The Meaning of Men S3, Ep12: The Meaning of Boy to Man | Navigating the journey to manhood
When, and how, does a boy truly become a man?
In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Ewan Corlett, a men’s guide and therapist who specialises in masculinity, rites of passage and the transition from boyhood to manhood. We explore one of the most overlooked and misunderstood stages in modern life: how a boy develops the emotional maturity, self leadership and grounded identity required to live as a healthy, integrated man.
Drawing from his own story of addiction, recovery and self discovery, Ewan explains what it means to become a self led man who moves through the world with integrity, emotional awareness and purpose. He shares insights from both ancient initiation practices and modern therapeutic work, offering a practical understanding of how men grow, heal and develop inner strength.
In this episode you will learn:
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The difference between becoming an adult and becoming a man
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Why modern society lacks clear initiation and what this means for male identity
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How addiction, numbing and unhealthy coping behaviours often emerge from an unfulfilled need for guidance, belonging and purpose
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The impact of absent male role models and the confusion surrounding masculinity today
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How reconnecting with primal, grounded energy supports confidence, emotional regulation and personal responsibility
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What healthy masculinity can look like in relationships, fatherhood, leadership and community
This conversation offers depth and clarity for anyone interested in men’s mental health, masculinity, personal development and rites of passage. It invites you to reflect on your own transition from boyhood to manhood, to recognise the parts of yourself that are still waiting to grow, and to redefine what mature, grounded masculinity can mean for your life and the people you love.
Hear more from Ewan:
@ewan.corlett
Timestamps:
03:41: Ewan's Journey to Self-Discovery 06:29: The Transition from Boy to Man 09:32: Rites of Passage and Male Initiation 11:23: Emotional Regulation and Safety 14:16: Abundance vs. Scarcity Mindset 14:32: The Role of Initiation in Society 15:40: Connecting with the Wild Man 18:29: Integrating Strength and Wisdom 21:44: Embracing Adversity and Ego 26:30: The Role of Fathers and Male Initiation 30:19: Creating Safe Spaces for Boys 31:23: Understanding Masculinity and Toxicity 36:38: Modern Day Initiation and Self-Discovery