Men Talking Mindfulness

In this short micro dose episode, we explore the specialized qualities required for different SEAL Team missions. Our guest, retired Navy SEAL Commander Rich Diviney, shares his fascination with the unique attributes needed for high-stakes operations like combat diving and hostage rescue—emphasizing how patience, adaptability, and mental agility are mission-critical. Listen to full episode here: https://pod.fo/e/28e08fDrawing from hundreds of real-world missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, Rich unpacks the true purpose behind SEAL training—not to teach specific skills, but to reveal the core attributes required to perform under extreme pressure. Whether underwater for long durations or making life-or-death decisions in seconds, SEALs succeed not just because of what they know, but because of who they are.Rich’s insights extend beyond the military. He shows how this same philosophy—prioritizing attributes over skills—can transform leadership and team performance in any environment.Key Takeaways:Different SEAL missions require distinct personal qualities.Training is designed to reveal these attributes, not just build skills.The best teams are built on character, not credentials.This mindset applies equally in business and leadership.Specific Missions in the SEAL Teams Require Specific QualitiesSuccess in SEAL missions depends on the unique attributes of each team member—not just their technical skills. This distinction is critical for maintaining adaptability in dynamic, high-risk environments.Attributes Over SkillsEach mission demands specific traits. Combat diving requires deep patience; hostage rescue calls for rapid decision-making and agility. Someone who thrives in slow, methodical tasks might falter in a high-speed crisis—but they’d excel when endurance and calm are key. Recognizing these differences is central to building the right team for the mission.Real-World ExamplesRich Diviney shares a story from 2010, reflecting on his experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan. SEAL training includes grueling exercises—carrying boats, lifting logs—not because those skills are directly used in combat, but because they create pressure. The goal isn’t just physical fitness—it’s to surface traits like grit, teamwork, composure, and resilience.The Story of the Non-SwimmerRich tells the story of a SEAL candidate who couldn’t swim. On the swim test, he jumped in, sank to the bottom, and walked across the pool. When asked what happened, he admitted he didn’t know how to swim. But the instructor didn’t dismiss him. Instead, recognizing the young man’s determination and resolve, he said, “That’s okay—we can teach you how to swim.”That moment illustrates a core principle: if someone has the right attributes—grit, tenacity, humility—you can teach them the technical parts. But the reverse isn’t always true.From Military to BusinessAfter retiring, Rich noticed that organizations often overvalue hard skills while struggling to define or develop the deeper qualities that drive performance. Terms like “soft skills” don’t do justice to traits like emotional control, adaptability, and drive. Focusing on attributes gives companies a more accurate view of who will thrive, grow, and lead effectively.ConclusionThe highest-performing SEAL teams aren’t built on resumes. They’re built on character. That same principle holds true in every high-performance setting. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does it mean to be a man in the age of AI? This episode dives into how artificial intelligence is reshaping masculinity, communication, and mental health, offering both opportunities and challenges in the digital age. The conversation explores how AI can support emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and personal growth - when used as a tool rather than a crutch. With thoughtful discussion on the ethical implications of AI, the crisis of masculinity, and the importance of human connection, the episode urges men to redefine strength through vulnerability, advocate for responsible tech use, and navigate this new landscape with intention and integrity.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel and make better decisions. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction04:00 – Can AI Be Empathetic? Rethinking the Nature of Intelligence06:02 – Masculinity in the Machine Age: How AI Is Shaping Identity11:10 – Redefining Dialogue: What AI Means for Human Communication18:57 – Are We Still Connecting? AI’s Effect on Relationships22:56 – Masculinity in Crisis: Is Technology to Blame?27:41 – Walking the Line: Harnessing AI Without Losing Intuition33:08 – Men, Meaning, and Machines: AI in the Journey of Growth40:49 – Designing Tomorrow: A More Conscious Future with AI45:16 – Who’s Accountable? Building Ethics and Trust into AI Systems48:06 – AI Email Fails: Early Lessons from Our Digital Helpers50:33 – Why Human Connection Still Matters in a Tech-Driven World53:27 – Meditation, Mindfulness, and Machines: Finding the Middle Path59:26 – Incels, Isolation, and AI: What the Future Holds for BelongingHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jon's Fitness Journey - July Check-inIn this honest conversation, Jon and Will break down what it really takes to transform, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.Jon opens up about his journey over the past six months: the hard-earned muscle, the silent progress of visceral fat loss, and the surprising data from his latest DEXA scan. But this episode isn’t about hitting numbers. It’s about what those numbers reveal — and what they hide.Topics include:Why Jon’s “heavier” now… but healthierThe critical difference between weight loss and fat lossHow body composition scans changed Jon’s approach to fitnessThe role of discipline, identity, and emotional honesty in real transformationWhy fitness goals should be about freedom, not punishmentWhether you’re trying to get lean, get healthy, or just get back in the fight — this episode is a reminder that the real journey starts when you stop chasing quick fixes… and start owning your story.🎧 Hit play and come walk the long road with us.Timestamps:00:00 Jon's Fitness Journey Introduction03:00 Challenges with Diet and Discipline06:01 Understanding Carbohydrate Needs09:03 DEXA Scan Results and Body Composition11:45 Visceral Fat and Health Metrics14:50 Understanding Visceral Fat and Health Metrics18:12 The Impact of Weight Loss on Sleep Quality21:27 Exploring Supplements and Their Effects25:22 The Importance of Sleep and Recovery26:57 Tracking Progress and Dietary AdjustmentsHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Former Navy SEAL, NFL player, and entrepreneur Clint Bruce opens up about the war most men never talk about—the battle to stay real in a world that rewards performance. From the ball field to the battlefield to the boardroom, Clint reveals how chasing an image nearly broke him, and why authenticity is the hardest - and most important—fight of all. Throughout this raw conversation, we explore purpose, transition, the power of curiosity, and what it really means to define your own high ground.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching will get you off the hamster wheel and start making better decisions. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction02:19 - From Football MVP to Leadership Advocate03:24 - Grounding Practices and Personal Reflections04:40 - Finding and Maintaining Your High Ground06:36 - Navigating Life's Maps: Lessons from the Field12:08 - Lessons from Battlefields to Boardrooms15:16 - Understanding the Human Performance Systems17:33 - Navigating Identity and Purpose in Business19:12 - From High-Speed Feedback to Uncertainty23:33 - The Importance of Curiosity and Asking for Help26:54 - Embracing Hardship and Overcoming Quit Mentality30:19 - The Achievement Equation: Angles, Allies, and Advantages33:21 - Forging Camaraderie Through Suffering and Curiosity46:13 - Self-Awareness and Intentionality in Personal Choices47:21 - Intentionalism and Self-Awareness in Running01:33:04 -  A Journey of Remembrance and Celebration01:38:19 - Choosing Sadness: The Power of Authenticity and Connection 01:46:49 - Awkward Lunch and Draft Dilemmas01:47:16 - Overcoming Doubt: A Football Player's Journey01:48:05 - Closing Thoughts and GratitudeHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Men Talking Mindfulness aims to empower men's personal and emotional growth through mindfulness. We offer engaging content and practical tools in a supportive community, guiding men toward a balanced, mindful, and fulfilling life. Here's the link to the full show: https://pod.fo/e/2a17edHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What do you do when your mind is no longer your own?Jon and Will sit down with Daniel Carcillo -  former NHL enforcer turned mental health advocate -  to explore the transformative potential of psilocybin therapy. Daniel shares his deeply personal healing journey from trauma, concussions, and identity loss to clarity, mindfulness, and purpose through the use of psychedelic mushrooms. Together, they unpack the science, stigma, and spirituality behind psilocybin, the role of community in recovery, and how finding presence can unlock emotional breakthroughs. This is a vulnerable, data-informed conversation on healing, letting go, and building a future where natural medicine is accessible to all.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel and start making better decisions. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Timestamps:00:00 – The Healing Power of Mushrooms03:08 – Journey of a Stanley Cup Champion06:02 – Concussions and Their Impact08:52 – Finding Hope in Psilocybin12:05 – The Wisdom of Plant Medicine15:00 – Letting Go of Identity17:48 – The Present Moment and Mindfulness21:05 – Building Community and Purpose23:54 – The Role of Breath and Nutrition41:13 – Detaching from Ego and Embracing Trust44:31 – The Experience Onward Center: A New Approach to Healing50:55 – Addressing Stigma Around Psychedelics58:24 – Understanding Dosage and Strain01:10:18 – Creating a Personal Relationship with Psychedelics01:15:58 – Expanding Access to Psilocybin TreatmentHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Resharing an episode from YouTube Channel Leadership Sound Bites with Host Michelle Smith. (Thank you for this opportunity, Michelle!!)Here, we dive deep into the wisdom of Dostoevsky and discuss the trap of overthinking and the transformational power of direct experience. We explore why the world needs more compassionate “fools”—people who take risks, show up imperfectly, and lead with heart, not ego.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help. Head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching and how it can help you get off the hamster wheel and start making better decisions. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What happens when a warrior returns home but can’t find peace?Jon sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Varpas de Sa Pereira explores the psychological challenges faced by combat veterans, with a particular focus on "Warrior Withdrawal Syndrome" - a condition distinct from but often coexisting with PTSD. Dr. de Sa Pereira delves into the complexities of transitioning from military to civilian life, highlighting how military culture shapes identity and mental health. He emphasizes the importance of purpose, the overwhelming anxiety of limitless choices in civilian life, and the need for mindfulness, self-care, and sleep. The discussion also addresses common misconceptions about veteran mental health, the essential role of family and community support, and the wide array of resources available to veterans. Throughout, Dr. de Sa Pereira offers practical strategies for healing and underscores that veterans must take an active role in their own recovery.Get Dr. Varpas de Sa Pereira’s book here - https://www.amazon.com/Warrior-Withdrawal-When-Longer-Means/dp/196220250XTry NEURISH - Personalized nutrition for your mental health. Get 15% off with Promo Code MTM. Visit https://tinyurl.com/57e68ett to learn more about this incredible daily supplement.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction04:17 - Masculinity Without a Father07:58 - Success Through Small Wins08:43 - Athletics and Confidence14:35 - Gender Dynamics at Work and School16:35 - Views Across Socioeconomic Lines18:38 - Men, Mindfulness, and Society23:00 - The Psychology of Masculinity27:45 - Authentic Conversations34:51 - Injury and Mindful Detachment36:40 - The Fragility of Manhood46:37 - Teaching Critical Thinking to Daughters52:47 - Reading Romantic Cues58:19 - Emotions, Relationships, and Boys01:01:33 - Building Emotional Safety at Home01:03:15 - Emotional Miscommunication with Kids01:19:01 - Choosing Your Circle and AutonomyHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

If you enjoyed this clip, then you will love the full MTM episode with John. Here is the Podcast Link: https://pod.fo/e/2c78d9Or maybe you would like to watch this on YouTube instead: https://youtu.be/l9oEDU__fYQ?si=26wvFG82eslsA1l1Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help. Head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching and how it can help you break free from the hamster wheel. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does it take to return to combat after losing a leg and come back stronger than ever?Jon & Will sit down with Nick Lavery, a U.S. Army Special Forces Green Beret and the first above-the-knee amputee to return to combat after surviving an insider attack in Afghanistan. Nick shares his extraordinary journey of resilience, sacrifice, and personal growth, emphasizing the power of discipline over fleeting motivation, the importance of mindset in overcoming adversity, and the role of intentional failure in development. He discusses the critical value of support systems, both in the military and at home, and how competition and self-leadership drive progress. Through humility, patience, and a relentless commitment to his mission, Nick demonstrates what it takes to face the impossible and inspire others by leading from the front.Buy Nick’s book and find out more here - https://teammchn.com/storeTry NEURISH - Personalized nutrition for your mental health. Get 15% off with Promo Code MTM. Visit https://tinyurl.com/57e68ett to learn more about this incredible daily supplement.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction00:48 - The Attack That Changed Everything10:04 - Rebuilding a Life After Loss20:14 - Why Mindset Beats Motivation29:47 - Returning to War with One Leg39:56 - Humility Is a Superpower41:46 - Why Failing on Purpose Works44:57 - The People Who Got Me Through50:43 - Finding Purpose After the Pain56:02 - Discipline Means Sacrifice01:00:00 - Leading Through Pain and Purpose01:03:39 - What Comes After the MissionHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.