ManTalks Podcast

Today, I discuss the common belief that men are intimidated by successful women. We explore where this narrative comes from, why it persists, and what’s really going on beneath the surface. Instead of intimidation, attraction often breaks down when certain traits and behaviors enter the relationship dynamic. Tune in for an honest look at success, gender roles, and what makes relationships thrive or fail.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Are men really intimidated by women?01:04 – The origins of this narrative01:58 – Success vs. attraction in relationships03:52 – Clarifying the message about women’s accomplishments04:38 – What men actually get frustrated with06:59 – Influence, power, and attraction dynamics07:42 – Traits that push men away08:32 – Why “intimidation” isn’t the real issue10:14 – Relationship struggles with role balance11:00 – Closing thoughts and reflections***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I dive into the archetype of the Trickster—the part of us that thrives on chaos, sabotage, and disruption, yet also carries the medicine of transformation.I explore how the Trickster shows up in mythology, film, and our daily lives, and why learning to embrace him can free us from stagnancy. You’ll discover how to build a relationship with this shadow energy and use it as a source of creativity, humor, and growth.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:01 – Introduction to the Trickster Archetype02:38 – The Joker as Chaos Embodied03:47 – Loki, Hermes, and Bugs Bunny05:29 – Chaos as Medicine07:29 – The Trickster Breaks Taboos10:16 – Growth Through Disruption12:02 – The Trickster in Religion and Myth14:08 – Denying vs. Embracing the Trickster16:54 – Trickster Heroes: Iron Man and Jim Carrey19:21 – Recognizing the Trickster Within21:44 – Confronting the Inner Saboteur23:40 – Why We Need the Trickster Today25:08 – Closing Reflections***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I break down why quitting weed is so damn hard and the science behind it. From brain rewiring and withdrawal to the skyrocketing potency of today’s cannabis, I explain the real reasons people struggle. I also share a proven step-by-step strategy to help you prepare, manage cravings, and quit for good. If you’ve tried before and slipped back, this roadmap is for you.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Why quitting weed is hard01:09 – Reason #1: Brain rewiring05:02 – Reason #2: Withdrawal is real06:58 – Reason #3: Potency of modern weed10:25 – Reason #4: New side effects12:42 – Reason #5: Social acceptance & access13:45 – Stage 1: Prepare & track usage16:56 – Stage 2: Managing withdrawal22:13 – Stage 3: Therapy & nervous system support24:38 – Step 4: Reward progress27:16 – Medical support options28:22 – Final thoughts & accountability***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

Connor sits down with storyteller Jameson Olsen to dive into the myth of Hercules and uncover its relevance for modern men. From the legendary labors to the tragedy that shaped his journey, Jameson unpacks how these ancient myths reflect the struggles of responsibility, temptation, betrayal, and redemption men face today. They explore the crossroads between vice and virtue, the weight of personal choices, and the timeless lessons hidden in myth. This conversation challenges men to confront their own trials, learn from archetypal stories, and find meaning in bearing the burden of life’s hardships.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 - Introduction00:36 - Retelling ancient stories for modern times02:57 - The trials of Hercules and lessons for men04:52 - The Choice of Hercules: virtue vs. vice08:15 - Modern vices and distractions13:13 - Hercules’ origins and fatherless upbringing15:43 - Tragedy: Hera’s curse and the loss of family20:25 - Redemption through the labors22:57 - The Nemean Lion: confronting the impossible29:27 - The Hydra: breaking destructive patterns40:16 - Cleaning the Augean stables44:40 - The mares of Diomedes: consequences of carelessness48:42 - Hippolyta’s belt and the gender divide54:07 - Bearing the heavy burden of disaster58:22 - Redemption, atonement, and moving forward01:03:20 - Using stories as mirrors for personal growth01:06:05 - Where to find Jameson Olsen***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance.&nbsp;Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at <a...

I dive into why many men feel invisible to women in the dating world and relationships, exploring the concept of sexual marketplace value. I break down the reasons behind this invisibility and share practical steps to stand out, from auditing your personal presentation to building a strong social network. Join me as I discuss how focusing on self-improvement naturally boosts your attractiveness and visibility to women.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 - Introduction to Male Invisibility00:52 - Understanding Sexual Marketplace Value03:11 - Why Most Men Are Invisible04:43 - The Choice Paradox in Dating05:32 - The Storefront Analogy07:23 - Importance of Presentation09:20 - Value Dynamics for Men and Women11:44 - Social Networks and Social Skills13:12 - Actionable Steps to Stand Out14:41 - Building Scarcity in Interactions16:38 - Investing in Long-Term Assets19:17 - Improving Physical Presence20:38 - Signaling Value, Not Selling22:09 - Overcoming Mediocrity***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance.&nbsp;Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

Listen to this episode for a raw and powerful conversation about loss, grief, and reclaiming self-trust. Together, we explore how childhood wounds shaped his sense of worth and authority, and what it means to step into becoming the true authority of your own life. This is a deeply moving dialogue about forgiveness, healing, and learning to finally trust yourself.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 Welcome and introduction00:49 Confronting grief and loss07:10 Childhood trauma and its impact14:30 Speaking to his mother22:50 Reclaiming voice and feelings29:10 Inner child connection33:00 Choosing a new authority36:28 Owning self-worth and power44:12 Reflections on authority and healing47:39 Closing thoughts***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance.&nbsp;Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I explore the character of Aragorn from The Lord of the Rings as a model of virtuous masculinity. I break down how he embodies the protector, the healer, and the humble king, and what that means for us as men today. Aragorn shows us how strength and gentleness, ambition and humility, can coexist—and why the world needs more of that balance right now.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Introduction00:27 – The hands of the king03:13 – The protector king06:22 – The humility of power08:24 – Strength with purpose11:11 – Brotherhood and bonds13:39 – Magnanimity and greatness16:55 – Humility at the Black Gate18:26 – Strong and gentle19:23 – Redefining greatness22:04 – Closing thoughts***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance.&nbsp;Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I sit down with Roger for a powerful conversation about intimacy, leadership, and the courage it takes to be fully honest in a relationship. We explore how childhood wounds can carry into adult partnerships, and the work it takes to break free from old cycles of shame and avoidance. Roger opens up with deep vulnerability, and together we unpack what it means to step into responsibility and create real connection.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Opening &amp; Welcome00:52 – Roger’s Relationship Struggles04:08 – Intimacy &amp; Connection Challenges07:56 – The Cycle of Avoidance13:29 – Childhood Roots with Mom20:05 – Healing the Inner Boy28:22 – Facing the Partner with Honesty35:30 – Learning to Be Okay with Disappointment42:35 – Separating Self from Validation47:29 – Commitments for Change52:19 – Micro Moments of Leadership53:18 – Closing Reflections***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance.&nbsp;Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I dive into how your shadow self might be quietly sabotaging your love life — and what you can do about it. Drawing from Jungian philosophy, I explore why we’re drawn to partners who embody the very traits we’ve disowned in ourselves. I share practical ways to spot your shadow at work in your relationship and how to begin integrating it for deeper connection and intimacy.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 Welcome &amp; Jung’s insight on fate00:50 Your shadow’s hidden intelligence02:37 What is the shadow?04:20 How to know when your shadow is active07:13 The nice guy/people pleaser dynamic09:18 Nature abhors a vacuum in relationships11:57 Relationships as mirrors for self-reclamation14:17 Steps to integrate your shadow15:19 Closing thoughts &amp; final Jung quote***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance.&nbsp;Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram

I sit down with Anthony Rispo to dive deep into social cognition, human behavior, and the cultural shifts affecting men and women today. We explore how disagreements can fracture relationships, the erosion of nuance in public discourse, and the role social media plays in polarizing people. Anthony also shares his insights on gender dynamics, the state of therapy for men, and the growing narrative around being “better off alone.” This is a thought-provoking conversation that isn’t afraid to push into complex and sometimes controversial territory.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Anthony’s background and journey into psychology04:20 – Research interests and social cognition explained08:51 – The impact of disagreement on relationships14:14 – Political polarization and identity formation26:09 – Gender differences and dating dynamics29:09 – The brain’s role in social cognition38:39 – Therapy, masculinity, and practical approaches for men49:23 – Dark traits, therapy, and ideology53:49 – Being alone and cultural narratives57:52 – Consequences of rejecting traditional structures01:04:35 – Anthony’s personal story and standing against groupthink***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance.&nbsp;Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram