The ManKind Podcast

Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations). In this transformative episode of The ManKind Podcast, Boysen sits down with Stephanie Harrison—philosopher of happiness, founder of The New Happy, and author of the international bestseller New Happy: Getting Happiness Right in a World That’s Got It Wrong. Together, they take aim at the deeply ingrained myths of happiness shaped by individualism, capitalism, and domination.Stephanie reveals how these cultural forces disconnect us from true wellbeing and from one another—and how men, in particular, are harmed by messages that tie their worth to productivity, stoicism, and isolation. Drawing from her research and lived experience, she offers a powerful, hopeful alternative: a happiness rooted in connection, compassion, and shared purpose.Key moments in the conversation include:[04:00] Stephanie explains the "Old Happy" framework and how it distorts our pursuit of happiness.[06:30] A deep dive into individualism: how it isolates men and reinforces emotional suppression.[10:45] Understanding domination as self-suppression and societal control—and how men internalize it.[18:35] Facing capitalism: why the endless pursuit of success leaves us empty—and what real purpose looks like.[25:45] A surprising reframe of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs—what we've misunderstood about self-actualization.[31:00] Stephanie shares 3 practices to build more meaningful relationships and authentic joy.[34:30] Boysen shares a personal story about starting a local men’s walk-and-talk group—and the impact of simple connection.[37:20] The Harvard Grant Study makes an appearance: the #1 predictor of a happy, healthy life? Relationships.This is a must-listen for anyone who senses there's more to life—and manhood—than striving alone. If you've ever felt like the rules of happiness weren’t wr BetterHelp: Get 10% Off Your First Month Of Therapy The ManKind Podcast has partnered with Betterhelp to make it easier for listeners to access licensed mental health therapists who can aid them in their mental health journey. Brandon and Boysen stand by this service as they use BetterHelp for their therapy needs.#Sponsorship #AdSupport the showGet up to 20% off Magic Mind with our link:https://magicmind.com/MANKINDMAY Subscribe/Rate/Review on iTunes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: >>>HERE<<<Stay in the loop with powerful figures in the world of Men's Work. Find A Men's Circle Near You: https://mkpusa.org/mens-groupWith over 1000+ Men's Circles (Virtual + In-Person) worldwide, men are waiting to welcome you into a kind, supportive and safe brotherhood of men. FREE Online Men's Groups are available every week.The Men's Work: https://mkpusa.org/themenswork/ In just three short weeks we’ll give you a solid foundation for moving ahead in your life, and you won’t be going alone. Cohorts Launch Every Month 🎵Listen To Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors: Spotify: Listen Here

Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations). What happens when your best intentions fall flat? When your leadership misses the mark? When you’re face-to-face with your own blind spots?In this brutally honest episode of The ManKind Podcast, hosts Brandon Clift and Boysen Hodgson unpack the messy, uncomfortable, and essential leadership lesson of owning when you don’t have it all together. Through stories from recent New Warrior Training weekends, they explore what real accountability looks like when you’re no longer the rookie — but still far from finished.This is not a conversation about perfection. It’s about presence. About dropping the mask. About recognizing the impulse to power through and instead choosing to pause, get honest, and grow.💥 Key Moments & Takeaways:How Brandon’s well-intended facilitation moment nearly backfired — and why asking for help built more trust than faking it ever couldWhy leaders who pretend to “have it all together” are often the least trustworthyHow the traits that get us into leadership are not always the traits that help us lead wellThe painful yet powerful impact of partner reintegration after transformational weekendsThe cost of not acknowledging the truth that “everyone sees anyway”Why civic duty is more than voting — and how events like M-PACT are redefining what real impact looks like for men and communitiesWhat it means to fail in front of your people — and why it’s a necessary part of growing into mature leadership🛠 This episode is a must-listen for any man in leadership — whether that’s in your job, your family, your circle, or your community. Because growth doesn’t come from having the right answer — it comes from having the courage to admit when you don’t. BetterHelp: Get 10% Off Your First Month Of Therapy The ManKind Podcast has partnered with Betterhelp to make it easier for listeners to access licensed mental health therapists who can aid them in their mental health journey. Brandon and Boysen stand by this service as they use BetterHelp for their therapy needs.#Sponsorship #AdSupport the showGet up to 20% off Magic Mind with our link:https://magicmind.com/MANKINDMAY Subscribe/Rate/Review on iTunes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: >>>HERE<<<Stay in the loop with powerful figures in the world of Men's Work. Find A Men's Circle Near You: https://mkpusa.org/mens-groupWith over 1000+ Men's Circles (Virtual + In-Person) worldwide, men are waiting to welcome you into a kind, supportive and safe brotherhood of men. FREE Online Men's Groups are available every week.The Men's Work: https://mkpusa.org/themenswork/ In just three short weeks we’ll give you a solid foundation for moving ahead in your life, and you won’t be going alone. Cohorts Launch Every Month 🎵Listen To Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors: Spotify: Listen Here

Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations). In this powerful and timely conversation, host Brandon Clift sits down with Kenny Andejeski—a strategist, facilitator, and civic connector—who specializes in building community across difference. Together, they explore how emotional intelligence, curiosity, and local action can help us bridge divides that feel increasingly entrenched, especially around politics, race, and masculinity.💥 What You'll Learn:Why politics is often a surface-level identity—and how going deeper reveals our shared humanityHow emotional regulation and storytelling open the door to deeper understanding across differenceThe dangers of binary thinking and how it fuels division and dehumanizationTactics for working through internal triggers before reacting in conversations around race and politicsThe power of local civic engagement as a force for tangible changeWhy inclusion and relational repair must start with doing your own inner workHow Kenny’s project on “The Future of Masculinity” is creating space for diverse and authentic male identities✨ Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world or stuck in difficult conversations, this episode offers grounded tools and hopeful perspective on how to stay in relationship with yourself and others—even when it’s hard. BetterHelp: Get 10% Off Your First Month Of Therapy The ManKind Podcast has partnered with Betterhelp to make it easier for listeners to access licensed mental health therapists who can aid them in their mental health journey. Brandon and Boysen stand by this service as they use BetterHelp for their therapy needs.#Sponsorship #AdSupport the showGet up to 20% off Magic Mind with our link:https://magicmind.com/MANKINDMAY Subscribe/Rate/Review on iTunes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: >>>HERE<<<Stay in the loop with powerful figures in the world of Men's Work. Find A Men's Circle Near You: https://mkpusa.org/mens-groupWith over 1000+ Men's Circles (Virtual + In-Person) worldwide, men are waiting to welcome you into a kind, supportive and safe brotherhood of men. FREE Online Men's Groups are available every week.The Men's Work: https://mkpusa.org/themenswork/ In just three short weeks we’ll give you a solid foundation for moving ahead in your life, and you won’t be going alone. Cohorts Launch Every Month 🎵Listen To Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors: Spotify: Listen Here

Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations). What does it take to live fully, love boldly, and lead from the heart—when the world around you often looks the other way?In this powerful episode, Boysen Hodgson sits down with Diego Medina, a 31-year-old public speaker, artist, and advocate who has lived as a quadriplegic since the age of seven. Diego shares his journey of navigating life, love, and leadership in a world not designed with him in mind. From overcoming social isolation in high school to discovering his passion for storytelling and public speaking, Diego invites us into a raw and deeply human conversation about visibility, vulnerability, and the power of community.You'll hear about Diego's experience in men's groups through the ManKind Project and Father Sons Brothers, his growing leadership as a facilitator, and his commitment to building a more inclusive, loving world—starting from within.This is an episode about presence. About connection. And about what happens when we choose to see each other, fully.Find Diego on YouTube!and on Insta: @diego_f_medina93  BetterHelp: Get 10% Off Your First Month Of Therapy The ManKind Podcast has partnered with Betterhelp to make it easier for listeners to access licensed mental health therapists who can aid them in their mental health journey. Brandon and Boysen stand by this service as they use BetterHelp for their therapy needs.#Sponsorship #AdSupport the showGet up to 20% off Magic Mind with our link:https://magicmind.com/MANKINDMAY Subscribe/Rate/Review on iTunes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: >>>HERE<<<Stay in the loop with powerful figures in the world of Men's Work. Find A Men's Circle Near You: https://mkpusa.org/mens-groupWith over 1000+ Men's Circles (Virtual + In-Person) worldwide, men are waiting to welcome you into a kind, supportive and safe brotherhood of men. FREE Online Men's Groups are available every week.The Men's Work: https://mkpusa.org/themenswork/ In just three short weeks we’ll give you a solid foundation for moving ahead in your life, and you won’t be going alone. Cohorts Launch Every Month 🎵Listen To Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors: Spotify: Listen Here

Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations). Tantra for the Modern Man: Reclaiming Pleasure, Power & PresenceIn this intimate and eye-opening episode of The ManKind Podcast, host Boysen Hodgson sits down with Tantra practitioner and educator Olga Ribble for a groundbreaking conversation on sexuality, masculinity, and transformation. Olga unpacks the myths and truths of Tantra—ancient and neo—and how its modern application can support men in navigating sexual shame, performance anxiety, and disconnection.Listeners are guided through the foundational philosophy of Tantra and introduced to practical techniques for self-awareness, sexual healing, and deeper relational intimacy. From redefining masculinity through presence and self-love to exploring the power of non-ejaculatory sex and breathwork, Olga offers men a roadmap to becoming confident, conscious, and long-lasting lovers. Whether you’re healing from shame or seeking to expand your sensual capacity, this conversation invites you to reconnect with the sacredness of your own body.Learn more about Olga's Programs on her website.https://nordicgoddesstantra.com/tantra-for-the-modern-man/Heal.me: https://heal.me/holistic-sex-and-intimacy-coaching BetterHelp: Get 10% Off Your First Month Of Therapy The ManKind Podcast has partnered with Betterhelp to make it easier for listeners to access licensed mental health therapists who can aid them in their mental health journey. Brandon and Boysen stand by this service as they use BetterHelp for their therapy needs.#Sponsorship #AdSupport the showGet up to 20% off Magic Mind with our link:https://magicmind.com/MANKINDMAY Subscribe/Rate/Review on iTunes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: >>>HERE<<<Stay in the loop with powerful figures in the world of Men's Work. Find A Men's Circle Near You: https://mkpusa.org/mens-groupWith over 1000+ Men's Circles (Virtual + In-Person) worldwide, men are waiting to welcome you into a kind, supportive and safe brotherhood of men. FREE Online Men's Groups are available every week.The Men's Work: https://mkpusa.org/themenswork/ In just three short weeks we’ll give you a solid foundation for moving ahead in your life, and you won’t be going alone. Cohorts Launch Every Month 🎵Listen To Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors: Spotify: Listen Here

Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations). In this powerful and intimate archival episode from 2015, we revisit a conversation between philosopher and author Sam Keen (Fire in the Belly) and his son, novelist Gifford Keen, about their co-authored book Prodigal Father, Wayward Son: A Roadmap to Reconciliation.This interview dives into the heart of a decades-long journey of estrangement, conflict, forgiveness, and reconnection between father and son. Through personal stories and raw reflection, Sam and Gifford explore how mythic memories, unspoken pain, and generational expectations shaped their relationship — and how truth-telling and deep listening became their path to healing.As we honor the recent passing of Sam Keen, this episode stands as both a tribute to his legacy in the men's movement and a profound lesson on vulnerability, accountability, and the possibility of transformation in even the most fractured relationships.Themes: – Fatherhood and masculinity – Intergenerational healing – The power of storytelling – Forgiveness and emotional maturity – Rewriting personal mythologyRecommended For: Men on a path of personal growth, fathers and sons seeking reconciliation, and anyone interested in the deep work of emotional truth-telling and human connection.Sam and Gifford Keen - "Prodigal Father Wayward Son: A Roadmap to Reconciliation." Prodigal Father Wayward SonPre-order at: http://amzn.to/1zeaKO8 BetterHelp: Get 10% Off Your First Month Of Therapy The ManKind Podcast has partnered with Betterhelp to make it easier for listeners to access licensed mental health therapists who can aid them in their mental health journey. Brandon and Boysen stand by this service as they use BetterHelp for their therapy needs.#Sponsorship #AdSupport the showGet up to 20% off Magic Mind with our link:https://magicmind.com/MANKINDMAY Subscribe/Rate/Review on iTunes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: >>>HERE<<<Stay in the loop with powerful figures in the world of Men's Work. Find A Men's Circle Near You: https://mkpusa.org/mens-groupWith over 1000+ Men's Circles (Virtual + In-Person) worldwide, men are waiting to welcome you into a kind, supportive and safe brotherhood of men. FREE Online Men's Groups are available every week.The Men's Work: https://mkpusa.org/themenswork/ In just three short weeks we’ll give you a solid foundation for moving ahead in your life, and you won’t be going alone. Cohorts Launch Every Month 🎵Listen To Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors: Spotify: Listen Here

Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations). 🎉 Episode 200 | The Mankind Podcast: Our Greatest Hits & Most Human Moments (So Far)Welcome to the 200th episode of The Mankind Podcast! In this milestone celebration, co-hosts Brandon Clift and Boysen Hodgson reflect on four years and 200 conversations exploring the many ways of being a man. With humor, humility, and deep appreciation, they revisit 10 standout episodes from the past two years—highlighting raw moments of transformation, powerful teachings, and the voices that have shaped their journeys and those of thousands of listeners.From soul-stirring conversations on fatherhood and grief, to challenging cultural narratives around masculinity, race, accountability, and identity, Brandon and Boysen share the stories that hit hardest and the lessons that linger. They honor the memory of their late teammate Michael Russo, dive into conversations with guests like Chris Hemmings, Ashanti Branch, Doug Gillette, Frank Shamrock, and more—and remind us all why these courageous, honest dialogues matter now more than ever.If you're new to the podcast, this episode is your ultimate entry point. If you've been with us for the ride—thank you. Here’s to 200 more.🌀 Topics Covered:Radical presence in the face of deathRedemption and responsibility after public accusationNavigating fatherhood, anger, and repairDeconstructing the Manosphere and toxic masculinitySoul-making, mysticism, and meaning in daily lifeDeepening race conversations with empathy and humilityTaking bold action in the face of procrastination🔗 Listen, reflect, and explore the episodes mentioned in the show notes. 💬 As always, we invite you to join the conversation. BetterHelp: Get 10% Off Your First Month Of Therapy The ManKind Podcast has partnered with Betterhelp to make it easier for listeners to access licensed mental health therapists who can aid them in their mental health journey. Brandon and Boysen stand by this service as they use BetterHelp for their therapy needs.#Sponsorship #AdSupport the showGet up to 20% off Magic Mind with our link:https://magicmind.com/MANKINDMAY Subscribe/Rate/Review on iTunes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: >>>HERE<<<Stay in the loop with powerful figures in the world of Men's Work. Find A Men's Circle Near You: https://mkpusa.org/mens-groupWith over 1000+ Men's Circles (Virtual + In-Person) worldwide, men are waiting to welcome you into a kind, supportive and safe brotherhood of men. FREE Online Men's Groups are available every week.The Men's Work: https://mkpusa.org/themenswork/ In just three short weeks we’ll give you a solid foundation for moving ahead in your life, and you won’t be going alone. Cohorts Launch Every Month 🎵Listen To Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors: Spotify: Listen Here

Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations). What does real inclusion look like in men’s work? In this episode, Boysen Hodgson welcomes Art Patterson, a leader, elder, and fierce advocate for the Barrier Free Movement in the ManKind Project. Living with cerebral palsy, Art has spent over 25 years in MKP — breaking barriers, challenging assumptions, and becoming the one of the first differently-abled men to walk the leadership path in our community.Together, Art and Boysen dive into powerful topics: disability fragility, vulnerability, spiritual calling, and the deep freedom that comes from being truly seen and accepted. Art speaks from the heart about what it means to be in relationship beyond fear, how “oops” moments are part of the growth, and why men with all kinds of abilities deserve a seat at the table — and a voice in the circle.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about equity, leadership, and creating space where every man belongs.📄 Full transcript available here.Learn more about the Barrier Free Movement: https://barrierfree.mkpusa.org/ BetterHelp: Get 10% Off Your First Month Of Therapy The ManKind Podcast has partnered with Betterhelp to make it easier for listeners to access licensed mental health therapists who can aid them in their mental health journey. Brandon and Boysen stand by this service as they use BetterHelp for their therapy needs.#Sponsorship #AdSupport the showGet up to 20% off Magic Mind with our link:https://magicmind.com/MANKINDMAY Subscribe/Rate/Review on iTunes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: >>>HERE<<<Stay in the loop with powerful figures in the world of Men's Work. Find A Men's Circle Near You: https://mkpusa.org/mens-groupWith over 1000+ Men's Circles (Virtual + In-Person) worldwide, men are waiting to welcome you into a kind, supportive and safe brotherhood of men. FREE Online Men's Groups are available every week.The Men's Work: https://mkpusa.org/themenswork/ In just three short weeks we’ll give you a solid foundation for moving ahead in your life, and you won’t be going alone. Cohorts Launch Every Month 🎵Listen To Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors: Spotify: Listen Here

Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations). Walking, Talking, and Building Connection with Mark GreeneIn this powerful episode of the ManKind Podcast, host Boysen Hodgson sits down with Mark Greene, author and advocate for healthy masculinity, to discuss an inspiring grassroots movement: Walking, Talking Men. This simple yet profound initiative helps men foster deep friendships through regular, low-pressure walks in their own neighborhoods.Key Highlights:From Isolation to Connection – Mark shares his personal journey of realizing his own social isolation and taking a simple but bold step: starting weekly walks with other men in his neighborhood.The Power of Casual Conversations – Unlike structured men's groups, these walks provide an easy entry point for men to build friendships without pressure, expectations, or cost.Expanding the Movement – What started as a small neighborhood initiative in New York is now spreading to other cities, proving the deep need for real-life male friendships.Why Men Struggle with Friendship – The episode explores how cultural messages about masculinity condition men to disengage from close friendships and the profound consequences of social isolation.A Radical Yet Simple Act – Mark and Boysen discuss how stepping outside the "man box" and simply walking and talking can be a revolutionary act in reclaiming human connection.A Call to Action – Inspired listeners are encouraged to visit walkingtalkingmen.org and start their own local walks—no fees, no complex rules, just real connection.This episode is a heartfelt reminder that true strength lies in relationships, and the simple act of showing up can change lives.Listen in and be inspired to take your own first step! 🚶‍♂️💬https://walkingtalkingmen.org/  BetterHelp: Get 10% Off Your First Month Of Therapy The ManKind Podcast has partnered with Betterhelp to make it easier for listeners to access licensed mental health therapists who can aid them in their mental health journey. Brandon and Boysen stand by this service as they use BetterHelp for their therapy needs.#Sponsorship #AdSupport the showGet up to 20% off Magic Mind with our link:https://magicmind.com/MANKINDMAY Subscribe/Rate/Review on iTunes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: >>>HERE<<<Stay in the loop with powerful figures in the world of Men's Work. Find A Men's Circle Near You: https://mkpusa.org/mens-groupWith over 1000+ Men's Circles (Virtual + In-Person) worldwide, men are waiting to welcome you into a kind, supportive and safe brotherhood of men. FREE Online Men's Groups are available every week.The Men's Work: https://mkpusa.org/themenswork/ In just three short weeks we’ll give you a solid foundation for moving ahead in your life, and you won’t be going alone. Cohorts Launch Every Month 🎵Listen To Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors: Spotify: Listen Here

Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations). What if your biggest failure turned out to be your greatest teacher? In this episode of The ManKind Podcast, host Boysen Hodgson sits down with Brandon Clift to unpack five profound lessons he learned from his experience on Australian Ninja Warrior—where he set the record for the fastest elimination in history.Brandon shares how his ego, overconfidence, and underestimation of the challenge ahead led to an unexpected (and humbling) failure. But more importantly, he reveals how this moment reshaped his approach to risk, preparation, and resilience in all areas of life.Key Lessons Discussed:Leave Your Ego at Home – The fine line between confidence and arrogance.Do Not Underestimate the Challenge – How overlooking the present moment led to a misstep.Respect the Course – Why preparation and humility matter in any pursuit.Surrender Expectations & Detach from Outcomes – Embracing the unknown and finding growth in unexpected results.Enjoy the Journey – Finding joy, even in failure, and learning to pivot when things don’t go as planned.Through humor, reflection, and raw honesty, Brandon walks us through how these lessons continue to shape his personal and professional life. Whether you’ve faced setbacks in your career, relationships, or personal goals, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you fail forward and find purpose in the process.Resources & Mentions: 📖 Read Brandon’s full article: 5 Life-Altering Lessons From Failing Ninja Warrior 📺 Watch Brandon’s Ninja Warrior run: [DON'T BLINK]💡 We Want to Hear from You! What’s a failure that ended up being one of BetterHelp: Get 10% Off Your First Month Of Therapy The ManKind Podcast has partnered with Betterhelp to make it easier for listeners to access licensed mental health therapists who can aid them in their mental health journey. Brandon and Boysen stand by this service as they use BetterHelp for their therapy needs.#Sponsorship #AdSupport the showGet up to 20% off Magic Mind with our link:https://magicmind.com/MANKINDMAY Subscribe/Rate/Review on iTunes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: >>>HERE<<<Stay in the loop with powerful figures in the world of Men's Work. Find A Men's Circle Near You: https://mkpusa.org/mens-groupWith over 1000+ Men's Circles (Virtual + In-Person) worldwide, men are waiting to welcome you into a kind, supportive and safe brotherhood of men. FREE Online Men's Groups are available every week.The Men's Work: https://mkpusa.org/themenswork/ In just three short weeks we’ll give you a solid foundation for moving ahead in your life, and you won’t be going alone. Cohorts Launch Every Month 🎵Listen To Jim Donovan & The Sun King Warriors: Spotify: Listen Here