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

From Boyhood to True Manhood

Real Men Feel host Andy Grant engages in an insightful conversation with Alessandro Frosali, a men's coach and host of the S-T-F-U-A-L podcast. Alessandro shares his transformational journey from hitting rock bottom in his marriage to reclaiming integrated manhood.

The discussion explores the crucial differences between boyhood and manhood behaviors, the significance of rites of passage, and the importance of elder wisdom in modern life. Alessandro also highlights practical tools for self-discovery and the value of emotional control, responsibility, and authentic connections in personal growth and relationships.

00:00 Boys Ruling The World
00:26 Meet Alessandro Frosali: A Journey of Transformation
01:23 The Turning Point: What Does It Mean to Be a Man?
05:34 Boy Behavior vs. Man Behavior
14:51 The Importance of Rites of Passage
20:35 Creating Love and Unity: The Mission Behind the Podcast
22:11 Tools for Self-Discovery and Growth
27:03 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Connect with Alessandro
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/alessandro_frosali/
Alessandro Frosali — https://alessandrofrosali.com/
YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/@alessandrofrosali

Resources
The Making of Men: Raising boys to be happy, healthy and successful by Arne Rubenstin — https://amzn.to/41SYUff
The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron — https://amzn.to/4pk53eB

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 370

Transforming Firefighter Wellness

Real Men Feel host Andy Grant converses with Robbie Nebergall, a veteran firefighter and founder of the Reclaim fitness program. Robbie discusses the physical and mental toll that the firefighting profession can take, breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health, and how his program aims to transform the health and well-being of firefighters. He addresses the cultural resistance to change within the fire service and underscores the importance of community, emotional resilience, and continuous fitness standards.

Robbie also shares personal anecdotes that inspired his mission to improve firefighter wellness and outlines his vision for a healthy, sustainable career in firefighting.

00:00 Introduction to the Warrior Mindset
00:21 Meet Robbie Nebergall: Firefighter and Fitness Coach
01:16 The Realities of Firefighting: Mental and Physical Toll
05:16 Changing the Fire Service Culture
17:13 Reclaim: A Program for Firefighters
20:40 Redefining the Warrior Mindset
23:20 Challenges and Future of Fire Service
31:15 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with Robbie
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/robbienebs
SKool Community — https://www.skool.com/reclaim-your-life-3729/about
YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/@ReclaimFitnessGroup

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 369

Embracing Vulnerability

In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant speaks with Dawud Wallace, a speaker, entrepreneur, and advocate for emotional wellness rather than suppressing them, and advocates for creating safe spaces for men to share and support one another, especially among Black men. They discuss themes such as caregiving, grief, mental health, and masculinity. Dawud shares his personal experiences of caring for his sick mother from a young age, dealing with grief, and the importance of vulnerability.

They explore the societal 'man box' that restricts men's emotional expressions and how Black men face even tighter constraints. Dawud emphasizes that true strength lies in facing and understanding one's emotions, not suppressing them, and advocates for creating safe spaces for men to share and support each other.

They also touch on the importance of accountability, the value of fun and joy, and how to break free from societal expectations. Dawud's book, 'When a Brother Needs a Friend Too,' serves as a guide for those navigating similar challenges.

00:00 Introduction to Real Men Feel
00:21 Meet Dawud Wallace: A Journey of Emotional Wellness
01:15 The Importance of Vulnerability and Emotional Expression
04:57 Navigating the Man Box
06:20 The Role of Self-Reflection and Spirituality
09:42 The Impact of Emotional Isolation on Black Men
14:57 Redefining Masculine Strength
17:06 Understanding Vulnerability and Fatherhood
17:24 Prioritizing Mental Health in Black Men
19:50 The Importance of Accountability
22:32 Legacy and Principles
24:05 Embracing Fun and Joy
25:03 Handling Grief and Tough Times
26:23 Takeaways from the Book
29:19 Connecting and Spreading the Message
30:01 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Connect with Dawud
Dawud Wallace — https://www.whenabrotherneeds.com/
Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/whenabrotherneeds
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/whenabrotherneeds

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 368

Exploring Vulnerability: Nick Jonsson on Executive Loneliness and Mental Health

In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant talks with Nick Jonsson, a TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and mental health advocate. Nick shares his personal struggles with loneliness and isolation despite outward success, his battle with alcoholism, and how hitting rock bottom led him to ask for help. They discuss the stigma around male vulnerability, the unique pressures facing high-achieving men, and practical steps to foster emotional honesty both personally and professionally. Nick emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for men to open up and the need for cultural shifts in how masculinity is perceived.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Struggles
00:24 Welcome to Real Men Feel
00:34 Meet Nick Johnson
01:20 Nick's Journey Through Loneliness and Isolation
02:40 The Struggles of High-Achieving Men
04:06 The Turning Point and Asking for Help
05:47 The Role of Men's Groups
06:57 Sobriety and Its Impact
09:43 Challenges of Male Executives
15:23 Cultural Differences in Expressing Loneliness
25:04 The Importance of Belonging
27:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Nick
Nick Jonsson — https://www.nickjonsson.com/
LinkedIn — https://sg.linkedin.com/in/nick-jonsson
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/jonssonnick/

Resources
Executive Loneliness by Nick Jonsson — https://amzn.to/4mmFqrA

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 367