By Marc Azoulay
5
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The podcast currently has 176 episodes available.
Today's episode of Men's Therapy Podcast features Eliot Andre. He is the founder of Connected Roots. It is a therapy practice that supports individuals exploring alternative lifestyles like non-monogamy. He shares profound insights into the evolving landscape of modern relationships. He has seven years of personal experience in ethical non-monogamy. Andre offers a unique perspective on navigating alternative lifestyles. "If we lived in a society where non-monogamy or polyamory was the norm, people would do that. Humans need connection and more than one connection," Andre explains. He highlights the natural human desire for diverse relationships.
As loneliness grows among men, Andre's work at Connected Roots fosters authentic connections. His efforts are part of a broader movement. This aims to address growing social challenges. His practice supports individuals in non-monogamous, LGBTQ+, kink, and polyamorous communities. He wants to help people navigate these diverse lifestyles. It has become a beacon for those seeking to explore relationships beyond traditional boundaries. "The percentage of people that I work with at this point that open up their marriage. Or they engage in kink or BDSM to kind of save a relationship is pretty high," Andre notes. He emphasizes both the opportunities and challenges that come with exploring alternative lifestyles. His work shows how polyamory and ethical non-monogamy can build deeper connections. He also addresses the emotional and practical challenges that come with these choices. He highlights the potential benefits of non-traditional relationship structures.
In a world filled with digital distractions, reclaiming true intimacy can be challenging. It often starts with facing the reality of porn addiction. Today's episode of the Men’s Therapy podcast focuses on insights on it from Matt Wenger. He is the Clinical Director at Begin Again Institute. He discusses the complicated connection between intimacy and childhood trauma. This relationship plays a key role in recovering from porn addiction. Wenger’s unique approach integrates empathy and trauma therapy. This sets a clear path for men seeking real change in their relationships, self-perception, and mental health.
“One thing I’ve learned over the years,” Wenger shares, “is that there’s this huge overlap between childhood trauma and porn or sex addictions.” He elaborates that recovery isn’t simply about stopping addictive behaviors. It is about rediscovering intimacy on a personal level. Wenger’s insights shed light on why true intimacy is so much more than physical connection. He focuses on how trauma can distort our understanding of it. His approach helps individuals manage compulsive behavior. It also emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with themselves.
Wenger also emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in healing. He explains, “Intimacy isn’t just sex; it’s about being yourself with someone and feeling safe in doing so.” His perspective has helped countless individuals and couples redefine their relationships. He has helped them move beyond shame and secrecy toward a deeper, more fulfilling connection. Wenger’s advice is both practical and transformative for overcoming compulsive behaviors. It also helps individuals understand the role of trauma and develop true intimacy.
In the latest episode of the Men's Therapy Podcast, host Marc Azoulay sits down with Gina Hendrix. She is a renowned matchmaker for affluent me. She discusses the intricacies of compatibility in relationships. Gina has an extensive career that spans matchmaking, fashion, and even animal rescue. She brings a multifaceted perspective to the conversation. Her journey into matchmaking began after a successful stint as a celebrity stylist. She worked with high-profile clients and developed a deep understanding of what it takes to make lasting connections. Transitioning to matchmaking was a natural step for her. It was driven by her passion for connecting people in meaningful ways. "I've always been a connector," she reflects. "It's naturally who I am. Whether it’s matching people, animals, or opportunities, it’s about finding the right fit." She aims to help men through matchmaking to become successful men.
Gina emphasizes that compatibility isn’t just about finding someone who shares similar interests or values. It requires understanding and aligning with the deeper aspects of a person's lifestyle and goals. This also includes recognizing their emotional needs. "People have layers upon layers," she explains. Gina points out that the factors that make or break a relationship often lie beneath the surface. These layers include how a person manages stress. They also encompass their approach to financial decisions. Additionally, they involve how they navigate family dynamics. Compatibility extends into areas that many overlook during the initial stages of dating. These include lifestyle habits, expectations for plans, and personal development goals. Gina’s insights highlight the importance of taking a holistic approach to matchmaking. She considers every aspect of a person’s life when determining a match.
On this episode of the Men’s Therapy Podcast, host Marc Azoulay is joined by Lucas Krump. He is the co-founder of Everyman. It is an organization dedicated to men’s wellness through retreats, groups, and individual work. Lucas shares his journey of self-discovery. It was shaped by childhood trauma, substance abuse recovery, and personal growth. This led to the creation of Everyman. His path isn't just about his healing but also about empowering other men.
Reflecting on his past, Lucas describes his upbringing in Kansas. He shares the challenges that shaped him, including the loss of close family members and struggles with his father's absence. "I was able to disconnect my head and my heart," he recalls, "but that only works for so long." His turning point came when he experienced an emotional breakdown overseas. This set him on a path of deep self-exploration. Through his story, Lucas shows how confronting vulnerability can lead to profound transformation. This change occurs not just in himself but also in others walking similar paths.
Men’s mental health often goes unspoken. Societal expectations push men to suppress emotions and focus on external achievements. Lucas’s story underscores the importance of confronting these cultural norms. He promotes a healthier and more fulfilling life. He emphasizes how many men pursue traditional milestones. For example, career success, financial gain, and physical prowess. Yet, they often find themselves unsatisfied. “I did everything right and was still unhappy,” Lucas states. He illustrates how men may follow a path expected of them without questioning its deeper meaning.
Self-discovery plays a crucial role in this journey. Through his work at Everyman, Lucas encourages men to embark on a personal journey. He urges them to question and explore. He believes that understanding one's “why” is essential. This helps to find purpose beyond societal pressures. For many, this means not only embracing vulnerability but actively seeking it to heal.
Today's episode of Men's Therapy Podcast hosts Tyson Adams. He is a men's coach specializing in sex and sexuality. Tyson's insights come from nine years of overcoming porn addiction and deep knowledge of sexual alchemy. His approach offers a unique perspective on male sexuality. This extends beyond traditional therapy.
Tyson's journey began at the tender age of nine when he stumbled upon a cache of Playboy magazines. It kickstarted what would become a 20-year porn addiction. "That began what was a 20-year porn addiction," Tyson recalls. Early exposure and high-speed internet deeply influenced his understanding of sexuality. He has spent years working to unravel its effects.
Now, Tyson helps men not only recover from porn and sex addiction but also take their sex lives to new heights. "I teach a very simple mythopoetic map," Tyson explains. "The way that a man treats his penis is the way that he treats everyone and everything in the world."
Are you craving a deeper connection in your relationship but don't know where to start? Today's episode of Men's Therapy Podcast is just about that. Marc Azoulay sits down with relationship coach, Shana James. She is a renowned author of "Honest Sex: A Passionate Path to Deeper Connection and Keeping Relationships Alive." Shana has over 20 years of experience working with men. She brings a wealth of knowledge on cultivating authentic relationships and overcoming shame. She shares her insights on building sex and intimacy while embracing vulnerability.
Shana's journey into relationship coaching began when she moved to San Francisco after college. In the city, she joined an intentional community. This group focused on cultivating authenticity. It also emphasized building deep, meaningful connections. This experience radically changed her perspective on men and relationships. This motivated her to indulge in sex therapy for men. As she shares, "It broke my heart to see that every man I met, no matter how he came off in the beginning... to get to see and experience his vulnerability. It was so powerful and it changed the way I saw men and related to men."
In today's episode of Men's Therapy Podcast, host Marc Azoulay sits down with Dr. Robert Glover. He is the renowned author of "No More Mr. Nice Guy" and a leading expert on men's issues. Dr. Glover discusses his transformation from a "nice guy" to promoting genuine masculinity. He now advocates for building healthy relationships based on authenticity.
Dr. Glover's story begins with his relationship struggles. He realized that being "nice" wasn't serving him well. He shares how his second wife's ultimatum pushed him to seek help. This experience inspired him to write his groundbreaking book. As a therapist and through personal experience, Dr. Glover noticed patterns in men who were "too nice." He saw how these behaviours held them back. To address this, he developed strategies to help men break these self-defeating habits. His work now focuses on empowering men to embrace authentic masculinity.
Dr. Glover delves into the darker aspects of Nice Guy Syndrome. He explains that nice guys often aren't as nice as they believe themselves to be. This leads to the development of toxic masculinity over time. He explains that behind their pleasant exteriors, these men often conceal resentment. They may also display passive-aggressive behaviour. Some may even struggle with violent impulses. The root of this behaviour lies in toxic shame and anxiety developed in childhood.
"Nice guys have this shame and this anxiety. And what they do, the way that it, the way there, the particular neuroses of nice guy syndrome shows up is through two ways. One, trying to become what we think other people want us to be, to be liked and loved and get our needs met. So, we're chameleons," Dr. Glover explains.
One of the key challenges for nice guys is recognizing and expressing their own needs and wants. Dr. Glover offers practical advice for men struggling with this issue. He advises men to start by recalling activities they enjoyed as a child. He guides them to focus on their basic needs as well as emotional needs. Men need to understand the distinction between needs and wants. By practising giving to yourself instead of always giving to others, this can be achieved.
Dr. Glover emphasizes the importance of "cooperative reciprocal relationships" in meeting one's needs. He encourages men to surround themselves with people. And resources that can help them fulfil their needs and wants in a mutually beneficial way.
While the focus is primarily on men's growth, Dr. Glover addresses the role women can play in supporting nice guys' development. He suggests that women can offer constructive feedback when necessary. They can be supportive and reinforcing when men make efforts to change. They can work on being better listeners and more attentive to men's emotional cues. But, Dr. Glover stresses that the primary responsibility for change lies with men themselves.
Dr. Glover expresses optimism about the future of men's development. He notes the increasing availability of resources and communities for men seeking growth. He envisions a new generation of men who are more conscious and open-hearted. They are powerful and fierce, yet connected. They are in touch with their dark side and are joyful and receptive in life.
"We're gonna make a fucking dent in the universe. We're gonna make a difference in this world. And, I see that happening," Dr. Glover enthuses.
This episode of the Men's Therapy Podcast offers invaluable insights for men looking to overcome Nice Guy Syndrome. It offers guidance to develop healthier, more authentic relationships. Dr. Glover's decades of experience and wisdom offer hope for men struggling with these issues.
He highlights the importance of taking responsibility for one's needs and wants. Men must recognize the value of cooperative reciprocal relationships. This allows the need for men to step into their role as conscious, open-hearted leaders. Dr. Glover's optimism about the future of men's development is infectious. He envisions a generation of integrated men who can make a significant positive impact on the world.
As we look to the future, it's evident that the work of overcoming Nice Guy Syndrome is more relevant than ever. There is a rise in passivity among younger generations. Hence there's a growing need for resources and communities. Ones that can guide men towards a more authentic and fulfilling expression of masculinity.
By seeking out supportive group therapies, men can work towards becoming more integrated. They can become authentic versions of themselves. This will benefit not only their own lives but also their relationships and the world around them.
Dr. Robert Glover is a renowned psychotherapist, author, and speaker. He has dedicated his career to helping men overcome Nice Guy Syndrome. He guides them to develop healthier relationships. His groundbreaking book, "No More Mr. Nice Guy," has sold millions of copies worldwide. It has been translated into many languages.
With over 30 years of experience in the field, Dr. Glover has become a leading voice in men's personal development. He holds a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy. He helps men healthily tackle relationship dynamics. He has worked with thousands of men to help them break free from self-defeating patterns. And embrace their authentic selves.
Besides his clinical work and writing, Dr. Glover leads workshops, seminars, and online communities. This includes his men's program called 'Integration Nation'. His approach combines psychological insights with practical strategies. This helps men to become more confident, assertive, and fulfilled in all areas of their lives.
"No More Mr. Nice Guy" by Dr. Robert Glover
Integration Nation men's program
Dr. Glover's website
No More Mr. Nice Guy Website
YouTube
In today’s episode of Men's Therapy Podcast, host Marc Azoulay sits down with Mauricio Verduzco. He is a therapist specializing in men's issues and cultural dynamics. Verduzco has a unique background. Having lived in both Mexico and the United States, he provides a rich perspective. He discusses the complexities of masculinity across different cultures.
Verduzco shares his personal journey: "I never quite felt like I fit in for various reasons. My family moved around a lot when I was growing up... Before I landed in Austin, Texas, I had lived in like 17 different cities, bouncing around between the U.S. and Mexico." This experience of straddling two cultures shaped Verduzco's understanding of masculinity. It helped in understanding its cultural variations.
He recalls, "The examples I had of masculinity at home were very healthy ones. My dad was not a man's man... I was kind of allowed to express my masculinity, but I felt I needed to." Yet, Verduzco notes that the world outside his home was not as accepting. He highlights the tension between personal expression and societal expectations of masculinity.
Verduzco's presentation on machismo sparked interest in masculinity across cultures. It led to broader discussions on global masculinity. He explains:
"In Mexico, in the bigger cities, masculinity was much more... metrosexual. The more masculine guys were guys with really well-neat and done hair, their button-up shirts were done quite nicely... It was normal for dudes to have like manicured hands."
This contrasts sharply with his experiences in Texas: "The more masculine guys are the ones who don't appear to put as much effort into the appearance... Seeing somebody with muddied up boots was usually more of a status symbol."
These observations highlight how cultural context shapes the expression and perception of masculinity.
Verduzco breaks down toxic masculinity into three key tenets:
He emphasizes how these rigid expectations can be harmful. Mauricio highlights, "Unfortunately, some cultures ingrain the toxicity of masculinity. Into our cultural identity."
Verduzco advocates for a more inclusive and expansive definition of masculinity. He emphasizes the need for support groups. Mauricio says, "I would love for masculinity to be redefined as one where it's... not restrictive. Where if you want to wear nail polish, it's masculine. If you want to have a very traditional appearance, it's masculine."
Mauricio highlights the importance of emotional intelligence. Men and emotions go hand in hand for a healthy life. Emotions must not be ignored. He stresses the importance of recognizing both achievements and the journey towards them. One should encourage human connection and emotional awareness as integral parts of masculinity.
As society continues to evolve, so too must our understanding of masculinity. Mauricio Verduzco's insights offer a path forward. It honors cultural heritage. And also embraces a more inclusive expression of manhood. Challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting genuine self-expression helps men build healthier relationships. This leads to improved mental wellbeing. It benefits men across all cultures.
Mauricio Verduzco is a licensed therapist. He specializes in men's mental health and cultural issues. He has a unique background spanning both Mexican and American cultures. Verduzco brings a nuanced perspective to his work on masculinity and emotional well-being. He currently practices at the Tree of Life Counseling Center. He focuses on helping individuals from marginalized backgrounds. Particularly men who struggle with traditional notions of masculinity.
Verduzco draws on his own experiences with different cultural views of manhood to shape his approach. His work aims to challenge toxic masculinity while honoring cultural heritage. He is promoting a more inclusive expression of masculinity. Verduzco helps men build healthier relationships with themselves and others. He promotes emotional awareness and genuine self-expression. His work is done through therapy and education. He is committed to improving men's well-being.
Tree of Life Counseling Center
Root of It (nonprofit)
Psychology Today (Mauricio’s profile)
Email: [email protected]
Website
In a world where the role of fathers is constantly evolving, Larry Hagner stands out as a beacon of wisdom and guidance. He is the host of the popular Dad Edge podcast and author of "The Spirit of Fatherhood." Larry has spent over a decade exploring the intricacies of modern masculinity and parenting. In today's episode of the Men's Therapy podcast, Larry shares his journey. He offers a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of fatherhood.
Larry's story begins with a tumultuous childhood, marked by divorce and abusive relationships. "I started thinking, I was like, wait a second. Like I know about the birds and the bees and this dude came around when I was four. So like, where did I even come from? I had no idea," Larry recounts. This early experience shaped his determination to break the cycle and become a better father and husband.
Larry's journey to becoming a parenting expert wasn't smooth sailing. He admits to breaking promises he made to himself about being a good father. "I spanked my four-year-old who's 16 now and I did a total anger and a reactionary. I just lost my patience," he confesses. This moment became a catalyst for change, pushing Larry to seek knowledge and resources to improve his parenting skills.
Larry emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where children feel safe to be themselves. "We call it an environment of psychological safety where kids can be themselves. They can be fully who they are without fear of blame, pain, judgment, or guilt," he explains. This approach fosters open communication and trust between parents and children.
One of Larry's controversial yet powerful insights is prioritizing marriage over parenting. "I'm married first and I'm a father second," he states. Larry believes that a strong marital relationship sets the foundation for effective parenting. It helps to model healthy relationships for children.
Larry stresses the importance of understanding each child's unique needs. He focuses on adapting parenting styles accordingly. "We have four boys, and all parented differently," he shares. Larry highlights the need for flexibility and observation in parenting.
Throughout the interview, Larry emphasizes connection's crucial role in parenting and marriage. "Without connection, we have no influence," he explains. Larry underscores the importance of building strong relationships with both children and spouses.
Larry's journey also includes a deepening of his spiritual life. He credits with enhancing his role as a father and husband. "I finally understood all these things that my kids were asking. All the questions that I had that I didn't know the answers to," he reflects on his spiritual growth.
Larry's journey and insights offer a compelling roadmap for modern fatherhood and masculinity. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, emotional intelligence, and adaptability in parenting. Fathers can nurture their children's growth by building strong connections. Adapting their parenting to each child's unique needs helps meet individual needs. Prioritizing the marital relationship also strengthens the family dynamic. Hagner's story shows that becoming a better father is an ongoing process of self-reflection. It also involves continuous learning and personal growth.
The spirit of fatherhood, as Hagner describes it, is about more than just being present or providing for your family. It's about creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe, loved, and guided. This involves being vulnerable enough to admit mistakes. And strong enough to keep learning. It is about recognizing the profound influence fathers have on their children's lives. By embracing these principles, fathers can break negative cycles. They can create a lasting, positive impact on future generations.
Hagner's insights remind us that being a great father isn't about being perfect. It's about building strong connections and growing as a parent. Above all, it's about staying committed to your family. By prioritizing our marriages and embracing spirituality, we can build strong families. Modelling positive behaviours helps raise resilient children. This prepares them to face life's challenges with confidence and compassion. The journey of fatherhood is challenging, but with the right mindset and tools, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences a man can have.
Larry Hagner is the founder of the Dad Edge, host of the popular Dad Edge podcast, and author of "The Spirit of Fatherhood." He has over a decade of experience in the masculinity and parenting space. Larry has interviewed countless experts. He has helped thousands of men become better fathers and husbands. He has done this through his podcasts, books, and coaching programs. His journey into fatherhood education began from a place of personal struggle. Having grown up in a challenging family environment with many divorces and abusive relationships. This background fueled his determination to break the cycle. It made him become a better father and husband than the models he had growing up.
Larry's approach to fatherhood focuses on personal growth and emotional intelligence. It also emphasizes spiritual development. He emphasizes the importance of creating psychological safety for children. He emphasizes prioritizing marriage while parenting. He focuses on tailoring parenting styles to each child's unique needs. Larry's work extends beyond just fatherhood, encompassing marriage, personal development, and spirituality. Larry continues to guide men in their journey to become more present, connected, and effective fathers and partners.
The Dad Edge podcast
The Dad Edge website
"The Spirit of Fatherhood" book by Larry Hagner
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://linkin.bio/thedadedge/
Ryan McKelley is a professor at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. He is at the forefront of men's mental health research and education. McKelley's expertise in clinical psychology, adds valuable insights to discussions on masculinity. His coaching focuses on men's emotional well-being. In this episode of the Men's Therapy podcast, host Marc Azoulay explores McKelley's journey. He shares McKelley's insights on modern masculinity.
McKelley's personal story highlights the challenges many men encounter with masculinity. His experience reflects the complexities of these struggles. As he grew up, he experienced both traditionally masculine and feminine activities. Despite this, he felt pressure to conform to certain ideals. The expectations around him shaped his view of masculinity. He focuses on internal gender roles. Ryan says, "I was an athlete, but I wasn't in like the team baseball or football or basketball," he shares. "I think I was always even aware that those weren't even kind of as masculine sports go."
McKelley became aware of gender expectations early in life. His struggles with depression deepened this awareness. These experiences motivated him to research men's mental health. "I suffered a pretty significant depressive episode in seventh grade," he reveals, "and probably about every 10 years... I would have benefited from seeking help."
McKelley's research shows how men experience and express emotional distress. His work emphasizes the distinct challenges men face in dealing with their emotions. He explains, "Girls and women are socialized to internalize their mood symptoms... Men tend to externalize." This externalization can manifest as:
"Nobody knew I was depressed," McKelley admits, reflecting on his own experiences. "I was a master at hiding it." This ability to mask depression is common among men. It often leads to a buildup of emotional distress that can have serious consequences.
McKelley focuses on the challenge many men have in showing vulnerability. He introduces the concept of the "male emotional funnel." He explains that societal expectations limit the emotions men feel comfortable expressing.
"We all come to the world with a full range of human emotions," McKelley states. "And then through adolescent development, it's like a funnel at the end. There's only like a couple that we, society let them have."
This restriction of emotional expression can lead to what McKelley calls "mask depression." Men become adept at hiding their emotional struggles, often at great personal cost.
McKelley advocates for a more flexible, or "malleable," approach to masculinity. He explains, "Masculinity has just gone in all these different directions... it changes based on all these different levers." This understanding allows for a more nuanced and compassionate view of men's experiences.
He emphasizes the importance of teaching men mindfulness and self-compassion. He says, "Being able to experience physical sensations, thoughts, emotions, and then even our physical surroundings non-judgmentally and with curiosity." This approach can help men develop greater emotional intelligence and resilience.
McKelley emphasizes the importance of a more compassionate approach to men's mental health. He argues that viewing emotional growth as bravery, not weakness, can encourage more men to improve themselves.
"We need to figure out ways to develop that," he says. He refers to compassion and empathy for men's experiences. He advocates for teaching men self-compassion. This involves showing them how to apply self-kindness. And a sense of common humanity to themselves. "By doing this, men can better practice self-compassion," highlights McKelley.
Ryan McKelley's insights provide a guide for understanding the unique challenges men face today. His work helps address these issues. He promotes a flexible view of masculinity. He emphasizes emotional intelligence can improve men's mental health. Emphasizing self-compassion is also crucial. Together, these approaches create a healthier, more supportive environment for men's personal growth.
Dr. Ryan McKelley is a professor at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. He specializes in men's mental health and masculinity studies. He has a PhD in clinical and counselling psychology. Dr. McKelley has dedicated his career to understanding the challenges faced by men. His coaching and research focus on male depression. He guides on resistance to help-seeking behaviours. He emphasizes the development of more flexible approaches to masculinity.
Besides his academic work, Dr. McKelley is an accomplished speaker and educator. He has delivered a TED talk on men and masculinities. He also works in the corporate sector. He has collaborated with major companies like Google and Walmart through Lyra Health. He aimed to improve workplace mental health initiatives. Dr. McKelley uses a multifaceted approach to men's mental health. He combines academic research, clinical practice, and corporate consulting. This blend of methods establishes him as a leading expert in masculinity studies. His work focuses on men's emotional well-being.
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