The Restorative Man Podcast

Many men build their lives around performance—measuring their worth by what they achieve rather than who they are. In this episode, Jesse French and Cody Buriff sit down with Shae McCowen, the chairman of the board at Restoration Project, to unpack the hidden costs of striving. Shae shares his journey from being a skeptical participant at his first Restoration Project gathering to discovering the power of authenticity, brotherhood, and self-awareness. Through laughter, deep reflection, and a few wild stories from early retreats, we explore how men can step out of the performance trap and into something richer.

Access the Restoration Project Community and join the Grove Collective!

Subscribe here: https://rp-grove.circle.so/

To know more about Restoration Project, visit us here:

• Website: www.restorationproject.net
• Instagram: @restorationprojectco
• Facebook: Restoration Project
• LinkedIn: Restoration Project

Ready to create unforgettable memories? Join one of Restoration Project's adventures this 2027 for fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, or men-only experiences, where outdoor challenges meet deep, meaningful conversations. Early bird registration is open from October 1st to 31st—don’t miss your chance to save! Space is limited. Secure your spot today and step into a life-changing adventure! Visit restorationproject.net/experiences for more info.

Are you living as an orphan or as an adopted son? In this episode, Jesse and Cody sit down with Greg Ehlert to explore the journey of sonship—what it means to truly embrace our identity as beloved sons of God. Greg shares his own awakening to this reality, the struggles men face in shifting from self-reliance to interdependence, and why play, community, and surrender are crucial in this transformation. Together, they unpack the difference between striving for approval and resting in the Father's delight. Tune in for an honest, insightful conversation that will challenge and encourage you in your own journey toward sonship.

Access the Restoration Project Community and join the Grove Collective!

Subscribe here: https://rp-grove.circle.so/

To know more about Restoration Project, visit us here:

• Website: www.restorationproject.net
• Instagram: @restorationprojectco
• Facebook: Restoration Project
• LinkedIn: Restoration Project

Ready to create unforgettable memories? Join one of Restoration Project's adventures this 2027 for fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, or men-only experiences, where outdoor challenges meet deep, meaningful conversations. Early bird registration is open from October 1st to 31st—don’t miss your chance to save! Space is limited. Secure your spot today and step into a life-changing adventure! Visit restorationproject.net/experiences for more info.

What can the special needs community teach us about authenticity, dignity, and connection? In this episode, Jesse and Cody sit down with Paul Hathcoat, who shares his journey from bounty hunter to special needs pastor and the deep lessons he’s learned along the way. Paul opens up about how his childhood friendship, personal struggles, and unexpected call to ministry shaped his heart for those with disabilities. Together, they explore the difference between pity and dignity, the transformative power of authentic relationships, and what it truly means to be indispensable in God’s kingdom.

Access the Restoration Project Community and join the Grove Collective!

Subscribe here: https://rp-grove.circle.so/

To know more about Restoration Project, visit us here:

• Website: www.restorationproject.net
• Instagram: @restorationprojectco
• Facebook: Restoration Project
• LinkedIn: Restoration Project

Ready to create unforgettable memories? Join one of Restoration Project's adventures this 2027 for fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, or men-only experiences, where outdoor challenges meet deep, meaningful conversations. Early bird registration is open from October 1st to 31st—don’t miss your chance to save! Space is limited. Secure your spot today and step into a life-changing adventure! Visit restorationproject.net/experiences for more info.

In this episode of The Restorative Man Podcast, Chris Bruno and Jesse French dive into what it means to intentionally invest in marriage rather than settle for survival. They introduce Thrive Marriage Lab, an online year-long marriage cohort designed to help couples move beyond status quo and grow in awareness, curiosity, and kindness toward one another. Chris shares the story behind Thrive’s creation during COVID and how it continues to provide structured, accessible support for couples wanting more for their relationship. They discuss the reality that marriage is always moving either toward connection or away from it—and that investing in intentional growth is essential.

Access the Restoration Project Community and join the Grove Collective!

Subscribe here: https://rp-grove.circle.so/

To know more about Restoration Project, visit us here:

• Website: www.restorationproject.net
• Instagram: @restorationprojectco
• Facebook: Restoration Project
• LinkedIn: Restoration Project

Ready to create unforgettable memories? Join one of Restoration Project's adventures this 2027 for fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, or men-only experiences, where outdoor challenges meet deep, meaningful conversations. Early bird registration is open from October 1st to 31st—don’t miss your chance to save! Space is limited. Secure your spot today and step into a life-changing adventure! Visit restorationproject.net/experiences for more info.

Jesse shares the unforgettable story of his "lucky number seven" anniversary trip gone completely sideways—from a missing campsite to an unplanned visit with his mom and a cooler lost to the river. Chris and Jesse unpack the tension between planning and spontaneity in relationships and how missteps can become legendary family stories. They reflect on the deeper lessons hidden in relational mishaps, like how silence can make things worse and why awareness matters. Through laughter and honesty, they explore what it really takes to build strong connections, even when things don't go as planned.

Access the Restoration Project Community and join the Grove Collective!

Subscribe here: https://rp-grove.circle.so/

To know more about Restoration Project, visit us here:

• Website: www.restorationproject.net
• Instagram: @restorationprojectco
• Facebook: Restoration Project
• LinkedIn: Restoration Project

Ready to create unforgettable memories? Join one of Restoration Project's adventures this 2027 for fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, or men-only experiences, where outdoor challenges meet deep, meaningful conversations. Early bird registration is open from October 1st to 31st—don’t miss your chance to save! Space is limited. Secure your spot today and step into a life-changing adventure! Visit restorationproject.net/experiences for more info.

In this episode of The Restorative Man Podcast, Cody Buriff and Jesse French dive into the world of DIY—not just the hands-on projects, but the deeper emotional and psychological layers that come with them. They get real about the pressure men feel to be self-reliant and competent, the unspoken struggle of asking for help, and why just knowing how to do something isn’t the same as actually growing through it.

Through personal stories and honest reflections, Cody and Jesse unpack what it means to learn, to be vulnerable, and to show up—not just for projects, but for people. They remind us that transformation doesn’t happen in isolation but through community, support, and the willingness to be seen beyond our achievements.

Want to sharpen your skills and grow in the process? Check out 50 Essential Skills for Men—a guide to practical, hands-on abilities every man should have. But more than that, it’s about connection, confidence, and stepping into who you were made to be.

Access the Restoration Project Community and join the Grove Collective!

Subscribe here: https://rp-grove.circle.so/

To know more about Restoration Project, visit us here:

• Website: www.restorationproject.net
• Instagram: @restorationprojectco
• Facebook: Restoration Project
• LinkedIn: Restoration Project

Ready to create unforgettable memories? Join one of Restoration Project's adventures this 2027 for fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, or men-only experiences, where outdoor challenges meet deep, meaningful conversations. Early bird registration is open from October 1st to 31st—don’t miss your chance to save! Space is limited. Secure your spot today and step into a life-changing adventure! Visit restorationproject.net/experiences for more info.

In this episode of The Restorative Man Podcast, hosts Cody Buriff and Jesse French sit down with Lantz Howard to explore the balance between wholeheartedness, ambition, and personal growth. Lantz shares his journey from pastoral ministry to coaching men in leadership, touching on the struggles of people-pleasing, burnout, and finding true purpose. The conversation dives into what it means to live with integrity, pursue ambition with gratitude, and foster deep, meaningful relationships. Lantz challenges men to examine their motivations and embrace the risky but rewarding work of becoming wholehearted leaders. 

Connect with Lantz Howard:

• Website: www.lantzhoward.com
• Lead Wholeheartedly: www.leadwholeheartedly.com
• Facebook: Lantz Howard
• Instagram: @lantzhoward
• LinkedIn: Lantz Howard

Listen to Whole Hearted Leadership with Lantz Howard:

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whole-hearted-leadership-with-lantz-howard/id1558551037
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1tQqp6T25zww1GPkoWTthe?si=945ebf90d4bb48f8

Access the Restoration Project Community and join the Grove Collective!

Subscribe here: https://rp-grove.circle.so/

To know more about Restoration Project, visit us here:

• Website: www.restorationproject.net
• Instagram: @restorationprojectco
• Facebook: Restoration Project
• LinkedIn: Restoration Project
  
  

Ready to create unforgettable memories? Join one of Restoration Project's adventures this 2027 for fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, or men-only experiences, where outdoor challenges meet deep, meaningful conversations. Early bird registration is open from October 1st to 31st—don’t miss your chance to save! Space is limited. Secure your spot today and step into a life-changing adventure! Visit restorationproject.net/experiences for more info.

In this episode of the Restorative Man podcast, hosts Cody Buriff and Jesse French interview Michael Bowen, an architect who shares his transformative journey from a career in construction to pursuing his passion for architecture later in life. Michael discusses the importance of listening and collaboration in his work, the challenges he faced in returning to school at 40, and the personal growth he experienced while building his own home. The conversation highlights the significance of faith, patience, and the lessons learned through the process of creating a space that reflects one's values and aspirations.

Access the Restoration Project Community and join the Grove Collective!

Subscribe here: https://rp-grove.circle.so/

To know more about Restoration Project, visit us here:

• Website: www.restorationproject.net
• Instagram: @restorationprojectco
• Facebook: Restoration Project
• LinkedIn: Restoration Project

Ready to create unforgettable memories? Join one of Restoration Project's adventures this 2027 for fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, or men-only experiences, where outdoor challenges meet deep, meaningful conversations. Early bird registration is open from October 1st to 31st—don’t miss your chance to save! Space is limited. Secure your spot today and step into a life-changing adventure! Visit restorationproject.net/experiences for more info.

In this episode of the Restorative Man podcast, hosts Cody Buriff and Jesse French welcome Shae McCowen, who shares his journey from being a Division 1 swimmer to navigating the complexities of personal worth and success. Shae discusses the rigorous discipline of his college years, the motivations behind his performance addiction, and the transformative experiences that led him to reevaluate his values. Through candid reflections on his life changes, relationships, and the counter-cultural perspectives on success, Shae offers insights into the importance of personal growth and connection over accolades.

Access the Restoration Project Community and join the Grove Collective!

Subscribe here: https://rp-grove.circle.so/

To know more about Restoration Project, visit us here:

• Website: www.restorationproject.net
• Instagram: @restorationprojectco
• Facebook: Restoration Project
• LinkedIn: Restoration Project

Ready to create unforgettable memories? Join one of Restoration Project's adventures this 2027 for fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, or men-only experiences, where outdoor challenges meet deep, meaningful conversations. Early bird registration is open from October 1st to 31st—don’t miss your chance to save! Space is limited. Secure your spot today and step into a life-changing adventure! Visit restorationproject.net/experiences for more info.

In this episode of The Restorative Man podcast, hosts Jesse French and Cody Buriff sit down with Jeremy Williamson, Restoration Project's Director of Experiences. Jeremy shares his journey of immersing himself in Latino culture and the Spanish language. Jeremy shares how his passion led him to El Salvador, where he encountered both profound challenges and deep personal growth. Through stories of loneliness, resilience, and faith, he reflects on the tension between joy and suffering and the transformative power of embracing life’s messiness.  What happens when we lean into our passions, even when they require us to confront our fears? How do we hold onto our identity when life feels unsteady?

Follow Jeremy Williamson on his socials:

• Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/jeremyw805
• Instagram: @jeremyw805

Access the Restoration Project Community and join the Grove Collective!

Subscribe here: https://rp-grove.circle.so/

To know more about Restoration Project, visit us here:

• Website: www.restorationproject.net
• Instagram: @restorationprojectco
• Facebook: Restoration Project
• LinkedIn: Restoration Project

Ready to create unforgettable memories? Join one of Restoration Project's adventures this 2027 for fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, or men-only experiences, where outdoor challenges meet deep, meaningful conversations. Early bird registration is open from October 1st to 31st—don’t miss your chance to save! Space is limited. Secure your spot today and step into a life-changing adventure! Visit restorationproject.net/experiences for more info.