Contractor Evolution 256. The Truth About Men's Mental Health - Connor Beaton
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Jan 21, 2026 
In this insightful discussion, Connor Beaton, founder of ManTalks and author of Men's Work, dives into the pressing issue of men's mental health. He sheds light on the alarming statistics surrounding addiction and suicide among men, and shares his personal journey of overcoming struggles with infidelity and addiction. Connor explores the concept of 'shadow work,' encouraging men to confront hidden parts of themselves to break free from self-sabotage. He emphasizes the transformative power of honesty and connection, offering practical steps to cultivate self-compassion and healthier relationships.
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Curiosity Fueled A Career Shift
- Growing up between two very different family systems sparked Connor Beaton's lifelong curiosity about human behavior and masculinity.
- That curiosity, plus later personal failures, led him to study Jungian ideas and start ManTalks to train men, not just therapize them.
Father Absence Shapes Male Development
- Father absence correlates strongly with worse outcomes for boys, like higher dropout and substance abuse rates.
- Connor frames this as missing modeling: boys often lack examples of healthy masculine coping and boundary-setting.
Shame Can Be A Hidden Motor
- Shame-based motivation drives many high-achieving men: they use pain to fuel success but never taste real reward.
- That drive runs out and often ends in a wall, addiction, or loss of purpose when it no longer satisfies.
