Notes For Men

In this conversation, Tim Barber is joined by Alex Paske, a leadership and diversity consultant whose unique perspective is shaped by years in elite sport and the British Army. Together, they unpack the concept of positive masculinity, a term that challenges narrow, traditional views of manhood and instead encourages qualities like self-awareness, emotional resilience and genuine connection. Alex shares how his early experiences in judo and later service in the military led him to his current work, helping organisations and individuals build cultures rooted in empathy, understanding and emotional literacy.

How can emotional literacy transform our understanding of strength? Alex provides insights into this by recounting his transition from the structured environments of sports and the military into the consulting world. He highlights how emotional literacy is crucial for redefining strength, suggesting that true strength encompasses the ability to empathise and connect with others on a deeper level. This shift in perspective is essential for addressing the challenges men face when confined to traditional roles that often discourage emotional expression. By promoting a broader understanding of strength, Alex aims to help men navigate these challenges and foster environments where they can thrive emotionally and psychologically.

Why is psychological safety vital in high-pressure environments? Tim and Alex explore this question by examining the unique challenges men encounter in traditional roles, particularly in high-stakes settings like sports and the military. Alex argues that psychological safety is paramount in these environments, as it allows individuals to express vulnerability without fear of judgment or repercussions. This sense of safety is crucial for fostering meaningful connections and encouraging self-reflection, which are essential components of personal and professional growth. By advocating for psychological safety, Alex seeks to create spaces where men can balance performance demands with deeper emotional engagement, ultimately leading to more fulfilling and supportive relationships.

How can men balance performance with emotional engagement? Throughout the episode, Alex emphasises the importance of meaningful connections and self-reflection in achieving this balance. He urges men to move beyond the traditional focus on performance and success, advocating for a more holistic approach that includes emotional engagement and introspection. By fostering supportive relationships and encouraging open dialogue, Alex believes men can redefine modern masculinity in a way that promotes both personal and collective well-being. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to rethink their perceptions of masculinity and to actively work towards creating environments that support emotional growth and connection.

So, as we wrap up this conversation, take a moment to reflect – what are you taking away from this? How do these ideas challenge or resonate with your own experience of masculinity?

How to find us:

If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com

If you’ve got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out by email:
[email protected]

You can also follow along and connect with us on social media, where we share updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/

To connect directly with Tim Barber, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here:
https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15

To connect directly with Alex, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-paske/?originalSubdomain=uk

In this episode of the Feel Good for Men Who Want Change podcast, host Tim Barber delves into the intriguing and multifaceted question of how masculinity can evolve to support a sustainable future with Dr. Greg Schwartz, a renowned sustainability expert and professor of environmental geography. Together, they embark on a comprehensive exploration of how individual well-being is intricately linked to the health of our planet. Dr. Schwartz, drawing from his extensive and diverse background, highlights the profound connections between personal health practices and environmental sustainability. He emphasises that by nurturing our own health, we inherently contribute to the well-being of the Earth, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both individuals and the planet. This interconnectedness suggests that our personal choices, from the food we consume to the products we use, have far-reaching impacts on the environment, and conversely, the state of our environment can significantly influence our physical and mental health.

How can modern masculinity evolve to include compassion and responsibility? Tim and Dr. Schwartz engage in a thought-provoking and insightful discussion on the evolution of masculinity in contemporary society. They explore the idea that traditional notions of masculinity, often characterised by stoicism, dominance, and emotional restraint, can be expanded to embrace qualities such as empathy, compassion, and environmental responsibility. Greg argues that by redefining masculinity to include these attributes, men can play a pivotal role in fostering a more sustainable and equitable world. This evolution not only benefits the environment but also enhances personal relationships and community well-being, as men learn to protect and nurture both their families and the natural world. 

What role can men play as stewards of the planet? The episode wraps up with a powerful call to action, urging men to embrace their potential as guardians of the Earth. Tim and Greg discuss practical steps for environmental responsibility, from reducing waste and conserving energy to advocating for policies that protect natural resources. They emphasise that by taking on the stewardship role, men can inspire others and lead by example, contributing to a collective effort to preserve the planet for future generations. This responsibility is a vital part of healthy masculinity, helping to drive the cultural shift needed for a sustainable future.

It’s clear that the connection between personal health and planetary health is not just an environmental issue, but a holistic approach to well-being. How often do we consider how our daily choices ripple out to impact the planet and, in turn, our own lives? Perhaps the question we should all ask ourselves is: How can we, as individuals, nurture both our own health and the health of the Earth simultaneously? This isn't just a responsibility; it’s an opportunity to redefine what it means to live a balanced, sustainable life. 

So, how can you change your own actions to contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future?

How to find us:
If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com

If you’ve got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out by email:
[email protected]

You can also follow along and connect with us on social media, where we share updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/

To connect directly with Tim Barber, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here: https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15

In this episode of the Feel Good, For Men Who Want Change podcast, host Tim Barber explores connection between young men, meat consumption, and identity with guest Mark Breen from Hubbub. Mark, who has moved from a career as a professional chef to a role focused on food culture and sustainability, shares his personal journey and insights. He discusses how his experiences in the culinary world have shaped his understanding of the cultural and personal significance of meat in the lives of many young men. The conversation is grounded in findings from a recent Hubbub report, which highlights a trend of increasing meat consumption among young men. This trend is not simply about dietary preferences but is closely tied to ideas of masculinity and identity.

How does meat consumption relate to masculinity and cultural identity among young men? Mark and Tim examine the cultural importance of meat, particularly how it is often linked to strength, power, and traditional masculine roles. They discuss how societal norms and expectations can influence young men to eat more meat as a way of reinforcing their masculinity. The conversation also explores how these cultural narratives are sustained, and in some cases, challenged, by social media and online influencers. Mark provides examples of influencers who promote meat-heavy diets as part of a stereotypical masculine image, while others advocate for plant-based eating, challenging conventional norms and promoting a broader definition of masculinity.

What role do social media and influencers play in shaping young men's dietary choices? The discussion highlights the powerful role of social media platforms and influencers in shaping attitudes and behaviours around food. Mark explains how influencers can both uphold and question traditional views on masculinity and diet. While some promote meat consumption as a marker of strength and virility, others use their platforms to encourage plant-based diets and sustainable food choices. This creates a complex environment in which young men must navigate conflicting messages about what it means to eat in a way that reflects their identity and values.

Why is it important to address the environmental implications of dietary choices among young men? Mark emphasises the pressing need to consider the environmental impact of rising meat consumption. He discusses how meat production, particularly beef, is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. Mark advocates for research, education, and creative campaigns that can effectively communicate these issues and inspire change. By encouraging healthier and more sustainable diets, the aim is to empower young men to make choices that benefit both their wellbeing and the planet.

So after listening to this episode, do you think it’s possible to redefine masculinity in a way that includes more sustainable eating habits?

How to find us:
If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com

If you’ve got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out by email:
[email protected]

You can also follow along and connect with us on social media, where we share updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/

To connect directly with Tim Barber, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here:
https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15

To connect directly with Mark, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-breen-maccormick-1b005535/

You can find details of Hubbub’s work here: https://hubbub.org.uk/

And the Hubbub report here: https://issuu.com/hubbubuk/docs/high_steaks_how_young_men_are_beefing_up_their_di?fr=sNjlkYzg0Njk4NzQ  

In this episode of the Feel Good for Men Who Want Change podcast, host Tim Barber and guest Amit Kalley explore what it means to be a father in the digital age. Amit, a former teacher who founded For Working Parents, an organisation that coaches schools and parents on how to navigate the digital world safely. He shares his personal journey from the classroom to coaching, highlighting the unique challenges he faced and the insights he gained along the way. Amit’s experiences provide a rich backdrop for discussing the evolving role of fathers in a world increasingly dominated by technology.

How does screen time affect children, and what role do fathers play in managing it? Amit offers valuable insights into the parenting challenges associated with the digital age, particularly focusing on the impact of screen time on children. He discusses the delicate balance parents must strike between allowing their children to engage with technology and ensuring it does not negatively affect their development. Amit emphasises the critical role fathers play in this dynamic, advocating for their active involvement in setting boundaries and guiding their children’s interactions with digital devices.

Why is it important for fathers to engage meaningfully in their children’s lives? The discussion highlights the significance of fathers taking an active and intentional role in their children’s upbringing. Amit stresses the importance of fathers being present and engaged, not just physically but emotionally and mentally too. He talks about the need to balance cultural values with modern parenting practices, ensuring that children receive a well-rounded upbringing that respects tradition while embracing innovation. Amit believes meaningful engagement is crucial for building strong, lasting relationships with children and fostering their overall well-being.

How can fathers manage digital influences while maintaining open communication with their children? Both Amit and Tim emphasise the necessity of open communication in the family, he advocates for setting clear expectations and boundaries around technology use, encouraging fathers to have honest conversations with their children about the benefits and potential pitfalls of digital media. By following these steps fathers can help their children develop a healthy relationship with technology.What does it mean for fathers to embrace vulnerability and authenticity in their parenting roles? The episode encourages dads to be genuine and open in how they relate to their children. Amit shares how vulnerability helps build deeper connections and creates a supportive home environment. His story is a reminder that confidence and compassion go hand-in-hand in modern fatherhood.

So after listening to this episode, why not reflect on your own digital habits, and how they might be impacting your children’s relationship with screens.

How to find us:

If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com

If you’ve got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out by email:
[email protected]

You can also follow along and connect with us on social media, where we share updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/

To connect directly with Tim Barber, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here:
https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15

In this episode of the Feel Good for Men Who Want Change podcast, host Tim Barber and guest, Jon Alexander, embark on a deep dive into the evolving concept of masculinity, examining how it intersects with purpose and personal agency. Jon, known for his insightful book "Citizens" and as the co-founder of the New Citizen Project, shares his transformative journey. He recounts his path from the competitive world of sports, where traditional notions of masculinity often dominate, to a career in advertising, and ultimately now focussing on citizenship and societal contribution. This journey reflects a broader shift in understanding what it means to be a man in contemporary society, moving away from outdated stereotypes and towards a more inclusive and purposeful identity.

How does consumerism shape our identities and mental health? The discussion between Tim and Jon delves into the pervasive impact of consumerism on how individuals perceive themselves and their mental well-being. They explore the idea that a consumer-driven mindset can lead to a fragmented sense of self, where personal worth is often measured by material possessions and superficial achievements. Jon emphasises the need to transition from this consumer mindset to one that prioritizes community and contribution. By focusing on what we can give rather than what we can acquire, individuals can cultivate a more fulfilling and mentally healthy life. This shift not only benefits personal well-being but also fosters a sense of belonging and purpose within the community.

Why is local action and community involvement crucial for redefining men's roles? Jon highlights the significance of engaging in local action and becoming actively involved in community initiatives as a way for men to redefine their roles in society. He argues that by participating in community projects and contributing to the common good, men can break free from the constraints of traditional masculinity and find new ways to express their identities. This involvement encourages men to engage meaningfully with those around them, fostering connections and building a sense of purpose that transcends individual achievements. By redefining their roles through community engagement, men can contribute to a more equitable and supportive society, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

So, after everything you've heard in this episode, how can you start showing up more meaningfully; for yourself, your community, and the people around you?

How to find us:
If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com

If you’ve got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out by email: [email protected]

You can also follow along and connect with us on social media, where we share updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/

To connect directly with Tim Barber, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here:
https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15