Real Men Feel with Andy Grant

Finding Strength in Vulnerability: Poetry on Men's Mental Health

May 23, 2025
Colton Van Baale, a spoken-word poet and author known as Poetry by Colton, shares his heartfelt journey into poetry sparked by personal struggles. He discusses his debut book, 'Let's Talk About It,' which offers raw insights into men's mental health. Colton emphasizes the power of vulnerability, community support, and encourages men to embrace their feelings. He reads poignant selections from his work, highlighting the importance of therapy and forging connections through shared experiences.
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INSIGHT

Silence Is A Taught Pattern

  • Colton reframes masculine silence as taught behavior that kills men slowly.
  • He presents vulnerability as the antidote to becoming "the ghosts of the boys we used to be."
ANECDOTE

Drunk Share Led To A Slam Win

  • Colton first shared poetry drunkenly with a friend and soon won a poetry slam which launched his public work.
  • That moment ignited his book, TikTok presence, and the community he now leads.
ADVICE

Speak Up Even If Your Voice Trembles

  • Speak up even when your voice trembles and admit you need help.
  • Saying "I need help" breaks isolation and can save lives.
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