The Evolution of Masculinity and the Modern Relationship

Understanding and Strengthening Modern Relationships with Kristal DeSantis In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant discusses with Kristal DeSantis, a licensed marriage and family therapist, her expertise in trauma work and relationships. Kristal shares her journey from avoiding marriage to becoming a leading authority in relational therapy. She insightfully states, 'I wanted my practice to reflect two things: tactical skills and a strength-forward approach.’ They delve into Kristal's STRONG model of relational therapy, which includes six pillars aimed at fostering healthy relationships. The conversation also covers the evolution of relationships, the challenges men face, and the often overlooked issue of male sexual abuse. Kristal notes, 'The experience of the intersection of pain and helplessness is often where trauma begins,’ emphasizing the transformative power of trauma-informed and attachment-based approaches in therapy. 00:00 Welcome to Real Men Feel 00:20 Introducing Kristal DeSantis 01:18 Kristal's Journey to Therapy 04:34 Focusing on First Responders 06:54 Understanding Trauma in Relationships 09:56 The STRONG Model of Relational Therapy 19:53 Challenges Men Face in Modern Relationships 24:41 Redefining Modern Protection 25:56 Debunking Misconceptions About Men and Relationships 27:53 The New Relationship Paradigm 29:42 Navigating the Modern Dating Landscape 35:25 Men as Survivors of Abuse 43:50 Resources and Final ThoughtsResourcesSTRONG: A Relationship Field Guide for the Modern Man, Kristal DeSantis -- https://amzn.to/3Zw3IXuThe Abuse OF Men by Women: It Happens, It Hurts, And It's Time to Get Real About It, Ann Silvers -- https://amzn.to/3XxaEB1His History, Her Story: A Survival Guide for Spouses of Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Trauma, by Debra Warner -- https://amzn.to/4d8uZ5yLinksKristal DeSantis -- https://www.strong.loveFollow Kristal on IG -- www.instagram.com/atxtherapistConnect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:Interested in a Clarity Call with Andy? - visit https://theandygrant.com/talkInstagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrantPersonal Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!Podcast Website | http://realmenfeel.org for all things podcast-related!RMF Facebook Group | http://realmenfeel.org/groupSupport this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/supportYouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel#RealMenFeel ep 320