John Eldredge, a therapist and author of "Wild at Heart," guides men on a transformative journey of healing childhood wounds. He discusses how unresolved traumas affect adult behavior and the quest for validation. The conversation delves into the deep emotional ties between fathers and sons, highlighting the need for validation and adventure in a man's spiritual life. Eldredge emphasizes that true healing comes from understanding and addressing emotional scars, urging men to embrace their inner child for healthier relationships and personal fulfillment.
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John's Therapy Breakthrough
John Eldredge shares his experience of struggling with anger and brokenness as a young dad.
His therapy journey revealed childhood trauma from growing up in an alcoholic home.
insights INSIGHT
Core Needs of Boys
Every boy has two core needs shaping his adult life: love and validation.
Fathers must embody these through thousands of daily affirmations and shared experiences.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Monkey Therapy Healing
Jerrad Lopes shares his healing moment holding a childhood representation monkey.
Realizing his lifelong addiction to validation came from his absent father brought compassion to his inner child.
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How to Grow an Unshakable Core of Calm, Strength, and Happiness
Rick Hanson
This book, written by Dr. Rick Hanson and his son Forrest Hanson, focuses on developing inner strengths such as grit, gratitude, and compassion to enhance resilience. It draws on neuroscience, mindfulness, and positive psychology to provide concrete suggestions, experiential practices, and personal examples. The book helps readers overcome the brain's negativity bias, release painful thoughts and feelings, and replace them with self-compassion, self-worth, joy, and inner peace. It also includes effective ways to interact with others and repair and deepen important relationships, all grounded in the science of positive neuroplasticity[2][5][6].
Wild at Heart
Mary Ling
In 'Wild at Heart,' John Eldredge argues that men have been conditioned away from their natural instincts and desires for adventure, battle, and exploration. He posits that men need to reclaim their hearts and live from a place of deep passion and purpose. The book critiques modern societal expectations and offers a vision of masculinity that is rooted in biblical principles but also acknowledges the need for men to engage in meaningful struggles and adventures. However, the book has faced criticism for its handling of Scripture and its portrayal of biblical themes[5][6].
Why do so many dads feel like they’re failing, even when they’re doing their best?
In this honest and soul-stirring conversation, John Eldredge helps us trace the ache beneath our anger, our addictions, and our constant striving. He explains why most men are still chasing love and validation they never received, how childhood wounds shape adult behavior, and why true healing—not behavior modification—is the key to becoming the man your family needs.
Jerrad and John unpack father wounds, mother wounds, emotional detachment, and the deep desire for adventure that often gets twisted into sin. If you've ever felt like you're just trying to survive—numbing your pain, doubting your worth, or holding your breath through life—this conversation will help you breathe again.
What You’ll Learn:
Why behavior change won’t work without soul healing
How father and mother wounds still shape your adult life
The two core needs every boy carries into manhood
Why adventure and validation matter to your spiritual life
How to begin healing old attachments and rewire your story
What it looks like to fight for your family, your faith, and your future
Dad Tired 
