The Transformative Power of Men's Group Work: Embracing Authenticity and Inclusivity - IRL Men With Brian Thompson and Troy Piwowarski

Join our engaging conversation with Brian and Troy, co-founders of IRL Men and IRL Therapy, as they discuss how they have created safe spaces for men to delve into mental health and interpersonal relationships. This podcast explores the journey of forming their partnership, the significance of self-reflection and compassion in relationships, and the impact of personal growth on other aspects of life. It also highlights the importance of expressing emotions, building authentic connections, and challenging societal norms within men's groups. Additionally, the episode explores the transformative power of men's group work, emphasizing the essence of authenticity and inclusivity. Learn how to join a men's group, the benefits of individual, couples, and group therapy, and the evolving concept of "in real life" during the pandemic. Key Points: • The focus of the groups is on fostering a living laboratory for individuals to understand their emotions and relational impact.• Difficult conversations and trust issues can be transformative if approached with compassion and empathy.• Building relationship skills and investing in personal growth can positively impact all areas of life.• Some groups hesitate to express love, fearing it may disrupt the harmony and the need for safety in the group.• Authenticity and growth are fostered by confronting and exploring societal pressures and expectations.• "IRL" stands for "in real life," representing the real connections and experiences even in virtual settings. Best Quotes: [27:52 - 28:08] "I'm curious how does, especially for men's groups where I guess if you go from like a stereotypical thing, like it's not showing love is maybe providing or it's very restrictive." [41:53 - 41:59] "There's a fire in our groups where we're really, we're not messing around. We're really seeing each other."  [53:03 - 53:08] "The truth will set you free, but first it'll piss you off."  [56:49 - 56:54] "We practice primarily in California, but there's a daytime group that's just a men's group, it's not a therapy group." About Troy:  Troy Piwowarski is a licensed psychologist and a Certified Group Psychotherapist who has been practicing therapy for the past 16 years.  Troy was drawn to the field of psychotherapy because it helped him to find words to describe the mysterious, shadowy world of emotions he longed to understand as a kid.  Troy's own experience of awakening as a client formed the foundation for his own self-understanding that continues to unfold and deepen with the assistance of guided psychedelic medicine work.   The work Troy has done on himself has allowed him to help others see their own blindspots and awaken from their own versions of repression and unconscious patterns from childhood wounding.   He spent the first part of his career in the community mental health world, and in the past 7 years, transitioned into private practice work, where he offers individual and group therapy, as well as clinical supervision.  Men's group work has been an incredibly enriching part of Troy's own growth and deepening as a therapist and has profoundly changed his own vision of what it means to be a man in modern society. About Brian: Brian is a psychotherapist, comedian, and guy who currently needs a haircut.  He absolutely loves men’s groups, from the pre group building stage to the goodbyes. Brian has recently realized he is much more passionate about men’s groups than “men’s work”. He believes the ritual of circling up together on a regular basis is a simple, potent tool that men in particular desperately need as we find our way forward in an increasingly integral and fragmented world. Brian’s passion and mission is to live in a world where every man has a circle they can rely on for support and challenge. Brian first experienced a men’s circle in India when he was 21. That experience had a profound effect on his sense of belonging and the intimacy that was possible among men. Brian's undergrad self-created major was in, get this, "Interpersonal and Community Dynamics: The pursuit of healthy sustainable relationships".  Later he earned his Masters in Counseling Psychology.  He is a certified group psychotherapist. He and Troy run 7 of IRL Men’s 8 weekly men’s circles and would love to offer even more so that everyone can experience the alchemical, life affirming, simplicity of group. LINKS: Follow up with Brian And Troy: www.irlmen.com www.irltherapy.com  FB: https://www.facebook.com/IRLMen    Episodes & show notes: https://www.shawnbuttner.com/podcasts/the-meaningful-revolution/ Want to accelerate finding more joy, growth, and impact? Sign up for a free high performance strategy session with Shawn here: https://www.shawnbuttner.com/coaching