Overcoming Addiction and Adversity: The Kelley Gulledge Story

In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant speaks with former professional baseball player Kelley Gulledge, who shares his powerful journey from battling crack cocaine addiction to achieving sobriety and overcoming multiple sclerosis. Kelley opens up about his struggles, the pivotal moments that led to his recovery, and the importance of faith, family, and perseverance.

This inspirational conversation delves into the depths of addiction, the road to redemption, and the strength needed to rebuild one’s life.

00:00 A Shocking Introduction
00:32 Meet Kelley Gulledge
01:28 Growing Up in a Baseball Family
02:51 College Decision and Early Career
04:11 The Dark Turn: Addiction Begins
05:01 The Struggle with Crack Cocaine
08:00 Hitting Rock Bottom
12:07 The Road to Recovery
15:16 Finding Sobriety and Purpose
17:02 A Spiritual Awakening
23:03 Returning to Baseball
24:06 Struggles with Sobriety and Morality
26:39 Finding Support and Love
28:55 Health Scare and Diagnosis
33:12 Adopting a New Lifestyle
36:36 Career Transition and Giving Back
41:37 Pride in Family and Faith
47:27 Final Reflections and Connection

Connect with Kelley
LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelley-gulledge-22845248/

Resources
The Wahls Protocol: A Radical New Way to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions Using Paleo Principles, by Dr Terry Wahls — https://amzn.to/4a6sH93

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:
Join me and connect with other like-minded men in the
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant
Andy Grant | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!
Real Men Feel | http://realmenfeel.org
YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 380

Transformational Healing: A Journey Through Trauma

In this episode of 'Real Men Feel,' host Andy Grant engages in a profound conversation with Kerry Blaser, a mother, shaman, and author who has transformed her life from academic and corporate settings to profound healing work following her struggles with pain and trauma. Kerry shares her journey from a suicide attempt to embracing her psychic gifts and using them to heal herself and others.

She discusses the critical role men, such as Andrew Tate and Justin Waller, have played in her personal growth and offers insights on how both men and women can navigate their wounds towards wisdom and self-love. Kerry emphasizes the importance of monogamy—the unique bond between specific men and women—and how staying true to one's emotions can lead to authentic, fulfilling relationships.

00:00 Introduction to Real Men Feel
00:32 Meet Kerry Blaser: A Journey of Healing
01:31 Kerry's Turning Point: A Suicide Attempt
02:49 Psychic Awakening in the Psych Ward
05:17 Embracing Psychic Gifts and Healing
09:05 The Power of Yoga and Medicine Journeys
11:46 Healing Through Relationships
15:24 Mirroring and Healing with Men
17:28 Facing Fears and Attracting Unusual Relationships
18:06 Emotional Pain and Growth
19:03 Challenges with Men and Their Vulnerabilities
20:25 Connections to Childhood and Trauma
22:28 Healing and Self-Reflection
23:12 The Role of Women in Society
26:09 Monogamy and Enlightenment
28:33 The Importance of Self-Love and Healthy Relationships
32:37 The Need for a Healthy Nuclear Family
36:47 Final Thoughts and Resources

Connect with Kerry
Website — https://www.kerryblaser.com
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/kerryblaserofficial
Tiktok — https://www.tiktok.com/@kerryblaserofficial
YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/@kerryblaser

Resources
My Inner Heroine by Kerry Blaser — https://amzn.to/44dqg0H

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:
Join me and connect with other like-minded men in the
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant
Andy Grant Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!
Real Men Feel Website | http://realmenfeel.org
YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 379

Facing Imposter Syndrome and Grief

In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes Alain Dumonceaux, founder of The Awakened Man, to discuss imposter syndrome and grief. Alain shares his personal journey of loss and self-discovery, including the death of his father-in-law and nearly losing his marriage. He explains how these experiences motivated him to create a supportive community for men to find purpose, power, and wholeness.

Alain delves into the concept of awakening, the importance of brotherhood, and how men can move beyond feeling like a fraud to live with real courage. The conversation also explores the different ways men and women handle grief and the importance of acknowledging and addressing internal struggles.

00:00 Introduction: The Void of External Validation
00:20 Welcome to Real Men Feel
00:38 Meet Alain Dumonceaux: Founder of The Awakened Man
01:13 Alain's Personal Journey of Loss and Self-Discovery
05:21 The Concept of Awakening
06:52 The Inner World of Men: Success and Validation
09:07 The Importance of Values and Beliefs
18:51 Handling Grief and Loss
26:57 The Role of Brotherhood and Community
30:12 Conclusion: Embracing Purpose and Connection

Connect with Alain
Website — https://www.theawakenedman.net/
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/the.revolutionary.man
Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/theawakenedman.net
YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg8DCH78anx-r7KZEU8Eclw

Resources
The Revolutionary Man Podcast — https://therevolutionarymanpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:
Join me and connect with other like-minded men in the
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant
Andy Grant Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!
Real Men Feel Website | http://realmenfeel.org
YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 378

Overcoming Compulsive Sexual Behavior

In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant speaks with Craig Perra, a renowned expert on overcoming compulsive sexual behaviors, sex addiction, and porn addiction. Craig shares his personal journey from a high-powered attorney with severe addiction issues to becoming a co-founder of the Mindful Habit System, a transformative approach to managing compulsive behaviors. The discussion delves into the underlying causes of such behaviors, the detrimental role of shame, and the importance of leading all parts of oneself, including those aspects one may despise.

Craig also emphasizes the necessity of purpose, emotional regulation, and healthy habits in overcoming addiction. Additionally, he sheds light on the unique challenges faced by high-profile individuals and the pervasive impact of easily accessible pornography in today's digital age.

00:00 Introduction to the Cure for Sex and Porn Addiction
00:32 Meet Craig Perra: Overcoming Addiction
01:22 Craig's Personal Journey and Turning Point
03:19 Building the Mindful Habit System
08:10 The Role of Shame and Internal Family Systems
11:52 Challenges with Traditional 12-Step Models
14:22 Focusing on Habits Over Addiction
16:15 Unique Challenges for High Achievers
18:52 Impact of Technology on Compulsive Sexual Activity
22:53 Addressing Deeper Needs and Self-Care
24:38 Advice for Partners and Breaking the Cycle
28:12 The Importance of Healthy Sexual Expression
30:15 Final Thoughts and Resources

Connect with Craig
Website — https://www.mindfulhabithelp.com/
TikTok —   https://www.tiktok.com/@the_mindful_habit
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/mindful_habit_coaching/
LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigperra/
YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/user/themindfulhabitResources
Sex Afflictions & Porn Addictions Podcast — https://pod.link/556373664
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg — https://amzn.to/47wkGaJ

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:
Join me and other like-minded men in the
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant
Andy Grant Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!
Real Men Feel Website | http://realmenfeel.org
YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 377

Embracing Sexuality and Aging with Karen Bigman

In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes Karen Bigman, the founder of Taboo to Truth. Together, they break down myths and stigmas surrounding sex and aging. Karen shares insights on how aging doesn't signify the end of desire and intimacy but can mark a new beginning.

They discuss the differences in sexual changes for men and women as they age, the importance of communication in maintaining a healthy sex life, and the significance of emotional intimacy. The conversation also touches upon society's discomfort with discussing sex and the impact of traditional sex education. Karen encourages listeners to embrace new forms of intimacy and pleasure as they grow older, supporting her message with personal anecdotes and professional experiences.

00:00 Introduction: Embracing Midlife Changes
00:22 Welcome to Real Men Feel
00:31 Meet Karen Bigman: Breaking Myths on Sex and Aging
01:18 Karen's Journey: From Menopause to Sex Education
02:36 Debunking Myths About Aging and Sexuality
03:48 Society's Reluctance to Discuss Sex and Aging
07:42 Men's Identity and Sexual Performance
11:50 Navigating Intimacy and Emotional Connection
13:11 Advice for Dating After Long Relationships
14:38 Maintaining a Healthy Sex Life in Long-Term Relationships
19:07 Exploring Sexuality and Kink in Midlife
24:51 Karen's Personal Dating Experiences
25:58 The Importance of Open Conversations About Sex
27:18 Karen's Podcast and Final Thoughts
30:09 Conclusion: Aging and New Possibilities

Connect with Karen
Website — https://www.taboototruth.com/
TikTok —   https://www.tiktok.com/@taboototruth
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth
LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenbigman/
YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:
Join me and connect with other like-minded men in the
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant
Andy Grant Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!
Real Men Feel Website | http://realmenfeel.org
YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 376

Healing the Father Wound: Kevin Palmieri's Journey to Self-Worth

In this powerful episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes Kevin Palmieri, founder and co-host of the Next Level University podcast. Kevin shares his transformative experience of meeting his father for the first time at age 27 and how it shaped his life. From dealing with imposter syndrome in his youth to overcoming rock bottom moments and contemplating suicide, Kevin's journey exemplifies resilience and personal growth.

They delve into the profound impact of growing up without a father, redefining self-worth, and the importance of vulnerability for men. Whether you're grappling with your own father wound or seeking to build a life you're proud of, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration. Join the Authentic AF Community for more support and connection at realmenfeel.org/group.

00:00 Meeting My Dad at 27: A Life-Changing Experience
00:24 Introduction to Real Men Feel Podcast
00:37 Kevin Palmieri's Journey: From Success to Contemplating Suicide
01:29 Growing Up Without a Father: Kevin's Childhood Reflections
04:14 The Impact of Masculinity and Self-Worth
06:43 The Unexpected Facebook Message
09:36 Meeting My Dad: The Emotional Encounter
13:30 Reflecting on the Father Wound and Personal Growth
16:33 Kevin's Rock Bottom: The Breaking Point
17:37 Hitting Rock Bottom
18:31 A Year on the Road
19:14 Starting the Hyperconscious Podcast
19:51 Struggling with Mental Health
21:17 The Turning Point
22:49 The Pain-Pleasure Pendulum
24:21 Redefining Self-Worth
27:21 Lessons from 2000 Episodes
29:57 The Power of Vulnerability
34:19 Connecting and Growing

Connect with Kevin
Website — https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/
Facebook —   https://www.facebook.com/kevin.palmieri.90/
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/
LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-palmieri-5b7736160/
YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBo--QvPHbGOrO13C0Xyybg

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:
Join me and connect with other like-minded men in the
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant
Andy Grant Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!
Real Men Feel Website | http://realmenfeel.org
YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 375

Exploring Emotional Literacy and Attachment Styles

In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant delves into the crucial topic of emotional literacy with guest Alexandra Velez, creator of Secure School. They discuss the importance of recognizing, naming, and navigating emotions as a foundation for emotional intelligence, and how these skills significantly impact personal and relational well-being. Alexandra provides insights into how early life experiences and societal norms shape emotional development, particularly for men.

The conversation also touches on attachment styles, their origins, and how individuals can transform their attachment patterns to foster healthier relationships. Practical tools like the emotion wheel are suggested for better emotional management. Alexandra highlights the need for emotional education from an early age to prevent future relational and emotional challenges.

00:00 Introduction to Real Men Feel
00:40 Meet Alexandra Velez: Emotional Literacy Expert
01:18 Understanding Emotional Literacy vs. Emotional Intelligence
02:06 The Importance of Emotional Literacy in Daily Life
04:46 Overcoming Emotional Illiteracy
08:40 Practical Tools for Emotional Literacy
12:24 Attachment Styles Explained
17:57 The Role of Technology in Emotional Literacy
19:45 The Vision for Emotional Literacy Education
23:26 Challenges Men Face in Developing Emotional Literacy
25:53 The Availability Awards: Recognizing Emotional Unavailability
29:49 Final Thoughts and Where to Learn More

Connect with Alexandra
Alexandra Velez → ⁠http://www.mysecureera.com/⁠Love Pattern Report → https://www.mysecureera.com/lovepattern 
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/alexandravelezofficial/
YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@AlexandraVelezOfficial

Resources
The Availability Awards by Alexandra Velez — https://amzn.to/4nUVqSg

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:
Join me and connect with other like-minded men in the
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant
Andy Grant Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!
Real Men Feel Website | http://realmenfeel.org
YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 374

Overcoming Trauma and Embracing Vulnerability

In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant engages in a heartfelt conversation with Aaron Gambel, an impact-driven life coach and men's group facilitator. Aaron shares his personal journey through a pivotal moment that led him to prioritize his mental health and ultimately pursue a mission to lower male suicide rates. Drawing on his experiences with divorce and emotional healing, Aaron offers insightful commentary on rewriting one's story, facing trauma, and the importance of creating safe spaces for men to express their emotions. Together, they explore the deepest challenges men face and the transformative potential of vulnerability and connection in men's groups.

00:00 Understanding the Subconscious Mind
00:20 Introduction to Real Men Feel
01:04 Aaron Gambel's Turning Point
03:40 The Dark Night of the Soul
05:06 Mental Health College Experience
08:51 Rewriting Your Story
22:17 The Importance of Men's Groups
35:21 Steps to Emotional Awareness
37:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Aaron
Aaron Gambel — https://www.aarongambel.com/
Tiktok —   https://www.tiktok.com/@aarongambel
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/aaronmgambel/

Resources
Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents by Lindsay C. Gibson — https://amzn.to/3KT6VLm
The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. — https://amzn.to/3KStzn9
Still Here: How to Succeed In Life After Failing at Suicide by Andy Grant — https://amzn.to/4mSvk17
From the Core by John Wineland — https://amzn.to/433os9Z

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:
Join me and connect with other like-minded men in the
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant
Andy Grant Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!
Real Men Feel Website | http://realmenfeel.org
YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 373

Unpacking Narcissism

Real Men Feel host Andy Grant converses with Sterlin Mosley, a therapist, professor, and author specializing in relationships, attachment, and personality dynamics. The discussion delves into the complexities of narcissism, exploring what it truly means, how it manifests in both men and women, and its impact on relationships.

Sterlin shares valuable insights on recognizing narcissistic traits, managing relationships with narcissists, and addressing one's own narcissistic tendencies. Listeners are invited to join the Authentic AF community for further discussions on masculinity, emotions, and healing.

00:00 Introduction to Real Men Feel
01:13 Understanding Narcissism with Sterlin Mosley
02:59 Types and Traits of Narcissism
10:41 Narcissism in Men vs. Women
15:05 Can Narcissists Change?
18:27 Recognizing Narcissistic Relationships
28:31 Cultural and Developmental Influences on Narcissism
30:48 Sterlin Mosley's New Book and Final Thoughts

Connect with Sterlin
Sterlin Mosley — https://sterlinmosley.com
Substack — https://sterlinmosley.substack.com/
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/sterlinmosley/
LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/sterlinmosley/

Resources
Center of the Universe: Transforming the 27 Types of Narcissism from the Inside Out — https://amzn.to/483i1Hp
The Narcissist in You and Everyone Else: Recognizing the 27 Types of Narcissism — https://amzn.to/3KfxBWG

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:
Join other like-minded men in the
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant
Andy Grant Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!
Real Men Feel Website | http://realmenfeel.org
YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 372

Self-Care is Selfless

In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant is joined by Coach Brian Parana, a health coach, husband, father of four, and former owner of a CrossFit gym. Brian emphasizes that the most selfless thing a man can do for his loved ones is to take better care of himself. Throughout their discussion, Brian shares his journey into fitness, insights on balancing self-care with family responsibilities, and the importance of community and accountability.

The episode examines the challenges men face in prioritizing their health and offers practical advice for overcoming these obstacles. Listeners are also introduced to Brian's 'Call to Rise,' a 100-day transformation program designed to help men reclaim their energy and leadership.

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Self-Care
00:30 Welcome to Real Men Feel
00:36 Meet Coach Brian Parana
01:32 Brian's Journey into Fitness
03:23 Balancing Health and Relationships
04:53 The Selflessness of Self-Care
05:38 Reframing Mindsets for Better Health
07:49 Success Stories: Transforming Lives
10:17 Common Excuses and Overcoming Them
14:42 The Call to Rise Program
16:20 Building a Brotherhood Through Fitness
22:40 Balancing Family, Work, and Health
26:49 The Importance of Self-Leadership
27:54 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Connect with Brian
The Call To Rise — https://thecalltorise.com/
Instagram — https://instagram.com/coachbrianparana
Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/coachbrianparana/
LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachbrianparana/

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:
Join me and connect with other like-minded men in the
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant
Andy Grant Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!
Real Men Feel Website | http://realmenfeel.org
YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 371