Real Men Feel with Andy Grant

The Journey to Emotional Healing with Patrick Doyle In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant interviews Patrick Doyle, a bestselling author and expert in emotional abuse recovery, addiction counseling, and spiritual leadership. Patrick shares his profound personal experiences with trauma, abuse, and addiction, which led him to help others on their paths to healing. The discussion touches on the dangers of avoiding pain, the impact of childhood trauma on emotional expression, the complexity of emotional abuse, and the importance of creating safe spaces for honesty and recovery. Patrick also shares his transformational journey, how he coped with an abusive upbringing, his unexpected path into counseling, and the profound insights that have shaped his life and work. 00:00 Welcome to Real Men Feel 00:19 Meet Patrick Doyle: Expert in Emotional Abuse Recovery 01:33 Patrick's Traumatic Childhood 04:12 Turning Point: A Religious Experience 06:02 The Struggle with Addiction 09:37 The Power of Care and Overcoming Denial 20:56 Understanding Emotional Abuse 24:51 The Dangers of One-Size-Fits-All Advice 25:57 Impact of Childhood Trauma on Men 27:11 Addressing Core Lies for Healing 28:07 Recognizing and Documenting Abusive Patterns 32:01 The Importance of Safety in Healing 32:54 The Harm of Labeling in Psychological Counseling 34:41 Trust and Value in Relationships 37:03 Invisible Scars of Emotional Abuse 39:47 Gender Differences in Abuse Recovery 42:59 Resources and Support for Abuse Survivors 49:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Patrick Patrick Doyle -- https://www.patrickdoyle.life/ Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/patrickdoyle.life Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/patrickdoyle.life/ YouTube -- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNn5kNXoeuPPZLhuNpWLXIA Resources Death of a Thousand Cuts: The Impact of Emotional Abuse, Patrick Doyle -- https://amzn.to/4gnc5cE Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast: Ready to create your best year yet? Book a Clarity Call with Andy at https://theandygrant.com/talk Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant Personal 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/group Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel #RealMenFeel ep 338

Embracing the True Meaning of Showing Up with Marcy Axelrod How Are You Showing Up? In this episode of Real Men Feel, Andy Grant hosts Marcy Axelrod, a best-selling author and TEDx speaker, who delves into the true essence of 'showing up.' Marcy explains that showing up isn't just about being present but a deeper existential experience influenced by our beliefs, thoughts, and attention systems. They discuss the three roles we habitually play—self, situational, and societal—and how truly showing up can change our lives and improve our performance. Marcy also shares insights from her latest book, 'How We Choose to Show Up.' She provides practical steps for individuals to truly show up, emphasizing the importance of care, noticing, and acceptance. 00:00 Welcome to Real Men Feel 00:18 Introducing Marcy Axelrod 01:22 Understanding 'Showing Up' 03:12 The Two Attention Systems 04:43 Levels of Showing Up 09:40 Society's Impact on Showing Up 17:18 The Natural Progression of Showing Up 24:18 Marcy's Personal Journey 24:53 A Childhood Memory and Its Impact 25:48 The Journey into Psychology and Consulting 26:09 Practical Steps to Show Up in 2025 27:31 The Importance of Noticing and Gratitude 28:31 Belief Systems and Emotional Care 32:34 The Role of Society and Individual Responsibility 36:04 The Concept of Showing Up 38:58 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Connect with Marcy Marcy Axelrod -- http://www.choosetoshowup.com/ LinkedIn -- https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcy/ Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/marcyaxelrod/ Resources How We Choose to Show Up: Nature's Playbook for Creating a Meaningful Life, Marcy Axelrod -- https://amzn.to/4jjkIrq Immoderate Greatness: Why Civilizations Fail, William Ophuls -- https://amzn.to/3PIVbu5 Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast: Ready to create your best year yet? Book a Clarity Call with Andy at https://theandygrant.com/talk Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant Personal 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/group Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel #RealMenFeel ep 337

Balancing Sports, Academics, and Mental Health In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant interviews Walker Ferguson, a senior at Wake Forest University majoring in economics and minoring in communications. Walker is a former football player and co-founder of Ascend, a meditation and wellness app. They discuss Walker's experience balancing sports, academics, and entrepreneurship and how personal struggles led to the creation of the app. The conversation touches on the stigma around men asking for help, the importance of community, and the unique features of the Ascend app. Walker shares his journey of embracing discipline and consistency, the impact of mindfulness, and his vision for Ascend's growth. He also emphasizes the importance of reading, self-care, and maintaining spirituality. The episode concludes with Walker expressing his pride in positively impacting others' lives and looking forward to Ascend's future. 00:00 Welcome to Real Men Feel 00:19 Introducing Walker Ferguson 00:33 Balancing Academics, Athletics, and Entrepreneurship 03:48 The Journey to Creating Ascend 04:31 The Importance of Community and Asking for Help 12:36 Features and Benefits of the Ascend App 18:41 Personal Growth and Reflections 26:59 Looking Forward: Goals and Aspirations 30:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Walker and Ascend Ascend -- https://ascendmeditations.app/ Walker on LinkedIn -- https://www.linkedin.com/in/wferguson17/ Ascend Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/ascendapp.ai/ Ascend Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/people/Ascend-Meditations/61558681012579/ Resources The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Steven R. Covey -- https://amzn.to/3C7mZFr Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast: Ready to create your best year yet? Book a Clarity Call with Andy at https://theandygrant.com/talk Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant Personal 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/group Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel #RealMenFeel ep 336

Mastering Emotional Avoidance with Dr. Michelle Maidenberg In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes Dr. Michelle Maidenberg, a New York-based therapist and author of 'Ace Your Life: Unleash Your Best Self and Live the Life You Want.' They delve into a master class on emotional avoidance, discussing why people engage in it and how it can worsen emotional experiences. Dr. Maidenberg introduces her ACE methodology — Acceptance, Compassion, and Empowerment — to help individuals connect with their core values and lead fulfilling lives. She also offers insights into men's unique struggles with emotional expression and practical strategies for managing intense emotions. Additionally, they explore EMDR therapy and the importance of setting sustainable goals. 00:00 Welcome to Real Men Feel 2025 00:20 Introducing Dr. Michelle Maidenberg 01:14 Understanding Emotional Avoidance 04:21 The Impact of Emotional Avoidance 07:15 Connecting with Core Values 16:31 Men and Emotional Avoidance 22:25 Introduction to Managing Negative Emotions 22:44 Understanding Stuckness and Core Values 23:54 The ACE Method: Acceptance, Compassion, and Empowerment 25:22 Sustainability of Change and New Year's Resolutions 29:18 Exploring EMDR and Healing Trauma 34:12 Personal Journey and Professional Insights 40:46 Final Thoughts and Resources Connect with Michelle Dr. Michelle Maidenberg -- http://www.michellemaidenberg.com/ LinkedIn -- https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellemaidenberg/ Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/drmichellemaidenberg Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/michellemaidenberg Resources ACE Your Life: Unleash Your Best Self and Live the Life You Want, Michelle Maidenberg -- https://amzn.to/3DIvffG Michelle's YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/c/DrMichelleMaidenberg Psychology Today Blog -- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/contributors/michelle-p-maidenberg-phd-mph-lcsw-r-cgp Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast: Ready to create your best year yet? Book a Clarity Call with Andy at https://theandygrant.com/talk Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant Personal 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/group Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel #RealMenFeel ep 335

Finding Purpose and Authenticity with Mark Collins In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes guest Mark Collins, a pastor, coach, and author of Life Mastery: Living Life by Design. They discuss the importance of men understanding their inherent value and purpose, the dangers of false identities, and the unique impact each man can make. Mark shares his personal journey of overcoming challenges, such as fear of failure and imposter syndrome, and emphasizes the necessity of knowing oneself for true transformation. The conversation explores how dissatisfaction can be a gift and highlights the importance of service, perseverance, and authenticity in men's lives. 00:00 Welcome to Real Men Feel 00:17 Introducing Mark Collins 01:04 The Journey of Coaching and Pastoring 02:37 Understanding Unique Purpose 04:32 Overcoming False Identities 08:56 Facing Fear and Imposter Syndrome 14:20 Steps to Unpack Identity 18:18 The Importance of Knowing Yourself 20:07 Exploring the Unique Impact of Every Man 22:44 The Role of Service and Joy in a Man's Life 25:57 Embracing Emotions and Overcoming Hardships 29:42 The Gift of Dissatisfaction and Self-Belief 33:08 Reflecting on Achievements and Future Goals 38:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Mark Mark Collins -- https://freedom-for-life.net/ LinkedIn -- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-collins-freedom-for-life/ Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/_freedomforlife_/ Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/FreedForLife/ Resources Life Mastery ebook -- https://courses.freedom-for-life.net/products/digital_downloads/LIFE-MASTERY Battlefield of the Mind, Joyce Meyers -- https://amzn.to/3ZRpIe5 Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast: Ready to create your best year yet? Book a Clarity Call with Andy at https://theandygrant.com/talk Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant Personal 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/group Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel #RealMenFeel ep 334

Evolving Definitions of Masculinity and Fatherhood with Frederick Van Riper In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant speaks with Fred Van Riper, a men's relationship and leadership coach who helps men and dads lead with purpose both at home and at work. Fred shares his journey of overcoming societal and personal expectations of masculinity, the importance of emotional resilience, and how men can cultivate deeper connections with their partners and children. They discuss topics ranging from the problems with the 'happy wife, happy life' mentality to the critical need for men to ask for help and prioritize their own happiness. Fred offers practical advice for dads and men, emphasizing the significance of journaling, self-reflection, and positive self-talk. The conversation also delves into more personal stories, including the impact of Fred's father's passing and his own decisions to quit drinking and become a better dad. 00:00 Welcome to Real Men Feel 00:21 Introducing Frederick Van Riper 01:11 Debunking 'Happy Wife, Happy Life' 04:21 Redefining Masculinity 07:27 Embracing Emotions 15:08 Fatherhood and Coaching 28:24 Introduction and Personal Reflections 29:14 The Power of Journaling 30:21 Positive Self-Talk and Affirmations 31:49 Daily Intentions and Reflections 32:33 Building Strong Relationships 37:27 Overcoming Alcohol Addiction 42:31 Fatherhood and Personal Growth 48:59 Conclusion and Resources Connect with Fred Frederick Van Riper -- https://www.seatatthetablecoaching.com/ LinkedIn -- https://www.linkedin.com/in/frederickvanriper/ Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/frederickvanriper/ Resources FREE Guide: How to Build Emotional Resilience -- https://www.seatatthetablecoaching.com/ Positive Intelligence -- https://www.positiveintelligence.com/ Dad's Interrupted Podcast -- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dads-interrupted/id1752356750 Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast: Interested in a Clarity Call with Andy? - visit https://theandygrant.com/talk Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant Personal 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/group Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel #RealMenFeel ep 333

Navigating Life's Transitions with Authenticity and Resilience In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes guest Jon Emery, who shares his journey of personal transformation following significant life challenges, including job loss and divorce. Jon discusses the importance of knowing your values, developing a morning routine, and maintaining gratitude. He also talks about his work in podcasting, both as a host of Life's Checkmark and as a podcast coach helping others discover their authentic voices. The conversation highlights the impact of supportive men's groups and the power of vulnerability. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:52 Meet John Emery: A Journey of Resilience 01:36 International Men's Day Discussion 02:50 John's Life Before and After the Turning Point 04:58 Navigating Job Loss and Divorce 07:28 Finding Support and Rebuilding 10:13 The Power of a Morning Routine 11:10 Starting the Life's Checkmark Podcast 14:31 Authenticity and Personal Values 16:48 Impact on Fatherhood and Personal Growth 18:22 Building Deeper Relationships with Your Children 18:57 The Power of One-on-One Time 19:29 Effective Communication Tips for Parents 20:05 Starting and Sustaining a Podcast 21:17 Overcoming Common Podcasting Challenges 22:38 The Joy of Helping Others Find Their Voice 24:57 Personal Growth Through Podcasting 27:20 Recommended Resources for Personal Development 28:32 Advice for Men Feeling Lost 31:34 The Mission of Life's Checkmark 32:09 Where to Find More Information 32:43 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Connect with Jon Jon Emery -- https://www.lifescheckmark.com/ YouTube -- https://www.youtube.com/@lifescheckmark Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.emery.167 Resources Life's Checkmark Podcast -- https://lifescheckmark.libsyn.com/ The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom -- https://amzn.to/4ffqdnP The Way of The Superior Man -- https://amzn.to/3VHk10X Understanding Women: Unlock the Mystery -- https://amzn.to/41A3Gz4 Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast: Interested in a Clarity Call with Andy? - visit https://theandygrant.com/talk Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant Personal 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/group Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel #RealMenFeel ep 332

Exploration of Inner Work and Consciousness with Markus Kasunich In this episode of 'Real Men Feel,' host Andy Grant speaks with holistic life and relationship coach Markus Kasunich. They delve deep into the journey of 'knowing thyself,' discussing topics such as Markus's near-death experience, the integration of his IRAM model, and the importance of inner work. Markus shares his insights on human conditioning, the fluidity of consciousness, and the tools needed to navigate and understand one's own psyche. They also touch on the expansion and contraction of human experiences, explaining how one's conditioning influences relationships and personal growth. Markus emphasizes the importance of feeling and articulating emotions as a pathway to deeper consciousness and richer human experiences. 00:00 Introduction to Real Men Feel 00:16 Meet Markus Kasunich: Holistic Life Coach 02:05 Markus' Near-Death Experience 05:23 The Journey of Integration 11:08 Understanding the Human Condition 15:34 The Importance of Inner Work 20:17 Markus' Vision Quest and Mapping the Inner World 26:18 Understanding Conditioning and Healing 27:58 Introducing the Inner Relationship Archetypal Model (IRAM) 28:46 Applying IRAM in Real Life 31:39 Expansion and Contraction in Human Experience 36:12 The Role of Medicine in Healing 39:13 Starting Your Inner Work Journey 44:18 The Importance of Emotional Awareness for Men 46:58 Conclusion and Staying Connected Connect with Markus Markus Kasunich -- https://markuskasunich.com Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/markuswkasunich/ Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/markuswkasunich/ LinkedIn -- https://www.linkedin.com/in/markus-kasunich-14a20870/ Resources IRAM: A Map for Creating Conscious Relationships, by Markus Kasunich -- https://amzn.to/4f3ut9T Relation-SHIFT Academy -- https://markuskasunich.com/relation-shift-academy/ Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast: Interested in a Clarity Call with Andy? - visit https://theandygrant.com/talk Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant Personal 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/group Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel #RealMenFeel ep 331

Legal Thrills and Spiritual Wisdom with Bob Martin In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes Bob Martin, a former mob lawyer during Miami's cocaine cowboy era who transformed into a healing and mindfulness coordinator, meditation mentor, and author. Bob shares his journey from high-powered legal battles to teaching wellness and mindfulness, blending Taoist teachings with brain science and psychology. They discuss meditation, mindfulness, the role of defense attorneys in the justice system, and the significance of yin and yang energy. Bob also reveals key moments that led him to change his life path and offers advice for those seeking to begin their own mindfulness practice. 00:00 Introduction to Real Men Feel 00:11 Meet Bob Martin: From Mob Lawyer to Mindfulness Mentor 01:09 Bob's Early Career and Transition 04:09 The Role of Defense Attorneys 08:42 Discovering Taoism and Master Ni 11:55 The Practice of I Ching 20:06 The Work Ethic of Happiness 25:46 Bob's Journey to North Carolina 27:35 Mindfulness and Meditation 33:37 Bob's Personal Challenges and Triumphs 37:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links What Is Meditation Anyway, And Is It For Me? free ebook by Bob Martin -- https://www.awiseandhappylife.com/what-is-meditation-anyway/ Connect with Bob Bob Martin -- https://www.awiseandhappylife.com LinkedIn -- https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-martin-995b30127/ Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/awiseandhappylife/ Resources Balance -- https://balanceapp.com Insight Timer -- https://insighttimer.com Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast: Interested in a Clarity Call with Andy? - visit https://theandygrant.com/talk Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant Personal 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/group Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel #RealMenFeel ep 330

The Male Loneliness Epidemic: Insights from 16-Year-Old Reuben Runacres In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes Reuben Runacres, a passionate 16-year-old expert in men's mental health and the male loneliness epidemic. Reuben shares his insights on why men experience loneliness, how societal changes have exacerbated this issue, and the impact of loneliness on both mental and physical health. He also discusses the potential of technology to bridge social gaps and introduces his vision for a new platform to connect people. Reuben emphasizes the importance of purpose and connection in combating loneliness and improving mental health. "Loneliness can kill you because it's as harmful as smoking 20 cigarettes a day. " 00:00 Introduction to Real Men Feel 00:17 Meet Reuben Runacres: A Young Advocate for Men's Mental Health 02:09 The Male Loneliness Epidemic 13:51 Impact of Loneliness on Mental and Physical Health 18:20 The Role of Technology in Combating Loneliness 23:36 Practical Steps to Overcome Loneliness 28:09 The Power of Weak Ties 32:04 Challenges in Modern Masculinity 32:41 Balancing Traditional and Modern Masculinity 41:13 The Importance of Purpose 44:56 Personal Reflections on Masculinity 48:59 Connecting and Moving Forward 54:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links Dr Simone Rice -- https://drsimonrice.com/ Positive Masculinity -- https://positivemasculinity.org.au/ Connect with Reuben X: https://x.com/ReubenRunacres Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast: Interested in a Clarity Call with Andy? - visit https://theandygrant.com/talk Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant Personal 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/group Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel #RealMenFeel ep 329