Mantalks Podcast: Purpose | Legacy | Relationships | Self Mastery | Business

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: htt

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 Practi

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

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 wi

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

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 U

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 & Welcome00:52 – Roger’s Relationship Struggles04:08 – Intimacy & 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 Pra

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 & 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 & 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

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 narratives57:5

I dive deep into the silent treatment often used by avoidant partners—and what it really means. I share why this behavior isn't always intentional, how it impacts you emotionally, and what practical steps you can take to respond in a grounded, respectful way. As someone who used to be avoidant myself, I get the struggle from both sides. If you’re trying to navigate this dynamic in a relationship, this episode will give you clarity and tools to build healthier communication.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 Understanding the Silent Treatment01:28 Why Avoidants Pull Away03:09 Core Beliefs of the Avoidant Mindset05:22 Nervous System Triggers and Silence08:23 The Emotional Impact on You10:35 Step 1: Ground Yourself11:50 Step 2: Communicate Assertively13:30 Step 3: Reinforce Choice and Set Agreements17:45 Invitation Over Demand: The Path Forward***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 Guid

I dive into the modern traps that disconnect men from their masculine core, like the "nice guy" culture and procrastination, which drain your inner fire. I share practical steps to rebuild momentum through small, daily habits, helping you reclaim your strength and direction without relying on motivation. Join me as I explore how to balance empathy with assertiveness and take action toward your goals.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS(00:00) - Introduction: Feeling Disconnected(01:04) - The Nice Guy Trap(02:46) - Conflict Avoidance and Inner Fire(03:46) - The Procrastination Paradox(06:41) - Building Momentum(07:47) - Daily Habits for Masculine Energy(09:31) - Finding the Middle Ground(10:48) - Call to Action***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

Talking points: relationshipsSo many men fall into a very specific (and usually confusing) trap. They're asked to "be more vulnerable", they go way too far with it, and it ends up pushing the partner into the mother/caregiver/therapist role way too often.I've talked about this before, but let's go deeper. Here's how to interpret what's actually being asked of you.(00:00:00) - What a woman does NOT mean, and one of the paradoxes of dating(00:07:48) - What does she want, really?(00:09:01) - What can’t be filled by romance—and what it actually takes(00:12:14) - Don’t project spiritual meaning onto sexual instinct***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 res

Talking points: masculinity, cultureMuch like open pit mining, our culture has ravaged certain aspects of maturity and masculinity—and it's getting harder to remember what used to be the core components. Here are the most important principles I think most of us have forgotten to implement in our lives.I'd also love to get your thoughts on this. DM me on Instagram or if you're listening to this on Spotify, drop a comment!(00:00:00) - Learn to love and embrace the unknown(00:04:45) - Embrace discomfort(00:08:10) - Take responsibility and ownership almost to a degree that feels uncomfortable(00:10:04) - Build a brotherhood and honor your people(00:12:19) - Have dominion over your impulses(00:16:04) - Become emotionally sovereign(00:18:52) - Honor the feminine without resentment. Or pedestaling***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-Sabo

I was asked recently what I'd say to men who've been thinking about giving up. Who are at the end of their rope. Not an easy topic, and I don't have a magic bullet or tactical steps for you this time.But I do have a gentle reminder.(00:00:00) - Intro, and choice(00:07:42) - On suffering and gauging what you can truly change(00:15:31) - The risk of convincing***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 Po

Talking points: parents, anger, unavailabilityMy guest this week came to work on how can't see any path other than "it's all on me", as well as a feeling of emotional distance from his father. But why? What's hidden in the shadow that connects the two? This is an excellent episode to get a feel for the work in action—and how we so easily bury certain parts of ourselves and others in the unconscious. (00:00:00) - Intro, what my guest is struggling with, and his family situation(00:10:30) - How my guest’s teenage self felt in the moment(00:19:16) - What’s really going on(00:27:01) - What my guest has realized***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 resou

Talking points: mindset, nervous systemThere's good, there's great, and then there's real mastery. I've had the privilege of working and talking with many extraordinary men. Masters of their craft. There's something that all of them do well—and it's what separates the great from the exceptional. Listen in.(00:00:00) - Intro(00:05:51) - What separates good from great, and great from exceptional(00:10:35) - The best part, and the crucial part(00:14:25) - The importance of slowness***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 m

Talking points: traumaThis week, I sit down with Tim Fletcher to explore the deep and often misunderstood world of complex trauma. We unpack how subtle childhood experiences like emotional neglect or identity suppression can shape our nervous systems, relationships, and sense of self for decades. Tim breaks down the science and psychology behind trauma and its complexity, and offers insights into how healing actually happens. If you've ever struggled with anxiety, emotional reactivity, or feeling disconnected, this one is for you.(00:00:00) – Introduction to Tim Fletcher and What Is Complex Trauma?(00:06:20) – Subtle Forms of Childhood Trauma(00:12:00) – Simple vs. Complex Trauma(00:19:20) – Adult Symptoms of Complex Trauma(00:28:10) – How Trauma Shapes the Brain(00:37:50) – Recovery and Co-regulation(00:54:00) – Presence, Addiction, and ConnectionTim Fletcher started helping people as a pastor over 30 years ago. When he experienced some significant personal trauma, he transitioned into the addiction treatmen

Talking points: anxiety, attention, mindsetWhat if the jitters aren't just from the extra coffee this morning? What if you're taking in too much info, courtesy of the never-ending scroll? There's something underneath it all, team, and building resiliency against that can be an absolute game changer. Here's how.(00:00:00) - What’s underneath all anxiety, and what it does(00:03:01) - Why this is relevant to men(00:06:38) - The Cheesecake Factory Effect(00:09:15) - So what do you do, and what real freedom involves(00:15:33) - Do it scared, and do it to completion (with a caveat)(00:19:43) - Find the joy in the process, NOT the outcome***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 o

Talking points: relationship, attachment, cultureI love Stan because he's able to cut through so much of the modern BS around relationships, and get straight to practical, tactical perspectives and advice. We covered a TON of ground here, from the importance of social contracts and mutual protection, to the need for shared vision and purpose in creating equitable and collaborative relationships. This is definitely a convo that will spark some discussion, so listen in, team.(00:00:00) - Intro and the nature of secure functioning(00:05:52) - Human Nature and Relationship Dynamics(00:10:01) - Impact of Technology on Relationships(00:23:35) - Creating Secure Functioning Relationships(00:35:06) - Predictability and Prevention in Relationships(00:36:51) - The Importance of Quick Repair(00:43:02) - Mutual Protection and Solidarity(00:47:20) - Compatibility and Relationship Agreements(00:51:59) - The Role of Attachment in Relationships(01:00:42) - Final Thoughts and P

Talking points: relationships, infidelityNot the happiest of talking points today, team, but it's always worth discussing. There's no universal reason for it, but from my own experience and years of working with men, I've seen some common themes. Here's a quick breakdown of the top reasons, plus the underlying motivation for almost every man that's knocked on my door.(00:00:00) - Intro, and the underlying motivation for a majority of men(00:03:40) - Reasons that fall into this category(00:10:53) - One of the main drivers for my own infidelity, and how attachment styles can play into it***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