The Integrated Man: Narcissistic Abuse, Identity & Becoming Whole with Max Eckerson

Why do so many men feel stuck, disconnected, angry, or unsure of who they really are?In this episode of The Integrated Man Podcast, Cory sits down with licensed clinical mental health counselor and former pastor Max Eckerson to explore some of the deepest issues affecting men today: shame, guilt, identity, narcissistic abuse, spiritual trauma, and emotional healing.Drawing from years of ministry experience and clinical counseling, Max explains why so many men struggle to ask for help, how childhood wounds shape adult behavior, and why unresolved trauma often shows up as anger, anxiety, depression, and disconnection.Together they discuss:Why men often avoid counseling and emotional healingThe difference between shame and guiltHow identity becomes tied to unhealthy behaviorsWhat narcissistic abuse actually is—and what it isn'tThe difference between overt and covert narcissismHow spiritual abuse impacts faith and relationshipsWhy healthy boundaries are essentialThe role of empathy in healingHow men can begin reclaiming their God-given identityPractical first steps toward emotional and spiritual freedomIf you've ever struggled with self-worth, church hurt, toxic relationships, or feeling disconnected from who God created you to be, this conversation offers both insight and hope.The path to wholeness starts with telling the truth about your story.Key Timestamps00:00 Introduction to The Integrated Man Podcast01:00 Meet Max Eckerson: Counselor, pastor's kid, and therapist05:20 What is most broken in men today?07:00 Shame, guilt, and emotional wounds in men09:30 The difference between shame and guilt10:50 Identity, behavior, and the cycle of emotional pain14:00 Why identity matters more than roles16:00 Understanding narcissistic abuse20:00 Overt vs. covert narcissism explained27:00 Are narcissists born or made?31:00 Can narcissists be helped?37:00 Spiritual abuse and church hurt43:00 Healthy church culture vs. unhealthy church culture48:00 The path toward healing and recovery52:00 Resources for narcissistic abuse recovery53:00 Books and influences that shaped Max56:00 Final thoughts and encouragement for menBooks MentionedWild at HeartA foundational book on masculine identity, adventure, and spiritual growth.To Be ToldUnderstanding your story and allowing God to rewrite your narrative.Redeeming HeartacheFinding healing and redemption through life's painful experiences.Finding Your True NorthA recovery workbook for adult children of narcissistic parents.People Mentioned / Recommended to FollowJohn EldredgeAuthor of Wild at Heart and a major influence on masculine spirituality.Dan AllenderExpert in trauma, healing, story work, and emotional restoration.Rebecca JohnsonSpecialist in narcissistic abuse recovery and emotional healing.Craig GroeschelLeadership, growth, and personal development resources.Connect With MaxRestore Hope CounselingFor counseling resources, trauma recovery, narcissistic abuse support, and spiritual healing resources:Telehealth and in-person counseling available.