695. Why Strength Still Matters: Masculinity, Honour & Identity – With Jack Donovan

I’m sharing some personal reflections from my new life in Slovenia. It’s just me on the mic, exploring themes of home, belonging, and what it means to truly feel settled - both in a place and in the body. As someone who has lived all over the world, I’ve had plenty of cross-cultural experiences that shape how I see things. I talk about migration, embodiment, and the nervous system—not just from a personal perspective, but also how these ideas play out in society. Since moving here, a lot has come into focus for me, and this episode is a chance to unpack some of that. ------------------------------------------------------ Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

Coach and Playboy model Savannah for a conversation that cuts through the noise. We explore the tension between drive and surrender - when to push and when to let go - and what it really means to pursue deep wellbeing in a world hooked on distraction. From curiosity and discipline to the pull of tech addiction and the impact of objectifying media, we get honest about the cultural forces shaping us. We also dive into the Madonna–whore complex, inner beauty, getting back to nature, and how psychedelics like ketamine can help (or hinder) the integration of our full selves. Savannah brings a rare mix of insight, presence, and real-world experience to the mic.  Read more about Savannah's work here: www.eclipseevolution.com  ------------------------------------------------------ Savannah Rose Johnson is an author, model, artist, and wellness coach. Her coaching specialities are identity exploration, consciousness, psychedelic integration, and trauma recovery. She is the creator of His Mind Magazine and also has a podcast, Eclipse Evolution. ------------------------------------------------------ Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

Krav Maga instructor, Lewis Groves joins me to get into what Krav Maga really is, where it comes from, and how it’s different from traditional martial arts or rule-bound sports. We talk about training for the street rather than the ring, the value of simplicity under pressure, and why so many martial arts end up in fantasyland. We also cover ego, humility, gender differences, strength vs. skill, and why most guys think they can fight — when they really can’t. If you’ve ever wondered what martial art is “best,” how to train smart not macho, or why being punched in the face might be the wake-up call you need — this one’s for you. Find out more about Lewis' work here: kravmagaevolve.co.uk We’re resharing this episode because it’s one of our best, and packed with timeless insights that are still relevant today. If you missed it the first time, we think you’ll love it. ------------------------------------------------------ Lewis Groves is the founder & Head Instructor of Krav Maga Evolve (KME). Lewis was previously Head Instructor for the UK for International Krav Maga (IKM). Lewis qualified as an Instructor with IKM in 2014 and previously trained in kickboxing and Wing Chun. He continues to train in boxing and Kickboxing as well as Krav Maga. ---------------------------------------------------------- Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

Breathwork teacher Jamie Clements joins me for an exploration into the real power of breath. We get into why most people are breathing badly, the science and dogma around breathwork (hello Buteyko and James Nestor), and how breath can be both a tool for healing and a doorway into altered states. We talk trauma — what breathwork can do, what it can't, and the fine line between deep release and emotional performance. There's some solid discussion on men’s mental health, breath and sleep, psychedelic breathwork, and the difference between reaching in and reaching out. If you're curious about breathwork beyond the hype — and want something both practical and honest — this one's for you. Read more about Jamie's work here: thebreathspace.co.uk ------------------------------------------------------ Jamie Clements is a breathwork coach and founder of The Breath Space. Inspired by his own experience overcoming anxiety, Jamie now helps others discover the transformative power of breathwork. He works with entrepreneurs, athletes, and more, using a range of techniques tailored to each client. Jamie is certified in multiple breathwork modalities, including Advanced Oxygen Advantage and Conscious Connected Breathing, offering support for performance, healing, and nervous system regulation. ---------------------------------------------------------- Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

I’m joined by author and men’s work coach Jack Donovan for a deep, honest chat about modern masculinity. We get into why strength matters, how weakness is being sold as virtue, and why the idea that we're all "blank slates" might be doing more harm than good. We talk martial arts, the value of tactical virtues, and what honour really means in a world that often dismisses it. Jack also breaks down the meaning behind “far right” labels, internet culture clashes, and how Nietzsche's ideas can actually help when you’re trying to raise strong, grounded boys today. Lots of practical wisdom in this one—whether you're a dad, a mentor, or just figuring out what it means to be a man in 2025. Read more about Jack's work here: jack-donovan.com ------------------------------------------------------ Jack Donovan is a writer and speaker who has spent over a decade exploring masculinity and masculine philosophy. Known for his "gonzo" anthropological approach, he focuses on big ideas and cultural patterns around male identity. His bestselling book The Way of Men has become a go-to read for soldiers, athletes, fathers, and leaders around the world. His latest work, Fire in the Dark, dives into mythic masculine roles and introduces his evolving philosophy of Solar Idealism. Jack is also the founder of the international men’s group The Order of Fire and a frequent guest on podcasts and stages like the 21 Convention. ---------------------------------------------------------- Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

Christian Pankhurst joins me to pick apart the art of emotional intelligence, group dynamics, and embodied leadership. We explore what it really means to live from “the heart,” how safety and coherence shape authentic connection, and why shadow work (especially the uniquely British kind) is essential for transformation. Christian unpacks the four directions of the heart, the relationship between narcissism and emotional range, and the subtle dance between intensity and connection. From trauma and village-making to mastery, martial arts, and the pitfalls of consumer spirituality—this conversation is both soulful and refreshingly practical. Whether you're a coach, a seeker, or just heart-curious, this one’s full of grounded wisdom you can actually use. Find out more about Christian's work here:  Https://www.heartiq.org/cft Https://www.shadowfacilitator.com ------------------------------------------------------ Christian Pankhurst is a leading expert in heart-centered communication and the creator of the Heart IQ™ Method, a transformational approach blending group dynamics, intimacy, and embodied leadership. With over 50,000 hours of circle facilitation, he helps participants access deep emotional and spiritual states through collective wisdom. Christian has trained over 400 coaches in 50 countries, guiding leaders to cultivate inner transformation as the foundation of their influence and presence. His mission is to build a global community that uses circle work to inspire healing, growth, and awakening. ---------------------------------------------------------- Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

Scott Hanley joins me to talk about how he turned the tables on his Parkinson's diagnosis. We explore how mindset, movement, and a willingness to experiment played key roles in his recovery. We also talk about CrossFit, brain health, neuroplasticity, and the social disconnection that’s worsened since COVID. It’s a conversation packed with practical insight, big inspiration, and a reminder that it’s never too late to change the trajectory of your life. Connect with Scott on Instagram here: instagram.com/thrive_happens ------------------------------------------------------ Scott Hanley is a resilience and functional health advocate whose journey with Parkinson’s, diagnosed in 2017, led him to regain 95% of his function through intense physical and cognitive training. A former British Army officer, he now coaches business leaders on mindset, performance, and wellness. Drawing from his personal transformation, Scott empowers others - whether managing chronic illness or navigating high-stress careers - to build resilience and lead with energy and purpose. ---------------------------------------------------------- Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

Our new two-year membership program, Embodied Flourishing, is a supportive and pressure-free space to explore well-being, boundaries, embodiment, and more. Go beyond quick fixes for burnout or health struggles with a journey that empowers you to feel genuinely alive again. No more pushing through day after day. It includes: Carefully paced explorations to foster a deep-rooted sense of wellbeing. Practical tools to sustain health, calm, and meaning during life’s messy moments. Ongoing community support to share experiences, receive feedback, and grow alongside others who “get it.” If you’re ready to start truly enjoying life, Embodied Flourishing might be for you. Find out more and join us here: embodimentunlimited.com/flourish ---------------------------------------------------------- Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

I sit down with my friend and colleague Dr Helen Machen-Pearce for a real, raw conversation about burnout, healing, and what it actually takes to flourish as a human being. I share my personal story - how I pushed myself to the point of physical and emotional collapse, what it took to come back from that, and the lessons I learned the hard way. Helen opens up about her own experience with burnout and recovery, navigating illness and rediscovering herself through yoga and embodiment. Together, we talk about nervous system health, trauma, grief, overwork, purpose, and the quiet power of everyday practices that nourish rather than deplete. Our new two-year membership program, Embodied Flourishing, is a supportive and pressure-free space to explore well-being, boundaries, embodiment, and more. Find out more and join us here: embodimentunlimited.com/flourish Check out more from Dr Helen here: yogarogue.co.uk ---------------------------------------------------------- Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

In this episode, I’m doing one of my not-so-solo solo casts - with Dr Helen Machen-Pearce in the room. We talk the power of nervous system regulation and how co-regulation plays a key role in well-being. This candid conversation dives into mental health, somatic practices, and how we connect as humans. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just curious about nervous system healing, this episode offers rich insights. We touch on how we’re building a new membership around this work. Find out more about 'Embodied Flourishing' and join us here: embodimentunlimited.com/flourish Check out more from Dr Helen here: yogarogue.co.uk ---------------------------------------------------------- Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram