

Men Talking Mindfulness
Jon Macaskill & Will Schneider
Men Talking Mindfulness is dedicated to empowering men to embrace their true selves with bravery and authenticity. Our mission is to guide them on a journey of continual learning, developing self-love, and meaningful living. We work to inspire men to lead lives that they can look back on with pride and to create legacies that align with their deepest values. We are committed to cultivating a space where vulnerability is strength, being yourself is the norm, and where every man can unleash their potential to live a life of exceptional impact and fulfillment.
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 3, 2023 • 16min
A Meditation for Pain Management
Discover our guided meditation for pain management. This powerful, soothing session uses the power of visualization and breathwork to help manage pain. Explore a peaceful journey of healing, compassion, and self-understanding, transforming your relationship with pain. Dive into the healing power of a warm inner light that softens pain and promotes overall well-being. Available anytime, anywhere, this meditation supports your holistic healing journey and empowers you to cultivate a sanctuary of tranquility within yourself.
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jul 31, 2023 • 1h 10min
Dealing with Narcissistic Personalities
Welcome to the next episode of the "Men Talking Mindfulness" podcast, where hosts Will and Jon dive deep into a topic that affects many: how to work with narcissistic personalities and how to recognize, and even eliminate, elements of narcissism within ourselves.
In this vital discussion, Will and Jon break down the complexities of narcissism, elucidating the behaviors and mindsets that characterize this personality trait. We often associate narcissism with an inflated sense of self-importance and a lack of empathy. But there's much more to it, and recognizing these traits in others and ourselves is the first step towards understanding and growth.
Jon and Will talk about how to handle interactions with narcissistic individuals, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and employing empathy and assertiveness. Their insight into navigating these tricky waters is based on both personal experience and a wealth of professional knowledge, providing listeners with practical tools and strategies to use in their daily lives.
Yet, they don't stop there. Will and Jon also turn the lens on themselves and the listener, discussing how we can recognize and curb narcissistic tendencies within ourselves. The idea is not to demonize narcissism—since we all have a mix of traits—but to identify unhealthy patterns and strive towards self-improvement.
Join Will and Jon as they shed light on this often misunderstood topic, sharing their wisdom and inviting a thoughtful discussion. Remember, self-awareness and empathy are key components of mindfulness, and exploring narcissism is part of this ongoing journey.
Tune in for an enlightening, no-holds-barred conversation that invites each of us to take a closer look at our relationships and ourselves.
PS… please excuse Jon’s “heavy breathing” hahaha. New microphone!
Time Stamps:
(00:00:53) Recognize and navigate narcissistic behavior.
(00:09:12) Understanding narcissism and its traits.
(00:11:30) Narcissists lack empathy and exploit others.
(00:17:13) Fear of imperfection hinders progress.
(00:27:30) Recognize and avoid narcissistic individuals.
(00:28:27) The timestamp in the podcast where it starts to say "Narcissism can be draining and painful" is 00:28:27. Narcissism can be draining and painful.
(00:36:17) Narcissists are made, not born.
(00:43:09) Awareness and mindfulness can change.
(00:43:52) Develop empathy to combat narcissism.
(00:50:26) Establish boundaries, seek support.
(00:55:01) Beware of narcissistic behavior.
(01:00:40) Authenticity and vulnerability build connection.
(01:06:10) Closing practice: Three parachute breaths.
//WHERE YOU CAN FIND US
Text MINDFUL to 33777 to sign up for the MTM NewsletterWebsite - http://mentalkingmindfulness.com/
Listen on Spotify - https://bit.ly/MTM-Podcast
Listen on Apple Podcast - https://bit.ly/MTM_Apple_Podcast
Watch on YouTube - https://youtube.com/@mentalkingmindfulness
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mentalkingmindfulness
Follow Will - https://www.instagram.com/willnotfear/
Follow Jon - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmacaskill
Join the MTM Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/153173176744665Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jul 27, 2023 • 11min
Deep Sleep Meditation | 11 Minutes to a Restful Night
Find your path to a peaceful night's sleep with our 15-minute guided meditation, designed to help you relax, unwind, and drift peacefully into sleep. In this video, we take you through a relaxing journey, starting from a deep, calming breath, progressing into full-body relaxation, and culminating in a serene mental journey to your personal haven of peace. This meditation is perfect for anyone having difficulty falling asleep or looking for a way to end their day on a soothing note.Throughout the session, we utilize visualization techniques to help release tension, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. Ideal for beginners and experienced meditators alike, this meditation encourages a more restful sleep and improved overall well-being.✨
Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Settling In
3:00 - Body Relaxation: Lower Body
5:00 - Body Relaxation: Upper Body
7:30 - Visualization and Deepening Relaxation
10:00 - Drifting into SleepRemember to listen to this meditation in a comfortable and safe environment where you can close your eyes, relax, and drift into sleep.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jul 24, 2023 • 1h 3min
Dr. Frank Anderson: Transcending Trauma with IFS
Today, we're honored to host a truly esteemed guest, Dr. Frank Anderson. A renowned psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and authority in trauma treatment, Dr. Anderson is a guiding light in his field. His rich experience spans multiple institutions - from serving as a clinical instructor in psychiatry at Harvard Medical School to being a Lead Trainer at the IFS Institute alongside Richard Schwartz. He also holds a long affiliation with Bessel van der Kolk’s Trauma Center, where he conducts training.
Driven by his passion for teaching brain-based psychotherapy, Dr. Anderson merges cutting-edge neuroscience knowledge with the Internal Family System (IFS) model of therapy. An advisor to the International Association of Trauma Professionals (IATP) and the former chair and director of the Foundation for Self Leadership, Dr. Anderson's contributions to trauma healing extend far and wide.
As a prolific author, he has lent his wisdom to numerous publications in the field of trauma. Most notably, he has recently published a book titled "Transcending Trauma: Healing Complex PTSD with Internal Family Systems," which has become a crucial resource for professionals and individuals navigating trauma.
Timestamps:
(00:01:20) Trauma treatment with Dr. Anderson
(00:06:09) Grounding with five breaths
(00:09:20) Multiplicity of personality aspects
(00:11:44) Suicide's Positive Intention
(00:15:50) Embracing parts and offering solutions
(00:20:32) Trauma and substance use
(00:24:23) Trauma blocks love and connection
(00:29:53) Trauma and Fear Processing
(00:35:29) Middle child seeking validation
(00:38:31) Low self-esteem and military service
(00:44:28) Trauma passed down through genes
(00:46:27) Transgenerational trauma
(00:50:43) Seeking IFS therapy
(00:56:51) Psychedelics and trauma healing
(00:57:15) Psychedelics and trauma treatment
(01:02:23) Transgenerational trauma
////LINKS
Find Dr. Anderson: www.FrankAndersonMD.com.
IFS Institute: https://ifsinstitute.com
//WHERE YOU CAN FIND US
Text MINDFUL to 33777 to sign up for the MTM Newsletter
Website - http://mentalkingmindfulness.com/
Listen on Spotify - https://bit.ly/MTM-Podcast
Listen on Apple Podcast - https://bit.ly/MTM_Apple_Podcast
Watch on YouTube - https://youtube.com/@mentalkingmindfulness
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mentalkingmindfulness
Follow Will - https://www.instagram.com/willnotfear/
Follow Jon - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmacaskill
Join the MTM Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/153173176744665
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jul 20, 2023 • 8min
MEDITATION: Journey's Inception: A Guided Opening Meditation for Personal Growth
Embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery with this guided opening meditation, specially designed for prior to studying or prior to one-on-one coaching sessions. "Journey's Inception" provides a calming, grounding experience, encouraging participants to connect deeply with their inner self and present environment.
As you begin, you'll find yourself focusing on the sensations around you, turning your attention inwards, and embracing the present moment. You'll explore your physical connection to the world around you, promoting a sense of grounding and stability.
The meditation then guides you to visualize your goals and aspirations as seeds planted within your heart, providing a symbolic perspective on personal growth. Each breath is a nurturing force, nourishing these seeds and promoting their vibrant growth.
"Journey's Inception" also reinforces the importance of the coaching session as a safe, judgement-free space dedicated to your self-improvement and growth. It concludes with an invitation to express gratitude to yourself, acknowledging the significance of dedicating time for your personal development.
This opening meditation is an essential tool to set the tone for a productive coaching session, inviting introspection, openness, and a focused mind. Start your journey of growth and self-discovery today with "Journey's Inception."Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jul 17, 2023 • 1h 23min
Dr Charles Freligh: Learning to Respond without Reactivity
our special guest is Charles Freligh, a clinical psychologist with extensive experience in therapy, teaching, and spiritual practice. Charles shares his insights on learning to respond without reactivity, emphasizing the healing impact of honest and humble presence.
Charles underscores the importance of cultivating self-awareness and mindfulness in our daily lives. He describes how our natural tendency to react impulsively, especially in challenging situations, often leads to unnecessary suffering and negative consequences. By learning to respond instead of react, we can break free from conditioned patterns and cultivate more compassionate and skillful ways of engaging with ourselves and others.
Charles shares practical techniques and strategies for developing the capacity to respond without reactivity. He discusses the power of breath awareness, emphasizing its role in calming the nervous system and creating space for conscious choices. He also highlights the significance of self-compassion, emphasizing that our ability to respond skillfully is deeply rooted in a foundation of self-acceptance and kindness.
Throughout the episode, Charles draws upon his experiences as an artist of the present moment. He explains how being fully present in each moment allows us to access our intuition and respond from a place of authenticity and wisdom. He encourages listeners to embrace the transformative potential of the present moment, highlighting its ability to liberate us from the burdens of the past and worries about the future.
In closing, Charles discusses his recently published book, "The Will to Do Nothing," which explores the paradoxical concept of non-doing and its profound impact on well-being. He also mentions his collaboration with Saqib Rizvi on the "What is Now?" podcast, where they explore various aspects of mindfulness and present-moment awareness.
Listeners of this episode gain valuable insights into the art of responding without reactivity. Charles Freligh's wisdom and expertise provide a compelling guide for navigating life's challenges with greater presence, compassion, and resilience.Find Charles here: https://www.charlesfreligh.comGet his book here: https://www.charlesfreligh.com/booksCheck out his Learning to Respond without Reactivity course on Insight Timer here: https://insig.ht/tTsM4WeGnBb
Timestamps:
(00:01:09) Develop skillful responses to emotions.
(00:08:26) Importance of mindfulness and non-reactivity.
(00:16:18) Trusting intuition in life's journey.
(00:18:14) Understanding the power of words.
(00:24:08) Let go of judgment and reactivity.
(00:27:51) Embrace failure, trust the process.
(00:33:02) Slow down and choose consciously.
(00:41:46) Importance of doing nothing.
(00:43:32) Develop pause button for clarity.
(00:48:06) Mindfulness quiets the default mode network.
(00:53:00) Presence over intellect for fulfillment.
(00:58:15) Reading is a meditative practice.
(01:02:46) Reading novels for meditative experience.
(01:12:23) Letting go of control is liberating.
(01:17:33) Permission to exist without doing.
(01:19:24) Embrace the present moment fully.
transcript, podcast episode, mindfulness, emotions, responsive approach,transcript, podcast episode, co-host, What Is Now podcast, friend and colleague,transcript, podcast episode, Charles Freely, contact information, live show,Charles, reactivity, responsiveness, journey, difference,favorite, heart, intellectual mind, stories, Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jun 26, 2023 • 2h 3min
Retired Navy SEAL Chris Irwin interviews Jon and Will about... well, everything!
From retired Navy SEAL Commander Chris Irwin's interview with Jon and Will on his podcast, Rare Sense. From Chris: DISCLAIMER: RARE SENSE content is not medical advice. Nor does it represent the official position or opinions of any other organization or person. If you require diagnosis or treatment for a mental or physical issue or illness, please seek it from a licensed professional.
From Chris "Jon Macaskill is a retired Navy SEAL turned mindfulness and meditation teacher. He now works with high-performing teams to aid in dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression, all while increasing focus, creativity, and productivity. You can learn more about him at https://macaskillconsulting.com.
Will Schneider is a yoga instructor and mindfulness coach with over nineteen years of experience. He is one of the most sought-after teachers in all of New York City (ClassPass 2017). You can learn more about him at https://willnotfear.com.
Together, Jon and Will host the Men Talking Mindfulness podcast, now in its sixth season.
We spoke for over two hours - this first half is primarily focused on mindfulness and meditation. We also touch on their upcoming retreat in upstate New York, yoga, and societal norms about men (This retreat has since happened!).
The second half of our conversation we discussed our experience taking psilocybin in a therapeutic group setting with Beckley Retreats in 2021. Beckley’s programs include a four-week virtual preparation phase, a five-day on-site legal retreat outside the United States, and a six-week virtual integration phase. I found their work to be extremely comprehensive and committed to best practices.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jun 19, 2023 • 1h 4min
How the News is Hurting YOU - and What YOU Can Do About It!
In this episode of Men Talking Mindfulness - the Season 6 Finale! - your hosts, retired Navy SEAL Commander Jon Macaskill, and renowned NYC Yoga Guru, Will Schneider, dive deep into the impact of news consumption on our mental, physical, and emotional health. They navigate the sea of information overload, discuss the ways excessive news can trigger stress responses, contribute to anxiety, depression, and even cause compassion fatigue. But it's not all doom and gloom; Jon and Will also provide actionable strategies for setting healthy boundaries with media, engaging in self-care, and harnessing the power of mindfulness to mitigate the effects of distressing news.
Key discussions revolve around creating a balanced relationship with media, understanding the mechanics behind the news industry, and learning how to stay informed without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you're navigating the world of news for personal or professional reasons, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to manage their media diet in a healthier, more mindful way.
Remember, there's always room to breathe, grow, and learn in the world of Men Talking Mindfulness. Tune in and begin your journey towards a more balanced and mindful relationship with the media today.
Time stamps are at bottom...
//WHERE YOU CAN FIND US Text MINDFUL to 33777 to sign up for the MTM Newsletter
Website - http://mentalkingmindfulness.com
Listen on Spotify - https://bit.ly/MTM-Podcast
Listen on Apple Podcast - https://bit.ly/MTM_Apple_Podcast
Watch on YouTube - https://youtube.com/@mentalkingmindfulness
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mentalkingmindfulness
Follow Will - https://www.instagram.com/willnotfear/
Follow Jon - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmacaskill
Join the MTM Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/153173176744665
Keywords: #Mindfulness, #MediaConsumption, #MentalHealth, #SelfCare, #InformationOverload, #StressManagement, #Anxiety, #Depression, #CompassionFatigue, #MenTalkingMindfulness, #NavySEAL, #YogaGuru.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jun 12, 2023 • 1h 27min
Navy SEAL turned Sleep Scientist Robert Sweetman : Improving Your Sleep & It's Importance
our guest Robert Sweetman, a former Navy SEAL now turned sleep scientist. As we delve into the intricacies of the nighttime mind, listeners are treated to a captivating discussion blending personal experiences, cutting-edge science, and ancient mindfulness practices.
Our hosts, Jon Macaskill, a retired Navy SEAL Commander with a passion for mindfulness and meditation, and Will Schneider, a renowned NYC-based yoga and mindfulness guru, navigate this in-depth exploration into sleep science. Together, they enrich the conversation with their unique insights and experiences.
Robert Sweetman sheds light on the science behind the sleep cycle and the profound impact it has on our physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. Leveraging his military background and rigorous scientific research, Robert provides practical advice for optimizing sleep and explains why restorative slumber is essential for resilience, performance, and mindfulness.
During this episode, we debunk common sleep myths, explore the role of mindfulness in promoting better sleep, and discuss tools and techniques that can help you turn every night into a rejuvenating experience. Don't miss this episode if you're looking to improve your sleep, boost your mindfulness, and elevate your life.
Time stamps are at bottom...
//LINKS Connect with Rob here: @sleepgenius on Social Media. More about 62R here: https://www.62romeo.org/
The stuff we mentioned in the show:
MVMI Pillow: https://mvmisleep.com/. Use code Mind15 to get 15% off.
Hatch Restore Clock: Hatch Restore - Sunrise AlarmHatchhttps://www.hatch.co
ChiliSleep (now SleepMe): https://sleep.me/
James Nestor's Book, Breath. https://a.co/d/7siak6k
//WHERE YOU CAN FIND US Text MINDFUL to 33777 to sign up for the MTM Newsletter
Website - http://mentalkingmindfulness.com/
Listen on Spotify - https://bit.ly/MTM-Podcast
Listen on Apple Podcast - https://bit.ly/MTM_Apple_Podcast
Watch on YouTube - https://youtube.com/@mentalkingmindfulness
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mentalkingmindfulness
Follow Will - https://www.instagram.com/willnotfear/
Follow Jon - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmacaskill
Join the MTM Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/153173176744665
(00:00:37) Sleep and mental health.
(00:03:45) Effects of sleep aids.
(00:09:07) Bad sleep habits in SEALs.
(00:11:43) Sleep medication effects.
(00:15:53) Turning a negative into positive.
(00:19:18) Negative sleep thoughts.
(00:22:21) Structuring Positive Thoughts.
(00:26:23) Neuroplasticity and CBT.
(00:30:04) Sleep issues epidemic.
(00:35:43) CBTI equipment for compliance.
(00:37:23) Circadian rhythms and sunlight.
(00:41:23) Sleep cycles and recovery.
(00:44:14) Dream sleep and brainwaves.
(00:49:28) Benefits of Deep Sleep.
(00:50:29) Poor sleep and brain disorders.
(00:54:16) Adenosine and Caffeine.
(00:57:42) Effects of Caffeine.
(01:03:45) Natural ways to sleep better.
(01:04:34) Sleep and substances.
(01:09:23) Sleep environment and accessories.
(01:12:13) Getting deep rest through environment.
(01:15:37) Sleep frog light and sound machine.
(01:18:37) Box breathing technique.
(01:25:54) Sleep and its importance.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jun 5, 2023 • 1h 5min
RJ Singh: From Bad Habits to Excellence
“Virtues are formed in man by his doing the actions,” said Aristotle. The writer Will Durant interpreted this as: “We are what we repeatedly do… therefore excellence is not an act, but a habit.” Meaning … excellence is NOT what we do once. It’s a way of LIFE … and that’s what we’re talking about today - habits… breaking the bad ones and starting the good ones!
Welcome to "Men Talking Mindfulness," a show where we delve into the crossroads of mindfulness and masculinity, nurturing both health and prosperity for the modern man… and for those with men in their lives!
Today, we have the privilege of featuring a remarkable individual, RJ Singh, who is not only a successful businessman but also the founder of UltraHabits and an ultra-endurance athlete.
RJ has a personal journey of overcoming chronic dysfunction that encompassed violence, crime, youth detention, jails, and chronic addiction. With the invaluable support of mentors and various frameworks, he embarked on a transformative path. Drawing from his own experiences, RJ developed a unique framework that empowered him to rebuild and refocus his mind, body, and spirit, ultimately unlocking limitless possibilities.
He firmly believes that by committing to and dedicating oneself to the evolution of the mind, body, and spirit complex, individuals can experience growth and prosperity in all aspects of life. This achievement necessitates intention, discipline, and the cultivation of solid habits.
Get ready for a deep dive into Habits - How they are created, how do we break the bad ones that don’t serve us, and what it takes to stick with the ones that help us to develop that competitive advantage.
//LINKS Connect with RJ here: https://ultrahabits.co/
Donate to RJ's effort to break the Guinness Book of World Records record for the most number of burpees in 24 hours - all in support of The Black Dog Institute: https://www.teamblackdog.org.au/fundraisers/rjsingh. The Black Dog Institute is dedicated to understanding, preventing and treating mental illness.
//WHERE YOU CAN FIND US Text MINDFUL to 33777 to sign up for the MTM NewsletterWebsite - http://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Listen on Spotify - https://bit.ly/MTM-Podcast Listen on Apple Podcast - https://bit.ly/MTM_Apple_Podcast Watch on YouTube - https://youtube.com/@mentalkingmindfulness Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mentalkingmindfulness Follow Will - https://www.instagram.com/willnotfear/ Follow Jon - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmacaskill Join the MTM Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/153173176744665
(00:02:29) Habits and personal growth.
(00:04:41) Breathwork for grounding.
(00:09:24) Addiction and spirituality.
(00:12:15) Addiction and Recovery.
(00:16:46) Overcoming addiction through running.
(00:22:51) Breaking bad habits.
(00:25:29) Shifting identity through habits.
(00:29:46) Finding balance in life.
(00:34:54) Mindfulness and consistency.
(00:37:37) Mindfulness for daily life.
(00:42:23) Shifting negative narrative.
(00:46:09) Becoming a better human.
(00:51:03) Rest as performance enhancer.
(00:53:45) Implementing rest.
(00:57:18) Ego and Habits in Work.
(01:01:18) Mental health charity burpee challenge.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.