#132 The Male Identity Crisis

In this episode of "Garry Talks," Irish entrepreneur and psychologist Keith Costello joins Garry to discuss his journey from a council estate to business success and personal growth. Keith reflects on overcoming adversity, the realities of entrepreneurship, and his path to self-improvement. The conversation explores changing dating norms, the impact of technology on relationships, and the evolving roles of men and women. Keith shares insights on emotional intelligence, authenticity, and the challenges of modern dating, offering practical advice for building genuine connections in today’s society. The episode is produced by GK Media Studios.   - Support this podcast by joining our tribe today at www.GarryTalks.com - Please follow Garry Talks on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.  Please follow GKMedia.ie on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok.  Most importantly – please subscribe to this Podcast.   The Lost Art of Conversation (00:00:00) Discussion on how online life has diminished real conversation skills. Introducing Keith Costello (00:00:05) Garry introduces Keith, his background, and the episode’s main topics. Early Sales Lessons with Dad (00:00:28) Keith shares memories of learning sales and entrepreneurship from his father. Podcast Housekeeping & Thanks (00:00:55) Garry thanks listeners, discusses podcast achievements, and encourages support. About GK Media Studios (00:02:05) Brief info about the podcast network and its mission. Keith’s Entrepreneurial Beginnings (00:02:17) Keith recounts his early days in sales with his father. Growing Up in North Galway (00:03:19) Keith describes his upbringing, family struggles, and early business experiences. The Flag Business Eureka Moment (00:05:21) How Keith discovered the potential of selling flags and the business’s growth. Survival and Scarcity in Entrepreneurship (00:08:42) Keith discusses the drive for survival and the realities of starting with little. From Council Estate to Success (00:12:21) Reflection on Keith’s journey from tough beginnings to business and academic achievements. Personal Growth and Sacrifices (00:13:34) Keith talks about overcoming adversity, quitting drinking, and pursuing education. Therapy, Self-Esteem, and Psychology (00:15:35) Keith’s experience with therapy, self-worth, and earning his psychology degree. Volunteering and Giving Back (00:17:19) Keith’s work helping others with addiction and the rewards of volunteering. Self-Improvement Practices (00:18:51) Keith’s journey in emotional openness, self-reflection, and healthy living. Comparing Generations: Keith and His Son (00:21:25) Differences between Keith’s youth and his son’s modern experiences. The Shift to Online Dating (00:24:01) Garry and Keith discuss why online dating has become prevalent. Cultural Changes in Dating and Alcohol (00:25:35) How fitness culture and changing attitudes toward alcohol affect dating. Online Dating and Rejection (00:26:21) Keith’s personal insecurities and the appeal of online dating. The 10% Rule and Dating Apps (00:29:06) Discussion of dating app dynamics, rejection, and the “top 10% of men” phenomenon. Polarization and Ghosting in Modern Dating (00:31:46) How shifting gender roles and expectations impact dating and relationships. Loss of Social Skills and Real-Life Interaction (00:34:21) The decline of in-person social skills due to online communication. Creating Real-Life Dating Events (00:35:37) Keith’s business idea to bring singles together through shared activities. Challenges Engaging Men in Dating Events (00:37:28) Difficulty attracting men to real-life singles events and possible reasons. Men’s Self-Improvement and Dating Success (00:39:56) Advice for men on becoming more attractive and emotionally intelligent. Male Identity Crisis and Changing Roles (00:41:42) Discussion on evolving male roles and the impact on relationships. Honesty and Intentions in Dating (00:45:14) The importance of honesty about relationship intentions for both men and women. Scarcity Mindset and Relationship Choices (00:47:17) How fear of scarcity affects dating decisions and advice for taking time. Age Groups in Real-Life Dating Events (00:50:08) Demographics of participants in Keith’s singles events and challenges faced. Finding the Right Partner and Communication (00:52:28) Encouragement to keep searching for the right person and value open communication. Healthy Relationship Communication (00:54:25) The role of vulnerability, honesty, and non-confrontational dialogue in relationships. Closing Remarks and Listener Feedback (00:55:45) Garry invites listener feedback and wraps up the episode.