entire life training for one thing - winning gold. He became the most decorated Winter Olympian in U.S. history, chasing perfection at all costs. But when the spotlight faded and the podium disappeared, he faced a battle far tougher than any race: Who was he without the sport?

In this raw and honest conversation, Apolo opens up about the identity crisis that hit after retirement, the role of ego in driving success - and destroying it - and the painful process of starting over from scratch.

This isn’t just about sport. It’s about life after the thing you thought defined you. It’s about resilience, reinvention, and the ongoing journey of self-discovery.

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. 

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/

Chapters:
(00:00) Redefining Purpose After Winning: Apolo Ohno's Journey Beyond the Podium
(06:30) "Life After Winning: Navigating Identity and Transition"
(08:01) "Navigating Life After Peak Achievements: The Ongoing Journey of Self-Discovery"
(11:42) "Coping with Life Transitions and Identity Shifts"
(14:22) "Embracing Friction and the Beginner's Mindset in Life Transitions"
(16:52) "Reprogramming for Post-Athletic Life"
(17:38) Navigating Personal Growth and Diverse Success Strategies
(20:17) "Experiences of Flying with Children"
(22:01) "Redefining Performance Beyond Sport: Lessons from the Ice to the Boardroom"
(23:27) "Aligning Performance with Core Values and Personal Fulfillment"
(25:01) "Redefining Performance: The Four Pillars and Five Golden Principles"
(27:28) "Embracing Friction for Growth and Success"
(30:06) Journey of Post-Olympic Life and Pursuit of Success Beyond Sports
(33:55) "Evaluating Long-Term Fulfillment and Passion in Career Choices"
(38:08) "Exploring Passion and Realism: Navigating Personal Growth and Success"
(42:16) Inspiring Conversations: Pursuing Your Passion and Impacting the World
(43:21) "The Impact of Passion and the Importance of Mentorship"
(46:52) "The Four Pillars of Well-being: Sleep, Exercise, Diet, and Mindset"
(47:47) "Finding Balance: The Role of Exercise, Social Interaction, and Self-Reflection in Managing Stress"
(49:17) "Importance of Exercise and Sleep Tracking for Mental Health"
(51:16) Transitioning from Military Service: Challenges and Reflections
(57:14) Reflections on Abandonment, Team Dynamics, and Life Beyond Sport
(01:02:51) "The Hidden Reserves of Human Potential"
(01:04:52) "How to Connect with Apolo Ohno"
(01:05:20) "Closing Remarks with Apolo Ohno: Embracing Change and Emotional Intelligence"
(01:06:09) "Embracing Change and Transition Programs for Veterans and Athletes"
(01:06:36) Introducing ARENA-M: Supporting Transitioning Veterans and Athletes

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/