What Does It Mean to Be a Man? Leadership, Grit, and Integrity

What happens when life throws you a challenge so big it threatens everything you’ve built? Chad Caden faced that moment—and made a decision that redefined his future. His story is about grit, resilience, and the will to keep moving forward, no matter what.

Join Josh Hatcher on this episode of Manlihood: The Podcast for Men, where men are forged through challenge and purpose. In this conversation, Josh reconnects with lifelong friend Chad Caden, a retired Chief Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force, and someone whose story is nothing short of inspiring.

Chad dedicated his life to leadership and service, but when an unexpected medical battle threatened everything, he had to make a choice—stay in the fight or let it take him down. His decision changed the course of his life and gave him a new mission: helping others overcome adversity.

• Resilience in the Face of Adversity – How Chad pushed through career-ending health struggles
• Leadership Lessons from the U.S. Air Force – What 26 years of service taught Chad about strength, sacrifice, and integrity
• Finding Purpose Beyond the Military – Transitioning from active duty to civilian life and mentorship
• The Mental and Physical Challenges of Amputation – What Chad learned after losing his leg and why he wouldn’t change his journey
• Brotherhood and the Power of Connection – How small-town roots and deep friendships shape who we become

• 00:00 – Introduction to Chad Caden’s inspiring journey
• 01:45 – Meet Chad: A Lifetime of Service
• 03:01 – Growing Up in Small-Town Pennsylvania
• 03:16 – Join the Manlihood Man Cave – A private group for men
• 11:07 – Facing Life’s Challenges & Career in the Air Force
• 29:14 – Transitioning to Life After the Military
• 44:58 – The Struggle with Health Issues & Amputation
• 49:13 – Finding Strength in Adversity
• 59:57 – The Importance of Mental Health for Men
• 01:13:00 – Integrity and Leadership – What it truly means to be a man
• 01:27:08 – Closing Thoughts

This podcast for men isn’t just about talking—it’s about action, transformation, and brotherhood. If you found this conversation inspiring, let’s keep it going:

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At the end of the day, being a man isn’t about ego, status, or toughness—it’s about character, leadership, and perseverance. Chad’s story is proof that true manhood is forged in adversity.

What challenges have shaped you into the man you are today? Let’s talk about it in the Manlihood Man Cave.

As always, I love you, I’m proud of you, and I’ll see you next time.