What does it mean to be a real man in today's world? This profound conversation between spiritual teacher Jonni and his wife Carla cuts through cultural confusion to reveal the essence of authentic masculinity.

Carla opens with raw honesty about her past relationships with men who looked the part—tall, strong, financially successful—yet consistently disappointed her when emotional depth and accountability were required. "I'd given up on my definition of a man being possible to find," she confesses, describing how these experiences steadily eroded her expectations of what men could truly offer.

Jonni frames these common relationship patterns through a compassionate therapeutic lens, explaining that many men reach their "ceiling" when relationships require self-reflection. Rather than confronting their wounds and feelings of inadequacy, they retreat to activities that distract and soothe. The root cause? Our culture's complete lack of meaningful rites of passage that help boys develop into emotionally mature men.

The heart of authentic manhood, Jonni suggests, rests on self-awareness paired with deep compassion, the ability to take full responsibility, and a commitment to values even when challenged. Most surprisingly, he reveals that embracing feminine qualities—surrender, emotional flow, vulnerability—is essential for men to become fully integrated human beings.

This conversation offers healing insights for both men feeling lost in modern gender expectations and women seeking to understand the developmental challenges many men face. By redefining masculinity as a journey of integration rather than domination, Jonni and Carla point toward a more balanced future where men and women support each other's fullest expression.

For those inspired to deepen this work, details about the Sacred Man retreat can be found here — an opportunity for men to heal shame and avoidance patterns and develop the emo

Tell us what you loved about this episode. Send a text now.

Transform Knowledge into Embodied Living
Today's insights become life-changing when you practice them daily. Profound shifts happen when you unite mind and body practice.

Begin your transformation now with a 7-day free trial of Ritam Studio. 

Free Offerings To Get You Started

• Awaken awareness, build strength and mobility, restore true posture with Carla's Movement Fundamentals.
• Access Jonni's Knowledge for Life teachings, translating ancient wisdom into practical daily guidance.
• Connect with our community in our free weekly live meditation and Q&A. Register now.

Got a Question for Jonni or Carla?

Record a 90-second voice note with your question, we'll answer it on the podcast.

Inspire Others with Your Story

Share your Ritam Studio journey in a 90-second voice note and inspire thousands of on this path.

Move the body, still the mind, awaken the self.