Bridging Connections with Bryan Reeves

In this heartfelt solo episode of Bridging Connections, host Bryan Reeves delves into the profound journey of navigating life transitions and personal growth. Reflecting on his own experiences, Bryan shares the challenges and revelations that come with the death of a dream, the practice of grief, and the art of surrender. Join Bryan as he explores the importance of embracing change with grace, finding gratitude in unexpected places, and the enduring power of love and loss. Tune in for an introspective conversation that invites you to reflect on your own life transitions and how you can meet them with more ease and gratitude.💡 Topics Covered:The paradox of being relational yet introvertedGrieving the dream of home ownership and fatherhoodMoving back to Los Angeles after the “great pandemic migration”Letting go of material things and the stories they holdThe practice of grief in a death-phobic, grief-illiterate cultureThe meaning behind Bryan’s tattoo: Command. Surrender. Breathe.The flowering of a crepe myrtle as a symbol of unexpected beauty in endingsA reflection on leaving behind gifts that may benefit others🧠 Memorable Quotes:“It’s not the end of everything. It’s just the end of everything you know.”“A dream can’t die if you don’t dare to dream in the first place.”“Grief is the price we pay for love.”“We are like plants. We need the right soil to thrive.”“How might you meet the death of a dream with more grace, more ease, and perhaps even more gratitude?”🌱 Closing Reflection:Bryan invites listeners to consider the dreams they may be quietly grieving or actively resisting. Rather than clinging to what was or what might have been, he offers a profound question:"What if the greatest act of courage isn't holding on—but letting go with love?"📚 Books Mentioned in the Episode:Die Wise by Stephen JenkinsonThe Wild Edge of Sorrow by Francis WellerIron John by Robert Bly🙏 Connect with Bryan:For more on Bryan’s coaching, writing, and future episodes, visit bryanreeves.com🙏 Show Highlights:[00:02:15] - Introduction to the episode and the theme of life transitions. [00:05:30] - Brian shares his personal journey of moving across the country and the death of a dream. [00:12:45] - The importance of acknowledging and grieving the loss of dreams. [00:20:10] - Reflections on the practice of surrender and its role in personal growth. [00:28:00] - The story of planting a tree and its symbolic meaning in life transitions. [00:35:20] - Brian's insights on love, loss, and the enduring power of gratitude.[00:42:00] - Closing thoughts and an invitation to reflect on personal life transitions.

What does it mean to become fully alive as a man? In this powerful debrief, Bryan and Tait reflect on the transformative journey of Elevate 2025, a year-long men's journey that culminates in a life-changing retreat.From breaking emotional masks to finding real brotherhood and discovering true purpose—not as a destination, but as a way of being—this episode dives into what happens when men are finally given permission to feel it all and be it all.This isn’t just another “men’s retreat recap.” This is a raw, grounded look at the healing, aliveness, and lasting connection that unfolds when the right men gather in the right way.💡 What You’ll Hear In This Episode:Why most men are stuck between anger and apathyWhat “being a full-range man” actually looks like in real lifeThe power of emotional safety in all-male spacesWhat happens when a man finally says, “I’m f*cked up” and gets met with real supportThe truth about purpose: It’s not out there—it’s right hereHow this retreat created friendships that will last a lifetimeWhy most men don't have people who would fly across the country for their funeral—and how that can changeThe 3 Promises of the Elevate journey: Fully Enlivened, Powerfully On Purpose, Deeply SupportedEPISODE HIGHLIGHTS[03:00] – Why it’s so hard to describe the magic of a retreat[06:15] – The emotional wiring of boys—and how we shut it down[07:50] – Anger and apathy: the two emotions men are left with[10:30] – Real talk: “I’m not okay” and finding support[14:00] – Becoming a full-range man: Warrior and Lover archetypes[17:00] – Why purpose isn’t a future goal—it’s a daily choice[24:00] – Deep support: what real brotherhood looks like[28:45] – Who would fly to your funeral? The power of connection[30:45] – Living with men who will hold your grief and your greatness[32:00] – How to join the Elevate journey + what's next🎧 Perfect For You If:You’re a man who feels like something’s missing—even if life looks “successful” on the outsideYou’ve been curious about men’s retreats but unsure if they’re for youYou’ve felt alone in your struggles and want genuine connectionYou’re a woman who loves a man who’s ready for more depth, purpose, and heart🧠 Memorable Quotes:“Most men live lives full on paper—house, car, kids, career—and yet feel empty. That’s apathy. That’s what we’re here to change.” — Tait Arend “A man who puts everyone before himself? That’s not heroic. That’s a ticking time bomb.” — Bryan Reeves📣 Mentions & Resources:Elevate Men’s Journey → https://bryanreeves.comBook Mentioned: Real Boys by William PollackPast Retreats: Elevate 21, 24, and now Elevate 25/26Upcoming Podcast Series: SEX (Yep—we’re finally going there)📲 Connect With Us: https://bryanreeves.com🗣️ Call to Action:If you’re ready to explore what it means to be fully alive—and deeply supported—email Bryan at bryan@bryanreeves.com to get info about Elevate 2026.And if you know a man who needs this… send him this episode. It might just change everything.

In this special on-the-road episode, Bryan and Tait reflect on five years of deep men’s work as they gear up for the Elevate 2025 Men's Retreat — a five-day, mountaintop experience in western North Carolina designed as a modern-day rite of passage. From sacred brotherhood to the storms that shape us this conversation is raw, real, and radically human.Episode Highlights:00:01:44 – The Elevate Retreat: A modern-day rite of passage for men00:03:12 – The first year’s tears: What vulnerability unlocked for men00:06:28 – Creating sacred, no-demand space for transformation00:08:25 – Who really has your back? Reframing masculine support00:09:21 – Bryan’s past distrust of men—and the healing that followed00:12:39 – The magic of presence, and Bryan’s role in creating breakthroughs00:16:44 – Power without domination: Becoming Kings among Kings00:17:56 – From deep conversation to competitive games: A full-spectrum retreat00:21:16 – Three stages of the storm: Before, during, and after life's crises00:26:24 – Why men don’t need fixing—just new patterns and communityConnect with Bryan:📧 bryan@bryanreeves.com🌐 bryanreeves.comJoin the Journey:🚀 Early access to Elevate 2026 👉 bryan@bryanreeves.com🌍 2 spots left for "Elevate Ireland 2025" Men’s Retreat! (email for details)

In this episode of Bridging Connections, we welcome Jayson Gaddis, psychotherapist, author, and founder of The Relationship School, to discuss the vital topic of conflict and repair in relationships. Highlighting the inevitability of conflict, we delve into effective repair processes encompassing ownership, empathy, and validation. Additionally, we explore themes of emotional safety, sensitivity in men, and the dynamics of partnership. Jayson shares insights from his book 'Getting to Zero' and offers practical advice for navigating and improving relational conflicts. The episode is a treasure trove of actionable strategies aimed at fostering deeper connection and understanding in long-term relationships.00:00 The Importance of Repair in Relationships00:20 Introduction to Bridging Connections Podcast00:53 Meet Jayson Gaddis03:46 Discussing Relationship Conflict14:12 Understanding Sensitivity in Men22:07 The Role of Emotional Safety28:36 The Repair Process in Relationships29:36 The Importance of Repair in Relationships30:39 Steps to Effective Repair31:09 Ownership, Empathy, and Validation31:57 Challenges in Validation32:37 Listening and Reflecting Back33:30 Personal Experiences and Reflections34:24 Handling Defensiveness36:02 The Role of Humor in Relationships37:08 Biggest Repair Maneuvers in Marriage42:36 Avoiding Conflict vs. Speaking Up45:55 Masculine Leadership and Conflict47:55 Conflict and Repair in Parenting48:47 Rapid Fire Relationship Questions52:55 Final Thoughts and ResourcesConnect with Jayson: • Website: https://www.jaysongaddis.com/Podcast: https://relationshipschool.com/Connect with Bryan & Tait: • Website: bryanreeves.com  • Instagram: @bryanreevesinsight / @taitarend08

In this episode of Bridging Connections, we welcome Terri Cole, a licensed psychotherapist and bestselling author, to discuss high-functioning codependency. We dive into Terri’s extensive experience with codependency, exploring the ways in which overly selfless behaviors can lead to burnout, resentment, and health issues. Terri shares personal stories and professional insights, examines the impact of societal expectations, and offers actionable advice on setting boundaries and practicing self-consideration. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling perpetually exhausted and seeking to reclaim their time, energy, and emotional well-being.00:00 Introduction: Taking Control of Your Life00:24 Welcome to Bridging Connections00:59 Meet Terri Cole: Psychotherapist and Author01:19 Understanding Codependency02:32 Terry's Journey from Talent Agent to Therapist12:05 High Functioning Codependency Explained24:26 The Costs of High Functioning Codependency33:43 The Connective Role of Women in Families34:13 Challenges with Labels and High Functioning Codependency35:57 Emotional Labor and Household Equity39:55 Resentment and Taking Responsibility46:57 The Importance of Setting Boundaries54:36 Self-Consideration as the New Self-Care01:00:34 Final ThoughtsConnect with Terri: • Website: https://www.terricole.com/Connect with Bryan & Tait: • Website: bryanreeves.com  • Instagram: @bryanreevesinsight / @taitarend08

In this episode of Bridging Connections, we dive into the profound topic of living a liberated life with Josh Trent, host of the Wellness and Wisdom podcast. Josh discusses the importance of alignment with nature's laws and the concept of being in harmony. Our conversation explores the relevance of nonviolent communication, the significance of self-awareness, and the continuous journey of self-integration. We also touch on the challenges and rewards of practical spirituality, emotional epigenetics, and the day-to-day dynamics of intimate relationships. Josh introduces his new initiative, the Liberated Life community, designed to guide individuals towards deeper self-understanding and harmonious living.Connect with Josh:• Website: https://joshtrent.com• Instagram: @joshtrentofficialConnect with Bryan & Tait:• Website: bryanreeves.com • Instagram: @bryanreevesinsight / @taitarend0800:00 Introduction and Host Welcome01:00 Exploring a Liberated Life with Josh Trent02:48 Top Three Insights from 700+ Episodes06:52 Understanding Nature's Laws and Human Connection23:56 The Simplicity of Truth and Relationships29:21 Defining Liberation and Freedom31:09 Understanding Manufactured Concerns32:01 The Importance of Human Connection32:24 Deeper Concerns and Self-Realization35:05 Balancing Survival and Soul Work39:19 Navigating Triggers and Vulnerability46:04 The Power of Nonviolent Communication53:10 Emotional Epigenetics and Healing56:45 Introducing the Liberated Life Community01:00:04 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of Bridging Connections, we discuss profound topics of self-acceptance, intimacy, and healing with Allana Pratt, an intimacy expert. This conversation touches on the importance of embracing one's flaws, the journey to overcome self-loathing, and the deep need for authentic connection. Allana shares her methods, including her work with psychedelic somatic integration and the transformative power of confronting and integrating deep-seated emotions. We also discuss the significance of nurturing all parts of oneself and the value of making peace with unresolved wounds. This episode emphasizes the critical role of self-intimacy in fostering meaningful connections and navigating the complexities of human relationships.Connect with Allana:• Website: https://allanapratt.com/Connect with Bryan & Tait:• Website: bryanreeves.com • Instagram: @bryanreevesinsight / @taitarend0800:00 Embracing Imperfection: Self-Acceptance00:19 Introduction to Bridging Connections00:55 Welcoming Allana Pratt: Intimacy Expert03:08 The Essence of Bridging Connections04:42 Exploring Loneliness and Connection05:43 The Journey to Self-Intimacy07:01 Patterns of Disconnection09:19 The Role of Divine Mother Energy13:44 The Power of Somatic Integration19:47 Men and Emotional Disassociation22:07 Societal Pressures and Emotional Suppression22:19 Body Sensations and Emotional Expression23:21 Men's Struggle with Disconnection23:47 The Desire to Feel Alive25:15 Embracing All Emotions26:15 A Mother's Journey with Her Son27:30 Making Art from Pain29:17 The Importance of Allowing Pain35:41 Unconditional Self-Love and Acceptance40:19 Practical Tips for Relationships and Self-Love41:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Bridging Connections, we talk with Louis Weinstock, a seasoned child psychotherapist and author. This discussion centers on overcoming shame and guilt in parenting, the importance of parental healing, and the impact of unresolved traumas on children. Louis shares personal experiences and professional insights on being a present and effective parent. We also delve into the roles of fathers, the concept of divine masculinity, and the importance of congruence and presence for children's psychological well-being. The episode concludes with a focus on daily acts of love and practical advice for parents to be more present with their children.00:00 Introduction00:41 Introduction to Bridging Connections01:32 Meet Louis: Child Psychotherapist and Author02:52 The Journey of Fatherhood03:36 Navigating Grief and Loss07:07 The Protector Role in Parenting16:49 Healing and Emotional Presence33:25 Emotional Breakthrough in a Singing Workshop34:16 The Last Barrier for Men: Fear35:04 Expressing Emotions: Anger, Fear, and Sadness37:20 The Role of Fathers and the Impact of Guilt39:05 Boys' Sensitivity and Cultural Conditioning40:19 Defining Positive Masculinity49:48 Bridging Connections Between Parents59:56 The Importance of Presence in Parenting01:02:35 ConclusionConnect with Louis:• Website: https://louisweinstock.com/Connect with Bryan & Tait:• Website: bryanreeves.com • Instagram: @bryanreevesinsight / @taitarend08

In this episode of Bridging Connections, we welcome Sheleana Aiyana, founder of Rising Woman. Sheleana takes on her journey from tumultuous upbringing and traumatic relationships to her spiritual and healing path. Sheleana shares profound experiences from ayahuasca ceremonies and the importance of working through personal wounds to foster healthy relationships. We touch on the challenges men and women face in understanding each other's experiences and the significance of mutual vulnerability and support in partnerships. Sheleana dives into the need for self-healing and becoming 'the one' rather than seeking someone to complete us. 00:00 Introduction to Episode00:34 Welcome to Bridging Connections01:17 Rebranding the Podcast02:27 Introducing Sheleana04:40 Men and Relationship Anxiety06:59 Challenges in Male-Female Dynamics11:59 Founding Struggles of Rising Woman18:02 Spiritual Path vs. Healing Path24:31 Becoming the One29:18 Recognizing Red Flags in Relationships29:41 The Importance of Healing Work30:49 The 10-Year Relationship Journey34:40 Understanding Safety in Relationships35:49 Ayahuasca and Profound Healing42:15 Building Trust and Healing with Men52:43 Steps to Self-Discovery and Healing54:28 Final ThoughtsConnect with Sheleana:• Website: https://risingwoman.com/ / https://sheleanaaiyana.com/• Instagram: @sheleanaaiyanaConnect with Bryan & Tait:• Website: bryanreeves.com • Instagram: @bryanreevesinsight / @taitarend08

In this episode, we welcome back relationship expert Alison Armstrong. We explore the profound journey of male development, the transition from knights to princes and eventually kings. We delve into the concept of 'the tunnel,' a challenging phase between princehood and kingship marked by self-awareness, shame, and the necessity of personal responsibility and forgiveness. Alison also touches on the deeply complex and often interconnected dynamics of male ambition, fulfillment, and the need for adventure. We extend to the rare shift some men make from kings to elders, highlighting significant changes in ambition and responsibility. Today on Bridging Connections:00:00 Introduction: Self-Betrayal and Shame00:38 Welcome to Bridging Connections01:10 Reintroducing Alison Armstrong01:55 Understanding the Tunnel03:03 Stages of Men's Development03:49 Navigating the Tunnel23:29 The Importance of Adventure31:15 The Prince Stage38:07 Anticipation and Initial Reflections38:56 Navigating Personal Loss and Challenges40:35 Understanding the Tunnel of Transformation41:11 Self-Betrayal and Awareness49:07 The Role of Shame and Anger49:51 Ownership and Forgiveness55:28 Emerging from the Tunnel58:18 Grieving and Moving Forward01:00:54 Transitioning to Elderhood01:11:21 Final Thoughts and ResourcesResources:Alison Armstrong: Chemistry and Connection Series - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3kRxLdJODq54hzbmGHKz5VhTQun5bQuy&feature=sharedConnect with Alison:• Website: alisonarmstrong.com• Youtube Channel: AlisonArmstrongVideos• Resources: Sample Understanding WomenConnect with Bryan & Tait:• Website: bryanreeves.com • Instagram: @bryanreevesinsight / @taitarend08