GreatMan Podcast

Do you ever feel discouraged about where you are in life? Did you know that there is a benevolent conspiracy underway, leading you to a destined moment? In fact, the mundane and challenging parts of your life are building greatness within you. Though you may not see it, your weaknesses are being refined into skills that will lift you to great heights. Don’t miss this encouraging and powerful episode, as Stephen touches on David and Goliath, Churchill, Zelensky and others who have had greatness built in their lives. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The poet Thomas Babington Macaulay wrote in “Lays of Ancient Rome” – And how can man die better Than facing fearful odds, For the ashes of his fathers, And the temples of his Gods. Churchill memorized all 1,200 lines of this poem and quoted from it often in his wartime addresses. Stephen sees the poem’s sentiments coming to life today in the lives of men in Ukraine. You see, men are not meant to live just for themselves. Our purpose is not even just to provide for our families and immediate kin. A man is meant for these things and more. A man is meant to live for a glorious cause, for something that captures his soul and enflames his heart. Gentlemen, your lives are measured by the higher causes to which you give yourself. There are many causes in this world. Which one will capture your heart? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you are attempting to live out a code of noble manhood, you aren’t alone. You are part of something Stephen’s never talked about before on the GreatMan Podcast: a fellowship of men in the world. Tune in as Stephen discusses the global pursuit of great manhood, and what it means to care about righteous manhood across racial, ethnic, and national lines. Now, let’s get to the work that’s set out before us. This episode originally aired on July 7, 2020. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

At just 44 years old, Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, is calling his nation to greatness. Stephen discusses Zelensky’s unique path to the Presidency, his admirable leadership qualities, and his ability to rouse his people. Despite having a military budget one-tenth the size of Russia’s, Zelensky’s Ukraine is holding its ground. Tune in to find how this man has lit up his nation, and find yourself inspired to lead others in your sphere of influence with greatness. Mentioned in this episode: Putin’s Spiritual Vision (via the Stephen Mansfield Podcast) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephen recently visited with an old friend who has planted roots for 40 years in a small town in Texas. This man is highly respected, his business is thriving, and he has a beautiful and impressive home with many acres. Unlike so many who chase shiny objects or strike out for distant cities, this man cast down his buckets where he was, to borrow language from Booker T. Washington. He planted roots, and they grew deep. In seeking out the places where they think success may lie, men have a tendency to miss the opportunities already in front of their noses. Consider the possibility that planting where you are and building progressively may be the path for you. To learn more about the impact Booker T. Washington had on his generation and the generations that followed, read Stephen Mansfield’s book, Then Darkness Fled: The Liberating Wisdom of Booker T. Washington. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Being generous and large-hearted is one of the ways you can change lives, build a legacy, prosper, and honor God. In fact, generosity is one of the features of a great man. A great man doesn’t hold his possessions too closely. He is big-hearted. Tune in to find out just how generous Americans, in particular, have been in recent years. (Did you know Americans’ generosity throughout the pandemic topped 2019 giving levels?) Whether you’re a seasoned giver or looking to build new giving habits, Stephen provides useful resources in this episode. Tune in, and let’s give generously this year! Resources mentioned in this episode: BBB Wise Giving Alliance Charity Navigator Charity Watch Candid (GuideStar) IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search Give to GreatMan GreatMan Global Donations See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephen is currently watching Hulu’s new docuseries, Secrets of Playboy, which exposes Hugh Hefner’s toxic and fraudulent house of cards. As you’ve heard Stephen say before, pornography is divorce training. And Playboy opened the floodgates. In this episode, Stephen talks about his own childhood exposure to pornography and how this cancerous bilge is destroying men of all ages. It’s time for us to extricate our generation and the generations to come from the chains of pornography and to enjoy glorious sex lives within the context of marriage. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There’s a word that can make a big difference in your life as you pursue great manhood: build. We are often advised to live in a way that dodges missiles. But life for a man is not just about reacting and responding. Life is about how you build. In his late 30s and early 40s, Stephen was around men who talked about “building” their lives. Tune in for a fresh perspective on the difference between “building” and simply “getting by.” Take in wisdom and input. Get help. Call in the reinforcements. Build your life. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Relief is short-term. It’s the glass of wine at the end of the day, the massage, the TV show. Relief is the short-term lifting of weariness or pain. Relief is not restoration. In this episode, Stephen shares the struggles of two friends who are using relief when they should be using restoration. Learn from their ways and then evaluate your own behaviors. Are you seeking relief or restoration? Let’s agree to make a change together. Restoration is one of the arts of being a GreatMan. This episode originally aired on March 10, 2020. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephen responds to questions about a controversial word we hear often in our society: patriarchy. “Rule by men” hasn’t always been a happy time for women, and so it makes sense this term is cast in a negative light. Why are most societies ruled by men? What does noble, righteous, and good manly leadership look like? Tune in. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Whether you are a CEO with means or a college student making ends meet, Stephen has a challenge for you this year. Commit to hosting at least one event for men. This can be as big as a 10,000-person conference or as simple as getting a few guys together for a workout or pizza. Men connect best through indirect connection. When we gather around another activity, whether that’s a hunting trip or tossing the frisbee, we can layer in an informal discussion of manhood that then grows. This year, commit to doing some kind of gathering for men. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Winston Churchill once said, “When the notes of life ring false, men should correct them by referring to the tuning-fork of death.” In other words, ponder your own mortality. Or, as the Ancients phrased it, memento mori. Remember death. What would your life look like if you lived every day as though it was your last? What would you change? Consider thoughtfully, and act. Also, confirm that your family will be taken care of in your absence. Prepare with the appropriate life insurance and burial insurance plans. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A man should be self-possessed. He should walk with confidence. Listen to a few trusted individuals, and walk according to the wisdom of the ancients. Internalize your faith and draw from your family and band of brothers. Take stock of your internal security system. Are you preoccupied with the opinions of others? Have harsh comments left you off balance or seeking approval you’ll likely never get? Focus on what matters and what is true so that you feel God’s pleasure as you run your life. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the early years of a boy’s life, the father is sometimes on the perimeter, as the mother is the primary nurturer. In the early adolescent years, boys will then migrate away from their mothers toward their fathers. This is when Dad needs to step in at a greater level and usher his son into manhood. The driving force in the boy’s life shifts from Mom (“God is there, he cares, and he’s loving.”) to Dad (“God is powerful, but he can be trusted.”). Tune in as Stephen describes this process and advises fathers on how to manage the transition. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephen was recently asked, “If you look at the culture of men, what one word would best describe that culture?” That one word is respect. Men in our generation are often raised in a culture of disrespect. When a man begins to realize the power he has and what he’s meant to be doing in the world, it can all be summarized by this word. Respect. Tune in as Stephen describes the process of realizing, owning, creating, and living in a culture of respect – for this is one of the great arts of a good, noble, and righteous man. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last month, Stephen spent some time with a group of men who had a completely different outlook on exercise. Many of these former military guys described their physical fitness activities (lifting weights, going for a run, etc.) not as “working out,” but as “training.” A workout is a daily obligation you wish you could discard. Training, as Stephen learned and shares with listeners, is physical work that you do to prepare for a greater challenge. There is a connection between a GreatMan’s inside and his outside. Great manhood works from the inside out. Stephen encourages you to adopt this perspective, too. Train because you have a vision. Not because you “need to workout.” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to the last GreatMan Podcast of 2021. As we approach the end of the year, Stephen has some concern. 2022 is probably going to be a bumpy ride. You’ve got to be ready. You’re going to need a band of brothers to prevail against difficult times. For some of you, your struggle to be a noble man is made more difficult by having an incomplete or faux band of brothers. Rather, you need to have a group of men around you who know your life without you having to narrate it to them. You need to have a free fire zone. Learn more about what it looks like to have an authentic band of brothers. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When it comes to toasts, many men have a tendency toward smack talk and humor. While there’s nothing wrong with sarcasm or humor – it can even be a useful tool – this approach is often rooted in insecurity. It also makes the talk about you, the speaker, not the subject. Feel free to use humor, but also speak words that call out the person’s destiny. In this episode, Stephen shares how he plans for a speech. One of the keys is to ask: “What will be remembered years from now?” The truth is, no one is being affirmed enough. No one is having their destiny called out. They’re not being told about their nobility or being given a vision for the higher version of themselves. Next time you give a tribute or toast, identify a noble concept in a person, draw it out with a story, and speak words that will live on. Tune in to learn more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This football season, you’ve probably seen a huge amount of advertising for online sports gambling. In this episode, Stephen addresses the issue bluntly without getting preachy. Gambling is going to be a great seduction focused on men in our generation. Unfortunately, it’s only going to get worse. Draw your moral line now, and certainly pull in your band of brothers for help. Stephen’s strong suggestion: stay away from gambling (with, perhaps, some soft edges to this general rule). Tune in for more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you know the true, historically accurate Thanksgiving story? The Pilgrims are often under attack these days, but these godly men and women sacrificed much, giving their lives to bring the Gospel to the new world. They laid a foundation our nation would do well to remember. Tune in and recall the heritage and the purposes to which the Pilgrims were devoted. And while you listen, think of who may be changed and challenged by hearing this episode. Think of how you can get this story in front of children, because it needs to be passed to the next generation. Happy Thanksgiving to you. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Men have a tendency toward cowardice when it comes to how they treat women. Men tend to think that what a woman allows, sexually, is what is appropriate. A man should know in advance what his ethical code will allow. We must eliminate this cowardly notion that what happens between a man and woman is determined solely by what a woman will permit. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The GreatMan Podcast is typically “big picture.” Not today! This episode is crucial for every man to hear. Stephen gets granular, talking through some of the nuts-and-bolts that should be a part of every man’s life. These are the things you absolutely must do – for yourself, your family, and those in your sphere of influence. Listen up. But most importantly, take action. This episode originally aired on November 12, 2019. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Growing up in a military household, and moving as many as ten times in nine years, Stephen became a master liar. All that changed when he became a Christian at the age of 18. Take stock of yourself. Are you deceiving yourself or others? Do you lean toward falsehoods? If you are lying, why? A good man is devoted to the truth, the raw truth. Conquer lying. Build the good and noble in your life, and talk about that. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A good man is present. This week on the podcast, Stephen tells two stories that illustrate a great principle of noble manhood: leadership by presence. Tune in to find out what Stephen discovered about Abu Ghraib while he was embedded with US troops in Iraq. Then follow a different tale that is unfolding this very moment at a high school in Shreveport, LA. Mentioned in this episode: “Dads help curb violence at Louisiana high school” (via CBS News) Faith of the American Soldier by Stephen Mansfield See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’ve had struggles with money and finances, you’re not alone. Stephen has had his share of troubles, too. Listen in as Stephen shares about some of his failings in this department as a man and a leader. Those of you who have also grown up in a military household may especially identify with some of the forces perpetuating a personal finance knowledge deficit. The good news is that we can overcome this. First, sit down and honestly evaluate your finances. Then, get help. Find resources and suggestions in this episode. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your words are powerful. Are you speaking gently and wisely to those you love and lead? A man says the things that need to be said, and he says them consistently. This is a part of taking responsibility for your field. Do not leave unfinished business. Think through the things that you need to address with your friends and family. Do not take for granted time to do this. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Think of the supercharged world we live in: hyper, nervous, and loud. One of the great gifts a righteous man gives to his friends, family, and world is the power of Big Calm. A man has Big Calm when there is peace in his soul, even in the midst of crisis. He may not know exactly what to do. He may even know there’s a certain amount of danger. But he’s calm and settled. He ponders carefully and radiates his calm into the immediate situation around him. John Wooden had this characteristic. If you have Mansfield’s Book of Manly Men, you can read about it on pages 233-238. This episode originally aired on November 5, 2019. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Men have a unique gift for rituals and are deeply impacted by them. In this episode, Stephen shares some of his own rituals, as well as those he’s observed in families, companies, and bands of brothers. Discover the importance of rituals and learn how to build them into every aspect of your life. When you embed rituals into your life, you engage in constantly reaffirming what kind of man you are. This episode originally aired on November 10, 2020. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why, in today’s men’s movement, is the attitude around alcohol akin to passing a bottle back-and-forth behind the high school gym? Guys, what’s with the centrality of alcohol? The obsession? In this episode, Stephen talks about his own relationship with alcohol – no, he’s not a teetotaler – as well as what he has observed in his travels. Men, remember, whatever is of ultimate concern in your life becomes a religion to you. This episode originally aired on October 29, 2019. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In aptitude tests, women are superior to men in every regard except for abstract thought and aggression. That’s where the art of the quest comes in. Men need quests in their lives. You constantly need to do something to prove yourself––if only to yourself. Your quest can be physical or spiritual, so long as you are pursuing a goal through challenge and adversity. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Men have an obligation to provide for their families after death. It is unbelievably easy for a man to do this through relatively inexpensive term life insurance and burial insurance. If you have an insurance agent in your network, reach out to them and set this up. If you don’t, Stephen backs Ramsey Solutions’ recommendations. (Stephen is in no way compensated for this endorsement.) Don’t shrink away from this issue out of fear or smallness. Great men consider the condition of those they leave behind. Contemplate your death now and take the appropriate measures in order to live a better life. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Men, one of the keys to a great marriage is that you must fight the battle of the negative narrative. The positive things in your relationship are clear and easy to celebrate. For example, your wife is beautiful, loving, hard-working, and so on. But it is the negative things about a spouse (real or perceived) that can take root in your brain almost subconsciously. Before you realize it, the mind will nurture a poisonous, negative narrative. If you allow the negative narrative to take root, it will become the dominant narrative. Identify it. Address it. Grow a stronger marriage as a result. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Part of restoring noble manhood is that you stand guard over everything in your field. Your role as a man is to help everything within your reach rise to fulfilling its destiny. In this episode, Stephen lays out the specific steps involved in the process. From observation to implementation, this is your battle plan, men. Every step here is actionable, and you can start today. No excuses… let’s go! This episode originally aired on January 28, 2020. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As we face a new round of COVID challenges, ask yourself these questions: when I am around others, what do people feed on that’s good and noble in my life? What morally and spiritually nutritious things do my words and actions encourage to grow? The way you lead at home or among your band of brothers is a way of creating a culture. Culture is whatever is encouraged to grow. What do you encourage in the midst of difficult seasons? Anger and bitterness? Or strength and positivity? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Smack talk is a healthy part of manhood. Sure, it’s fun. But it’s also a way that men nurture, teach, and train one another. It can be a very constructive tool. It can also be dangerous. Learn where to find the line. In this episode, Stephen discusses the appropriate and inappropriate use of humor, as well as red flags to look for in yourself. If humor doesn’t come naturally to you, follow the advice found here! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Does great manhood ever feel like a big “project” to you? Does it feel like some massive undertaking like going to law school or building a house? It doesn’t always have to be like that. Today, let’s have some fun and talk about the small things that go into great manhood. Stephen shares some of his many micro-disciplines in areas such as health, learning, and romance, that have become a part of his regular routine. Men, we are habit-driven creatures. Let’s maximize the opportunity this presents to us! This episode originally aired on March 12, 2019. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When you were in school, you probably had to read Lord of the Flies, the story of some English schoolboys who descend into barbarism while stranded on an island. But have you heard the true story that contrasts William Golding’s tale? In 1965, a group of boys stole a whaling boat and tried to sail 500 miles to Fiji. After eight days at sea, driven by the wind without food or water, they spotted an island named 'Ata – just a speck in the Pacific. For 15 months, they were lost to the world. This is their story… Mentioned in this article: A real life Lord of the Flies: The 50-year-old story of a group of teens stranded on an island - 60 Minutes - CBS News Humankind: A Hopeful History, Rutger Bregman See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephen submits a proposal for your consideration, one that could turn the course of masculinity in our generation: the development of an academic minor in men’s studies. Tune in to find out what this program would look like, as well as why Stephen firmly believes it should be an 18-hour minor and not an academic major. If you work in academia or have the ability to give to the development of this program, be sure to listen and consider how you may become involved. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Many of you have a band of brothers. But are you connecting in a way that produces true growth? Stephen issues a stern challenge: from time to time, you MUST sit in the same room as each other and look each other in the eye. Yes, Zoom and phone calls are okay for maintaining relationships when you are separated by distance or busy schedules. But in-person connection is critical. Men have an innate ability to consider people physically. We can pick up a lot of information from observing how a person carries himself. If you’re not laying eyes on your buddies, then you’re not able to help them or get the help you need. Get Building Your Band of Brothers on Kindle or in paperback. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Clothes don’t make the man, but they do reveal the man. Over the next three months, Stephen challenges you to dress one-click up from your normal. If you’re stuck at a grunge uniform-level, make a change. Learn how to dress appropriately for the moment. You’ll find that increased awareness of your appearance and positive changes will result in greater control and confidence. You’ll be happier, and so will others around you. Tune in, and seek help from your band of brothers if you need further guidance. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Did you know that men today have testosterone levels at an all-time low? Testosterone levels have been dropping every year. Stephen recently had to experience Low-T as part of a medical procedure, which resulted in the commonly associated lack of energy and drive. In this episode, he discusses some of the problems and solutions associated with Low-T. Tune in, and talk to your doctor about making some changes if you need to do so. Everything from how we sleep to how we exercise can affect testosterone levels. Let’s make sure we’re taking care of our bodies in a manly way. Articles mentioned in this episode: https://www.forbes.com/sites/neilhowe/2017/10/02/youre-not-the-man-your-father-was/?sh=7244bd748b7f https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/92/1/196/2598434 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephen speaks about a type of man he’s been in the past: a type of man he doesn’t want you to be. Perhaps you know the type – the guy who’s always one offense away from breaking off a relationship, one offense away from lashing out. This kind of man has wounds, and the wounds are so painful that if he hears any offense, it almost overwhelms him. He lacks the tools to address them. So he runs. Tune in, and let’s sort out the healthy response to offense. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Radical generosity is a trait of noble manhood. A great man makes generosity a part of the legacy he leaves. We also know from history and every religion that the generous man prospers. When we give we open up channels of receiving in return. In this episode, Stephen encourages you to start building “consistent generosity” into your concept of great manhood. (And, no, great generosity does not require great monetary wealth.) You can also give directly to GreatMan or contribute by choosing GreatMan as your designated charity whenever you shop at Smile.Amazon.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephen wants to help you get ahead of the curve. Before summer gets here… before you’re busy with vacation, plans, kids’ activities… set your mind to completing these four challenges. From exercising the mind and body to building the spirit, these four specific challenges will help you in your pursuit of living a life of noble manhood. Don’t miss this opportunity to reset your habits and change your course in life for the better! This episode originally aired on April 2, 2019. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We are living through a critical time in history. Now, more than ever, we need good, noble, righteous, honorable, Great Men to arise. We need to encourage each other, to become stabilizers in our society, to rescue the young, and to help one another in living for the glory of God. Our generation can turn around manhood’s current downward trajectory. In this episode, Stephen discusses the seven fires that need to burn in the soul of men: 1) The Fire of Heritage 2) The Fire of Battle 3) The Fire of Destiny 4) The Fire of Friendship 5) The Fire of Love 6) The Fire of Legacy 7) The Fire of God Baker Book House has announced a 40% discount when buying 20 or more copies of Men on Fire. Take 30% off when you buy ten or more. Shipping is free. This is the best deal you’ll find on this book! Get the offer here. This episode originally aired on June 30, 2020. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Everyone you know is fighting a great battle. Stephen shares the story of one of the great battles of his own life: moving from Berlin to West Des Moines, Iowa, as a teenager in the 1970s. One thing got him through: a vision for rising up and conquering the moment. What battle do you face today? What does your day of victory look like? What’s your battle plan? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

To paraphrase the sociologist Camille Paglia, a woman simply is, but a man must become. Masculinity is risky and elusive. It must be called out by other men. In this episode, Stephen unpacks the “why” behind his belief in the need for quality boys’ schools. We need more resources for a better understanding of boys and what they require in terms of education, mentorship, and growth. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Clothes don’t make the man, but they can reveal the man. Stephen shares a recent experience attending a reception for a former state governor. While the women were wisely and appropriately dressed, many of the men were dressed like five-year-olds with white tennis shoes, jeans, and untucked plaid short-sleeved shirts. While this outfit might be fine for a backyard barbecue with your buddies, it doesn’t communicate the honor and respect such an event demands. Clothes communicate. Know how to dress with maturity, sensibility, and a sense of honor. Many occasions in life require it. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We tend to live in a bubble that is free from critical input. This is dangerous. We ought to have constant, loving, constructive feedback in a culture of noble men. In this episode, Stephen teaches how to ask the tough questions that will help you see yourself as you are. Prepare yourself to ask bold questions this summer, and may you be a greater man for it. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jesus and John Wayne is a book by Kristin Kobes Du Mez that Stephen disagrees with. But he wants you to read it. Tune into this podcast to find out what Professor Du Mez gets right about the modern Christian men’s movement… and what she gets completely wrong. In this episode, Stephen critiques both the book’s invalid assumptions and straw man arguments while also validating and appreciating some of the questions and challenges the author poses to those of us pursuing noble manhood. Get a copy, read it, and find yourself challenged and sharpened. Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation (on Amazon) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.