Welcome back to the Books Brothers Podcast! This week, the guys discuss the Preface, Introduction, and “The Stoic Mask” chapters from The Mask of Masculinity by Lewis Howes.

1. Recap of the chapters (3:03 - 8:23)
2. “Preface” discussion (8:24 - 27:34)

• The guys discuss scenarios they heard the term “Be a man” growing up (and today) and how that phrase influenced how they viewed (and still view) what manhood means. (8:24 - 12:54)
• The guys share what unhelpful portrayals of manhood they’ve had to unlearn as they’ve gotten older and the benefits they’ve experienced from unlearning them. (12:55 - 27:34)

3. “Introduction” discussion (27:35 - 43:52)

• What depictions of stereotypical “real man” do the guys identify with, and are there any they’d add to the author’s list?

4. “The Stoic Mask” discussion (44:40 - 1:08:14)

• Why are men afraid of being vulnerable and opening themselves up to other men? (44:40 - 55:40)
• What are some faulty assumptions that are built on fears that make us afraid of addressing? Why do we as men believe those fears? (55:40 - 1:08:05)

Next week’s reading: “The Athlete Mask”: pages 41 - 60

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We’ll see you next week! Until then, read, reflect, and connect.