In this episode of the Real Men Hug podcast, hosts Ben and Jim immerse themselves in the realm of nerdy hobbies, sharing how these pursuits have enriched their lives. They fondly recall their adventures, from Ben's geocaching exploits to Jim's spirited escapades at Renaissance fairs, where he often donned the guise of the legendary Dread Pirate Roberts. Alongside their nostalgic reminiscences, they discuss the enduring appeal of classic PC games like Duke Nukem and King's Quest, reflecting on the joy of immersing oneself in these timeless experiences.

As they navigate the world of geekdom, Ben and Jim confront the stigma surrounding their hobbies, particularly in contrast to more mainstream interests like football. They challenge the notion that spending time pursuing geeky passions is any less valid or worthwhile, urging listeners to embrace their own unique interests without fear of judgment. 

Through their candid conversation, they also touch on the evolution of nerd culture and the gradual acceptance of intelligence and creativity in society. From childhood experiences with DOS-based computers to college antics with the Nintendo Wii, they celebrate the joy of being unapologetically nerdy in a world that sometimes fails to understand the appeal.

Tune in to Real Men Hug on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more engaging discussions about embracing your inner geek and hugging like nobody's watching!

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In this episode, Jim and Ben focus on Ben's journey of identity transformation. They explore how personal experiences such as relational strain, vocational loss, and personal growth have shaped and reshaped who they are. 

The conversation delves into the influence of external voices on Ben's initial career choices and both of their ongoing pursuit of living authentic lives. This episode highlights how challenges, though difficult, often contribute to a deeper understanding of one's true self, transcending societal expectations. Brimming with genuine reflection and life-altering realizations, this episode ensures a transformative and thought-provoking listening experience with Ben's story serving as the central narrative focus.

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In this episode of Real Men Hug, hosts Ben and Jim open up about the essentials of setting boundaries. They chat about why it's crucial for your emotions and personal growth, sharing stories about navigating pushback from loved ones and underscoring the importance of good communication.

Tune in as Ben and Jim get real about those awkward moments when boundaries get crossed, emphasizing the need to stand your ground. Listen in and uncover the transformative power of no.

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In this touching episode, hosts Jim and Ben share poignant tales about Jim's wife and Ben's daughter, revealing how childhood trauma shaped their lives. Hear heartfelt stories that showcase resilience and the enduring impact of past experiences. Explore the healing power of acknowledgment, therapy, and community. Episode 3 is a heartfelt journey celebrating strength in overcoming life's adversities.

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In this eye-opening episode of Real Men Hug, we dive into Jim's story. Born as the emotional one in a family of five siblings, he was always deemed 'abnormal.' Struggling with feeling emotions in a family that viewed such sensitivity as weakness shaped his childhood and his path. Years later, we witness Jim's transformation into a pillar of emotional strength; someone capable of consoling others. Hear about the internal conflicts he grappled with, his journey towards embracing his emotional side, and how it saved the life of co-host, Ben. It's a riveting exploration of breaking free from 'the norm' and celebrating emotions in all their complexity. 

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Stuck between the pursuit of self-expression and the pressure of appearing 'strong', Ben's story strikes a chord with all those who've been through the ringer. An inspiring tale of resilience, this episode sheds light on the multiple triggers of suicidal thoughts and the pursuit of hope in the darkness. Ben's story takes us through a profound journey of self-discovery and acceptance of emotions, and his story also shows that with the right people, sharing emotions and feelings could be a life-saving intervention.

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Get ready for Real Men Hug, a groundbreaking podcast challenging the norms of masculinity and embracing vulnerability. Join Jim and Ben in this exclusive pre-release teaser where they provide a sneak peek into candid conversations about men's emotions, struggles, and the journey to redefine what it means to be a man in today's world.

 Listen in for a taste of the raw, unfiltered discussions coming your way on January 4th. Discover a safe space for men and their allies to explore authentic connections and break free from societal pressures. 

Subscribe now and be the first to experience Real Men Hug when it launches! #RealMenHugTeaser #RedefiningMasculinity #PodcastPreview

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