GreatMan Podcast

As we begin to emerge from the coronavirus shutdown, Stephen takes a few minutes to level with you and present some fresh challenges. In this episode, you’ll receive some guidance on how you can use your personal experience of the last few weeks to spark positive changes in your life, your soul, and your future. From evaluating friendships to preparing for death itself, this episode hits hard. Are you ready? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

During this coronavirus season, many guys are living more domesticated lives. You’re sitting at home more, maybe eating or drinking more, and watching too much TV. You’re getting soft. Not good! Men need an outlet for aggression. The desire to push, attack, conquer, and draft big, bold plans is not a bad thing. These acts are supported by channeling the godly gift of physical aggression. One of the arts of great manhood is that you maintain some aggression in your life. Keep it. Let it drive you. Emerge victorious from this season. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What comes after a season of plague? Renaissance. Join Stephen as he speaks to both of his podcast audiences in a single episode, pondering the thrilling potential of generational upheaval and the flowering of the human spirit. Stephen speaks as a historian of Shakespeare, Chaucer, Martin Luther, and others who produced great works out of times not unlike our own. Men, if you’re interested in a podcast about public affairs, world events, and the progress of faith in our generation, be sure to subscribe to the Stephen Mansfield Podcast on your platform of choice here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Good men believe in science and facts. They know their situational reality. They protect women and children. They lead and love well. A recent op-ed in The Washington Post paints an entirely different picture of masculinity, particularly in the “white evangelical conservative” world. Stephen doesn’t normally address media in the GreatMan Podcast, but this patently false assault against our movement demands a response. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ponder today’s episode at a quiet moment. As the coronavirus reaches the apex of the curve, soon we will be surrounded by death. Stephen encourages you to ponder your own death so that you might live your life now with even greater purpose and meaning. As Ecclesiastes says, death is the destiny of all men, and the living should take it to heart. Memento mori, remember that you must die. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“I’m finding that the women in my life resent or fear the things that I’m doing to get the masculine nurturing I need in my life.” In an age of toxic masculinity, in an age of the “Me Too” movement, this is a statement Stephen’s heard from a lot of guys. The concern is often brought by women who have a negative perception of masculinity. Men, you have to narrate to those around you the reason for why you’re doing what you’re doing. Answered in this episode: how do we help the women in our lives understand why we’re nurturing noble manhood? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As I record this podcast, we’re in the middle of the coronavirus crisis. I’m thinking about you, pondering what your life must be like, and I want to talk to you straight. Guys, you need a manly battle plan for this season. Here are ten things to do now. Get in the control room. Get some exercise. Keep tabs on the culture of your home. Use a schedule –– even though you’re at home. Narrate the world for those in your home. Have a battle plan for everyone in your family. Have a battle plan for family well-being. Prioritize romance. Don’t neglect your band of brothers. Ask yourself, “What does this make possible?” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This crisis will probably get worse before it gets better. However, it too will pass. In the meantime, the people in your life are going to need you. They are going to need you calm, operating from that control room we’ve talked about building in your life. As we face the coronavirus and economic uncertainty, don’t get knocked off balance. Be calm, visionary, fun, creative, and hard working. Simplify and reduce spending. Think about what this crisis makes possible for you. What differences can you make in the lives of others? What changes does this experience prompt you to make for your future? Seize the opportunity to be a GreatMan. Don’t miss this episode! 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. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Let’s have a heart-to-heart about this coronavirus season. Guys, these are times in which we can really shape lives. As men, we have the ability to set the tone for how those within our sphere approach trying times. We need to be calm, comforting, and trusting of God. Tough times may be coming. How will you set the tone and lead those around you? Listen to this episode for guidance. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If the thought of saying, “I love you,” to another man makes you cringe, this episode is for you. You’re not alone. The simple act of expressing noble, brotherly love to another man feels nearly impossible for a lot of guys. Many of us never saw masculine affection growing up. We were never told, “I love you,” by a father or brother. It’s difficult and emotional. Or you may even think it’s feminine. However, being able to express manly love is one of the great arts of being a GreatMan. In this episode, Stephen will show you the way. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Where does your code of conduct come from? For Stephen, his code is built on faith and the people he admires, both today and from the past. What about you? Every man needs a code. How is your manly code being formed? Don’t miss this podcast and its challenge. We all have a value system. It’s up to you to know the “what” and “why” behind yours. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephen loves West Point and has had the honor of lecturing there. But a program recently held at the United States Military Academy disturbs him. Leaders at West Point approached the issues of toxic masculinity and gender from the completely wrong angle. In fact, they may have ended up damaging their cause. Is toxic masculinity real? Yes. Is masculinity a bad thing that should be stamped out? No. Listen to this episode to learn how you can discern between airy theories and hard facts. Mentioned in this episode: Toxic Masculinity. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Did you set some big goals for 2020? How are they going? In this episode, Stephen shares a technique he’s developed for self-improvement in virtually every arena, from fitness to money to relationships and more. It’s called the 1 Second Principle. Learn it and use it to grow, improve, and extend your reach in every facet of life. Through the 1 Second Principle, you can be BEST: Better Every Single Time. 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! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you advocate for men, does that mean you’re against women? Of course not! The GreatMan movement champions women. It celebrates them and wants to see them successful in every possible way. Every woman in your sphere should be thrilled if you are fully invested in developing yourself and others through a noble man movement. Not only does this action make you better, it makes the world a safer and more prosperous place for women. Always remember, a GreatMan is not bitter or opposed to women. He is a champion of women. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You are likely to be surprised at how long you’re going to live. Many men living today may find themselves living into their 90s or even beyond 100. If you have been thinking about retiring at 65 and resting easy, think again. You may have many more decades of health and productive years. In this episode, Stephen will help you think about how to plan for a long, rewarding, healthy life. From multiple income streams and proper insurance to building a legacy of traditions and values, living well requires planning well. Don’t miss this episode! As a reminder, please consider donating to GreatMan, Inc., and help us reach our Latin American brothers. Learn more and donate here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The GreatMan movement is going to Latin America in 2020! Don’t miss this episode, in which Stephen follows up on his recent trip to Peru with some exciting news. Mansfield’s Book of Manly Men will be published in Spanish in March 2020 (pre-order here). Additionally, Stephen will travel to Peru, Paraguay, Mexico, and other countries throughout Latin America to host GreatMan events. But we need your help. Please consider sharing this cause with others and making a tax-deductible donation to GreatMan International here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cowardice can make us weak, unreliable, and even dangerous. You know it when you see it, and you know it when you feel it. In this episode, you’ll learn how to identify the source of cowardice in your own life. Plus, you’ll learn tactics for eliminating cowardice so that you can become the great man you’re meant to be. This episode originally aired on August 21, 2018. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Maybe you’ve seen another guy make a stupid decision? If so, the error may not have been in the actual decision so much as the process he took to get there. Fact is, a lot of men shrink from decision. They avoid the process. They shove it in a drawer, hoping someone else will show up and make it for them. Of course, this isn’t the way YOU want to live your life. In this episode: four steps to manly decision-making. This episode starts with an exercise that every man should complete and ends with a call for humility. This episode originally aired on September 4, 2018. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Men sometimes have a way of pulling back during the holidays. The gifts, cooking, and decorating may feel like domestic tasks in which women usually take the lead. Guys, you need to be fully engaged in the holiday season – for yourself, those you lead, and those around you. Listen to this episode for some quick encouragement and a challenge. May you be changed by the giving, loving, and celebrating of Christmas. This episode originally aired on December 4, 2018. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A lot of guys are working hard to serve their wives, kids, jobs, causes, etc. But it’s been a long time since they’ve read a book, been in the wild, hung out with the guys, or explored an interest. They’re bored, uninspired, overweight, exhausted, and distracted. Men, you need to create some margin in your lives. It might mean getting up earlier or setting aside one evening a week. However you structure it, find time to work on yourself first so that you can serve others. This episode originally aired on August 14, 2018. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Whether you’re looking to fill your own Christmas list or shop for the men in your life, do not miss this list of Stephen’s top 11 books for men. Mansfield’s Book of Manly Men by Stephen Mansfield, Building Your Band of Brothers by Stephen Mansfield (Kindle, Paperback) Wild at Heart by John Eldredge Healing the Masculine Soul: God’s Restoration of Men to Real Manhood by Gordon Dalbey Sons of the Father: Healing the Father-Wound in Men Today by Gordon Dalbey Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging by Sebastian Junger The Wonder of Boys by Michael Gurian Future Men by Douglas Wilson Honor: A History by James Bowman The Book of Man: Readings on the Path to Manhood by Dr. William J. Bennett The Demise of Guys: Why Boys Are Struggling and What We Can Do About It by Philip Zimbardo and Nikita D. Coulombe This episode originally aired on December 5, 2017.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, “What are the five essential things a young man under 20 should know?” As we head into the holiday season, with the generations mixing and free time to spare, think about how you can work these five concepts into the life of a young man (especially in the 12-14 age range). Stephen illustrates concepts like power, duty, and wildness in ways that can transform the life and direction of a young male. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you heard the story of the Pilgrim Thanksgiving, the one that has inspired the American holiday? Men, this story (originally aired on the Stephen Mansfield Podcast) can shape destines. Gather the family and enjoy this brief, exciting account of an episode from our nation’s history and from our heritage of faith. 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! Episode 110 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. 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. 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. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Men tend to think in terms of “moving on.” (Get past it, keep some distance, shut it down.) In some sense, “moving on” can be good. The mature man, however, moves on only after saying what needed to be said and doing what needed to be done. Though he can’t make everything right, the mature man brings all negative relationships to the best closure within his ability. Just as your phone’s battery is drained by open, unused apps, your soul can be drained by holding onto unclosed relationships. Here’s what you need to do: First, go and make it right with others. (The previous episode, Fixing Offense, will help.) Then, start think about your life differently in terms of your relationships. Start the practice of healthy closure. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are you ready? This message is going to be unbelievably timely for some of you. In this episode, Stephen hits hard, challenging YOU to do a very tough thing. Fix the hurt and offense you’ve taken from other men throughout your life. It ain’t easy, but reconciliation is worth the effort. And, no, this isn’t about becoming best buddies with every guy you’ve ever had conflict with in the past. This is about YOUR soul and removing the toxins within so that you can become the GreatMan you’re meant to be. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We used to believe the brain was a closed system. Now we’re finding that the brain is very malleable. We are not dealt a single hand of cards at birth. In fact, the human brain is constantly changing and evolving. In this episode, Stephen discusses the number one way in which the brain is shaped and influenced. If you want to be a better man, it’s essential that you master the very specific area of life discussed in this episode. You can do it, you NEED to do it, and Stephen will show you how you can begin transforming the actual make up of your brain… effective immediately! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Approximately 48 million people are trafficked worldwide. The vast majority are women. Many of them are children. Stephen shares information that he recently learned while traveling in Romania, where approximately 60 percent of all European trafficking occurs. Men, this is a vile monster that threatens us all. Recognize the evil, know what to look for, and actively work to confront this issue by following the steps discussed in this episode. (Mentioned in this podcast: https://www.uncaged.org/.) 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 not just about learning new things. It’s also about doing. Activating. Building and creating. In this episode Stephen shares three different ways of impacting men. Some of this you – yes, YOU – can replicate. Tune in, get inspired, but most importantly… take action! Mentioned in this episode: Men’s Alliance (www.mensalliancetribe.com) Ryan Michler with Order of Man (www.orderofman.com) Michael Fletcher with Manna Church (www.manna.church) *Catch Michael’s guest appearance on the GreatMan Podcast: “Purpose.” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today’s episode introduces our new GreatMan Podcast theme song, as well as the men behind the music. Stephen interviews JT McCraw, Shayne Hill (Sawyer Brown guitarist and Nashville producer), and drummer Chris Tyrrell (husband to Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum). The guys discuss how the music came about, as well as their own journeys in manhood. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You should have a secret life… a secret life of good. If you have read Mansfield’s Book of Manly Men you will remember the Latin word integras, from which we get our English word “integrity.” A soldier with integras would clink his armor with his sword. The commander would hear that nothing was loose; everything was correctly positioned. The soldier had integras. Integrity is wholeness, solidness, connectedness. Do good and noble things for others in secret, without telling anyone else, and you will come even closer to experiencing true integrity. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to episode 100! Thanks for listening, and thanks for impacting the world with us. In this episode Stephen reflects on the disturbing correlation between mass shooters and fatherlessness. The US likes to talk about the danger of Muslim terrorists. And while extremism is real, Stephen argues that the biggest danger threatening our peace and safety is the young, white, untethered, unfathered, and unprincipled men gunning down innocent civilians. Tune in as Stephen discusses 10 shocking statistics that show just how deep the roots of this issue go. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Earlier this summer, on July 16, Stephen issued A Summer Challenge here on the GreatMan Podcast: “Go to the people in your life, and ask them to tell you what you can do to be a better man.” Today, Stephen shares some of the feedback he’s personally received through taking on this challenge. Plus, get the inside scoop on some exciting things on the GreatMan horizon: a recent trip to Peru, Spanish translations, a new book (Men on Fire), a non-profit, and more! (What did you learn as a result of “A Summer Challenge?” We’d like to know! Reply on social media or email [email protected].) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Many guys have recently asked, “How can I extend my influence? How can I help others?” Stephen answers this question by explaining the Greek word “oikos," which means “household” (or “extended family”). The word “economics” comes from “oikos” (economics = law of the household). In this episode you’ll learn how to identify, impact, and extend your manly oikos. You can do it. You should do it. Tune in for the tools and resources that will support you in this critical endeavor. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Joshua asks, what is the purpose of initiation and ritual among men? Learn why men are wired for rituals and seasons – and what you can do to build and foster ritual in the lives of your sons and the men around you. From childhood to adolescence to marriage to fatherhood, rites of passage have the power to profoundly shape and guide noble lives. Harness their power and make them a part of your toolbox. Recommended in this podcast for young fathers: Raising a Modern-Day Knight: A Father's Role in Guiding His Son to Authentic Manhood by Robert Lewis See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pain and hardship is a part of life. In fact, these things may even be the price of an exceptional life. There’s no avoiding them. Happy Warriors know that there is glory and victory on the other side. They’re made better by the struggle. Every swing of the sword and push of the shield invigorates these men. They love to overcome adversity and raise a glass with their band of brothers to celebrate the sweet victories of life. May we, in our age, band together as Happy Warriors to contend against the challenges of life. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In almost every kind of debate you need to engage in verbal martial arts. That is to say, use the opponent’s force against him by conceding everything you can truthfully concede. In this episode, Stephen addresses a question he heard from many men at a recent conference: “How do you answer the critics of manhood?” Tune in to learn how you can simultaneously engage with critics, condemn the indefensible, and show them a better way. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Men are made for adventure. Yet so many guys are “over-domesticated.” You know how it goes: gradually, the pressures and duties of daily life begin to take over. We spend our time taking care of our homes, families, cars, and careers, while we neglect attending to our inner zeal and passion. Men, you need to have regular activities in your life that force excitement and adventure upon you. Every man at every age needs to look at his life, identify the boredom, and build in the excitement, passion, and adventure that he was made for. If you don’t do this you are putting yourself and those around you at tremendous risk. Note: This episode originally aired in March 2018. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s peak summertime, and Stephen wants to present you with a summer challenge. Go to the people in your life (spouse, kids, mentors, siblings), and ask them to tell you what you can do to be a better man. Tell them you know that they love you. This isn’t about getting compliments. You’re looking for key insights that are going to shape you and your ability to have an impact on your world. Stephen will do this, too, and report back in a few weeks to share some of the feedback he receives from loved ones. Listen to the episode for more guidance – plus, an exciting announcement about next year! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if you built a culture in which language ennobled, excited, and thrilled people? In this episode, Stephen shares the language he uses with his friends, wife, and children. Learn how ennobling language impacts relationships, destinies, and cultures. Then, start weaving these words and phrases into your own conversations. Your son’s basketball team is comprised of “heroes,” the young law student is “your honor,” and your wife is “my love.” Change your words and observe the effect of your new language. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Posit this with us: If there is a God and if He created you, then He created you as a man. Of course, we all sustain wounds and deformities that pierce the soul and heart, keeping us from becoming the men we are meant to be. But, again, if there is a God and if He made you, then He desires for you to fulfill your destiny of becoming a great man. In this episode, Stephen offers encouragement and truth: God can restore you to what you were made to be before the grief, wounds, and hurt. Ask Him to exercise that power in your life. Here’s how… See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Churches are often the only organizations that budget to impact men on a regular basis. But most churches miss the mark. In this episode, Stephen speaks directly to men’s ministries. (Though, as always, all are welcome here in the GreatMan Podcast.) Listen in to discover how a men’s ministry should function, who’s doing it well in the U.S., and why you can’t afford to miss out on bringing in the men. Note: This episode originally aired in July 2018. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There’s one thing that all successful people share. One thing that guides their lives. It’s this: they make sure that they have a place and time that functions as the control room of their lives. People who achieve are people who live the “examined life.” (The Ancients, after all, taught us that the unexamined life is not worth living.) Achievers set lofty goals and accomplish them because they take the time to ponder their life and map out a strategy. In this episode, learn why you need to get in the “air traffic control tower” of your own life. Stephen shares advice about how to do this and why it’s so critical, especially for young men. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chad asks, “If comfort’s your biggest enemy, what are you doing to make yourself uncomfortable?” Find out why men need hardship, what the Ancient Greeks had to say about “soft” living, and why Stephen always has firm performance goals set before him… even while spending many months of the year on the road. Finally, Stephen challenges men to develop hardship and opposition in their own lives. Push your boundaries. Onward and upward. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We become what we behold. So, what are you putting in front of your eyes? Stephen shares four summer book recommendations for men, including two novels and two non-fiction books. Strengthen your vision of great manhood, tackle hard-hitting themes of honor and courage, and find your spirit ennobled through these works… Rise of the Servant Kings: What the Bible Says About Being a Man by Ken Harrison | Amazon Sacred Duty: A Soldier's Tour at Arlington National Cemetery by Tom Cotton | Amazon The Killer Angels: A Novel of the Civil War by Michael Shaara | Amazon Peace Like a River by Leif Enger | Amazon See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As much as he’s sorry to see the word “toxic” put in front of the word “masculinity,” Stephen suggests that this word’s ancient Greek roots might provide us with a helpful framework for understanding the damage a man can do. The Greek word “toxikon" refers very specifically to the poison on the tip of an arrow. When a man is “toxic,” he sends out poisonous arrows into his own soul and the souls of others. Toxic men harm themselves and others by abusing the powers that God has given them to use for good. Resources mentioned in this episode: Sign up for the GreatMan Digest. Do the 14-Day "Manly Men" Bible Study. Listen to the new Mansfield’s Book of Manly Men audiobook. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.