In this conversation, Tim Barber is joined by Alex Paske, a leadership and diversity consultant whose unique perspective is shaped by years in elite sport and the British Army. Together, they unpack the concept of positive masculinity, a term that challenges narrow, traditional views of manhood and instead encourages qualities like self-awareness, emotional resilience and genuine connection. Alex shares how his early experiences in judo and later service in the military led him to his current work, helping organisations and individuals build cultures rooted in empathy, understanding and emotional literacy.

How can emotional literacy transform our understanding of strength? Alex provides insights into this by recounting his transition from the structured environments of sports and the military into the consulting world. He highlights how emotional literacy is crucial for redefining strength, suggesting that true strength encompasses the ability to empathise and connect with others on a deeper level. This shift in perspective is essential for addressing the challenges men face when confined to traditional roles that often discourage emotional expression. By promoting a broader understanding of strength, Alex aims to help men navigate these challenges and foster environments where they can thrive emotionally and psychologically.

Why is psychological safety vital in high-pressure environments? Tim and Alex explore this question by examining the unique challenges men encounter in traditional roles, particularly in high-stakes settings like sports and the military. Alex argues that psychological safety is paramount in these environments, as it allows individuals to express vulnerability without fear of judgment or repercussions. This sense of safety is crucial for fostering meaningful connections and encouraging self-reflection, which are essential components of personal and professional growth. By advocating for psychological safety, Alex seeks to create spaces where men can balance performance demands with deeper emotional engagement, ultimately leading to more fulfilling and supportive relationships.

How can men balance performance with emotional engagement? Throughout the episode, Alex emphasises the importance of meaningful connections and self-reflection in achieving this balance. He urges men to move beyond the traditional focus on performance and success, advocating for a more holistic approach that includes emotional engagement and introspection. By fostering supportive relationships and encouraging open dialogue, Alex believes men can redefine modern masculinity in a way that promotes both personal and collective well-being. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to rethink their perceptions of masculinity and to actively work towards creating environments that support emotional growth and connection.

So, as we wrap up this conversation, take a moment to reflect – what are you taking away from this? How do these ideas challenge or resonate with your own experience of masculinity?

How to find us:

If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com

If you’ve got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out by email:
info@thefeelgoodfolk.com

You can also follow along and connect with us on social media, where we share updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/

To connect directly with Tim Barber, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here:
https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15

To connect directly with Alex, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-paske/?originalSubdomain=uk

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