Ep 51: Redefining Masculinity: Coaching Men of Color to Lead and Live Authentically

In this enlightening dialogue, LaTonya and Austin explore how outdated societal expectations have impacted men’s well-being, relationships, and leadership effectiveness. Austin shares his journey from corporate consulting to coaching men of color and explains why spaces like The Man Cave are essential today. The conversation digs into topics like emotional regulation, stonewalling, unconscious beliefs around money and sex, and how redefining masculinity can transform not just men’s lives but our broader communities.All people, regardless of gender, possess both masculine and feminine energy; understanding this dynamic is key to leadership and well-being.Emotional suppression—especially among Black men—has deep roots and real consequences in leadership and relationships.“Stonewalling” is a common emotional response for men, often misunderstood; awareness and breathwork can create breakthroughs.Men often link their self-worth to money, success, and sex—but these are societal stories that must be unlearned.The Man Cave provides a powerful community for men of color to be vulnerable, seen, and emotionally accountable.If you're passionate about coaching across gender and race, or curious about how masculinity is evolving in today's world, this conversation goes far beneath the surface.Key Insights:👉 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and tap the NOTIFICATION BELL for more episodes that challenge outdated leadership norms.Connect with us: Email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠Learn more about ⁠Change Coaches⁠ (changecoaches.io)Learn more about Coaching Below the Surface (https://changecoaches.io/coaching-below-the-surface/)Follow LaTonya on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/latonyawilkins/)Follow Change Coaches on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/82310593)For More on the Book ⁠Leading Below the Surface (leadingbelowthesurface.com)And, if you loved this episode, please rate and share it!More About AustinMy name is Richard Austin Walker and I am a man who shows the fuck up. I lead with truth and love. I empower responsibility and possibility.My practice is a reflection of my commitment to self-actualization and serving my mission in rasing the standard of masculinity for men of color. I support BIPOC men to own their truth, own the impact of their leadership, and choose the responsibility of owning all aspects of their lived experiences. I offer 1:1 coaching, men's groups, a variety of leadership development workshops, and partner with select organizations to empower a culture of leadership. I value building relationships with other men who embody their truth and choose to be leaders. I host a weekly men's call for BIPOC leaders to be responsible for how they show up in the world. Each week we explore a monthly theme that is relevant for men of color. The Man Cave is a space for brotherhood, vulnerability, and authentic expression in service to being powerful models of grounded, open-hearted masculine leaders. If you want to drop into our conversation, please fill out our applicationInterested in a BIPOC men's community? Complete The Man Cave Interest form to engage. We meet Monday's at 12 PM ET and Thursday's at 6 PM ET. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScRTGX85d500k_3uJQJNqWrWw2bOsvQHaC6ZRU6y34HalaB2w/viewform BIPOC men's retreat this Fall, October 23 - 26, 2025 in James Creek, PA. Learn more at the Leadership Intensive Retreat webpage. https://www.austinwalkercoaching.com/new-leadership-intensive-retreat #RedefiningMasculinity #CoachingMenOfColor#InclusiveLeadership #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadingBelowTheSurface