If You've Come This Far

Chris and Shaun sit down with Matt Davison, the CEO of NAMI Chicago, to explore the intersection of law, advocacy, and radical empathy. Matt shares his transition from serving as a public defender and civil litigator to leading one of the nation's most prominent mental health advocacy organizations. He discusses the limitations of our current "triage" approach to mental health and why we must move "upstream" to address systemic issues before they become crises.Matt also opens up about his personal philosophy on "self-love" vs. "self-care," his concerns regarding the toxic impact of social media algorithms on youth, and the visceral moment on a Chicago Blue Line train that changed his perspective on systemic reform forever. This conversation is a pragmatic yet hopeful look at how we can build a more dignified system of care for all Chicagoans.Key Takeaways:The "Hammer and Nail" Fallacy: Why the criminal justice system is fundamentally ill-equipped to handle healthcare crises.The Blue Line Inflection Point: A powerful story about why individual advocacy isn't enough to fix a broken system.Upstream Intervention: The necessity of investing in community resources to prevent the "triage mode" of emergency rooms and jails.Social Media as a Public Health Crisis: Comparing modern algorithms to the "Big Tobacco" moment and their impact on youth body image.Self-Love vs. Self-Care: A therapist’s distinction between occasional treats and the daily practice of checking in with yourself.Resources Mentioned:NAMI Chicago: namichicago.org988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 for immediate supportThanks to our sponsor, Mental. Mental is a wellness app built specifically for men, offering a sanctuary from "toxic positivity" and generic advice. It provides personalized, affordable, and science-backed support through real-life coaching designed to help you navigate life's messiest challenges. If you've been thinking about doing something for your mental health, visit https://app.getmental.com/subscribe to get started.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps more people find these important conversations!

In this episode, Chris and Shaun sit down with Andy Rotherham, co-founder of Bellwether Education Partners and a veteran of the Clinton White House. Andy has spent over 30 years at the intersection of education policy and social impact, but he’s also a music enthusiast, a Red Sox fan, a Boston bar investor, a podcaster himself, and a man willing to run a 5k in a full Easter Bunny costume to surprise his daughter.We dive into the "no-fluff" reality of the American education system, discussing why school "averages" are often not helpful and how we can actually move the needle on equity. We also explore the "modern vice" landscape—from the gamification of sports betting to the pervasive influence of social media on youth.In this episode, we discuss:The McCaskill Update: A shout-out to previous guest John McCaskill on his new book, Dialing Your Leadership .The History of a "Planned Community": Growing up in Reston, Virginia, and how its "hippie experiment" origins shaped Andy’s worldview .The Trillion-Dollar Industry: Why education spending is both too much and not enough, and the desperate need for honest performance audits .The "Omni Cause": The quantitative shift in how gambling, weed, and social media are impacting the next generation .A Personal "Why": Andy’s commitment to the Pan-Mass Challenge and raising funds for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of his fathers .Speed Round: Andy’s life mantra, "What’s the worst that can happen?"Resources Mentioned:Bellwether Education PartnersEduwonk (Substack)Pan-Mass Challenge / Dana-FarberD.I.A.L. IN YOUR LEADERSHIP by John McCaskillThanks to our sponsor, Mental. Mental is a wellness app built specifically for men, offering a sanctuary from "toxic positivity" and generic advice. It provides personalized, affordable, and science-backed support through real-life coaching designed to help you navigate life's messiest challenges. If you've been thinking about doing something for your mental health, visit https://app.getmental.com/subscribe to get started.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps more people find these important conversations!

Chris and Shaun sit down with Katie Fogarty, a communications expert, "proud crusader" for women in midlife, and the host of the popular podcast A Certain Age. Katie discusses her journey from a religion major at Holy Cross and a teaching stint in a Japanese fishing village to becoming a leading voice in the "menopause zeitgeist." We explore the systemic gaps in women’s healthcare, the "beauty industrial complex," and why Katie believes that aging isn't about becoming invisible—it’s about becoming visible to the right people.Key Takeaways:The Menopause Zeitgeist: Why the conversation around menopause is finally hitting the mainstream and why "bikini medicine" (focusing only on the pelvis) is failing women’s brain, heart, and bone health.Aging Out Loud: Katie’s philosophy on resisting the "anti-aging" narrative and why she refuses to allow advertisers on her show who suggest that aging is a condition to be "fixed."Curiosity as a Superpower: How partners and husbands can support the women in their lives by educating themselves on perimenopause rather than waiting for their partner to explain it.The "Invisibility" Myth: A reframe on midlife—arguing that 50+ is not a time of fading away, but a time of intentional reinvention and newfound relevancy.Episode Highlights:[00:00] Intro: Shout out to our friend and previous guest Jason Ronai on his new role at the Basketball Museum of Illinois (plus a goat debate).[02:15] The Small World: We uncover multiple points of connection and discuss Katie's career journey.[14:30] Culturally Catholic: Katie discusses her upbringing, the "Spotlight" scandal, and how she and her husband navigated faith while raising three young adults.[23:00] The Birth of A Certain Age: The "aha moment" when a New York Times bestselling author and a Michelin-starred chef both admitted they were afraid to go public with being over 50.[28:15] The Medical Gap: The staggering statistics behind NIH funding for women's health and the importance of HRT as a foundation for mental health.[35:10] Advice for Men: How husbands can "pull their heads out of their butts" and become active participants in the conversation around hormonal health.[43:00] Voting with Your Wallet: Why Katie chooses to use reading glasses and color her hair while still rejecting the "anti-aging" industrial complex.[53:40] Parenting Truths: Advice for parents of 17-year-olds on finding what "lights you up" rather than just padding a resume.[58:20] The Speed Round: Sunblock regrets, the "this too shall pass" mantra, and what Katie hopes people say at her wake.Connect with Katie Fogarty:Podcast: A Certain AgeInstagram: @acertainagepodCompany: The Reboot Group

Chris and Shaun sit down with Zach Gale, an elementary special education teacher and the founder of Me to We. Zach discusses his journey from a hyper-competitive sports family to finding his purpose in supporting students with behavioral needs. We explore the transition from "Me" to "We," the importance of routine for mental health, and why Zach believes your story can one day become someone else’s survival guide.Key Takeaways:Behavior as Communication: A core pillar of Zach’s teaching philosophy—understanding that every action from a child (or adult) is an attempt to communicate an underlying need.The "Me to We" Shift: Inspired by Inky Johnson, Zach explains how attaching yourself to a purpose and mission makes you "dangerous" in the best way possible.The Savage Servant: Trading the idea of being a "nice guy" for being a "good man"—someone who stands their ground and holds core values while remaining a "warrior in a garden."The Power of Routine: Why waking up at 4:00 AM and investing in self-discipline is Zach's greatest form of self-love and mental health maintenance.Episode Highlights:[00:00] Intro: Celebrating Angela Saini and the Daniel Radcliffe connection.[05:30] The Gale Household: Growing up with a father who coached for 23 years and the "Golden Year" retirement video.[13:45] The Pivot to Special Ed: How "Bartlett Baseball Buddies" changed Zach's career path just days before college.[19:20] Men in Education: The disparity of male teachers at the elementary level and the importance of male role models in schools.[25:10] Perspective in the Classroom: Having tough conversations with veteran teachers and putting personal biases aside for the students.[33:00] The Origins of Me to We: Starting with Zoom workouts during COVID and evolving into a formalized LLC and men's group.[40:15] Family & Addiction: Zach’s middle brother’s journey to sobriety and his role in the men's group today.[48:40] Imposter Syndrome & Social Media: The struggle for authenticity in a society that casts judgment.[55:20] Curiosity Over Judgment: How Ted Lasso and "perspective taking" drive connection in Zach’s workshops.[01:02:00] The Best Sports Movie Debate: Miracle vs. Facing the Giants (and the notable absence of Hoosiers).Connect with Zach Gale:Organization: Me to WeLinkedIn: Zach GaleThanks to our sponsor, Mental. Mental is a wellness app built specifically for men, offering a sanctuary from "toxic positivity" and generic advice. It provides personalized, affordable, and science-backed support through real-life coaching designed to help you navigate life's messiest challenges. If you've been thinking about doing something for your mental health, visit https://app.getmental.com/subscribe to get started.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps more people find these important conversations!

In this episode, we sit down with author, activist, and education policy expert Justin Cohen to explore the evolving role of fatherhood in the 21st century. Justin shares his personal journey from growing up in a household steeped in education advocacy to launching Dads for All, a movement designed to engage fathers in both community building and "bite-sized" civic action. We dive into the "low bar" of current fatherhood expectations, the lack of dedicated "dad spaces" in the advocacy world, and how to build a movement that prioritizes authentic connection over corporate metrics. Finally, Justin reflects on the importance of "staying in the pocket" when tackling long-term social struggles.Key Topics:The "Expert" Paradox: Why Shaun and Chris believe the most important conversations happen when "non-experts" stay curious and dive into deep issues.Education in the Water: Justin reflects on growing up with a special ed teacher mother and a global policy expert grandfather, and how their warnings shaped his career.The Dads for All Movement: Moving beyond the "nonprofit industrial complex" to build a movement that focuses on "belonging-adjacent activation."Bridging the Policy Gap: How to get dads involved in systemic issues like childcare affordability and paternity leave without making them feel like they’re joining a "mom space."Movement vs. Nonprofit: Justin explains why he pivoted away from raising money for a "job" to focus on building a sustainable base of engaged fathers.The 2030 Landscape: A look at how issues like AI-driven unemployment and the cost of childcare are the next frontiers for organized fatherhood.Notable Quotes:"Men in my generation are doing 3x the childcare their dads did... but my statistician friend calls that a 'low bar easily cleared.'""We’re not building a nonprofit; we’re building a movement. If this ends up looking like a nonprofit because that’s what I’m comfortable with, I will have failed.""Stay in the pocket. Once you get out of the pocket, you can’t get back in."Resources Mentioned:Dads for All: https://dadsforall.com/Justin’s Book on School Improvement: https://www.amazon.com/Change-Agents-Transforming-Schools-Ground/dp/1071875787Thanks to our sponsor, Mental. Mental is a wellness app built specifically for men, offering a sanctuary from "toxic positivity" and generic advice. It provides personalized, affordable, and science-backed support through real-life coaching designed to help you navigate life's messiest challenges. If you've been thinking about doing something for your mental health, visit https://app.getmental.com/subscribe to get started.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps more people find these important conversations!

In this episode, we sit down with author and activist Jonathan Mooney to explore the myth of "normalcy." Jonathan shares his personal journey navigating the education system with ADHD and dyslexia and discusses the powerful influence of the people who championed his differences. We also delve into the dark history of eugenics and its lingering impact on society's perception of disability. Finally, Jonathan introduces the Divergent Impact Fund, a new initiative aimed at supporting neurodivergent innovators.Key Topics:Redefining Normal: Why the concept of a "normal" person is a harmful abstraction and how we can move toward a more inclusive design for society.The Power of Support: Jonathan reflects on how his mother and a transformative third-grade teacher, Mr. R, helped him see his challenges as strengths.The Dark History of Eugenics: A look at the US Eugenics movement and its shocking influence on global policies, including those in Nazi Germany.The Divergent Impact Fund: Jonathan’s mission to support innovators solving real-world problems for the neurodivergent community.Parenting and Technology: Navigating the unique challenges of raising children in a hyper-connected, digital world.Notable Quotes:"The only normal people are people you don't know very well.""Our design principle for our world should be the reality of human difference, not the myth of the normal human."Resources Mentioned:Jonathan's website: https://www.jonathanmooney.com/Jonathan's books: Normal Sucks, The Short Bus, and Learning Outside the Lines.The Divergent Impact Fund: divergentimpactfund.comThanks to our sponsor, Mental. Mental is a wellness app built specifically for men, offering a sanctuary from "toxic positivity" and generic advice. It provides personalized, affordable, and science-backed support through real-life coaching designed to help you navigate life's messiest challenges. If you've been thinking about doing something for your mental health, visit https://app.getmental.com/subscribe to get started.

Chris and Shaun welcome Sean Harvey, an advisor, consultant, author, and ordained interfaith minister. Sean has dedicated his life to helping men in hyper-masculine systems--ranging from Wall Street to police departments and the military--reconnect with their humanity. The trio discusses Sean's journey growing up as a gay man in Southwest Ohio, his transition from a high-stakes Wall Street consultant to an interfaith minister, and how to find common ground with those on the opposite end of the ideological spectrum. Sean explains the "Masculinity Imprint" on our organizations and how the term "Warrior" can help men embrace compassion.Notable Quotes"Compassionate Warrior is an identity that you can claim. Warrior Compassion is an energy within that men, when they’re courageous enough, can access." — Sean Harvey"I am never going to tell you what you should be as a man. I’m never going to tell you that you need to embrace healthy masculinity...I’m going to talk about some of the realities on the journey." — Sean Harvey"When we humanize and give officers more capacity, it actually makes them stronger. It’s not about softening; it's about strengthening." — Sean HarveyResources MentionedSean’s Org and Book: Warrior Compassion: Unleashing the Healing Power of MenMenLiving Website: menliving.orgHere’s the bluegrass song detailing the devastating 1974 tornado that struck Xenia, Ohio: Oh! What a StormThanks to our sponsor, Mental. Mental is a wellness app built specifically for men, offering a sanctuary from "toxic positivity" and generic advice. It provides personalized, affordable, and science-backed support through real-life coaching designed to help you navigate life's messiest challenges. If you've been thinking about doing something for your mental health, visit https://app.getmental.com/subscribe to get started.

In this episode, Shaun and Chris interview Janice McCabe, a sociologist from Dartmouth College and author of "Making, Keeping, and Losing Friends." They discuss making friends in college, the importance of propinquity and homophily, tight knitters, compartmentalizers, and samplers, friendship markets, the Dunbar number, her recommendation for students, parents and colleges, men and women as friends, the importance of intention in making friends and more.Get your copy of Janice's book hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, the guys talk with acclaimed photographer, Stacy Waldman Bass, about her memoir, Lightkeeper. They explore Stacy's draw to photography, the value of stories and photos to keeping memories alive, the tragic accident that changed her life, what it's like to write a memoir, the therapeutic value of writing, the challenges of balancing grief and joy, and more.Get your copy of Lightkeeper hereCheck out Stacy's work hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, Chris and Shaun talk with Jim Maley, teacher and founder of the Maley Way. The guys discuss Jim's struggles with depression, his time as a Northwestern hoop player, enrolling at Holy Cross, screening selfishly, his mom's genius, his dad's brilliance, his wife's love, his role as a "depression agent," speaking to kids about mental health and more.Learn more about Jim and the Maley Way hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

Join Chris and Shaun as they chat with Pete Davis, writer, film maker, and civic advocate about his book, Dedicated: The Case for Commitment in An Age of Infinite Browsing and his documentary, "Join or Die." The guys cover the influence his mom and dad had on him, growing up in Falls Church, making a life in Baltimore, why he decided not to be a lawyer, the importance of community participation, the power of invitation, the challenge of connecting in our technological times, the need for good leaders in the effort to revive civic engagement, and more.Learn more about Pete and his missions https://petedavis.orgWatch Join or Die https://joinordiefilm.comGet a copy of Dedicated hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, Shaun and Chris talk with Kaitlyn Tierney, co-founder and CEO of Diverting Hate, an applied research nonprofit disrupting digital radicalization of boys and men through the use of evidence, empathy, and innovation. The guys talk with Kaitlyn about the challenges of running a non-profit, the value of partnerships, dealing with threats, moving to an island, ICE, the definition of rich, the power of social media, and more.Learn more about Diverting Hate hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, Chris and Shaun talk with Blayne Smith, co-founder of Applied Leadership Partners. The guys discuss Blayne's decision to go to West Point, his time there, and his time as a Special Operations Forces member. They also discuss golf, rucking, parenting, applied leadership, PTSD, perseverance (His book with co-author and business partner, Brandon Young, is Perseverance is Greater than Endurance), his time at Team RWB, and supporting the "Veteran Check In" initiative at the George W. Bush Institute, which provides free mental health resources for veterans and their families, and more.Learn more about Blayne and Applied Leadership Partners hereGet Rucking at GORUCK hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In the 17th episode of the season, Chris and Shaun interview Matt Candler, educator, inventor, investor, and coach. The guys discuss the state of education, mad libs, parenting, park bench pitches, Matt's sweet garage, electrification, the intersection of joy and curiosity, fossil fuels and renewables, kindness, and more.Learn more about Matt here

In this episode, Chris and Shaun interview Bill Burke, founder of the Optimism Institute. The guys discuss Bill's relationship with Ted Turner and his early career at Turner Broadcasting, his time leading the Weather Channel and his life in minor league baseball as owner of the Portland Sea Dogs. They discuss the importance and power of optimism, The Paradox of Modern Optimism (Burke's forthcoming book), the difficulty to remain optimistic in part to the constant negativity and "doom scrolling" fueled by social media, and more.Learn more about the Optimism Institute hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, Chris and Shaun interview John Moe, a writer, longtime radio host, and creator of two mental health podcasts, "The Hilarious World of Depression" and "Depresh Mode with John Moe." The guys talk about the importance of hope and resilience, comeback stories, the need for open discussions about mental health and the impact of humor and empathy in addressing these issues, Patton Oswalt, the significance of community support in mental health advocacy, and more.Learn more about John hereListen to Depresh Mode with John Moe hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, the guys interview Jon Macaskill, former Navy SEAL and co-host of the "Men Talking Mindfulness" podcast. After doing a quick opening meditation, they discuss Jon's growing up in Louisiana, great coaches, Jon's choice to go into the military, his journey from enlisting in the Navy to becoming a SEAL, his struggles with PTSD and subsequent recovery through mindfulness. the creation of his podcast with Will Schneider and more.Learn more about Jon hereListent to Men Talking Mindfulness hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, Chris and Shaun interview Dr. Eli Joubert, a psychosexual therapist from Leeds, UK. They discuss Eli's work on human sexuality and the concept of "sexy facts." , growing up in South Africa, transitioning from a career in fine art to psychology, and focusing on masculinity and sexuality. Eli highlights the need for open conversations about sex and sexuality, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual experiences and normalizing behaviors. Dr. Joubert shares his idea of a platform where people can anonymously share their sexual practices and preferences, aiming to provide accessible, public data on human sexuality. He believes this could lead to healthier relationships and reduce shame around sexualityLearn more about Eli hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

in this episode, Chris and Shaun talk with Sam Pressler, founder of the non-profit, the Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP) and his new project, Connective Tissue. The guys discuss entrepreneurship, grandmothers, flourishing, professionalism, veterans, humor as a connection mechanism and more!Learn more about Sam and his projects hereFollow the Connective Tissue Substack hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

The guys chat with Chris MacLellan, also known as "Father Mac," founder of the Whole Care Network and Aging Gayfully. They discuss Chris' journey from professional bowling to caregiving, his experiences caring for his partner, Richard, who passed away from cancer in 2014. Chris highlights the challenges faced by same-sex couples in healthcare. He also talks about his work building the Whole Care Network, his screenplay based on his experiences, his time in the seminary (twice), his bowling career, and more!Learn more about Chris and the Whole Care Network here.Tap into Aging Gayfully hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

Chris and Shaun talk with Chris' friend, Trish Tierney, co-founder of WAKE, Women's Alliance for Knowledge Exchange. The gang discusses Notre Dame, rowing, kids, Trish's development of WAKE, lessons in travel, matchmaking women in tech with nonprofits around the world, WAKE's aims to scale its US program while exploring new countries for its international efforts, WAKE success stories, men's involvement in the program and more.Learn more about Trish and WAKE hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, Chris and Shaun interview Joe Gidjunis, creator of the PBS documentary series "Grown Up Dad," which explores modern fatherhood. Joe's pilot episode, featuring a trip to Australia, received over 100,000 viewers. Upcoming episodes will cover topics like screen time challenges, evolving masculinity, and media literacy. Joe emphasizes the importance of intentionality and presence in parenting. He also discusses the challenges of balancing fatherhood with work and the impact of social media on children. Joe's personal journey includes finding role models in cartoons and addressing his own father's absence. The series aims to support and educate parents.Check out the show hereLearn more about Joe and Grown Up Dad hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, Shaun and Chris welcomes Dr. Daniel Ellenberg, a psychologist, former president of Division 51 of the American Psychological Association, and founder of the Men and Boys Compassion Coalition. The guys discuss compassion, pain and suffering, New Jersey, Strong Boys with Heart, growing up Daniel, the negative perception of compassion in men, Daniel's coming book, "Strength with Heart," with Fred Rabinowitz, and much moreLearn more about Daniel hereLearn about the Men and Boys Compassion Coalition hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, Shaun and Chris sit down with Alex Johnston, philanthropy advisor, author of Money with Meaning, and founder of Building Impact Partners. Alex helps ultra-wealthy individuals bring more joy, purpose, and impact to their giving, but as you'll hear, his deeper work is about human connection and personal transformation. The guys discuss what it means to live with intention, how to grow from childhood wounds, and why moving from fear to joy might be the most important shift a person can make. Alex opens up about his own journey — from valedictorian and Rhodes Scholar to a man who had to slow down, tune in, and redefine success. Along the way, they cover parenting boys in today’s world, the challenges of wealth, and the power of small groups to create lasting change.Get Alex's book...Money with MeaningLearn more about Building Impact Partners hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In the sixth episode of Season 4, Shaun and Chris sit down with Cathy Cassani Adams to talk about her new book, Restoring Our Girls, a guide for parenting girls ages 12 to 25. Cathy shares insights from her work as a social worker and professor, emphasizing the importance of honest conversations, critical thinking, media literacy, and creating a supportive, non-judgmental space for girls to express themselves. They also discuss the Super Bowl, Zen Parenting Radio, life lessons, the power of sensitivity, staying grounded in our own thoughts and feelings leading with kindness, and more.Get the book, Restoring Our Girls.Read Cathy's SubstackListen to Zen Parenting RadioGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In the 5th episode of the season, the boys interview Mike Simons, founder of Intonation Music Workshop, Camp for All Kids, and Chris' good friend and bandmate. They discuss Mike's career leading Intonation Music for 15 years, impacting hundreds of kids. They dig into Mike's co-founding of the Pitchfork Music Festival and Camp for All Kids which provides overnight camp experiences to underrepresented youth, emphasizing the benefits of unplugging from technology and fostering personal growth. Mike's work aims to build trust, community, and life skills in young people.Learn more about Intonation hereLearn more about Camp For All hereGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, Shaun and Chris interview Captain Chris "Chowdah" Hill, Commanding Officer of the USS Harry S. Truman. Hill was commanding the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower at the time of the recording and recently took command of the Truman. During the conversation, the guys explore Chowdah's manifesto, "The Way of the Warrior Sailor," which emphasizes morale, job satisfaction, and positive relationships. They talk about love, dealing with the enemy, mental health, the challenges and nuances of managing a crew of 5,300 and 2,000 airmen, DEI, social media and moreLearn more about Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/capt-chris-“chowdah”-hill-35852752/Follow Chris on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chowdah_hill/?hl=enGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, Chris and Shaun sit down with Dr. Anson Whitmer, co-founder of Calm and the creator of Mental, our new show sponsor. The boys dig into Anson’s journey—his time building Calm, one of the most well-known mindfulness apps, and how that experience led him to create Mental, a platform designed specifically for men’s mental health. We also touch on the ever-popular cold shower debate (spoiler: Shaun’s not buying it), the challenges of men engaging in self-care, and the importance of taking risks and pushing boundariesGet Mental at 20% discount: http://getmental.com/IYCTF

In this episode, the guys talk with Amiee Smith Schuster, CEO Bold Heights Solutions. The gang talks about Amiee's work with PGA golfers, michigan/michigan st, big families, "it takes a village," what is success?, hugging trees, "pissing on the present," Crazy Amiee!, golf is hard and more.Learn more about Amiee Smith Schuster and Bold Heights Solutions here.This episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

In this first episode of the new year, Shaun and Chris talk with Ashanti Branch, founder of the Ever Forward Club, an Oakland based nonprofit with a mission to address the underlying causes of drop out rates, youth violence, and the growing achievement gap through mentoring and social emotional development. The guys talk about vulnerability, happy hour, the desire to get rich, change of plans, having a calling, masks, the power of phones, the struggles and joys of teaching and entrepreneurship and more.Learn more about Ashanti and the Ever Forward Club hereThis episode is brought to you by Judson & Moore, Family Legacy American Whiskey. Born from Boundless Curiosity. Learn more about Judson & Moore here.

In the latest edition, Chris and Shaun talk with Jonny Imerman, founder of Imerman Angels, a non profit that provides peer-to-peer support for cancer patients and survivors and co-founder of ClozTalk, a B-corp that helps nonprofits promote their causes through branded merchandise and apparel. The guys talk about peer support, cancer, some big cities, connection, storytelling, awareness, Jonny's cancer journey, greek food, brotherly love, and more.Check out Imerman AngelsSupport your favorite non profit (MenLiving?!) at ClozTalkThis episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

In this episode, Shaun and Chris talk with Shana James, coach, podcaster, and author of Honest Sex. Their conversation covers vulnerability, communications, coaching men, intentional communities, honesty, mind reading...what is sex actually?, orgasmic lifestyles sprinkles, the Encyclopedia Britannica, the state of men, and more!You can get a free copy of Shana's book here.Listen to her podcasts Man Alive and Practicing Love hereThis episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

In this episode, Shaun and Chris talks with Jeremy Smith, Working Dad Course Lead for Mindful Return. The guys talk about being a dad, parental leave, leave and careers, coffee, leave as compensation, the importance of communication and moreRead about Jeremy in this WSJ articleLearn more about Mindful ReturnThis episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

In this episode, Chris and Shaun talk with Alex Grodd, founder of The Disagreement. The guys discuss Bill Bradley, curiosity, entrepreneurship, Alex’s first start-up: A Better Lesson, education, healthy disagreement, tattoos, free will, rubrics, and more. For more about The Disagreement: https://www.thedisagreement.com/And to check out a Better Lesson: https://betterlesson.comThis episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

Back on the show for this season's 13th episode is one of our first guests, Ben Feller. Ben is a father, author, communications consultant, yankee fan and former White House Correspondent. In an always rollicking conversation, the guys discuss Anthony Volpe, transitions, new "jobs," highest and best use of time, corporate "language" strategy, death, self-awareness, curveballs, fathering and more. For more on Ben and his firm, maslansky + partners https://maslansky.com/Check out Ben's book: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Problems-Little-Ben-Feller/dp/088448890XThis episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

In episode 12, Shaun and Chris talk with Dr. Jed Diamond, renowned men's health advocate, author, therapist, and founder of both MenAlive and the Moonshot For Mankind. The guys talk about family, how Jed got into working with men, male menopause, the moonshot, the power of technology, hormones, living a long life, irritable males, islands of sanity, etcLearn more about Jed and his writings at https://menalive.com/The Moonshot For Mankind https://moonshotformankind.org/This episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

In this season's 11th episode, Shaun and Chris chat with MenLiving Contributing Members, Facilitators, and brothers, Jason and Jeremy Samatas. The boys explore what it was like growing up Samatas, who was the better athlete, how their relationship developed over the years, their dad's influence, working in and surviving the family business, and more.This episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

In this episode, Chris and Shaun interview Adam Nimoy, writer, director, producer, and author of The Most Human, Reconciling With My Father, Leonard Nimoy. Among other topics, the boys explore growing up Spock, the Grateful Dead, The Offspring, the importance of dwellings, 12 step, parenting, love & loss and much more.Get Adam’s book, Most Human hereThis episode is brought to you by Judson & Moore, Family Legacy American Whiskey. Born from Boundless Curiosity. Learn more about Judson & Moore here.

In this episode, Shaun and Chris meet with Dr. Gary Barker, Co-Founder and CEO of Equimundo: Center for Masculinities and Social Justice. Among other topics, the boys explore sabbaticals, living in Chicago, being an ally, doing two things at the same time, bravery, Gary’s dad, caring for men, gender equity, and more.You can learn more about Gary and Equimundo here.Watch Gary’s TedTalk here.This episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

This week, Shaun and Chris talk with Bob McKinnon, writer, designer, podcast host, children’s author and teacher. Bob and the boys talk about Boston sports, girls’ soccer, his new book: America’s Dreaming (and his first book, Three Little Engines), his dream to play left field for the Sox, his social mobility and his mission to help others move up, the American Dream, college vs. not college, his daughters’ as editors, Mr. Downs, and more.You can learn more about Bob here.Purchase his new book, America’s Dreaming hereThis episode is brought to you by Judson & Moore, Family Legacy American Whiskey. Born from Boundless Curiosity. Learn more about Judson & Moore here.

In this episode, the boys talk with Chris’ long-time friend, Kate Milliken, founder of MyCounterpane and Moodify. The trio explore Kate’s life with multiple sclerosis, her fierce entrepreneurship, her career in film and video production, SNAGs, osteopathic treatment of MS, billionaires, story-telling, community-building, the real impact of peer support. and more.You can learn more about Kate here.This episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

In this episode, Chris and Shaun get cozy with Lauren Massarella and Michelle Anderson from the Sister Project, "a place for us sisters and you sisters-from-other-misters to gather, converse, sometimes complain, celebrate superwomen and trade lifestyle tips." The boys and girls discuss religion, the hygge lifestyle, taking care of parents, WIFs, cannabis, therapy, candles, the craziness of our lives, and more.You can learn more about The Sister Project here.This episode is brought to you by Judson & Moore, Family Legacy American Whiskey. Born from Boundless Curiosity. Learn more about Judson & Moore here.

In this latest episode, Shaun and Chris interview Tate Barkley, author of Sunday Dinners, Moonshine, and Men, a memoir. Tate is also a speaker, educator, and a 30-year practicing attorney and a founding partner of Bain & Barkley law firm in Houston, Texas. The guys talk about Tate's relationship with his dad (Bubbas!), religion, being a gay man, his bad ass mom, his addiction, growing up poor, finding Anson and more.You can learn more about Tate and order his book here.This episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

On March 19th, author and librarian, John Schu will release his latest book, Louder than Hunger. In this interview, Chris and Shaun talk with John about story, his books, The Voice, Goofy, being a librarian, Blockbuster, his battle with anorexia, how Louder the Hunger parallels his life, and more.Learn more about John hereGet your copy of Louder Than Hunger hereThis episode is brought to you by Judson & Moore, Family Legacy American Whiskey. Born from Boundless Curiosity. Learn more about Judson & Moore here.

In this episode, Shaun and Chris interview Dr. John Duffy, Psychologist, Best-Selling Author, Speaker, and National Media Personality. The guys talk about John’s new book, Rescuing Our Sons, 8 Solutions to Our Crisis of Disaffected Teen Boys (A Psychologist's Roadmap), Notre Dame, the origin of John’s “uniform,” Bruce Springsteen, his experiences with boys and young men vs. girls and young women, the power of phones, video games, and weed, emotional intelligence, John's brother's suicide, the importance of dads and other male role models, and more.Learn more about John hereGet your copy of Rescuing our Sons hereThis episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

In this episode, the boys talk with Jinhyun Shin and Mike Hardin who are traveling the country talking about mental health, loneliness, suicide, and how we can come together to over come it all. They cover Mike’s life as a navy seal, his crushing addiction, and path to recovery and Jin’s work developing language to make mental health tangible, actionable, and communal. They also get into Penciv, a new social journaling app that Jin has recently co-created.Learn more about PencivThis episode is brought to you by Judson & Moore, Family Legacy American Whiskey. Born from Boundless Curiosity. Learn more about Judson & Moore here.

In the first episode of Season 3, Shaun and Chris talk with Dave Haskin, co-founder of Mindful Man, a Wisconsin-based meditation program. The boys discuss mindfulness, meditation, Bears/Packers, being silent, going to the "range," emerging from addiction, meditation in prisons, Thich Nhat Hanh, and more.Learn more about Dave and Mindful Man and Mindful MenLivingThis episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

In this episode, Shaun and Chris discuss Season 2 and the year ahead.

In this episode, Chris and Shaun welcome Angela Saini, award-winning journalist and author of The Patriarchs, Inferior and other science-based books. Angela and the guys discuss pseudoscience, the origin of the patriarchy, teaching at Harvard and MIT, menopause, the role of the sexes, Canadians and more.You can find Angela's books: The Patriarchs here and Inferior hereThis episode is brought to you by Half Acre Brewery. Check out the wonderful beers on Half Acre's website.

In this latest episode, Shaun and Chris talk with Dr. Stephen Trzeciak, co-author of Wonder Drug, 7 scientifically proven ways that serving others is the best medicine for yourself. The guys discuss Chris and Steve’s time at Notre Dame, Steve’s experience in the ICU, compassion, data nerds and the power of research, burnout, parochial empathy, sarcasm, being a Live to Giver, and more.You can get your copy of Wonder Drug here and Compassionomics hereThis episode is brought to you by Judson & Moore, Family Legacy American Whiskey. Born from Boundless Curiosity. Learn more about Judson & Moore here.