Men Talking Mindfulness: Mental, Physical, and Emotional Health for Leaders Under Pressure

Tim Kennedy describes the effort and grit it takes to go after your greatness.Listen to his full Podcast "Mental Toughness Unleashed: Insights from Tim Kennedy" here: https://pod.fo/e/2b3e7fFeeling 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 out of the fog of distress and into better decision-making.Head to MenTalkingMindfulness.com to learn more about what we're up to. MTM Spartan Team Race October 19th in Dallas - JOIN US!! Learn more here: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/spartan-race-2025Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Brain injury recovery What if the root cause of anxiety, memory loss, or chronic fatigue after a brain injury isn’t psychological, but hormonal? Dive into brain injury recovery as Will and Jon go deep with Dr. Mark Gordon, a true pioneer in the science of hormones and healing after traumatic brain injury (TBI). This episode breaks open the myths and reveals how brain injury recovery is often a hidden battle with hormones and inflammation, not just lingering psychology. Dr. Gordon demystifies how imbalance can lead to anxiety, memory loss, or chronic fatigue—symptoms men may struggle with for years, leaving them feeling hopeless about brain injury recovery.Dr. Gordon explains why a 28-point biomarker panel can help identify silent hormonal imbalances affecting brain function—especially for veterans—and how hormone therapy offers a path to reclaiming mental clarity and energy. Discover the role of gut health in neuroendocrine health, learn what every man should watch for after a head injury, and get actionable strategies for building resilience, optimizing hormone health, and fighting off chronic inflammation. If you’re seeking answers about post-TBI symptoms, how to tackle the root causes, and what real recovery looks like for men, this episode delivers raw truth, hope, and an expert roadmap to true healing.Find out more about Dr. Mark Gordon here - https://tbihelpnow.org/ or here: https://millenniumhealthstore.com/Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help. Head to willnotfear.comto learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel and into better decision-making.More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction02:47 - Neuroendocrinology’s Role in Brain and Mood09:16 - CTE and Hormonal Disruption Explained12:03 - Hormonal Feedback Loops and Brain Function13:20 - Hormones, Inflammation, and Brain Health17:00 - Neuroinflammation and Cognitive Impact20:46 - Head Trauma and Long-Term Brain Decline26:29 - Inflammation’s Lasting Effects on Healing28:50 - Subconcussive Hits, Gut Health, and the Brain33:31 - Boosting Brain Resilience: Military Lessons37:09 - Blast Exposure and Neurological Damage41:32 - Rethinking TBI and PTSD Treatment Options47:17 - Veteran Brain Health: Science Meets Policy50:18 - Ibogaine Therapy: Success in Alternative Care52:18 - Revisiting Testosterone’s Role in Vitality55:28 - NSAIDs, Testosterone, and Better Alternatives58:58 - Nutrition, Selenium, and Hormone Support01:01:42 - NSAIDs, Pregnancy, and Endocrine Disruption01:07:35 - Libido Boosting with Testosterone and PT-14101:11:30 - New Approaches to Testosterone Therapy01:14:18 - Detox and Hormone Optimization01:15:57 - Clomiphene vs. Injectables: What Works?01:17:01 - TRT: Dosing Strategies and Side Effects01:19:02 - Balancing Testosterone and Estradiol01:22:42 - Why Hormone Balance Matters01:28:26 - Biomarker Testing for Brain Injury RecoveryHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Have you ever wondered how stepping outside your comfort zone and immersing yourself in a new culture can change your perspective on life? Jon and Will explore the profound impact of travel on personal growth and self-discovery. They share their own transformative experiences, emphasizing the importance of being intentional during trips, embracing discomfort, and connecting with both the people around you and yourself. From the joy of family bonding to the lessons learned from different cultures, this episode highlights how travel can reset our priorities and enrich our lives.Try NEURISH - Personalized nutrition for your mental health. Our new sponsor. 15% off with Promo Code MTM. Tap this ⁠⁠LINK 🔗 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.comto learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction01:38 - Travel as a Path to Growth03:49 - Adventures That Change Us08:32 - Culture Shock & Self-Discovery12:48 - Meaningful Moments with Family14:23 - Family Values Across Borders27:45 - Lessons from Cultural Contrast31:57 - Climbing Volcanoes, Facing Fears33:56 - Preparing for Peru36:32 - Awe-Inspiring Journeys38:33 - Finding Connection on the Road40:43 - Staying Connected While Away42:32 - Courage Through Exploration43:40 - Growth Through Intentional Travel52:51 - Embracing Culture & ChangeHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Step into a bold, fresh conversation on modern masculinity as Tim Ryan joins Jon and Will to unpack what it really takes to thrive as a man in today’s ever-changing world. Modern masculinity is at a crossroads, and this episode dives head-first into redefining what it means to be a strong, emotionally intelligent man who’s not afraid of vulnerability. Tim Ryan shares how reviving the American Dream starts with embracing the core values behind modern masculinity—emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and authentic connection.Men today are searching for answers about modern masculinity—whether that means healing from trauma, navigating the loss of traditional rites of passage, or building real resilience for the pressures of work, family, and society. Modern masculinity isn't about shutting down, but opening up. Tim's story is proof: from sports fields to Congress, he’s learned that the key to real strength is self-awareness, compassion, and emotional intelligence.This episode explores why men who harness emotional intelligence are better equipped to lead, love, and cope with the challenges of modern life. Together, Jon, Will, and Tim bust old myths about “toughness” and reveal how mindfulness can become every man’s superpower, especially for veterans and fathers. If you’re a man looking for empowering ways to move past outdated scripts and create a more fulfilling life—or someone who cares about the men in your life—modern masculinity is more than a trend, it’s a movement. Discover practical tools for personal growth and join the conversation that’s helping to revive the American Dream for a new generation.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. Looking for a Great Keynote Speaker or a Coach? Jon can help - learn more at: https://jonmacaskill.com/More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction04:17 - Growing Without a Father Figure  07:58 - Small Wins, Big Impact  08:43 - Sports, Confidence, and Connection  14:35 - Gender Dynamics in Work and Education  16:35 - Perspectives Across Class Lines  18:38 - Men, Mindfulness, and Society  23:00 - The Psychology of Modern Masculinity  27:45 - Being Yourself in Real Conversations  34:51 - Injury Recovery and Mindful Detachment  36:40 - Selfhood and the Fragility of Manhood  46:37 - Teaching Daughters Critical Awareness  52:47 - Decoding Romantic Signals for Young Men  58:19 - Emotions and Relationships for Boys and Men  01:01:33 - Building Emotional Safety at Home  01:03:15 - Misreading Kids' Emotions  01:19:01 - Autonomy and Choosing Your Circle Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are you ready to tackle the biggest threat lurking in every man’s life? Here we unravel the real connection between stress and heart disease—a link that most doctors warn about, but few know how to fix. Stress and heart disease aren’t just words in a medical textbook; they’re the silent killers stealing happiness, health, and longevity from men everywhere. But what if the key to defeating stress and heart disease isn’t just exercise or diet, but something deeper—mindfulness?Heart surgeon Dr. Fernando Lamounier, MD, joins us to share eye-opening science, practical advice and the latest research that shows how stress and heart disease can be stopped in their tracks. Drawing from the American Heart Association’s findings and his own work in the operating room, Dr. Lamounier explains why stress and heart disease go hand in hand—and how men can use mindfulness as a game-changing weapon. Discover breathwork, daily presence practices, and the simple shifts that strengthen your heart against chronic stress.Let’s get real: loneliness, depression, and anxiety drive men to unhealthy habits, substance abuse, and sedentary living. Our guest reveals how stress and heart disease can start with the mind—and why cultivating emotional resilience through mindfulness may be the only way out. If you want to feel connected, energized, and build a powerful heart (inside and out), Dr. Lamounier’s science-backed techniques could change your life.Whether you’re coping with work pressures, relationship stress, or past traumas, this episode is full of actionable tools for men who want to prevent stress and heart disease for good. Calm your nervous system, strengthen your body, and lead with confidence—your heart will thank you!Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.comto learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction01:44 - The Role of Meditation in Cardiac Surgery Outcomes02:01 - How Mindfulness Supports Patients Undergoing Heart Surgery07:38 - Mindful Techniques for Surgeons in Action16:36 - Visual Tools After Heart Surgery17:36 - Visualization to Ease Pre-Op Anxiety25:02 - How Feelings Shape Physical Health36:26 - The Hidden Health Risks of Male Loneliness37:53 - Social Bonds and Heart Resilience38:49 - How Relationships Influence Cardiac Wellness40:25 - Vulnerability and Healing the Heart42:18 - Creating a Life of Purpose and Belonging45:17 - Strengthening the Mind-Body Link50:08 - Embracing Personal Transformation and Healing51:54 - Struggles and Successes in Meditation52:44 - Meditation as a Path to Resilience01:01:15 - Forgiveness as a Gateway to ConnectionHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does it truly mean to reinvent yourself? In this gripping episode, Jon and Will sit down with Nate Boyer—a man who epitomizes the courage it takes to reinvent yourself, again and again. If you’ve ever thought about a second chance, felt lost after a big life transition, or wondered how to find purpose when your old identity fades away, this episode is your blueprint.Nate Boyer’s story will make you rethink what’s possible if you reinvent yourself. From the deserts of Darfur as a volunteer, to the frontlines as a Green Beret, and then smashing expectations as a college football player without prior experience, Nate shows us that to reinvent yourself means to lean in—hard—with courage and heart. But here’s the secret: it’s not just about chasing adventure; it’s about finding where you’re truly needed and building a community that has your back.Dive deep into how MVP (Merging Vets and Players) is changing lives, using connection and shared purpose to help veterans and athletes reinvent themselves after their careers end. Nate opens up about the identity struggles that come with big transitions—the loneliness, the fear, the battle to reinvent yourself inside and out. Through hard work, embracing discomfort, and staying plugged into your mission, he proves it’s never too late to start over, pursue your passion, and build a life with no regrets.If you want to reinvent yourself, this episode will energize you to take risks, live from your heart, and find purpose beyond labels. Are you ready to reinvent yourself and discover the power of second chances? Tune in—the next version of you is waiting!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 - Introduction00:50 - Nate Boyer’s Journey from Military to Mindfulness06:25 - Journey to Service: Finding Purpose in Humanitarian Work13:00 - Navigating Identity and Purpose After Service22:29 - Peak Performance and the Pressure of Competition24:41 - Super Bowl Memories and Hell Week Regrets26:58 - Growth Through Embracing Change40:16 - Connecting Athletes and VeteransHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this conversation, Jocko Willink, a retired Navy SEAL officer and leadership author, shares powerful insights on discipline as a path to true freedom. He emphasizes taking proactive steps over waiting for opportunities and explores how structured habits shape personal growth. Jocko discusses modern masculinity, the role of emotional intelligence in leadership, and how sports build confidence. He connects military leadership lessons to parenting, advocating for trust, focus, and communication. Discover the balance of intensity and presence in achieving success.

What if a simple change in your routine could boost your mood and revitalize your soul?Will and Jon explore the surprising power of micro adventures -  small, intentional deviations from the norm - and their profound impact on well-being. Inspired by a recent conversation with John Eldredge,, author of Wild At Heart, they discuss the biological and emotional rewards of seeking new experiences. Tune in for a thoughtful, energizing conversation about why adventure isn’t just a luxury - it’s essential for a thriving life.Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:40 - Kicking Off: The Power of Micro Adventures01:38 – Looking Ahead: Events & Episode Reflections03:18 – Why We Need Adventure in Our Lives08:01 – Small Risks, Big Rewards11:19 – Finding Flow in Life’s Detours25:29 – Breaking Routine to Rediscover Purpose38:48 – Choosing Growth & Self-Care40:55 – Putting Yourself First Through Mini Escapes43:20 – Start Simple: Building Courage One Step at a Time48:32 – From Adrenaline Rushes to Personal Triumphs51:51 – Everyday Adventures: Grand or Tiny, They CountHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jon shares his fitness journey, discussing the challenges he faced while trying to maintain his exercise and diet during a recent trip to Australia. He reflects on the importance of setting realistic goals, embracing grace, and adjusting his nutrition plan to include more protein and carbohydrates. Jump in!NEURISH Powder Supplement info:Learn & order at: myneurish.com Use promo code MTM for an exclusive discountJoin us and our MTM Team in Granbury Texas, for the Spartan Race (5k Obstacle course) October 19, 2025 all info here: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/spartan-race-2025Timestamps:00:00: Progress and Challenges03:00: Embracing Realism and Grace05:58: Nutrition Insights: The Protein Challenge09:02: Carbs and Protein Intake14:01: The Role of Grace and Self-Compassion17:06: Insights from the Journey19:54: the Community SupportHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does it take to stay calm, aware, and prepared in the face of chaos?Jon and Will sit down with Clint Emerson - former Navy SEAL, survival expert, and bestselling author - to uncover the mindset and skills that make the difference between panic and poise. Drawing from years of elite training and real-world missions, Clint shares how the principles of awareness, preparedness, and adaptability can empower anyone to navigate daily life with greater confidence and clarity.From surviving high-stakes operations to mastering situational awareness in everyday settings, Clint offers practical wisdom and unforgettable stories. Whether you're interested in mental toughness, personal safety, or simply becoming more mindful and resilient, this conversation delivers.Buy Clint’s books here: https://clintemerson.com/books/Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction01:14 - Survival Skill Insights from SEAL Training10:56 - Lessons in Safety and Leadership17:08 - Personal Awareness and Safety Protocols18:30 - Awareness and Safety in Everyday Interactions20:48 - Understanding Demeanor and Situational Awareness27:24 - Staying Aware: The Impact of Technology and Mindset on Personal Safety34:42 - Embracing Cultural Awareness and Situational Confidence36:11 - Tracking Anwar al-Awlaki: A Mission in the Arab Spring38:05 - Arrival and Unexpected Encounters During the Arab Spring44:51 - The POWER Checklist49:07 - The Journey Behind 'Escape the Wolf’51:31 - From SEAL Team Six to E-Learning: A Leap of Faith53:50 - Transitioning Ideas: From Book to Business and Building Awareness57:13 - Blending In: The Art of the 'Gray Guy'01:01:27 - Mindfulness and Mental Health Strategies for Special Operators01:06:07 - Emphasizing Preparation and Awareness in TravelHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.