EPISODE · Feb 20, 2026 · 34 MIN
Rest Isn't Weakness. Running On Empty Is.
from TheClearing.Life Podcast — for men in midlife searching for support and meaning. · host Matt Bagwell and Karl Monahan
In Episode 5 of The Clearing Podcast, Matt and Karl pick up on a thread from last week’s real-time check-in and follow it deeper: self-care. We explore a version that shows up in small choices, tiny rituals, and honest trade-offs — especially when life is busy, relationships are demanding, and your bandwidth is shrinking. What you can expect in this episode: Why self-care is best understood as an investment (rather than an indulgence.) The difference between solo self-care and social self-care. The “battery charge” metaphor — and what burnout looks like when output exceeds input. How guilt and productivity culture can sabotage rest. Why self-care must resonate with YOU (even if that involves skateboards.) A simple weekly exercise: the 120-hour audit + checking your screen time. And two daily prompts to help build a self care practice. This episode is an invitation to stay curious, stay practical, and make self-care doable — without turning it into another task you might feel overwhelmed by. We would love to hear from you, with your practices, and/or any questions you might have around self care. Email us at [email protected] Follows us here: Instagram Website
What this episode covers
In Episode 5 of The Clearing Podcast, Matt and Karl pick up on a thread from last week’s real-time check-in and follow it deeper: self-care. We explore a version that shows up in small choices, tiny rituals, and honest trade-offs — especially when life is busy, relationships are demanding, and your bandwidth is shrinking. What you can expect in this episode: Why self-care is best understood as an investment (rather than an indulgence.) The difference between solo self-care and social self-care. The “battery charge” metaphor — and what burnout looks like when output exceeds input. How guilt and productivity culture can sabotage rest. Why self-care must resonate with YOU (even if that involves skateboards.) A simple weekly exercise: the 120-hour audit + checking your screen time. And two daily prompts to help build a self care practice. This episode is an invitation to stay curious, stay practical, and make self-care doable — without turning it into another task you might feel overwhelmed by. We would love to hear from you, with your practices, and/or any questions you might have around self care. Email us at [email protected] Follows us here: Instagram Website
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Rest Isn't Weakness. Running On Empty Is.
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