GreatMan Podcast

One of the things that distinguishes a mature man from an immature boy is his ability to get what he needs. Men, you’ve probably heard Stephen say this before: you need a certain amount of rowdiness and adventure in your lives. A reasonable pursuit of these things will make you a better man – for yourself and for those you lead. So, take stock of what you need. Figure out how to get it. And go after it! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We all sustain wounds in this life. But what are the messages we allow those wounds to inscribe upon our souls? Do you view an experience in your life as a profound injustice? Are you misinterpreting failures? Allowing harsh words or criticisms to define you? Where do your thoughts go when you’re alone and some memory of the past pops into your head? Men, the disease of self-pity is a cancer that can affect you on many levels. Stop. Turn. Face your past. Respond with intention. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Men are about twice as likely to become alcohol-dependent as women. They’re twice as likely to binge drink and twice as likely to be drunk drivers. This is not a campaign against drinking. But it is a campaign for being thoughtful about your stance on alcohol and in control of your consumption. This is an essential episode for all men. Listen now… Photo by Adam Wilson on Unsplash for the National Drug Helpline See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Stephen urges men to consider doing something for their fathers (or father figures) that he did for his own dad years ago. Note: this episode is intentionally being released several weeks before Father’s Day because it might take some extra thought and effort for many of you. So, listen now! This one specific act of honoring your father can have a profound impact on your own life and even your legacy. Listen in to learn what you need to do. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 2015, Stephen recorded a podcast about why men engage in affairs. It was widely discussed and helped a great many men avoid the trap of an extramarital affair. Now, for the first time ever, we're airing that episode on The GreatMan Podcast. Guys, even if you can't imagine yourself ever becoming involved in this kind of behavior, you need to listen to this episode. Together, we'll examine the male psychology behind extramarital affairs. Whether inspired by boredom, infatuation or immaturity, an affair is always preventable. This episode originally appeared on The Stephen Mansfield Podcast on August 26, 2015. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Travis Reinking is morally responsible for killing four and wounding four others at a Waffle House in the early hours of Sunday morning. However, he was enabled – almost directly – by a father who gives every evidence of being ill-informed, unengaged, and… to some extent… uncaring. Men, we are suffering from an absence of fathering. It’s a lost art, and it requires your investment. But we can correct course. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In order to be a great man – a righteous man – you have to be intentional. It will. Not. Happen. Naturally. Most men have been deposited into their adult years directly from whatever culture they were created in: sports, military, physical labor, etc. Many never move beyond these phases. They never gain a righteous vision of what it means to be a man. They don’t enlist the help of others to fulfill such a vision. In this episode, learn why being an intentional man is important, and how to get started. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We are teaching a false view of manhood if we tell our sons (and ourselves) that real men don’t cry. Real men do cry. They feel strong emotion and turn to their friends in times of need for both practical and emotional support. Stephen’s advice for every man: Feel your emotions, but don’t give vent without checking them. A mature man feels everything and checks his desires before acting on them. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephen crams in as many answers as he can to your questions! Here are just a few: What technique most helps you stay in shape while traveling? What did you abuse the most before you came to understand what it means to be a great man? What’s the greatest criticism you have of modern men? What’s the biggest change you ever made when it came to being a man? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The statistical outcomes regarding unmarried men and women living together are troubling. Why? For one, this type of arrangement is a “half step.” When you start making half steps in one area of your life, it’s hard to be wholehearted and to make confident decisions in other areas of your life. When you get another person involved in these half steps, things can get especially complicated. What state of soul would cause you to take a half step with a woman? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How would you explain manhood to a world that only knows the idiot version? The abusive version? The terrorist version? Unfortunately, this is the only type of man that many people recognize. Of course, if you listen to this podcast, you know that real masculinity is defined by strength and power in the service of others. A true man develops his strength so that he can use it to better serve his wife… his children… his community. Our world needs real men who will live and mentor these values. Is your life showing the world a better alternative? 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. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nikolas Cruz’s concerning behavior was noticed by foster parents, neighbors, and officials. Many of the alarms concerning the Parkland shooter came from women, in particular. Where were the men in his community? Think of the radically different outcome that could have come about had a good and noble man stepped into Nikolas Cruz’s life. How could a band of brothers have produced different results? 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 a Christian or not, Billy Graham displays traits of manhood worthy of admiration and modeling. In his 99 years, Graham displayed seven traits in particular: 1. He stayed close to the wild. He loved hunting, animals, and nature. 2. He kept it clean sexually – keeping travel plans secret, not meeting alone with women, and staying accountable with his team. 3. He admitted his mistakes. 4. He remained contemporary in style. 5. He remained informed. 6. He encouraged unity across lines. 7. He set boundaries to stay financially clean. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

About 30 young men were on a discussion board looking for information that they just couldn’t find anywhere else... no fathers or brothers to talk to. Sadly, they were all completely wrong about the topic. Men, if we want to restore noble manhood, we have to foster a culture where conversations can happen. Older men, develop a culture around you in which you’re willing to share the lore of manhood. Younger men, find older, noble men who can teach you things. Nothing should be laughable or off limits. The lore of manhood doesn’t stem from locker room conversations and men’s health magazines. It’s born from a culture of noble manhood. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“A people without a heritage are easily persuaded,” said Karl Marx. Men usually face one of two problems today: they either have no sense of heritage, or they only know of a negative heritage. Part of the art of being a man is discovering the good and noble heritage that runs through you. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Marxism assumes that there is a pie only so big and that we are all in competition for a piece of the pie. In other words, if you become a multimillionaire, then you are taking something from others. Stephen believes that the pie is ever-expanding. If you find success in business, then you are enlarging the pie and creating more opportunity for others. This is important to remember at a time when women are rising and men are in decline (in nearly every measurable category). Women do not “take” anything from men through their accomplishments. A noble man cheers and encourages the achievements of women. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the GreatMan Podcast, we're reposting our most popular episode of all time. If you missed it last year, be sure to dig in as Stephen shares actionable strategies for tackling tough issues. Know a man who could benefit from this week's show? Share the link with him! Porn and masturbation program a man’s soul. They train the body and emotions in a negative direction. You don’t have to share a moral or religious conviction to recognize porn and masturbation’s destructive forces. But there is good news. Science shows us that new habits can be developed in as little as 21 days. In this episode, Stephen shares some strategies to help men overcome these hidden addictions. Parents, this episode of the GreatMan Podcast may not be appropriate for children. Discretion advised. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Men are rapidly shaped by the things they see. Stories of noble friendships, comrades in battles, great sacrifices, brilliant artists… watching and reading these stories inspire and ennoble us. At the same time, being glued to the news cycle or watching trash entertainment also affects us. In this episode, Stephen urges men to become intentional about what they put before their eyes. Pull back, and look at your own content diet. How does the output of your life correlate with the input? Remember, you become what you behold. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When we deny ourselves, it forces to the surface the things that are lurking in our souls. Fasting and self-denial shove to the forefront those things that produce defeat in our lives. Try it, and observe for yourself. What does fasting produce in you? Feelings of anger? Self-pity? Insatiable appetite for food, sex, drink? In this episode, Stephen suggests how fasting can be an effective way of confronting the demons of your soul. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We live in the #MeToo era, an age that’s largely characterized by the sweeping uncovering of sexual abuse – far more cases than most men were aware of. In the midst of this cultural revolution, in which women are speaking out and harmful industries are getting cleaned up, some men are taking offense. Stephen’s noticed a backlash from some men who seem to react as if the #MeToo movement is an assault against them – despite the fact that they’ve never once perpetrated sexual abuse. In this episode, Stephen speaks to these (and all) men. Guys, here’s how we need to handle ourselves in the situation… See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“The tragedy of life is what dies inside of a man while he lives,” said Albert Schweitzer. There is a spirt in a man that’s meant to be strong and bold. It’s intended to guide, empower, and ennoble. How you live either strengthens or weakens the manly spirit within you. In this episode, Stephen challenges men with the question, “Are you dying? Or are you gaining strength?” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Porn tells men that they’re desired by every woman (and that the women, themselves, often aren’t even aware of their own desires). Well, that’s a lie. Sadly, believing this lie has caused an incredible number of men to behave in completely lewd, disgraceful, and immoral ways, as the recent news cycle has brought to light. Men, let these accusations be a sobering reminder: what you pour into your mind and soul matters. The people you surround yourself with matter. The conversations you engage in matter. We become what we behold. Parents, this episode of the GreatMan Podcast may not be appropriate for children. Discretion advised. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Porn and masturbation program a man’s soul. They train the body and emotions in a negative direction. You don’t have to share a moral or religious conviction to recognize porn and masturbation’s destructive forces. But there is good news. Science shows us that new habits can be developed in as little as 21 days. In this episode, Stephen shares some strategies to help men overcome these hidden addictions. Parents, this episode of the GreatMan Podcast may not be appropriate for children. Discretion advised. 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. Amazon links below… 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 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the greatest powers a man has is the power of his words, particularly when those words are backed by character and judgement. The words that you speak and the way you embed words in the souls of others matters. Many of you will have opportunities to put this into practice as you spend time with family during Christmas and New Year’s. Stephen shares advice on how to speak into the lives of those you love, as well as a story from his own life. Guys, there’s nothing grandiose or especially skilled about this practice. It’s simple, and you can do it. Learn how in this podcast. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the unique powers of manhood is the power of story: the power to ignite. Every man has the ability to learn and master stories. If your family doesn’t have moving, ennobling stories of its own, then you can learn and share the stories of others. What stories will you use to enrich those in your lives? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle,” said Philo of Alexandria. In this podcast, Stephen addresses a key truth: every man is fighting a great battle. But how do you recognize the battle? How do you fight it? And, most importantly, how do you WIN? In just twelve minutes, Stephen will walk you through the four steps of fighting your own battle. It all begins when you decide to develop a vision. You’ve got this. We’re here to help. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There are four things that every man should set aside time for. Stephen describes in this podcast how he’s seen a negligence of these four things lead to the absolute devastation of a man’s family. Single guys, yes, this applies to you, too. Stephen’s focus in this episode extends beyond husbands and fathers, including all men. While these four action items may seem unusual or disparate, men have destroyed their families by failing to take care of these things. 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.

Every single person listening to this podcast has enough opportunity for bitterness to ruin their lives. One of the great battles a man fights is the battle to rescue his soul from this poisonous force. Bitterness drains masculinity from men, it causes them to fail, become weak, and retreat from becoming the best they could be. Negatively speaking, it’s one of the most powerful forces in the soul of a man. Learn how to identify it and – more importantly – how to address it in 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 Hollywood, sexual favors as a path to greater exposure is a standard feature, Stephen’s heard from many friends in the industry. The Harvey Weinstein scandal, of course, has brought even greater attention to this injustice. In this podcast, Stephen examines why any noble definition of manhood has to include a belief that a man’s role is to protect women. He also takes a closer look at how pornography is misshaping our culture’s view of women, as well as what men can do to make the world a safer, better place for women. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephen Paddock, the killer who murdered dozens from the 32nd floor of a hotel in Las Vegas, was well-off with seemingly no complaints in the world. And yet he carried out the worst mass shooting in American history – a tragedy that caught his own brother by complete surprise. Guys, if you are walking without a band of brothers, you are in danger. Loneliness is an absolute epidemic in our society. We need others to draw us out, to hold us accountable, and to build us up. Read Charlie Hoehn's article, "Thoughts on Vegas, and Why Men Keep Doing This." Listen to "My Question About Guns" on 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.

Most men deal with anger. Men are not unique to experiencing anger, of course. Yet society doesn’t often give guys an opportunity to express their feelings. So, the hurt that masks anger, gets stuffed down and packed away, frequently showing up later in the form of depression or violent rage. Stephen’s seen how unmasking this hurt has set men free, making them better husbands, fathers, and friends. Find out how to achieve this in your own life when you listen to this critical podcast. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most men are preoccupied with the amount of time it takes to do some of the manly things they ought to be doing (like reading good books and building a band of brothers). “How do you find the time?” is one of the questions Stephen gets asked most as he speaks to men around the world. Guys, if you want to be a better husband... a better father... you’ve got to take take care of yourself first so that you’ll be better for everyone else. In this podcast, Stephen shares practical suggestions that every man can apply to his life.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When it's all said and done, the story of Hurricane Harvey will be a story of men taking action. Men took responsibility. They didn't wait for permission. They didn't wait for Superman. They didn't wait for the officials to show up. Men took action. In this first episode of The GreatMan Podcast, Stephen celebrates the stories of men banding together to respond to the incomprehensible devastation wrought by a 500-year storm. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.