#607 - Mike Thurston - Why Are Young Men Feeling So Lost?
Mar 27, 2023
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In this conversation with Mike Thurston, a prominent podcaster, YouTuber, and fitness model, they delve into the rising pressures faced by young men today. Mike reflects on the complexities of modern masculinity and the confusion surrounding identity in a digital age. He shares insights on his six-month sobriety journey, questioning societal norms around drinking. They also explore the evolving role of content creation and the struggles of connecting in a fast-paced world, emphasizing the importance of community and genuine relationships.
Societal pressure on individuals to establish their paths is increasing, contrasting with a more relaxed approach seen in the past decade.
Issues around masculinity, toxic masculinity, and the need for positive role models in today's world are critical topics of discussion.
The impact of social media, particularly Instagram and YouTube, intensifies feelings of inadequacy and competition among younger males, contributing to confusion and stagnation.
Deep dives
The pressure to succeed in modern times
There is a growing sense of pressure on both men and women to figure out their lives in the current era, contrasting with a more relaxed approach witnessed 10 to 15 years ago. This shift in societal expectations raises questions about why individuals now feel a heightened need to establish their paths and purposes compared to previous generations.
Exploring the changing dynamics of masculinity
Discussions around masculinity highlight evolving challenges faced by men in today's world. Issues such as the danger of toxic masculinity and the need for positive role models emerge as critical topics. The podcast delves into the complexities men face, considering societal pressures and changing gender dynamics.
The impact of social media on male identity
Social media's influence on male identity and self-perception is a focal point of the conversation. The comparison culture fueled by platforms like Instagram and YouTube intensifies feelings of inadequacy and fuels a sense of competition among younger males. The podcast explores how this digital landscape contributes to feelings of confusion and stagnation among men.
Navigating the challenges of modern dating
The podcast delves into the complexities of the modern dating landscape, highlighting concerns about increasing rates of sexlessness and shifting relationship dynamics. Male experiences, challenges, and responses within the contemporary dating scene are analyzed, shedding light on the evolving nuances of male-female interactions in today's society.
Personal Growth and Sobriety
The podcast episode discusses the speaker's personal growth journey, particularly focusing on changing their relationship with alcohol. They highlight how they have significantly reduced their alcohol consumption, shifting from heavy drinking multiple times a week to minimal drinking. Through a six-month sobriety experiment, they discovered a newfound enjoyment in sobriety, realizing increased confidence and control over their actions. This shift in mindset allowed them to prioritize their well-being and avoid unproductive days due to excessive drinking.
Community Building and Networking
The episode delves into the importance of community building and networking for personal and professional development. The speaker shares insights on organizing a mastermind event in Dubai to connect with like-minded individuals, emphasizing the value of networking with successful people from diverse fields. They highlight the role of social events in facilitating meaningful connections and opportunities for personal growth. Additionally, they reflect on the challenges of making friends and building a support system, underscoring the significance of engaging in social gatherings and expanding one's network.
Mike Thurston is a podcaster, YouTuber and a fitness model.
Me and Mike went to university together 15 years ago. Even though we were odd, awkward creatures, there was no pressure to get our life together. In 2023, it seems like there is much more pressure on both men and women to sort it out. What's changed, and why is life more confusing than ever before?
Expect to learn why Mike wants Derek from More Plates More Dates to test him for steroids, why going to university wasn't a waste of time, why Mike stopped drinking alcohol, what he thinks about Greg Doucette's Youtube Channel, why women are just as lost as men, the problems of masculinity in the modern world and much more...