The Evolving Man Podcast

Our phones promise connection, convenience, and access to nearly everything. But what happens when the tool we carry everywhere begins filling every quiet moment, exploiting our unresolved patterns, and gradually taking away our freedom to choose? Mark Groves returns to the Evolving Man Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about truth, addiction, technology, and personal sovereignty. Mark shares what it was like to speak publicly during the social division of COVID, the backlash and nervous-system strain that followed, and how he eventually realized that fighting against polarization was pulling him away from his deeper mission of creating connection. From there, we trace a much longer transformation in Mark’s life. Quitting alcohol revealed sugar, people-pleasing, pornography, social approval, and other subtler vices. Eventually, he recognized that his phone had begun occupying the space once filled by many of those behaviours. This conversation explores how smartphones and social media exploit our need for belonging, approval, stimulation, and escape. They enter every crack in our lives, eliminate boredom, interrupt our relationships, and make it increasingly difficult to hear ourselves think. The answer is not to reject technology altogether. It is to develop a more conscious relationship with it. One grounded in boundaries, discernment, accountability, and the freedom to put it down. IN THIS EPISODE: The personal cost of speaking out during COVID Moving from freedom fighting toward bridge building Repairing relationships without waiting for an apology Why Mark quit drinking more than seven years ago How removing one vice can reveal the next Codependency, people-pleasing, and the fear of not belonging Mark’s decision to confront pornography in his marriage Why social media can resemble an abusive relationship How phones keep the nervous system surveying for danger Why boredom is essential for creativity, intuition, and self-connection How technology exploits unresolved relational wounds Why willpower alone is rarely enough to change phone habits Protecting attention, relationships, and childhood from constant screens Creating red, yellow, and green zones for technology use Reclaiming sovereignty in a world built to capture your attention This episode is for anyone who has ever reached for their phone without consciously deciding to—or felt that technology was interfering with their focus, sleep, creativity, relationships, or connection to themselves. Your phone can add extraordinary value to your life. But only when you are the one deciding what kind of relationship you have with it. CONNECT WITH MARK GROVES Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsmarkgroves @itsmarkgroves The Mark Groves Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5se5aQBcki87JV3zo1RYSi?si=c07c0af6917d4c62 Substack: https://markgroves.substack.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/user/markgrovestv Get Mark’s Digital Detox Kit: https://link.fgfunnels.com/widget/form/A1Z1U7swAaUZHuJmWM3P?notrack=true WORK WITH BEN Learn more about the Freedom From Addiction Circle: https://freedom.evolvingman.com/freedom-from-addiction-circle Subscribe to the Evolving Man Podcast and share this episode with someone who is ready to reclaim their attention.

Ben sits down with Jason Grechanik - a tabaquero and plant medicine practitioner who spent years apprenticing in the Peruvian Amazon studying the traditional spiritual and medicinal use of tobacco. Together they explore the surprising role tobacco has played in indigenous healing traditions, the difference between sacred tobacco and commercial cigarettes, and why many traditional cultures considered tobacco one of the most important master plants. The conversation moves through spirituality, masculinity, addiction, trauma, anxiety, nervous system healing, warrior traditions, direct experience, and the relationship between plants and consciousness. Jason also shares his personal journey into the world of plant medicine, including his intense initiation into tobacco dietas and what these traditions teach about healing, presence, clarity, and power. Topics Discussed Tobacco as sacred medicine The difference between tobacco and cigarettes Indigenous and Amazonian healing traditions Tobacco dietas and plant apprenticeships Masculinity and spiritual initiation Anxiety, addiction, and trauma healing The difference between medicine and medication Why shamans consider tobacco a master plant Jiu-jitsu, embodiment, and grounded spirituality Direct spiritual experience vs intellectual knowledge About Jason Grechanik Jason Grachanik is a tabaquero and plant medicine practitioner who spent years living and apprenticing in the Peruvian Amazon studying traditional healing systems, tobacco work, and master plant dietas. He now works with people through immersive healing retreats and traditional plant medicine practices rooted in Amazonian traditions. Links from this episode:  Jason’s website Retreats with Jason Jason's Instagram The Universe Within - Podcast Evolving Man’s Freedom From Addiction Circle The ARKA Talks Podcast

With over 25 years of hands-on experience in personal transformation, Stefanos Sifandos works at the intersection of human potential, relational intelligence, and embodied leadership. He is a trained educator and somatic, trauma-informed relationship specialist with a background in behavioral science and philosophy, known for translating deep inner work into grounded, real-world change. In this episode, we dove deep with Stefanos about the real work that keeps love and connection alive, especially through parenting, marriage, and personal challenges. Stefanos got vulnerable about hitting rock bottom, doing the inner work, and how being radically honest and intentional with yourself and your partner is the ultimate foundation for transformation. If you want insight into lasting love, conscious relationship tools, and parenting, this episode is a must-listen.  Here are some of the pieces we discuss on this episode: – How to keep love alive and act with love when your romantic partner is angry or distant – The challenge of maintaining connection and spark in long-term relationships, especially under stress and obligations – Stef's personal journey of transformation and inner work – The impact of becoming a parent: how fatherhood stretches emotional edges and expands capacity for love, grief, and devotion – Life challenges and awakenings: Stefanos Sifandos's turning point with addiction, infidelity, and facing suicidal thoughts – The role of surrender and connection in moving through rock-bottom moments – How shame, worthiness, and self-connection relate to addiction and healing – The power of speaking the truth and vulnerability in men’s work and relationships – Recognizing and breaking patterns of trauma bonding in volatile relationships – When and why it’s healthy to let go of a relationship that’s become too toxic or drama-filled – The importance of doing inner work: working on yourself to show up better in partnership – Facing old family patterns, impatience, and imperfection as a partner and parent – Real talk on the struggles of parenthood: impatience, mistakes, and embracing humanity – Practicing conscious parenting: modeling humility, self-regulation, and apology to your child – How a father’s relationship with his daughter informs her view of masculinity and future partnerships – Making quality time and simple connection a priority in marriage – Relationship tools: carving out time for intentional sharing, listening, and repair (including the Imago dialogue practice) – The impact of performative gestures versus simple, consistent acts of care in keeping the spark alive – How curiosity and presence nurture ongoing intimacy and novelty in partnerships – The art of holding space, self-regulation, and loving your partner even when you’re the target of their anger – Embracing imperfection in relationship and family life – Stef’s new book, Tuned In and Turned On: A Path to True Connection, Deep Healing, and Lasting Love, and how it explores these teachings and practices in greater depth Links from this episode Stefanos Sifandos – Tuned In and Turned On - with Book Bonuses Stef’s Instagram The Path to Conscious Love program for couples The Conscious Relationship Council live program for men The Arka Fire and Flow Men’s Weekend - Feb 26 to March 2nd Keep an eye out for: The Arka Talks Podcast – launching Feb 2026 (link to be shared upon release)

Kute Blackson is an author, speaker, and true spiritual visionary. In this episode, we dive deep into discovering your soul's true calling. We talk about Kute’s powerful journey leaving his father's shadow, navigating the unknown with courage, and how real transformation is about shedding old patterns to reveal your authentic self.  Kute shares how surrendering to life's guidance opens doors you never expected, leading not only to personal success, but deep fulfillment. If you want some deep wisdom on how to “find your purpose”, this episode is rich with inspiration. In this episode, we dig into: – Kute Blackson’s inspiring journey as a spiritual visionary, speaker, and author. – His story of upbringing in Ghana, Japan, and London, and his exposure to miracle work and spirituality from a young age. – Kute’s early life speaking in his father’s churches and being named as his father’s successor at age 14. – The internal struggle and courage it took for Kute to break away from his father’s path to follow his own calling. – Key reflections on a man’s journey with his father and the pivotal coming-of-age moment of “facing the father.” – Deep discussion on the concept of surrender – what it truly means and its role in personal evolution. – Debunking common misconceptions about surrender as weakness or passivity. – The spiritual principles of letting go, un-learning, and uncovering our true essence. – The dance between intention, action, and surrender – how to tune into your soul’s calling without being overly attached to outcomes. – The analogy of surrender in life to lovemaking and surfing, highlighting the balance between action and allowing. – Practical insights on following intuition, even when the path is unclear. – Kute’s green card “miracle” story and the power of trusting life’s guidance. – The importance of embracing the “void” or unknown as a necessary space for growth and transformation. – Kute’s journey to the US and the challenges of building a purpose-driven life from scratch. – His first attempts at launching a talk show in Hollywood, the attachment to a specific vision, and obedience to deeper spiritual guidance. – Kute’s transformative pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago and time in India, leading to new breakthroughs. – The evolution of his work: from coaching one-on-one to leading international retreats and writing bestselling books. – The vital distinction between laziness and true surrender – aligning with deep personal commitment over fleeting moods. – The process and importance of generational healing, specifically the powerful healing and reconciliation with his father. – How healing with his father impacted his own son and future lineage (“the generational wealth of consciousness”). – The value of men’s groups and real stories in fostering true change and support. – How Kute embodies and teaches deep listening, surrender, and walking the unknown path. Links from this episode: Kute Blackson’s Website Kute’s Book: You Are The One Kute’s Book: The Magic of Surrender Soul Talk with Kute Blackson (Podcast) 8 Levels of Gratitude (Free Online Course) Evolving Man’s Conscious Relationship Council The Freedom From Addiction Circle

Devin Frederickson is a men’s coach, permaculturalist, and close friend of mine from Maui, Hawaii. He joins me on the show to share the most impactful stories, tools, and insights he has gained throughout his life thus far. We cover a wide breadth of subjects on this show, from Devin’s near-death experience to healing addiction, along with a peek at fatherhood as Devin prepares for his first child.  Here’s what you’ll discover in this conversation: A Near-Death Experience That Changed Everything - Devin shares his vivid story of a near-fatal accidental MDMA overdose in his early 20s. This was his spiritual wake-up call. Hear how this out-of-body journey made him rethink his entire approach to life, health, and responsibility—and why gratitude is now at the core of his daily practice. The Lifelong Power of Men’s Mentorship - Both Devin and I open up about the pivotal mentors in our lives—the wise men who showed up without judgment and offered guidance when we needed it most. Devin describes how chance encounters with older men in the permaculture and yoga worlds guided him through turbulent years, while I reflect on the legacy of my own 12 step sponsor. Healing Porn Addiction & Reclaiming Sexual Energy We get real about a topic that often stays hidden: porn addiction. Devin bravely recounts his early exposure to porn, how it shaped his relationships, and the slow creep into compulsive behaviors - and he outlines the steps to recovery and deeper self-connection. He also introduces the “Multi-Orgasmic Man” practice and explains how mastering your sexual energy can transform every area of your life. Men’s Work: From Sovereignty to Kingship Devin breaks down his journey with men’s groups - starting with Sacred Sons, moving through years of cross-generational mentorship, and finally building his own programs: Sovereign and Shameless and now Becoming the King. If you’ve ever wondered how to truly “come home to yourself,” harness your power, and step into conscious leadership as a man, this episode is for you. A Peek Into Conscious Fatherhood - On the personal front  Devin shares the anticipation (and vulnerability) of expecting his first child. He talks about the surrender, support, and trust needed as he and his wife move through pregnancy - plus how fatherhood is already changing him before it’s even begun. We also touch on: The role of permaculture & nature as spiritual teachers Somatic healing and how real breakthroughs happen in-person The importance (and challenge) of honest friendship and community as men   Links from this episode: Devin’s Instagram - @devinfredericksen Men’s Groups - Arka Brotherhood The Freedom From Addiction Circle Join Devin's Newsletter

John Wang is the author of the recently released Big Asian Energy, the host of the Big Asian Energy show, and a coach and speaker helping Asian professionals break through barriers. He’s worked with clients at Google, Apple, Amazon, and Goldman Sachs, blending cultural insight and science-backed strategies to build confidence and visibility. John’s content on assertiveness and imposter syndrome has reached over 25 million views. Here are the major topics we dig into in this episode:  🔥 Authentic Leadership & Dropping the Mask We get real about what true leadership looks like — and, just as importantly, what it doesn’t. John shares the pitfalls of performative leadership, how people can sense inauthenticity, and the power of leading from mission rather than ego. ❤️ Humility vs. Toxic Humility We dive deep into the concept of humility, especially within the context of cultural conditioning. John distinguishes between embracing genuine humility and falling into a pattern of self-erasure — something he experienced firsthand growing up as a person of Asian descent in the Western world. 🌏 The Inner East Meets the Inner West For all the listeners who’ve ever felt like they straddle two worlds — this conversation is for you. John opens up about reconciling his “internal East and West,” the struggle of trying to fit into multiple cultures, and the beauty (and challenge) of true integration. 🧠 Healing the Wound Behind the Mask We explore how so many of us walk through life with invisible wounds, wearing masks to protect ourselves. John gets candid about his own journey — from performance and burnout to inner work, radical honesty, and building the courage to be seen. 📚 The Birth of Big Asian Energy We chat about the highs and lows of writing a book that has no comparison. From the immense pressure to represent so many diverse voices, to hiring research assistants to go deeper than just storytelling, John’s creative process offers a behind-the-scenes look into writing an authentic, paradigm-shifting book. Links from this episode: 🌍 Website: https://www.bigasianenergy.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnwangofficial/ 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnwangbae 📖 Big Asian Energy Book: https://a.co/d/c0T1c8t

Jeddy Azuma is the founder of the Rising Man movement where he is focussed on initiating a generation of men. He joins me on the show for a second time to share his hard-earned wisdom from the last few years.   Key Topics We Dive Into: 🔥 Fatherhood & Marriage: Hear how parenthood has transformed Jeddy’s perspective on himself, his parents, and what it means to grow as a man. He opens up about learning through failure, letting go of old patterns, and striving to be “the man I say I am.” 🦁 Shedding the Unnecessary: Instead of always adding to our toolkit, what if growth is about letting go? Jeddy and I talk about emptying ourselves of expectations, agendas, and judgments picked up over time—especially as we step deeper into service, partnership, and leadership. 🌲 Nature, Initiation & Rites of Passage: Jeddy unpacks the importance of nature connection and solo wilderness fasting—not just as a powerful reset, but as a way of life. Initiation experiences like these can awaken our core selves and foster the deep transformation so many of us are craving. 🤝 Brotherhood & Community: Why are men’s circles and intergenerational wisdom so vital today? Jeddy reflects on sitting with elders, the lessons of humility, and the magic that happens in real community—not only in learning, but in being seen and held by other men. ✊ Serving a Mission, Not an Ego: We explore how to move from the “me-centric” excitement of finding purpose to true service—letting go of the need for outside validation and focusing on tending your own “kingdom” before trying to change the world. Thinking of joining a men’s group or seeking a deeper initiation? Jeddy outlines the Rising Man’s journey: from integrating with a community, to initiation weekends and wilderness fasting, to finding your Fire Circle team for ongoing brotherhood. Final Thoughts: Both of us agree: the world doesn’t need you to save it overnight. Start by cleaning your own side of the street, being present with your family, and building community right where you are. Links: Rising man on IG  Rising Man website Arka Brotherhood 

Phil T. Mistlberger is an author, transpersonal therapist, transformational facilitator, and the founder of Arka Brotherhood. Phil has been a guest on the show a few times before when Arka was known as The Samurai Brotherhood.  On this occasion Phil joins me to celebrate the 100th episode by sharing the deeper meaning behind his 14-Point Code Of The Conscious Warrior (which is listed at the bottom of the show notes). This was an insightful and impactful conversation that speaks to many of the issues men are struggling with today.  Here are some of the topics we cover on this episode: 14-point Code of the Conscious Warrior. Code 1 - The importance of making your word good and maintaining integrity. The challenge of maintaining honesty and the benefits it brings to personal transformation. Code 2 - "Know Thyself," and its crucial role in personal growth. The power of the examined life and self-awareness in men's work. Men’s tendency to avoid looking inward and focus excessively on the external world. The role of men's groups in providing a space for reflection and growth. Code 8 - Understanding the balance between passion and compassion in life. Code 4 - The journey of finding the Holy Grail: a man's true calling and higher purpose. The impact of modern technology on attention spans. Code 6 - The concept of gathering courage and consistently moving forward in life. The potential pitfalls of becoming isolated as a leader. Exploring the need for silence, space, and the gap between thoughts. Code 7 - How holding space for others is a valuable practice. The nature of leadership in Arka. Men's work as a method for overcoming isolation and cultivating support. Code 14 - The importance of family connections. Personal stories from Phil’s journey. Why modern men might want to join Arka Pain and suffering as catalysts for change and growth. Appreciation and gratitude for the community built around Arka and the rising tide of men's work. Links from this episode: Join The Arka Brotherhood The Denver Warrior Weekend with Phil T. Mistlberger and Ben Goresky P.T. Mistlberger’s Books    The 14-Point Code of the Conscious Warrior  Make your word good Know thyself Train your body Find the holy grail, your true calling Do not fight down Gather courage and move forward Hold space Be passionate and compassionate Learn, study, train Serve a noble cause greater than yourself Penetrate life with your solar energy Be in integrity Stay in relationship Be a responsible son, parent, grandparent, brother, uncle, husband, boyfriend, grandson, cousin, brother-in-law For an expanded view of the code, go to Arkabrotherhood.com/the-code

Levi is a Bwiti healer that helps people heal with some of life's most difficult problems. People come from all over the world to Iboga Wellness Center in Costa Rica to deal with problems like depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, substance and non-substance addictions in a psycho-spiritual context. Iboga is a small shrub from West central Africa in the countries of Gabon, Cameroon and the Congo. Iboga has been used for centuries by indigenous people and more recently has made its way to the Western world. On this episode, we discuss how healing and transformation can occur with the use of Iboga.  In this episode, we cover: Levi’s work with Iboga at the Iboga Wellness Center in Costa Rica. Examining the misconceptions about Iboga, with a focus on its healing properties. The “mind cleanse” process that Iboga facilitates. Explanation of how Iboga aids in overcoming trauma and emotional release. Distinction between Iboga and Ibogaine, particularly in addiction treatment. The historical and cultural origins of Iboga from Gabon, Africa. Levi’s personal journey with Iboga, using it to overcome opiate addiction. The spiritual and personal growth aspects of Iboga, contrasting it with its use for physical detox. How tradition and rituals around Iboga have shaped its modern application. Exploration of the psycho-spiritual retreat experience at the Iboga Wellness Center. Discussion on the process and effects of the Iboga mind cleanse and its impact on mental clarity. The emotional and chemical resets (dopamine, serotonin) that Iboga can initiate. Levi’s observations of physical changes in people post-treatment, especially in expressions and facial structure. The significance of integration after an Iboga experience and available support systems. Levi’s description of the spiritual energies of Iboga as a teaching tool that emphasizes self-teaching. Future trends and potential pharmaceutical developments emerging from iboga's properties. Closing thoughts on the responsibility of listening to one's inner call when considering Iboga treatment. Levi's passion is to spread healing and the gift of iboga to whomever is called. Levi wants to give back for the many gifts he has received through iboga. One key aspect of this iboga work is the Bwiti tradition. Bwiti is the name for someone who works with iboga to heal. The Bwiti tradition focuses on universal truths of our life to guide us to living a full happy life. The Bwiti tradition is a set of tools we can draw on to guide us in life to making the right decisions for ourselves, self love, managing the mind and to give thanks for the most precious gift, our life. Links from this episode: Iboga Wellness - Costa Rica Ben’s “Medicine Retreats” mailing list

Ian MacKenzie is a mythosomatic guide & filmmaker, as well as the founder of The Mythic Masculine, a platform dedicated to realigning masculinity with thriving life. For over 15 years, he’s been tracking the global emergence of imaginal culture. From the desert of Burning Man to the heart of Occupy Wall St, he has sought and amplified the voices of visionaries, artists and activists who have been working toward planetary system change. He is the co-director of The Village of Lovers as well as Lost Nation Road, Amplify Her, and Sacred Economics. On this episode, we cover: Mythopoetic Men's Work: Exploring myth, men's groups, and men's initiation work. The Story of Ian’s Grandfather: How his death opened the door to men's work for Ian. The Challenge of Modern Manhood: Exploring how men become men in a culture with no clear passage into manhood. The Story of Iron John: Key themes and how it relates to modern men. The Hero vs. the King Archetype: Differences and what they signify for personal growth. Ian’s Journey Into Mythopoetic Work: From the feminine gateway to exploring the deep masculine. The Lost Culture of Initiation: The impact of the absence of initiation rites in modern society. Men's Longing for Depth: The hunger for cultural depth and initiation in men’s lives. The Importance of the Wound: How a wound or adversity plays a crucial role in men's initiation. Archetypes Explained: The significance of the wild man, the golden boy, and other archetypes. The Rediscovery of Passion: How modern men can reconnect with their passion and primal energy. The Evolution of the Mythopoetic Men's Movement: A look back at its origins and its journey. The Role of Story and Myth: Utilizing story and myth to transmit knowledge and wisdom. Men's Circles: The transformative power of being seen and supported by other men. Eros and Appreciative Consciousness: Cultivating beauty and life energy in oneself. Rediscovering the Inner Well: Accessing the inner source of life energy to prevent external dependency. The Red, White, and Black Armor: Understanding the stages of masculine development. The Necessity of Men's Support: How men can provide what women and the world sometimes cannot. Emotional Coaching and Accountability: The unique way men can inspire and challenge each other. The Deep Masculine: Defining and understanding the essence of the deep masculine. Links: The Mythic Masculine Ian’s Instagram  Facebook  Ian’s Films And Essays The Arka Brotherhood men’s community The Conscious Relationship Council, with Ben Goresky  

Traver Boehm is the leader of the Man Uncivilized Movement, the author of multiple books, and a huge advocate for men’s work. Traver leads by example, and in this episode, he joins me on the show for a second appearance to share the powerful story of his father’s passing. He shares the insights and lessons we can all take from his experience. He also shares his story of spending 28 days in a “darkness retreat” where he saw no light for 28 days. The lessons of this powerful psychedelic experience shine through in striking detail as he takes us through what it was like to be in total darkness for a month. In this conversation, we discuss: The recent death of Traver’s father, reflecting on father wounds, with a powerful story of healing in those last days. The role of men’s work and men’s groups in healing the father wound. Dark Room: Traver’s experience living in a room by himself in complete darkness for 28 days. The insights this gave him on death, freedom, and living fearlessly, hallucinations, grief processing, and lessons about time perception. Death and Freedom: How the acceptance of our mortality can influence our approach to life and goals.  Traver’s Upcoming book, “28 Days in Darkness,” releasing in February. Links from this episode: Man UNcivilized website Traver’s Instagram Book: 28 Days in Darkness The Arka Brotherhood men’s work community  

Nick TNT Terry is a certified life coach, breathwork practitioner, intervention consultant, and an author. He is the co-founder of Honu House Hawaii, a residential rehab facility in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, and the owner of Breath of Life Recovery, a wellness consulting practice offering breathwork, cold water therapy and wellness modalities. Since getting sober in 2014, Nick has worked for more than eight years in the field of addiction and mental health treatment. Nick shares how he transformed from wayward addict to breathwork and recovery life coach, and offers his holistic, much-needed perspective on how others can do the same. Here’s what we get into: - Nick’s childhood in a tumultuous environment, with early access to alcohol and drugs.  - As Gabor Mate says, the roots of addiction are disconnection.  - Nick’s habit of dishonesty and criminal behavior as coping mechanisms. - Pivotal moments in his recovery journey that led him to seek long-term sober living.  - Transformative experiences with breathwork as a healing tool for trauma and disconnection. - For addicts in recovery: The importance of being present in the moment, even if it’s uncomfortable. - Nick describes how breathwork has helped him cultivate a sense of presence and connection that long eluded him. Links: Honu House Hawaii Instagram Breath of life recovery Buy the book - Breath of life: Finding Long-Term Recovery with Breathwork and Stepwork Ben’s Freedom From Addiction Circle  The Arka Brotherhood

Andy Nguyen and Yenukwa Kombian are the co-founders of Kings of Hearts, an organization committed to cultivating heart-based leaders. With 8 years of experience, they specialize in men’s leadership training and facilitate transformative men’s groups and retreats. Their work is rooted in the leadership values of awareness, embodiment, and integrity, empowering men to lead with authenticity, emotional intelligence, and a deeper connection to themselves and others. On this episode, we cover: Men’s Isolation: a huge issue men are facing today. A peek into what we do in our men’s groups and why it is so impactful. The three pillars of men’s leadership training.  How Andy and Yenukwa found themselves doing “men’s work”.  How Andy emerged from being a participant into a leader. Men’s groups: The power of being seen with all one’s flaws and shadows, and being supported The challenges of offering authentic feedback to other men The “Miracle Zone” of personal growth. Osho’s dynamic meditation, the controversy around him, and useful practices he taught Embodying the Conscious King Archetype How to lead without making it about you The importance of accountability in leadership.  Emotional self-awareness and the importance of community. The Work: Men’s group in prison, and how we are not all that different from those men. Men’s big emotions: Need a container.  The importance of men’s groups that go inward. What Andy and Yenukwa recommend for men who are just starting out in this kind of work. Links from this episode: Kings Hearts website @kingsofhearts on Instagram Kings of Hearts Podcast KOH Retreat Nov 1-3 2024

GS Youngblood is the author of “The Masculine in Relationship” which offers a model for conscious masculinity. With The Masculine Blueprint, GS teaches men  to become grounded in their own power while also staying in relationship with their feminine partner.  GS teaches that many relationship problems are actually rooted in a lack of “Relational Masculinity” which is a combination of groundedness, leadership, and relational skills. He joins me on the show to discuss these topics.  On this episode, we talk about: Complacency in Relationships: Men’s complacency in relationships to avoid becoming complacent. The importance of being in “directive energy”. Leadership in Relationships: Challenges in nurturing leadership roles. Making decisions without always feeling compelled to do so. The importance of attunement to your partner when making decisions. Creating Emotional Safety for your partner The importance of self-examination and assessment - humility. Receiving feedback from partners. Structure in Relationships Internal and External Structure Setting boundaries. Conflict resolution rules. Taking emotional leadership. The need for intentional work on emotional intelligence in men. Operating Styles: Differences between doer/thinker and feeler modes. Switching to a feeler mode for nourishing relationships. Embodiment and meditation tips from GS. Focusing on physical sensations versus stopping thoughts during meditation. Breath Work and Movement recommendations from GS and Ben: Three Elements of The Masculine Blueprint: Respond vs. React. Provide Structure. Create Safety. The results: Groundedness, clarity, boundaries, emotional and physical safety in relationships. Links from this episode: GS Youngblood’s book: "The Masculine in Relationship." GS’s course: "The Art of Relational Masculinity." GS Youngblood’s Live Workshops GS on IG

Dr. Anthony Balduzzi is a distinguished researcher and three time guest on the podcast. Recently he has been digging into the biological effects of the electromagnetic spectrum, and finding out how modern electromagnetic fields can damage living tissue. What he has uncovered will make even the most skeptical listeners think differently. In this episode, Balduzzi describes the harmful effects of EMFs and shares practical ways we can all reduce our exposure. Here’s what we cover on this episode: An overview of the electromagnetic spectrum, and where cell phones and wifi fit in. EMF sensitivities and allergies.  How electricity works in our bodies, and how that may interact with other electric fields The mechanism by which practices like earthing can have significant health benefits. How our bodies use electric fields to regulate, among other things, the distribution of minerals Relationship between electric frequencies and proper functioning of mitochondrial DNA Effect of EMF on bee biology and behavior Comparing non-ionized and ionized radiation How non-ionizing radiation can damage DNA. History of lobbying affecting national telecom tower installation laws Difference between 5G, and the ‘5G’ on new wifi routers Pulses of radiation are more harmful to our bodies than continuous fields Effects of proximity to frequency emitters such as phones and wifi Effects of bluetooth earphones Starlink radiation Benefits of earthing, contacting ground with bare skin The different options for blocking or reducing EMF exposure in your home. Links from this episode: Dr. Balduzzi’s Website: Fit Father Project Radio wave packet resource EMF Reader Ben is using Book Highlight: "The Invisible Rainbow" by Arthur Furstenberg explores the historical correlation between major pandemics and the rollout of EMF technology. A must-read for those curious about the hidden layers of our modern environment.

Alison Armstrong has been teaching and speaking publicly about men and relationships for 3 decades. She is a thoughtful and inquisitive individual whose curiosity led her to a profound revelation about human behavior and relationships. Through her deep contemplation and examination of male development, she realized that men often react independently of women's influences, shaped instead by their developmental stages.  Her insights shed light on the misconceptions women might have, believing that a man's dedication to his career or personal goals could signify a lack of love. Alison's keen realization emphasizes that men and women's actions and priorities are influenced by different developmental needs, rather than personal affection or commitment. Her work aims to foster better understanding and communication between genders. In this episode, Alison and I explore the complexities of conflict resolution, emphasizing the importance of curiosity over false conclusions. We discuss the evolution of the men's movement, strategies for handling relationships, and the power dynamics between genders. Alison shares her own transformative experience of challenging negative perceptions of men and highlights the critical role of empathy and understanding in nurturing strong, healthy relationships. On this episode, we discuss: How men and women deal differently with emotions.- How women can get what they need while empowering men. How she became a champion for men, and a helper in relationships between men and women. Frog farming vs. discovering princes. Helping women understand stages of men’s development. How she learned to stop diminishing men, and how that changed her relationships. Ways that women justify disempowering men. Moving ‘from furious to curious’. Learning to improve communication. Dropping over-fixation on boundaries and leaning in with curiosity. Avoiding labelling each other. Being ‘pro-choice orgasm’ Tips on really listening to each other, and common traps of not listening. The importance of making friends outside your relationship. How her work has changed over the years. Her thoughts on different waves of feminism. Links from this episode: Alison’s website Alison’s Instagram Alison’s Youtube

In today's episode, we’re diving deep into the world of sacred plant medicines, indigenous wisdom, and conscious parenting with the extraordinary Vivien Vilela. Join us as we explore the delicate art of harvesting peyote, the spiritual importance of maintaining a respectful relationship with the earth, and the dangers of commodifying sacred plants. Vivien shares her journey from the party scene to a profound spiritual awakening. We discuss the significance of ceremony and proper guidance when working with plant medicines, and we specifically discuss Peyote. We also discuss the visionary Aniwa Gathering, a transformative event founded by Vivien, which brings together indigenous leaders from around the world to share sacred ceremonies and wisdom without the use of entheogenic medicines. Learn about the critical need for sustainable practices, the impact of screen addiction on children's development, and how to raise children naturally in a city environment. Ben and Vivien also reflect on their personal experiences, the importance of spiritual initiations, and the lifelong journey of personal growth and healing. Whether you're a parent, a seeker of spiritual wisdom, or someone curious about indigenous practices, this episode offers valuable insights into living a conscious, connected life. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that promises to leave you inspired and informed.  On this episode, we discuss: Harvesting and use of Peyote properly Destruction and Disruption of Peyote Plants Efforts to educate on responsible harvesting Indigenous Cultural Practices Emphasis on reciprocity and respectful relationships with the earth Rituals such as fasting, offerings, and spiritual connection Commodification and Misappropriation Concerns over sacred plant medicines being commodified Importance of traditional initiations and proper practices The dangers of recreational use without proper guidance Adherence to indigenous practitioner wishes Ceremony and Reciprocity Knowledgeable Practitioners and Offerings Importance of sitting in ceremony with experienced practitioners Physical and spiritual offerings Reciprocity and its significance Aniwa Gathering Focus on spiritual connection without entheogenic medicines Use of natural herbs like cacao, tobacco, and sage Raising funds for indigenous projects through the Huya Aniwa foundation Peyote’s Spiritual Significance Description of peyote and its roots in Mexico and Texas Its role in connecting individuals to their true selves and ancestral memory Importance of using peyote in the right ceremonial context Indigenous wisdom on parenting  Lack of initiation rituals in western societies Approaches to avoid screen time and societal pressures Emphasis on discipline with love and fostering unconditional love and respect Traditional midwifery and keeping children close Nurturing imagination and avoiding artificial toys Faster brain development in indigenous children in nature Challenges in City Environments Pushback from society and finding natural stimuli The impact of screens on children’s emotional balance and ability to be present Concerns about excessive screen time Conscious living as parents Personal Growth and Spiritual Awakening Vivien’s Story Journey from party scene and drug use to spiritual awakening Spiritual session leading to significant growth Aniwa Gathering Aniwa’s main site Aniwa on instagram Hyua Aniwa Aniwa on Youtube Ben’s Freedom From Addiction Circle

Charlie Bloom and his wife Linda have been writing and teaching about relationships for decades, and he joins me on the heels of the release of their recent book “An End To Arguing: 101 Valuable Lessons For All Relationships” We discuss these points and more: -Differences are unavoidable; conflict is not. -Your partner thinks differently than you. -Ways to free yourselves from impasses. -It’s often better to just drop a fight until your heads are cooler. -Deepening a relationship beats winning an argument. -Speak according to the receptivity of your partner. -Learn to see the fears of yourself and your partner. -Learn to share responsibility for problems with your partner. -Coming out of victim scripts into co-creation. -Different relationships have different kinds of conflict. -Are there couples who never fight? -Learning how to be in conflict. -‘Sudden’ endings to relationships are often years in the making. -Translating relational teachings into action. -Losing the hope that you’ll never get triggered -The biases of friends supporting us in relationships. Links:  Charlie and Linda Bloom’s website The Creating Conscious Love Course, now called The Path To Conscious Love

Jordan Gray is a relationship coach who has written hundreds of articles that have been read by over 250 million people worldwide. He has worked with tens of thousands of clients via his programs, groups, and 1-on-1 coaching.  He joins me on this episode to talk about how to get the most out of life as the challenges land on our doorstep.  We discuss: Moving from bachelor to committed relationship Marriage has actually been great Dating takes a lot of energy! Finding someone who’s also a giver Each relationship is different, so relationship advice can’t be universal Look for a counterpoint to where you and your partner tend to go too far, for example with too much or too little structure. Fears of going into marriage: "what if things get worse and worse and I’m stuck?" The practice of addressing troubles in the relationship rather than just enduring them. Phases of life: dating and deeper relationships. Thresholds of deepening into a relationship. Preparing for parenthood. The benefits of becoming a generalist, of getting off the computer and chopping wood. City life vs. country life Giving up financial opportunities for the sake of heart and happiness. Relationship with money: between the poles of demonizing it and making it one’s god The importance of choosing friends who support your objectives. Solo therapy compared to group therapy. In parenting, offering children both safety and adventurous risk. How it can help children to see their parents work responsibly. How being a parent can limit available work time, but make it more potent. Screen addiction and parenthood. Countering screen addiction with finding a deeper purpose. Links: Jordan Gray’s website Productivity course The Level-Up Your Relationships Workshop

Dr. Manesh Girn is a postdoctoral neuroscientist and popular science content creator specializing in the neuroscience of psychedelic drugs. He currently works at the University of California, San Francisco, alongside psychedelic research pioneer Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, where he conducts research on the neural mechanisms underlying the psychedelic experience and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. In addition to his research, Manesh runs a popular digital platform on Instagram and YouTube called "The Psychedelic Scientist”, where he shares the latest findings in psychedelic science in a digestible and easy to understand way.  In this episode, we discuss: Manesh's journey from head to heart, from bypassing emotions to inhabiting them. Emotion centred, body-focused therapy (beating pillows with weapons.) How Manesh got his start in psychedelic research. How an early psychedelic experience opened Manesh up to different takes on reality. Finding the support to go beyond intellect. The various healing/transformational modalities of: breathwork men’s groups psychedelics conscious relationship training How different psychedelics affect our brains differently. Neuroplasticity: how psychedelics can help change thought patterns. Psychedelics for those with with trauma and depression. The importance of support in psychedelic journeys Setting down a belief that life is intrinsically unsafe. Learning to recognize people and situations that are safe. Integrating psychedelic experiences for lasting change. The importance of intention before and after a psychedelic journey. Psychedelics as an aid to innovation. Psychedelics for people in positions of power. Manesh’s Youtube Manesh’s website Manesh’s Instagram Arka Brotherhood Men’s Community

Mark Groves, founder of Create The Love is a relationship expert, but he also believes in freedom of speech and thought, and is an advocate of personal sovereignty. During the recent pandemic, he began sharing what he was seeing in the people and institutions around him. His sharing on @itsmarkgroves and The Mark Groves Podcast was controversial, because any dissenting opinion at that time was censored and considered to be “unsafe”. I personally appreciated the discourse that Mark was bringing, as I lacked the courage to be as bold as he was, despite agreeing with many of his questions. On this episode of the podcast, I discuss the pandemic, the lockdowns, and the hysteria that took over our society at that time. In this episode, we dive into: The dangers of framing everything as a safety issue. Dehumanizing people during the pandemic. Data-based arguments about COVID-19 vaccines. Mass formation psychosis. Why PCR tests shouldn’t be used for diagnostic purposes. Unconsciously believing that healthy people are biological threats.  The wide scope of misinformation spread throughout the pandemic.  The anxiety, fear, and hysteria spearheading pandemic behavior. Family conflicts and getting “canceled” over COVID-19 dissent. COVID-19 and masks as an ideology vs evidence-based. Natural immunity is at least equal to vaccinated immunity. The exploitation of psychology and weaponization of belonging. Normalizing controlling people’s bodily autonomy. Censoring people, governments spreading misinformation, and the lack of critical thinking during the pandemic. Language is the first step to dehumanizing people in an out-group. Violating informed consent when getting vaccinated. How do we prevent divisiveness in the future? Healing begins with the acceptance of reality (that the unvaccinated were marginalized and demonized while being left out of society and losing their jobs, while the vaccine that was promised to end the pandemic didn’t, and Omicron did) Accountability without annihilation. Learning to speak your truth despite the inconvenience. Fighting for the freedom to disagree. Links from this Episode Part 1 of This Episode Mark’s Website Mark’s Instagram  Masks Immunity Mass Formation Psychosis

Mark Groves is the founder of Create The Love, and host of the Mark Groves Podcast. Mark is on a mission to bridge the academic and the human, inviting people to explore the good, the bad, the downright ugly, and the beautiful sides of connection. His work empowers people to step into their power, transform the way they relate to themselves and others, and create authentic change in their lives. Mark and I sit down on the coast of Tofino, Canada for a special two-part episode. In part 1, we talk about fatherhood and parenthood.  In this episode, we discuss: Fatherhood as a deeper window to look at where there is still work to be done on oneself. After having a child, what is most important? Old wounds and patterns that tend to arise during parenthood.  How intimacy dynamics tend to shift after having a child. The reasons why an uncomfortable number of couples divorce after the first year of a child’s life. Nurturing your feminine energy as a man.  Accessing discipline and discernment as a father. Upholding the ethical obligation to be successful.  Being purpose-driven as a man. The paradox of choice. The downsides to technology and access to mass communication. Consciously choosing every aspect of your life. Embracing a cultural initiation into manhood. What is toxic masculinity and why does it exist? Valuing mother and father roles in the family. Inflated egos and immaturity. What comes after ego dissolution? The benefits of taking time off work to support your new family. How fathers can support their own health after having a kid. The importance of talking to other men after having a child. The gift of being a parent and the gifts you receive from your child. And a question for Mark: Now that you have a kid, is it worth it? Would you recommend it? Links from this Episode: Part 2 of This Episode (on C0.vid Hysteria) will come out in 2 weeks and links will be updated at that time. Mark’s Website Mark’s Instagram  Mark’s Podcast  Mark on YouTube Conscious Relationship Council - a live 12-week relationship training for men Arka Brotherhood - men's work. Previous episodes with Mark: Evolving Man Podcast - Holding Space with Mark Groves Evolving Man Podcast - To Be A Man with Mark Groves

Todd Youngs has been in continuous recovery from severe addiction and alcoholism since 2009. His personal path to recovery involved a combination of 12 step work, and his work with Ayahuasca. Todd now works intensively with others to help them achieve a life of satisfying and meaningful sobriety. His approach is eclectic and holistic drawing on the 12 Steps, CBT, MEI, and Mindfulness practice in order to deeply address the bio/psycho/social/spiritual aspects of addictive disorders. Todd has worked extensively with Ayahuasca for over 14 years within a variety of communal and personalized settings. He is focussed on building bridges between the older treatment paradigm and newly emerging modalities that utilize Ayahuasca. He is the co-founder of Natura Care Programs. Todd is often heard fondly referring to his own personal path of recovery as AAA+, or “Ayahuasca Assisted Alcoholics Anonymous:  A Roadside Service for broken-down, drug-addicted hippies”. In this episode we dive into: How humans explore drugs to satisfy creative and spiritual yearnings.  The dark and light sides of psychedelics.  Todd’s wild addiction recovery story. Using pharmaceuticals to manage side effects of drug and alcohol use. Connecting to something bigger than yourself through ayahuasca. Todd’s journey of brewing his own ayahuasca in his mother’s basement. How ayahuasca helped Todd through 12-step recovery. The necessity of connection and accountability during recovery.  Family members seeing a change in Todd & Ben after ayahuasca journeys.  Healthy ways to incorporate the use of an altered state to transform your life. Therapeutic opportunities when taking psychedelics. Psychedelics vs therapy.  Are psychedelics the right path for you? Breaking down what the 12-week Natura Care Program looks like and why the 12 week model is advantageous. True recovery: Healing the root causes of addiction. Finding centeredness, calmness, joyfulness. Can you actually trust plant medicines? Ultra-conservatism vs. open-mindedness in recovery circles. Psychedelics in Recovery. Links from this episode Natura Care Programs Psychedelics in Recovery Todd’s Website Ben’s Freedom from Addiction Circle Evolving Man Brotherhood Free-Trial on Circle

Dr. Scott Lyons is the author of the book “Addicted to Drama: Healing Dependency on Crisis and Chaos in Yourself and Others”. He joins me for a discussion about all addictions - from alcohol to sex to food, and of course drama - and how they are formed. We also talk about how to heal from addiction by addressing the root. Scott also runs a Somatic Therapy school called The Embody Lab which offers fantastic training for coaches and healers.  In this episode we dive into: The origins of addiction and how to define it (Disease or no disease?)  Medical model vs. Humanistic model view of addiction. The opposite of addiction is connection to self and others. Finding comfort in filling voids and dissociation. The deadliness of loneliness.  Why do we experience traumas differently? The defence mechanism of denial. The link between addiction and a fear of intimacy. What addicted to drama looks like?  Attachment to unnecessary turmoil and nervous system activation. Making sense vs. making sensation. How are you unconsciously creating childhood patterns in your adult life? Exaggerated responses vs. an inner sense of normalcy. Assessing currencies of love from childhood. The separation of process addictions and the necessities of being human. Disrupting your inner peace with the “revving reflex”. What does it look like to recover from addiction and heal? Building tolerance for ease and connection. Creating a narrative around withdrawal symptoms. Trauma lives in your nervous system and is a felt experience.  MDMA therapy and trauma. Is it possible to escape drama in the capitalist world we live in? How do you support someone who is addicted to drama? Mirror neuron responses. Taking responsibility for the role you play in relationships. Links: Book - Addicted to Drama by Dr. Scott Lyons Scott's Somatic Training School - The Embody Lab Scott’s Website Scott’s Instagram Scott’s Facebook Scott’s YouTube The Freedom From Addiction Circle

Sheleana Aiyana is an author, a poet, my wife and the mother of our child. She is author of the Canadian bestseller “Becoming The One” and the forthcoming journal under the same name, and the founder of Rising Woman where she brings tools for healing and transformation to millions of women. She joins me on this episode for a candid conversation about our recent parenthood journey, the struggles we have had, and how we believe parents could be better supported (by their community, and themselves) to be the best parents they can be. In this episode we dive into: Why a shocking number of couples break up within the first year of having a child. The challenges that emerge once you become parents.  The transformation of a relationship after the arrival of a child.  Addressing the common phrase, "Being a parent is the hardest thing in the world."  50/50 parenting and the shifting roles and responsibilities as co-parents.  The normalcy of changes in intimacy and sex life after having a baby. Accessing and integrating relationship tools from the experts. Taking time to master your romantic and sexual relationship.  The goal of relationship work is not perfection.  Minimizers VS Maximizers Gender-specific support in navigating parenthood and relationships. Men’s biggest struggle when the responsibilities of marriage and family weigh him down. The feeling of being "touched out" as a mother. The resurgence of old family dynamics when building a family. Ben & Sheleana’s personal parenthood struggles and steps to overcome the challenges. Negativity in relationships - The tendency to focus on negativity for survival and the power of conscious choice.  How we co-create our problems in relationship. Doing vs. being. Navigating conflicts as a team.  Gratitude practices to check in with your partner.  Calling in your partner's true essence. How to be your own healer. Links Becoming The One Journal Freedom from Relationship Anxiety Program with Rising Woman The Conscious Relationship Council with Evolving Man Rising Woman Website Rising Woman Instagram

Dr. Anthony Balduzzi is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and creator of the Fit Father Project and Fit Mother Project. He lost his father at the age of 42, which led him to dedicate his life to helping people live healthy and happy well into their old age. Anthony is a former national champion bodybuilder, nutritionist, and all around great example of all-around health. He joins me to talk about the practical steps each of us can take to insure a long and healthy life. In this episode we dive into: How to take care of yourself to age gracefully. Adapting your exercise routine as you get older, especially 40+. Exercising based on your nervous system state. Maintaining strength, cardiovascular health, flexibility, and mobility as you age. The importance of eating well. Nutrition is the baseline of health that can be maintained. Proper rehydration methods.  Foods to eat at different times throughout the day to maximize your body’s energy. Greens powder.  The addiction to sugary drinks.  Anthony’s and Ben’s personal diet journeys. Paying attention to how different foods and drinks impact your body. Circadian rhythms.  Comparing blue light, red light, UV light, infrared light, and red light machines. Entraining to the spectrum of light that is relevant to that time of day.  How to supplement harsh winters with little sunlight. Flowing with the seasons with your routines. Vitamin D and K2 supplements. What supplements to take when you’re getting sick. Immortality… How longevity is a byproduct of our lifestyle.  Links from this episode: Fit Father Project Website Fit Father Project Instagram Fit Father Project Facebook Fit Father Project YouTube My Previous Episode with Anthony Conscious Relationship Council

Becky Griffin is a co-founder of Caya Shobo, an Ayahuasca and plant medicine healing center in Peru. She has been immersed in a path of self-discovery and learning with the Shipibo plant medicine tradition since 2008, and she joins me to talk about her extensive experience dieting various Master plants under the guidance of high-level Shipibo maestro and maestra Onányas.  Becky is a facilitator and healer for people seeking healing and growth from plant medicines like Ayahuasca and master plant diets. She has served as an apprentice curandera of the Shipibo tradition since 2012 and currently holds small ceremonial gatherings for experienced dieters. On this episode we talk about: Ayahuasca shamanism.   Becky & Ben’s personal exploration with plant medicine.  The wisdom of Ayahuasca: shifting between light and dark energy.  Mind-centered talk therapy vs. body & spirit-centered plant medicine.  Addressing physical ailments with plant medicine. Reconnecting with the spirit of nature.  What is a “plant dieta” and how does it work?  The synchronicities between nature and humans.  How to establish a relationship with the consciousness of plants. Ayahuasca is a diagnostic tool.  The benefits of going to Peru for plant medicine treatment. Healing at the cellular level with plant medicine.  How long does it take to heal with plant medicine? The false light of Ayahuasca and other plants.  The pitfalls of exploring plant medicine with inexperienced healers.  The downfalls of placing spiritual teachers on pedestals.  Be your own teacher - becoming responsible for your own healing path.  Integrating all parts of yourself - mental, spiritual, light, shadow. The light and dark sides of cannabis and tobacco. Healing vs. coping. Becky’s favourite Master Plants.  An opportunity to travel to Peru with Ben for a retreat. Links from this episode: Caya Shobo Website Caya Shobo Instagram Caya Shobo Facebook Join the Evolving Man Brotherhood circle And finally, a message from Becky: “I believe that at this time we are all being called to embark on a process of transformation, to heal the wounds and confusions of the past, and to start to realize our potential to live in genuine joy and balance. We each must find our own true self beneath the markings of trauma and conditioning that we carry and discover and integrate the ‘medicine’ within those challenges. ​The Shipibo medicine tradition and the master healing plants are living wonders from an ancient world. My own search for healing and greater meaning in life has brought me to this sacred path. And through supporting many others on a similar journey, I have seen that it is possible to slowly but surely nurture a deep connection with the master teacher plants and their songs, and thereby foster a greater harmony and understanding within, while restoring our rightful relationships with all of life. It is my honour to assist and support others on this blessed journey of discovery.” ~ Becky

Twelve Step programs have helped millions of people recover from addictions over the past 85+ years. In this episode we talk about why they work, the myths and the criticisms, and we make an attempt at a balanced look at the pros and cons of these programs. This is a solo episode with Ben Goresky - an addiction recovery coach with 15 years of personal experience in Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. After embedding himself in these programs and studying them in depth, Ben stepped away from the programs to focus on other healing modalities. He shares a viewpoint of the program that is rare: the inside view, and the outsider view. Topics discussed in this episode: Who can benefit from Twelve Step programs: Discover if you're an ideal candidate. Exploring the variety of 12 step programs for different addictions. Navigating triggers, pitfalls, and negative experiences within these programs. The role of spirituality and the use of "big G" God language in the steps. Debunking the religious overtones: Are Twelve Step programs religious or spiritual? Addressing powerlessness and disempowering language in the steps. Understanding the reality of addiction: Loss of control and continued substance use despite consequences. The empowering use of the Disease Concept in addiction recovery. Overcoming tribalism and cult-like tendencies within 12 step communities. Unraveling the connection between underlying trauma and addiction. The dynamics of sponsorship: Challenges and strategies for making it work for you. Embracing empowering terminology and breaking free from the label of "addict." Examining the frequency of the term "addiction" and its implications. Reframing the saying "Once an Addict, Always an Addict." Foundational steps 1-3 - Breaking through denial, accepting the problem, and choosing a guiding wisdom. House cleaning steps (4-9): Embracing radical ownership and personal growth. Maintenance steps (10-12): Mastering growth and evolution on a daily basis. Harnessing the power of service work for successful sobriety and recovery. Identifying the two crucial factors that make Twelve Step programs effective. Tips for optimizing your Twelve Step experience and finding resonant meetings and like-minded individuals. Links for this episode: The Freedom From Addiction men’s recovery circle Podcast - High Functioning Addiction - with Alex Olshonsky Podcast - Everything you need to know about addiction - with Chris Bevaqua

Chris Austin Fletcher is a family counsellor and men’s leader with specialized training in conflict resolution, conscious communication, breathwork and somatic trauma release. He has 35 years of experience working with men and families, where he has seen the light and the dark side of the personal growth arenas.  He joins me on this episode to discuss his experience uncovering the exploitation and abuses of power in the healing communities around him. We talk about how men’s personal growth can go sideways, and how to get men back into alignment.  In this episode we dive into: The 9 shadow elements of men’s work.  The light and dark side of healing.  Exploring suspicions about men’s work. Men being the voice for women in situations of abuse. Embodying masculinity without being a hero.  The dark backlash from #MeToo and women’s empowerment. Responding with shame vs. empathy. Bringing wounds to men’s work. How to find depth beyond the loud internet voices.  Conversations about Andrew Tate, Jordan Peterson, and Donald Trump. How the dark masculine feeds on the energy of extremes, fears, and world chaos.  How to discern authentic vs. inauthentic men’s work on social media.  Staying connected to the heart chakra.  Shame and terror on the internet.  The problem with quick fixes. ​​How to look out for good mentors, teachers, and communities. Balancing the archetypes in men’s work. The 9 Rings of Alignment: A self-regulation practice. The importance of developing rich relationships. The importance of setting intentions. Cultivating a self-care practice. Links from this Episode: Chris’ Website w/ free download Whole Family Healing Facebook Halfmoon Haven Website Breakup-Coach Leo mentioned in this episode. Leo's Breakup Program. Freedom from Addiction Circle Conscious Relationship Council

Amrit Sandhu coaches people to make big changes in their lives and move beyond their limitations. He is the host of The Inspired Evolution podcast, and he joined me to discuss the dilemma of making a change from lucrative yet unfulfilling career to one filled with purpose and fulfillment. In this episode we dive into: Consciously changing careers. What needs to be in place to create deep & lasting change. How to assess your core values. Consciously aligning your life around a self-created mission statement.  The similarities between being an engineer and a life coach. The social construction of “success.”  Being an introvert vs. an extrovert and a task person vs. a people person.  Feeling stuck in your career.  Attaching self worth to what you do (masculine) vs. who you are (feminine). Stress is your greatest ally. Being overwhelmed by opportunity. Giving yourself time and space to pivot, integrate change, and transform.  When self-help can get toxic. The opposite of depression is expression. Being energized by work. Inspiration vs. jealousy. The abundance of opportunities that are present when you’re in alignment. The awareness is the shift. Acknowledging nuance in light and dark thoughts.  Amrit’s principles in encouraging people to make personal changes. Our biggest challenge is our greatest gift. Mapping out the vision for your dream life.  The world around you is consistently programming you against your innate self. Learning to parent a boy throughout different developmental milestones. Cultivating community. Reprogramming who you were for who you want to become. Gratitude opens a door for self love.  Creating your own archetypes.    Podcast Links Amrit’s Website Amrit’s Instagram Amrit’s YouTube Conscious Relationship Council  The Freedom from Addiction Circle

Adam Hart is an International Speaker & best selling author whose mission is to help busy parents transform their quality of life and develop deeply connected relationships with their partners and children. Focusing on nervous system regulation, energetic attraction and natural holistic wellness practices, Adam leads his clients to living at their best. Adam created a handout for our listeners called The 6 Step Unleash-Your-Energy Roadmap, available at clearimpact.io. In this episode we dive into: ADHD & ADD diagnoses. Prescription medication and self-medicating. Nervous system regulation. Optimizing human performance in all areas of your life.  Conscious parenting. Scattered minds in a dopamine-centered world.  Occupational burnout. Managing energy and stress responses in the moment. Fight or flight responses when rock climbing.  Recovery becomes an addiction vs. harm reduction.  Different foods affect brain chemistry.  Intelligent health and developing intuition.  The mind-body connection.  Becoming “unstuck.” Practicing co-regulation and self-regulation. Wim Hof breathwork & heart flow breath practice.  Committing to practicing simplicity. Nurturing the nervous system with compassion and empathy. Being in a community to support your healing.  Unleash Your Energy Roadmap (on clearimpact.io). Links Clear Impact Coaching Adam's YouTube The Power of Food - Book Ben's Conscious Relationship Council (Next cohort starts April 4th) Ben's Freedom From Addiction Circle

Dr. Shefali specializes in the integration of Western psychology and Eastern philosophy and is an expert in family dynamics and personal development. She has written four books, three of which are New York Times best-sellers, including her two landmark books The Conscious Parent and The Awakened Family. She joins me for a brass tacks conversation about the Dos and Don’ts of parenting, and to share about her new book The Parenting Map which comes out on February 28th, 2023. In this episode, we discuss: How to go from chaos, disconnection, and frustration to a place of deep bonding and clarity as a parent. The similarities between conscious (romantic) relationship work and conscious parenting. How your triggers with your child are a reminder of what you need to work on. The belief that our children are a possession, and the dangerous projection that follows. The problem with the old belief that “parents know what’s best for their children”. How parents tend to project their own fears, insecurities, and triggers onto their children. Having a child will bring up your own childhood issues. How spanking = hitting = suppression and shame in children. Parents as a safe space rather than a police force or judge and punisher. The 3 reasons kids misbehave: 1. Lack of Skill 2. Lack of experience 3. Lack of worth Fear/Control mentality VS abundance/love mentality. The NBC Method: Negotiation, Boundaries, and Consequences. The problem with force feeding children and forcing them to do things they don’t want to do. Home as a safe space VS a house of rules. Natural consequences - allowing life to teach your children. How to teach children to know their inner “yes” and “no” so they can trust themselves as adults. The value of remembering that children will be adults one day and will remember how you treat them. Connection as the crucial ingredient in governing children’s behaviour. Why showing a child your feelings is so powerful. Dr Shefali’s Links: Dr Shefali’s Books Instagram TikTok YouTube The Conscious Relationship Council

John Wang is a speaker, writer, and founder of the Big Asian Energy show. He studies the communication and people skills of Asian American leaders and entrepreneurs, and uses evidence-backed studies to help them master performance and communication, so they can be better recognized for their brilliance and hard work. His videos on mindset and communication have over 25 million views on TikTok. In this episode we dive into: Becoming a man of action. Wing walking on airplanes. The gift of death. Collectivist vs. individualist culture. The script of being a good son vs. a good man. Unwinding parenting patterns in one’s own life. Dysfunctional and secure attachment between parents and children.  Healing wounds with parents. 6 archetypal patterns of unintegrated men. Learning to parent yourself.  Getting the love we want Blaming vs. evolving in relationships. The ACE method. Self-acceptance and attunement. Struggles of Asian-American men & women in the working world. “The Bamboo Ceiling”. How to cultivate empathy. The 4 things that give us all happiness. John’s experiment practicing kindness and what he learned. The Vagus Nerve. The Big Asian Energy course. Links from this Episode:   John’s Website John’s Instagram John’s TikTok John’s Facebook John’s YouTube Ben's Conscious Relationship Council Ben's Freedom from Addiction Circle

Connor Beaton is a speaker, a coach, and the founder of Man Talks, a company dedicated to the betterment of men. He joins me on this episode to talk about the subject of his new book: Men’s Work - A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self Sabotage, And Find Freedom. In this episode we discuss what Connor calls The Shadow Of The Father and how it affects every man's life. We also discuss the effects of absent fathers in the development of young men, and we touch on the effects of porn on men’s lives and their relationships. Pre-order Connor’s Book here. You can follow Connor @mantalks on IG, and on his website mantalks.com As mentioned in the intro, The Conscious Relationship Council for men is open for registration until Jan 12.

Ryan Pope is a chiropractor, men’s coach, and founder of Powerhouse Mind Body Chiro located on the Gold Coast in Australia. His latest venture Becoming The Mountain is focussed on mentoring men and preparing them physically, mentally, and emotionally for the rite of passage into fatherhood. Ryan is also co-facilitator at Alchemy, a multi-modality healing and transformational retreat for men and women. I asked Ryan to share his wisdom with me to help me prepare for my own initiation into fatherhood. In this episode we discuss: Preparation for fatherhood. Holistic healing and vitalism. Ryan’s journey to help men prepare for the birthing process. What kind of man do you want to be throughout the process of fatherhood? Normalizing mayhem in our body and mind during big transitions. Grief upon entering into parenthood. Embracing acceptance vs. embody resistance. The importance of having good men supporting you. Unplanned pregnancies.  Outcome oriented thinking vs. process focused thinking. The infinite intelligence of our bodies and The Universe. Challenging and navigating the “what if’s.” Birthing processes within the healthcare system vs. holistically.  Trauma during birth.  Creating intentions around a plan.  Divine femininity and surrendering.  Looking at the patterns that are mirrored from our parents.  Safety and trust in partnership during pregnancy.  Stepping up for your partner as a practice for fatherhood.  Cleaning out what’s taking up space in life to create more room for what you want. Navigating the unknowns of fatherhood.  The depth of presence and awareness. Trusting the inner wisdom of your partner.  The masculine structure around the birthing process. Toning.  Setting boundaries around family and friends. The importance of postpartum regeneration practices.  Links from this episode: Ryan’s Instagram Ryan’s Chiropractor Website The Business of Being Born  The First Forty Days book Evolving Man Episode with Jessica Austin Evolving Man Episode with John Wineland

Amir Khalighi is the founder and lead facilitator for The Embodied Masculine, a training ground for men that empowers men to connect to their bodies, their purpose, and to nature. Amir runs immersion retreats and weekly embodiment circles that integrate his 5 pillars to facilitate powerful transformations in his students. Amir joined me to talk about the impacts of men doing their work to know their inner masculine and feminine energies, and the inner strength and power that comes as a result of nurturing a personal spiritual practice. In this episode we dive into: Amir’s definition of men’s work. Exploring the self through embodiment, somatic, and shamanic work.  Our wounds as our teachers.  Paradigm shifts.  Father wounds. Stepping into service and giving back to the world.  The importance and significance of “present” male figures in a community.  Self-regulation for boys Integrating shadow aspects of self.  Archetypal work and energies.  Interconnectedness and living in fulfillment.  Nurturing the evolution and empowerment of The Masculine.  Shifting a culture through generations. The Conscious King. How men can practice being with Feminine power.  How do men do external and internal work with their own Feminine essence?  Feminine embodiment practices in men’s work. Ideologies and energetics in mixed martial arts.  Structured Masculine practices.  The 5 instruments in Amir’s work: attention, breath, sound, movement, visualization.  Creating space and emptiness in oneself.   Reframing the concept of the unknown. The human birthright of divine connection.  What work should be done alone vs. with community? Recovery and addiction work ideology in men’s work.  Plant medicine.  Stepping away from AA (12 steps) and listening to the inner call for deeper growth.  Amir’s men’s work offerings.  Links from this episode: Amir’s Website Amir’s Instagram Amir’s Vimeo Book - Iron John by Robert Bly Book - King, Warrior, Magician, Lover by Douglas Gillette and Robert L. Moore Evolving Man Episode with John Wineland - as referenced in this episode Evolving Man Episode with Christine Hassler - as referenced in this episode

Nick Solaczek, an IMAGO relationship coach who teaches couples about the hidden realities of romantic relating. He helps couples understand one another, improve their communication, and thrive in their relationships.  Nick and I have been sitting in men's circles, going to workshops, and learning about conscious relationship work for a few years now, and we drop in on this episode to share with men about the successes we have found.  In this episode we discuss: The Conscious Relationship Council - a men’s group focussed on learning about romantic relationships. How men can make a long-term relationship happen.  Relationship as an enlightening experience.  The difference between what the current generation wants in relationship, versus the generation that came before us. Conflict as a growth opportunity to deepen intimacy in relationships.  What does masculine leadership look like? Relationship as a mirror for childhood experiences.  Familiar energy signatures trigger us into unconscious responses. Attachment theory.  Normalizing the conscious relationship conversation.  The paradoxes of romantic relationships.  Navigating feelings of shame.  Imago relationship theory and dialogue techniques.  The 4 stages of relationship.  AFGO: Another Fucking Growth Opportunity.  Discovering your personal relationship issue and how it ties back to your childhood.   What do recurring conflicts and frustrations in relationship represent?  Minimizer vs. maximizer in conflict.  Your relationships becoming your nightmare.  Showing up authentically with boundaries and consent.  Discovering your “relationship wants” and identifying how to lean into them.  The value of men’s groups for inner-work and navigating romantic relationships. Links from this episode: The Conscious Relationship Council  Nick’s Website Nick’s Instagram

Christine Hassler is a Master coach, facilitator and speaker and the host of top-rated podcast “Over it and On With It” where she coaches people live on the show. She is also a best-selling author of three books, most recently Expectation Hangover: Free Yourself From Your Past, Change your Present and Get What you Really Want. Christine co-founder of Elementum Coaching Institute, a premier coaching certification program. Preston Smiles and Stef Sifandos (recent guests on this show) are also Master coaches for Elementum. Christine joined me on the show to talk about men’s evolution and leadership, conscious parenting, and romantic relationships. In this episode we discuss: How Christine created her dream life and attracted her dream partner.  Trusting divine timing and following your own timeline. Embodying personal development work. What success can really mean. Leveraging disappointment as a point to transform.  Effective coaching practices.  Understanding our past to move toward the future. Time traveling to our childhood triggers. Time vs. love healing all wounds. Conscious trauma work. MDMA Therapy = Love therapy. Instant gratification.  What does the evolution of conscious men look like? The dance of masculine and feminine energy. Individual vs. community work. Revering the feminine. The duality of attachment styles. Self-regulation and self-soothing in conflict.  Leadership in romantic relationship.  3 stages of consciousness. For expecting fathers: sacrifice and devotion during and after pregnancy.  The 3 most important traits for a father: presence, consistency, and emotional availability.  Links from this episode: Elementum Coaching Institute Christine’s Website Christine’s Podcast Christine’s Instagram Christine’s Facebook Christine’s Twitter Christine’s YouTube Evolving Man Episode with Stef Sifandos

John Wineland is a leader in men’s embodiment, leadership, and the energetics of romantic relationship. He is the author of the forthcoming book From The Core: A New Masculine Paradigm For Leading With Love, Living Your Truth, & Healing The World. John joined me to talk about relationships, men’s work, and the transformational power of men’s groups.  In this episode we discuss: The Masculine and Feminine core.  Men’s Work and the value of men’s groups. What does masculine leadership look like in a time of shared leadership between men and women? The importance of men cultivating sensitivity.  John’s mission in the world and how he got into men’s work.  Consciousness, embodiment, and spiritual intimacy. Turning your wound into a gift. Father wounds.  Integrating David Deida’s work. Stillness vs. Energy. Staying grounded, aware, and in equanimity.  Wim Hof breathwork.  Nervous system training. How modern men can lead in a relationship with a powerful partner.  Understanding your relationship to your breath. Infinite practices for increasing sensitivity.  Your heart is a sonar device. Taking a numbness inventory.  Dopamine addictions. Understanding feminine and masculine essences in ourselves and in relationship. The power of picturing your dream life. No More Mr. Nice Guy - Robert Glover.  Two kinds of romantic relationship: Power grid vs. Battery.  The Depth Council - John’s Men’s Group. Links Order John’s Book John’s Website John’s Instagram John’s YouTube channel The Conscious Relationship Council The Path To Conscious Love - A Course for Couples 

Sheleana Aiyana is the founder of Rising Woman, a growing community of more than 3 million readers. She is also my wife and life partner. Sheleana joins me on this episode to talk about the keys to successful romantic relationships and her recently released book Becoming The One: Heal Your Past, Transform Your Relationship Patterns, and Come Home to Yourself. On this episode we dig into some of the key concepts from the book, and we talk about a few true stories from the book that involve our relationship and give some greater context and perspective on what we both learned. If you are interested in the keys to attracting or keeping a romantic partner, or if you're a Rising Woman fan wanting an inside look into our relationship, this episode is for you. In this episode we dive into: The deeper meaning within Sheleana’s new book, “Becoming the One.”  What “being your own healer” means. Spiritual myth busting.  Self-abandonment.  Seeking external soothing - a conditioned pattern  Attracting inauthentic romantic matches.  Abandonment wounds and chasing unavailable love.  The foundation to healthy relationships: our relationship to self.  Finding healing through trusting yourself, your body, and reconnecting to nature.  Experiencing pleasure in life while being anchored in our truth.  Shifting from a breakdown to a breakthrough.   Authentic alignment. Questioning how you show up in your relationships? Scarcity of love vs. abundance of love as a mindset. Soulmates and soul families. Wounded inner child archetypes creating codependency.  The strength of community and friendship in supporting your relationship.  Twin flames vs. free will. External blame and taking back your power. How to get an unconscious partner to start doing the work with you. Parental vs. divine partner perspectives. Normalizing the desire for change. Patterns of withholding. Respecting your partner’s differences as assets. Attunement, sensitivity, and nervous system awareness. Specific dynamics and patterns in Sheleana and Ben’s relationship.  Seeing your partner’s intentions. Humility vs. defensiveness. Overcoming self-doubt. The Father wound. The value for men in reading “Becoming the One”. Links from this episode  Rising Woman Website The “Becoming the One” course Rising Woman Instagram Sheleana’s Instagram Sheleana’s YouTube Creating Conscious Love - A Course For Couples Becoming the One Course The Conscious Relationship Council - For Men The Nespresso Story: Chapter 8 - Understanding Projections in “Becoming the One”

Alex Olshonsky, aka “Olo,” is a writer and the founder of Deep Fix - a newsletter, somatic coaching practice, and fast-growing digital community. He is also the co-founder of Natura Care Programs, an interdisciplinary entheogenic program combating addiction. Alex is a former Silicon Valley executive at companies like Twitter, Salesforce, Copper, Slack, and VentureBeat. He joined me to share his story of his battle with addiction and his recovery. We also explored “Second Stage of Recovery” and the nuance of plant medicines, Ayahuasca, and the intentional use of psychedelics for healing.  In this episode we discuss:  Alex’s upbringing in a culture of wealth and consumerist values Imposter syndrome The seeds of addiction Living a life for others, vs for yourself. The absence of mentorship for men Alex’s early work in finance which led to the tech start-up world Severe poly-substance addiction in Silicon Valley. “High-Functioning Addiction” Family intervention for addiction. Alex’s “bottom” which led him to recovery The value of AA and 12 step meetings  The limitations of the 12 step model and the disease concept of addiction Buddhism, Yoga, and plant medicines “Second Stage Recovery” Ayahuasca as a tool for healing and transformation The proper use of psychedelic therapy. The importance of leveraging counseling, groups, and ceremony when engaging plant medicines. Bringing about Natura - a holistic plant medicine recovery program for people suffering from addiction. Links from this episode: Deep Fix - Alex’s website Alex’s Twitter  Alex’s Instagram Natura Care Programs  

Raphael Rowe is an investigative reporter, a BBC correspondent, and the host of Netflix’s “Inside The World’s Toughest Prisons”. At age 20, Raphael was falsely convicted of murder and given a life sentence in prison. He spent 12 years campaigning and fighting for his exoneration, and was released at age 32. He joined me to tell his story, and talk about racial profiling, police corruption, and what works (and doesn’t work) in the prison systems we use to reform criminals. In this episode we dive into: Caring for our criminals, mentally ill, and addicted populations. How Raphael became involved in prison work.  How Raphael got convicted for crimes he did not commit. The racism embedded in policing and prison systems.  Feeding societies’ collective shadows.  The good guy vs. bad guy mentality.  Understanding nuance and power.  How Raphael fought his own prison sentence.  The power of the media.  Covid restrictions vs. the constriction of prison. Raphael’s journey to hosting Inside the World’s Toughest Prisons.  What life really is like in prison.  How society views the prison system. Prison reform.  The importance of giving voices to prisoners.  Harm reduction and meeting basic human needs in prisons. Life-changing therapeutic experiences in prison. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Humanizing criminals. The cathartic power of connection and ritual.  What elements don’t work in the prison system.  Addressing needs of individuals with a humanistic approach.  Changing narratives and mindsets of the public to ignite change.  Supportive prison staff and educational resources in prison. Masculine wounds on personal and societal levels.  Facing resistance in rehabilitation.  The message behind the Raphael Rowe Foundation.  Wounds becoming gifts.  Raphael’s Links: Website Facebook YouTube Notorious by Raphael Rowe Second Chance Podcast Raphael Rowe Foundation

Preston Smiles exudes passion and commitment to healing. He is a Personal Freedom Coach,  a multi-millionaire, a conscious businessman, father, and author of Love Louder: 33 Ways to Amplify Your Life. Preston joined me on the show to talk about his love of coaching, and what he has learned about building successful coaches. In this episode we talk about these points: Life doesn’t come to you, it comes from you. Preston’s Kaboom Coaching and Elementum Coaching Institute.  Being a magnetic person. 4 aspects of what it means to be human.  Traditional schooling vs. lived experiences.  Trauma and shame.  The secret to working in business with your wife.  Leveling up with children.  Exploring inner needs and desires.  The journey of unlearning personal patterns.  How Preston gets support now that he is successful. What men’s work is really about.  The consciousness of abundance.  The inner laws of success. The responsibility of coaches.  Money as energy.  Changing limiting mindsets.  Why the world needs more coaches. The limitations of therapy.  Where men should go when they’re having trouble with romance.  “Proximity is power with and within”  How to manage social media when you have a large audience.   Links from this episode: Preston’s Website Preston’s Instagram Preston’s YouTube  Elementum Coaching Institute Website  The Conscious Relationship Council

Jayson Gaddis is an author, podcaster, speaker, and “personal trainer for relationships”. He is a global leader on interpersonal conflict and connection. He joins me on the show to discuss the keys to success in relationship, and his book “Getting To Zero - How To Work Through Conflict In Your High Stakes Relationships”. In this episode we discuss: How to be better in relationships. The Relationship School. The one common denominator in relationship struggles – ourselves. Avoidance tendencies. How we learn to “do conflict”. Conflict as an inevitable part of a relationship. Conflict as a mirror. Honest and authentic interactions.   How to manage and navigate conflict. The “why” of relationships. Active listening skill development. The higher purpose of relationships. Relational blueprints. Attachment/Conflict Styles: Seeker and Avoider. Polarity and romance. Shadow Vows. How to handle your triggers and your partner’s triggers? Attuning to loved one’s nervous systems. What’s at the core of getting back to zero? Understanding the other person’s experience (LUFU). 10 Roadblocks to Reconnection. Where else can these tools be applied in your life? Links from this Episode  The Relationship School Website The Relationship School Instagram Jayson’s Instagram Getting to Zero Website  Jayson’s Facebook Jayson’s Twitter Jayson’s YouTube The Conscious Relationship Council

Isaac Cotec is a scholar of the subconscious and the creator of the HeroRise Archetype deck. He has dedicated his life to empowering others through art and creativity. Isaac joins me on the show to discuss the 5 mature masculine archetypes and their associated shadow elements. This episode is a must-listen if you want to understand your own personal archetypes and learn how to manage them in your life.  In this episode we dive into: The HeroRise archetype tarot deck. What are archetypes? Masculine archetype history and universality. The 5 different masculine archetypes: Warrior, Wizard, Lover, Father, Sovereign.  The art of understanding our own consciousness. How you can use the archetypes in your life. “King, Warrior, Magician, Lover“ by Robert Moore and Douglas Gillette. Methods of assessing self-improvement. A breakdown of each masculine archetype. The shadow sides of the  masculine archetypes: over and under-expression. Mature vs. immature expressions of archetypes. Sub-archetypes. Evolving within the triangle of archetype polarity. Elements and archetypes: Fire, Air, Water, Earth, and Spirit. Anger and our disconnection from healthy versions of it. Bringing the mature Lover into sex. Action steps to mature archetype embodiment. The Know-It-All shadow of the Wizard. How to find self-awareness, balance, and integration.  Doing shadow work with other people.  Isaac’s Instagram The Archetype Quiz Isaac’s Website Isaac’s Facebook King, Warrior, Magician, Lover by Robert Moore and Douglas Gillette 

Nick Solaczek is a relationship coach and a men’s work leader who inspires men to find the things that are missing in their lives, and reintegrate them. He joined me to discuss men’s alchemy, integration, how men can find their personal power in the current times. In this episode we discuss: Why Nick is involved in Men’s work. What is men’s work? Samurai Brotherhood and upcoming events. Integrity and integration. Group accountability. Online groups vs in person groups. Why is men’s work so important? Lighting a fire, and healthy challenges.  Creating safe spaces for men. Past, present, and future focused work in men’s groups.  The importance of consistency.  Men’s work as a mirror.  Drawing on the power of myth.  The Mythopoetic men’s movement.  Aligned books and courses (linked below). Archetypes in men’s work.  Defining your own masculinity.  The “Masculine core”.  Childhood wounding.  Parallels of Alcoholics Anonymous and Men’s Work Brotherhoods.  The 14 Point Code of the Conscious Warrior.  Rejection and ownership of anger.  The Warrior archetype.  Shadow expressions.  Alchemy - what is it? Honesty and inner-truth.  True Personal Growth.  Inclusivity in the Samurai Brotherhood. Links: Nick’s Website  Nick’s Instagram  Nick’s Facebook Nick’s Previous Evolving Man Episode 1 Nick’s Previous Evolving Man Episode 2  Samurai Brotherhood's Upcoming Workshop Book - Iron John by Robert Bly Book - King, Warrior, Magician, Lover by Robert Moore and Douglas Gillette  Book - The Way of the Superior Man by David Deida Book - The Way of the Conscious Warrior by P.T. Mistlberger  The Integrated Man Course  Connor Beaton's Shadow Work Course  Jordan Peterson Self Authoring Course P.T. Mistlberger's Evolving Man Episode

Stefanos Sifandos is a relational alchemist who works with people to dissolve fear, find their power, and uncover their blocks to intimacy. He has also been working with men’s circles for years, with Sacred Sons and currently the MPowered Brotherhood in Austin, Texas. Stef joined me to talk about how people can heal their nervous systems using simple practices, ‘safe’ containers, and trauma-informed techniques. In this episode we discuss: Maximizing human potential.  Clearing the clutter of the past. Putting on metaphorical masks. Are we making decisions from places of hurt? Unconscious responses in conflict. Challenging internalized beliefs. Environmental conditioning. Physiological habits. Feeling safe in chaos. Exploring the unknown. Mirroring in relationships. Self-regulation of the nervous system. Pendulation vs. Flooding. Therapeutic experiences in men’s group work. What spaces can help heal our nervous systems? The personal responsibility of doing inner work.  Self-soothing outcomes of psychedelics. Avoiding silence. Stef’s and Ben’s initiation experiences. Connecting with nature.  Simple practices to connect to our true selves. Getting comfortable in discomfort. Challenging ourselves in day-to-day life. Developing resilience through movement.  Links Stef’s Website  Stef’s Instagram Stef’s Twitter Stef’s Facebook 1 on 1 Coaching with Stef Be The Queen Program Stef’s YouTube The MPowered Brotherhood

Dr. Scott Lyons is a Clinical Psychologist, Osteopath, and Mind-Body Medicine practitioner. His list of qualifications is extensive, and he joined me to discuss the power of somatic work to heal trauma and reconnect people to their bodies. If you are curious about somatic therapy, this episode is a must-listen. Most importantly we discuss Scott’s upcoming training for practitioners to learn about Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy. We need more people doing this work! In this episode we dig in to:  Trauma work. The definition of somatic therapy. Embodiment: working with the body to heal trauma.  Learning disabilities, and medication. Dance as a form of medicine. Scott’s journey to somatic therapy.  The Wisdom of Trauma.  How somatic therapy works and how it differs from other therapeutic practices. The first universal languages: sensation and breath.  The importance of touch, movement, and sound.  Education systems that disconnect us from our bodies.  Top/down vs. bottom/up healing approaches. Childhood experiences impacting adulthood behavior.  Building up “somatic resources”. Diagnosed PTSD and the potential to heal. Common somatic practices. Conflict resolution.  Ancestral medicine. Trauma sensitive yoga.  Childhood depression is linked to screen time.  Human beings are nature. The ticket to wellness is embodiment.  How to find a somatic therapist. Balancing fire with water.   Links: Scott’s Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy Training Program Scott’s Website Scott’s Instagram Scott’s Facebook The Wisdom of Trauma 

Adam Jackson is the co-founder of The Sacred Sons, a mens’ community devoted to masculine alchemy. He joined me to talk about the unique way that his community is helping men connect to each other, and find conscious healing. In this episode we discuss: The history and mission of Sacred Sons. Masculine Alchemy. Diversity in men’s spaces. Embodiment - what is it? Healing from mental illness and addiction. Creating sacred, safe spaces. Confronting shadows, biases, and core beliefs to connect with others. Combating divisiveness created by the media. Resisting disconnection amidst COVID controversies. Outsourcing discernment to the media. Collective representation. What work is right in front of you? Self-sabotage. Learning to close relationships properly. The importance of gratitude and celebration. The Lover archetype and how the Sacred Sons conjure it. Brotherhood as medicine. MDMA and plant medicine. Using substances to open up vs. the “drugs” already inside of you. The lack of brotherhood spaces for teens. Mens’ personal responsibility to create connection and culture. Finding growth and space in fatherhood. The return of the Father archetype. Family is a spiritual practice. What is a Sacred Sons Embodied Masculine Experience (EMX).    Links  Sacred Sons Website Sacred Sons Podcast  Brothership App Sacred Sons Facebook Adam’s Instagram EMX Fall ‘21 Schedule Samurai Brotherhood Website

Dr. Zach Bush is a multi-disciplinary physician of internal medicine, endocrinology, hospice care and an internationally recognized educator on the microbiome as it relates to human health, soil health, food systems, and a regenerative future.  Zach joined me to discuss the current state of health in the world and how living in a toxic environment exacerbates the spread of disease amongst humans. In this episode we discuss: The paradox of views surrounding COVID vaccines. How the immune system works. Flu vaccines increase coronavirus symptoms. GMO mechanisms. The definition of ‘vaccine’. Differences between the COVID vaccines. How spike proteins harm the body. Cas9: our bodies own vaccine cards. Will vaccines get rid of coronavirus? The history of coronaviruses. The flu vs. coronavirus. Myths about PCR and our relationship to coronaviruses. Personal responsibility over our immune systems. Genetic modification of food. What we can learn from the DDT ban. Creating a call to action for our future.  Is SARS Covid 2 a naturally occurring virus? A biological look on how the virus impacts each of our bodies. Histotoxic hypoxia, cyanide poisoning, and hospitalizations. The India outbreak. The importance of breath. Benefits of Vitamin D.  Racial and socioeconomic impacts on the pandemic.  The bottleneck of information on public health. The downsides to social distancing.  Response to critiques of Zach’s from the Conspirituality podcast. Changes in mortality rates and chronic diseases in children. Romanticization of nature. War-like mentality between nature and mankind.  Soil, water, and air systems collapsing modern society.  Intuitive knowing vs. science.  Macro and micro struggles during the pandemic.  Links: Neurohacker Collective Podcast Episode  Rich Roll Podcast Episode Luke Storey Podcast Episode  Mark Groves Podcast Episode  Dr. Doudna’s TED Talk  Zach’s Website Zach’s Twitter   Zach’s Facebook Zach’s Instagram