
Bridging Connections with Bryan Reeves
Welcome to Bridging Connections, formerly known as "Men This Way." Join your host Bryan Reeves —former U.S. Air Force captain, renowned author and professional coach to men, women, and couples; along with his lifelong best friend and leadership coach, Tait Arend. Together, they tackle the essential, raw conversations we all need to engage in about relationships, purpose, health, spirituality, and more. Dive deep into discussions that matter and explore the connections that bind us all.
Latest episodes

Apr 10, 2025 • 1h 4min
149. Overcoming Shame as a Parent w/ Louis Weinstock
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

Mar 27, 2025 • 57min
148. Rising Woman: From Trauma to Transformation w/ Sheleana Aiyana
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

Mar 13, 2025 • 1h 16min
147. The 5 Stages of Male Growth (and How They Impact Women) w/ Alison Armstrong
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

Feb 27, 2025 • 57min
146. The Way of the Satisfied Woman w/ Alanna Kaivalya
"Satisfaction is the pleasure derived from the fulfillment of wishes and needs".- Alanna KaivalyaToday on Bridging Connections:00:00 Welcome & Co-host Introduction01:14 Introducing Guest Dr. Alana Cavalia03:12 Discussing "The Way of the Satisfied Woman"04:16 Exploring Redefined Masculinity05:11 The Need to Reclaim Femininity06:13 Cultural Teachings on Feminine Power08:11 Addressing Repression of Feminine Qualities10:22 Importance of Intuition11:59 Feminine Power and Societal Impact14:55 Success versus Satisfaction17:07 Definition and Discussion of Satisfaction20:12 Critique of Success Drive21:25 Feminine Approach to Life and Satisfaction22:11 Enhancing Comfort and Feminine Questions23:09 Mother's Happiness and Family Dynamics24:13 Jungian Psychology and Feminine Energy28:10 Safety, Trust, and Feminine Expression29:01 Masculine World Challenges for Feminine Expression30:56 Importance of Community and Empathy31:22 Insights on Relationship Longevity32:31 Challenges in Articulating Needs33:19 Advice for Men on Emotional Support33:58 The Role of Intuition in Personal Growth36:51 Importance of Trusting Intuition37:15 Intuition in Relationships38:12 Leveraging Intuition in Adverse Environments40:21 Self-Intimacy and External Validation41:13 Masculine and Feminine Energy Collaboration41:48 Trust in Partner’s Intuition42:27 Burnout in High-Performance Roles43:39 Women as Nurturing Sources and the Need for Reciprocity45:02 Personal Story of Maternal Dedication46:28 Empowering Women to Say No47:58 Childhood Wounds and Feminine Healing49:02 Devaluation of Feminine Qualities49:41 Training and Conditioning of Young Girls50:14 Men’s Role in Supporting Feminine Reclamation51:58 The Importance of Community for Women53:04 Overcoming Narrative of Competition Among Women54:24 Historical Undermining of Family Systems55:56 Closing Thoughts and Final QuestionsConnect with Alanna:Website: www.thesatisfiedwoman.com Order: The Way of the Satisfied Woman: Reclaiming The Feminine PowerFree resources: www.thesatisfiedwoman.com/empowerme Download the App: The Satisfied WomanSubscribe to: @TheSatisfiedWomanConnect with Bryan & Tait:Website: bryanreeves.com Instagram: @bryanreevesinsight / @taitarend08

Feb 13, 2025 • 1h 2min
145. What Women Don’t Get About Men (But Should) w/ Alison Armstrong
"Men often use 'safe' to describe someone they can openly talk to, showing their deep but often hidden need for trust and vulnerability." Alison ArmstrongToday on Bridging Connections:00:00 Welcome & Introduction01:00 Alison Armstrong's Impact on Bryan's Relationship Journey01:54 Longing for Elder Wisdom03:39 How Alison’s Journey with Men Began05:07 Becoming a "Frog Farmer" – Transforming Men09:44 The Power of Listening and Understanding Men13:33 The Well of Men's Emotional Responses14:14 Men and Congruency: Understanding Commitment17:09 Differences in Male and Female Communication Styles19:10 The Attention Women Crave from Men21:52 Safety, Security, and Connection in Relationships25:46 The Emotional Depth of Men: What It Means to Be “Safe”29:28 Asking for Connection and Attention in Relationships31:48 Men Are Like Icebergs: Emotions and Depth Below the Surface34:12 Women’s Desire for Men to Feel Desired43:18 The Problem with Labeling in Relationships47:16 Rethinking Relationships: The Instance of Being Related54:16 How to Be in the Moment: Being, Listening, and Speaking58:35 Women's Instinct to Speak for Safety01:02:26 Alison's Resources and Final ThoughtsConnect with Alison:Website: alisonarmstrong.comResources: Sample Understanding Women Subscribe to: alisonarmstrongvideosConnect with Bryan & Tait:Website: bryanreeves.com Instagram: @bryanreevesinsight / @taitarend08

Jan 30, 2025 • 56min
144. Spirituality & The Messy Human Experience w/ Danny Morel
"The moment of realization when you're on your knees and you're realizing that all you've been chasing might not actually be what you truly need." Danny MorelToday on Bridging Connections:00:00 Introduction & Welcome02:36 Discussing the Pivotal Shift in Danny's Life03:16 The Catalyst for Change04:01 Exploring New Opportunities05:07 Experiencing Betrayal and Loss07:10 Reflecting on Deep Personal Questions09:41 The Importance of Deep, Genuine Conversations11:01 The Awakening Process Explained11:47 Exploring Three Energies of Human Mastery13:10 Responsibilities and Misconceptions About Money14:13 Discussing the Energy of Sex and Creation15:12 Understanding the Root of Personal Issues16:11 Realizing and Confronting Life's Patterns17:10 The Need for Authentic Self Reflection18:13 Integrating Personal Stories into Spiritual Teachings20:33 The Importance of Genuine Spiritual Connection21:44 Exploring Stories of Transformation and Freedom23:00 Discussing the Role of Humility and Authenticity24:32 Overcoming Deep-Seated Fears26:58 Experiencing Ego Death and True Change28:00 Discussing the Symbolism of Family and Healing29:21 The Significance of Names and Personal Healing30:25 Learning Through Personal Relationships31:16 Challenges in Maintaining Authentic Connections32:38 Discussing the Difficulties in Family Dynamics33:52 Recognizing the Role of Partners in Personal Growth37:18 Embracing the Concept of Family39:16 Confronting Fears and Insecurities in Relationships41:12 Avoiding the Pitfalls of Pedestalization in Relationships42:13 Addressing Issues of Self-Worth and Relationship Dynamics43:07 Healing the Tendencies to Elevate or Diminish Others45:15 Discussing Common Traps in Spiritual Journeys47:12 Reevaluating Material Desires on the Spiritual Path51:27 Discussing the Role of Providing and Spiritual Abundance52:23 The Practice of Surrender in Life and Spirituality54:01 Encouraging Deep Personal Inquiry into Desires and Dreams55:01 Concluding Thoughts on Freedom and Personal ChoiceTakeaways from this episode:Highlighting the transformative power of difficult experiences.The recognition and confrontation of deeply ingrained patterns and wounds from one's past.How relationships can serve as mirrors and catalysts for deeper self-awareness and growth. How a spiritual journey can reshape your views on possessions and success.The necessity of surrendering control in life's processes, trusting in a higher flow, and allowing life to unfold without forcing outcomes.Connect with Danny:Instagram: @dannymorelWebsite: dannymorel.comListen to: The Higher Self Podcast with Danny MorelConnect with Bryan & Tait:Website: bryanreeves.com Instagram: @bryanreevesinsight / @taitarend08

Jan 30, 2025 • 46sec
Trailer: Bridging Connections (Formerly "Men This Way")
Welcome to Bridging Connections, formerly known as "Men This Way." Join your host Bryan Reeves —former U.S. Air Force captain, renowned author and professional coach to men, women, and couples; along with his lifelong best friend and leadership coach, Tait Arend. Together, they tackle the essential, raw conversations we all need to engage in about relationships, purpose, health, spirituality, and more. Dive deep into discussions that matter and explore the connections that bind us all.

Jan 23, 2025 • 28min
143. The Evolution of a Podcast: As One Era Ends Another Begins
In this episode, we have a big announcement. We're changing the podcast name from 'Men This Way' to 'Bridging Connections.'00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates03:03 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey05:58 Key Conversations and Insights08:57 The Evolution of the Podcast11:56 Bridging Connections: The New Direction14:46 The Importance of Vulnerability and Connection17:54 Future Plans and Audience EngagementConnect with BryanOfficial WebsiteInstagramYoutube

Jan 16, 2025 • 58min
142. Success, Grief, and Living Boldly w/ Tripp Lanier
"Once it starts to become empty and it doesn't work, that's when it's time to rethink our strategies and find what truly fulfills us." Tripp LanierToday on Men, This Way:00:01 Introductions02:34 Announcement of Last Episode and Transition of Show's Name03:23 Reflections on the Past and Initiating the Main Discussion05:08 Introduction of Tripp Lanier and His Work07:24 Tripp's Personal Journey and Path to Coaching09:01 Introduction to Men's Work and Personal Growth12:01 The Shift in Men's Conversations Over Time13:45 The Role of Media and Privacy in Personal Development15:10 The Challenge of Admitting the Need for Help16:32 Exploration of New Beginnings and Reflections on Personal Growth18:00 Shifts in Personal Interests and Professional Evolution19:28 The Ongoing Journey of Personal and Spiritual Development21:18 The Modern Challenges and Evolutions Facing Men22:46 Reflections on Personal Satisfaction and Life's Deeper Questions24:11 Discussion of Future Plans and Podcast Rebranding25:43 Reflections on Ambition and Life Stages27:03 Personal Insights on Marriage and Family29:26 Discussing the Awareness of Mortality and Its Impact30:12 Philosophical Reflections on Life and Aging31:30 Grief and Learning from Life's Challenges33:36 Engaging Men in Meaningful Conversations and Facing Grief34:03 How to Encourage Men to Stay Present and Engaged in Growth36:04 Addressing Personal Struggles and Embracing New Beginnings38:04 Listening and Understanding as Tools for Helping Others39:20 The Power of Empathy in Men's Development40:10 The Relief of Discovering One Is Not Alone in Their Struggles41:38 Humor's Role in Healing and Personal Growth42:57 Tripp's Views on Success and Personal Fulfillment44:45 Helping Men Identify and Pursue Their True Desires46:50 Discussion on the Nature of Desire and Internal Conflicts48:42 The Importance of Play and Joy in Personal Development50:42 The Role of Safety and Threat Perception in Playfulness52:24 The Challenges of Maintaining Joy During Difficult Times54:47 Wrapping Up the Podcast and Reflections on the Journey58:15 Maintaining Deep Connections and Embracing New Learning Opportunities59:55 Closing Thoughts and AcknowledgmentsTakeaways of this episode:Tripp Lanier shares personal stories, including his past struggles, the death of his mother, and how these events have shaped his personal growth and professional life. The importance of men’s work, creating spaces for men to explore their vulnerabilities, and the impact of community and belonging. Maintaining a balance between playfulness and the seriousness of life, how staying connected to a sense of play can be crucial for mental health and relationship dynamics.The definition of success, the ongoing process of personal growth, and the existential aspects of life and death.The podcast episode serves as a closing of one era and the beginning of another.Connect with Tripp:Website: tripplinear.comInstagram: @tripplanierOrder: This Book Will Make You Dangerous: The Irreverent Guide for Men Who Refuse to SettleListen to: The New Man with Tripp LanierConnect with Bryan & Tait:Website: bryanreeves.com Instagram: @bryanreevesinsight / @taitarend08Email: bryan@menthisway.com / tait@menthisway.com

Jan 9, 2025 • 39min
141. Overcome Resistance: The Five Stages of Change
“Resistance always shows up at the threshold of your transformation.” — Bryan ReevesIn this episode, we dive deep into the transformative process of personal growth and change, exploring the five stages of change. We discuss the resistance men often face when stepping into new challenges and the power of embracing the unknown to create a life of fulfillment and meaning. Through candid stories, actionable insights, and heartfelt reflections, we reveal how we can break through barriers, reconnect with our true selves, and build lives that deeply matter—not just for us, but for the people we care about most. Whether you're on the edge of change or seeking clarity on your next step, this episode will inspire you to take action and cross the threshold into transformation.HIGHLIGHTS:00:00 - Reflecting on five years of transformative work.01:14 - Who this episode is for: Men ready for deep transformational work.04:51 - The importance of a supportive brotherhood: “Who has your back?”07:35 - The cost of carrying burdens alone: Impact on men and their families.09:12 - Recognizing dissatisfaction as the first step to change.11:46 - The crisis of fulfillment: "I have everything I wanted. Now what?"13:30 - The five stages of change.18:43 - Facing resistance: Why stepping forward is so challenging.20:14 - Sting’s wisdom: “The greater risk is not jumping off the cliff.”25:12 - Confronting the shadow: The necessity of descending before elevating.28:02 - Addressing resistance: How cynicism and isolation hold men back.30:15 - True accountability: How men’s groups challenge you to grow.32:39 - A wife’s gratitude: The ripple effects of men’s transformation.36:41 - Final encouragement: Step into the threshold and elevate your life.MEN: ELEVATE 2025 👉 https://bryanreeves.com/elevate
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