Untaming Masculinity

Ask – Say something in order to obtain an answer or some information.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad field questions from listeners in their first ASK ME ANYTHING. If you have any questions you would like to ask the guys in a future AMA, post them on Instagram (@untamingmasculinity) or in the Untaming Masculinity Facebook Group.Show HighlightsWith the vast personal development universe, where does a man start to find and get on the path?What habits do high achievers implement on a daily basis to stay ahead of the game?What tactics do you use to fight off the natural man (e.g., laziness, comfort, and complacency)?How do you say no to others so you have time to say yes to yourself?If you can’t do something like the Iron Council or another men’s group, how do you build a community of men or at least a core group?How can I get my wife to decide where to eat?Why are bees little assholes?Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Show NotesAtomic Habits – James ClearAs A Man Thinketh – James AllenCan’t Hurt Me – David GogginsMiracle Morning – Hal ElrodNo More Mr. Nice Guy – Robert GloverAndy Frisella Power ListF3Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Late – doing something or taking place after the expected, proper, or usual timeMen often find themselves saying, “it’s too late for me to try that” or “I’m too old.” Whether it’s learning the guitar, going back to school, or starting a new business, there are things that men yearn to do but tell themselves that the ship has sailed.Telling yourself it’s too late to start or to try creates limiting self-belief. That limiting self-belief will lead you down a path of regret, which will inevitably lead to a whole lot of “what if’s”.Colonel Sanders started franchising Kentucky Fried Chicken at 62. A man named Fauja Singh started marathon running at the age of 84. While you may never achieve the heights of a Shaun White or a Gordon Ryan, think of what you will leave on the table if you don’t challenge yourself to try that thing you’ve always wanted to do.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad discuss the concept of it never being too late to start. They talk about their forays into hunting, jiu-jitsu, and mountain biking in their late 30s and how those decisions have positively impacted them. They also talk about the concept of failing fast. You may try something and inevitably not see the benefit of it. If that’s the case, be comfortable walking away. You should not, however, be comfortable in telling yourself that it’s too late.Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Show NotesCan’t Hurt Me – David GogginsSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Conversation – oral exchange of sentiments, observations, opinions, or ideasMen often find themselves running from conversations or being unwilling to have them. Men also can find themselves not properly prioritizing what truly matters, and often find themselves lost as a result.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad are joined by Clint McInnes, a tattoo artist, hunter, jiu-jitsu practitioner, and all-around badass. He is the owner of Spark Tattoo Company in West Valley, Utah.In this intensely powerful conversation, Clint discusses the path he forged to leave behind an established career filled with long hours to start an apprenticeship and eventually open his own tattoo shop. He made the intentional decision to prioritize his family by following his passion.In his line of work, Clint spends hours with other individuals, often in a one-on-one setting, giving him the opportunity to have conversations with folks from all walks of life. These conversations can range from some fun banter to very deep, powerful, and often philosophical conversations.Too often, we forget about the power of having conversations with others. These conversations allow and invite others to share details they may have otherwise not shared with anyone. Importantly, in having powerful conversations, it’s not always about what you have to say, but also the ability to be able to shut up and listen.Clint also discusses how the path he has chosen in life has allowed him to prioritize and focus on what truly matters. By being his own boss and creating a successful business, he has the time and bandwidth to focus firstly on his family, so that when they need him, he can fully be there for them. This prioritization also extends to his interests and passions. By simply making a conscious decision to prioritize, he has the time to train Brazilian jiu-jitsu and hunt while running a thriving business.Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Contact ClintInstagramFacebookSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Emotion – a natural instinctive state of mind deriving from one’s circumstances, mood, or relationships with others.Far too often, men find themselves in situations they regret due to letting their emotions get the best of them. Acting out due to an emotional response has negatively affected the lives of too many men.While emotion is natural and necessary, it’s vital to hone your emotional response. When fear, anger, or anxiety strike, you need to know how to process these emotions, then act.When you act before processing these emotions, the people you hurt the most are more often than not the ones you love the most. The damage left in your wake can often be substantial.By harnessing your emotions, you will begin to forge emotional intelligence and take control of your life.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad talk about not letting your emotions get the best of you. Having emotions is natural and expected, but it’s vital that you don’t allow the emotion to sabotage your relationships. They dive into several strategies that will help you recognize your emotion, process it, then act. Dan also introduces the concept of E+R=O, or Event + Response = Outcome. That result relies solely on you.Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Show NotesUnf*ck Yourself – Gary John BishopMeditations – Marcus AureliusBattle Cry – Jason WilsonE+R=O. (Event + Response = Outcome)Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Support – give assistance to; enable to function or act.It only takes a moment to reach out to be a friend but to the one who needs you the memory never ends.TOM KRAUSEWe as men have been told that we must go through life’s hardships alone, so many men stay quiet.However, men are not equipped to go through so many trials, struggles, and adversity alone. Men also need to know that we are not going through life’s ups and downs alone and that we have others in our corner.It’s a misnomer that men don’t want to talk about what is going on in their lives.Most men want to talk about their struggles with someone, but it needs to be someone they can trust. Someone they know will withhold judgment while also challenging them to be better.Too many men wait for a message or a call or a visit that, often, doesn’t come.As we build our bands of brothers and our tribes, it’s critical to keep tabs on the men around us. To make sure they are doing ok and to check in on them.Too many men struggle in silence, and sometimes just having someone reach out to them is exactly what they need to get back on track.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad talk about the importance of checking in on your boys. They discuss how checking in and being checked in on has positively impacted their lives and has gotten them through some recent struggles. They tactically talk about ways you can identify if something is off with one of your brothers, whether it’s them ghosting you or seeing a subtle change in their demeanor.When you notice something different, reach out. It might make all the difference in the world.Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Show NotesStudy Finds Sex Differences In Mental IllnessTEDx: How To Tame Your Advice MonsterSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Structure – the arrangement of and relations between the parts or elements of something complex.We live in a world where too many men have lost their way. All too often, we see men who have turned their backs on God and the church. However, a relationship with God is critical for a man to fully embrace his masculine self.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad are joined by Father Michael Butler, archpriest for Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church in Livonia, MI, and professional bodybuilder.In this wide-ranging, powerful interview, Father Michael discusses his journey to the ministry and how serving God has been paramount in his life and the lives of his family.Father Michael goes into detail about how his work is done out of gratitude for all that God has given him and how his work has been especially focused on young men and the importance of the church in their lives. There is an influx of men finding their way to faith and the church and we discuss in detail what these men stand to gain through finding faith, including Truth, stability, accountability, and brotherhood.We are not meant to undertake this journey alone. As men turn from themselves to others, they find their purpose and are led back to God.Father Michael also shares how he discovered bodybuilding at the age of 53 and outlines his journey into the world of professional bodybuilding. Bodybuilding has positively impacted every facet of his life, including his ministry. It’s a powerful testament to it never being too late to start changing your life.Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Show NotesHoly Transfiguration ChurchContact Father Michael ButlerYouTubeFacebookInstagramTikTokSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Adult Onset – beginning during adulthood (as opposed to childhood).While many men spent their childhood hunting with their fathers, many more men never had that experience. What is happening is that more and more of these men in their 30s and 40s are being drawn to the idea and allure of hunting.This phenomenon has been dubbed Adult Onset Hunting.Whether it’s duck hunting in a blind on a lake or bow hunting for bull elk in Montana, these men are eager to get started on their journey. However, knowing where to begin can seem daunting.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad have the honor of sitting down with Sam Ayres, the founder of The Wild Initiative and host of the Wild Initiative podcast.In our conversation, Sam documents his journey going from an ad agency career in Southern California wearing three-piece suits and cruising around in convertibles to moving to Montana and dedicating much of his life to hunting, fishing, and outdoor conservation.He shares how easily men can get started and gets into the basics of what a first-time hunter should be investing in. He also documents the struggles and challenges of hunting, and how they ultimately have made him a better man.The Wild Initiative is a hunting lifestyle brand and podcast with a chief focus of lowering the bar of entry to the outdoors, hunting and fishing. Some of Sam’s previous guests include Aron Snyder, Jim Shockey, Remi Warren, and countless others.Sam’s contact information is listed below.Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Show NotesElectrocardiographic Responses to Deer Hunting in Men and WomenHunter Ed Laws and ReciprocityContact Sam AyresThe Wild InitiativeThe Wild Initiative Digital Media GroupInstagramFacebookTwitterYouTubeiTunesStitcherSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Regret – a feeling of sadness, repentance, or disappointment over something that has happened or been done.Eventually, all of us will die.In those final moments, we will have an opportunity to reflect on life.So many men will one day be on that death bed thinking “what if?”What if I had paid more attention to my kids?What if I had been a better husband?What if I had taken that chance to start a business?What if I had taken that hunting trip to Alaska I’d always dreamed of?A man filled with “what ifs” is one filled with regret. We have one shot at life, so missed opportunities can very well haunt us all the way to the grave. We must focus on a life with no regrets, which is why we need to start living today, in the present.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad discuss living a life free of regrets. They take about some of the steps they’ve taken to stop living for the future and start to focus on what matters in the here and now.In a wide-ranging conversation, they begin to dive into what regrets they’ve had, what they are doing to ensure they don’t have regrets moving forward, and how men can simply live in the present, focused on what matters.It starts with a mindset shift, but the rest is up to you to execute. If we live only for tomorrow, we’ll have a lot of empty yesterdays today.Show Notes & ResourcesUnfu*ck Yourself – Gary John BishopTuesdays With Morrie – Mitch AlbomEpisode 825: Tactics and Mindset Shifts for Making The Most of Life (Art of Manliness)Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Prioritization – the action or process of deciding the relative importance or urgency of a thing or things.We, as men, become stuck on the concept of prioritizing others. It’s easy and feels almost natural to prioritize our families, our careers, and our responsibilities. As a result, we often leave ourselves and our needs behind.The results can be devastating. Isolation, depression, and lives with unfulfilled potential are commonplace among men. The question then becomes why. Why do we deprioritize ourselves and put off our needs and interests? Why do we willingly sacrifice our well-being?In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad answer those questions and identify strategies to help you do something about it. The guys share experiences in their lives and help you understand that this is something you can no longer put off.Choosing to prioritize yourself makes you a better man for yourself AND your family. Choosing to prioritize yourself enhances your career. Every element of your life naturally improves through a deliberate, intentional focus on yourself. As you make the time to go to the gym, learn a new skill, read good books, etc., your life will be enhanced and that focus on yourself will be felt by those that matter to you. Yes, there are boundaries and limits, but you are doing yourself and others a tremendous disservice by not prioritizing yourself. You simply have to be focused and intentional while not allowing excuses and feigned guilt to get in your way. Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Code of Conduct – a set of rules outlining the norms, rules, and responsibilities or proper practices of an individual party or an organization.Too many men wander aimlessly through life without a direction or without the focus needed to truly become what they are meant to become. That lack of direction can have devastating effects.Learning focus and direction comes from understanding who you are and what you’re all about. That understanding is obtained through establishing terms of engagement for yourself in any circumstance, or in other words, a code.As Jocko so succinctly states in The Code. The Evaluation. The Protocols: “We can prevail over mediocracy. We do that by chasing the ideal. Our ideal. An ideal that we must define. An ideal that we must codify in no uncertain terms so that we know what we are striving for. We must have a code to follow.”In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad take a look into what it means to create a code for yourself and why having one is so crucial.A code should be something that speaks to your soul and compels you to action, so as a result, it is something that is intensely personal. It is not something to be taken lightly and deserves real time and investment in creating.The guys share some tips on how to create a code for yourself, how to write one out, and how to make the conscious decision to live by this code every single day, no matter the circumstances. They also end the episode by sharing their personal codes of conduct, which provide them with the direction and clarity they need daily.Show Notes:The Code. The Evaluation. The Protocols: Striving to Become an Eminently Qualified Human – Jocko Willink, Dave Berke, Sarah ArmstrongSovereignty: The Battle for the Hearts and Minds of Men – Ryan Michler“The Power of Uncomfortable Truths with Sean Whalen” – Order of Man Podcast“Episode 84. The Discipline Code” – Real AF with Andy Frisella Podcast“Forging Your Own Path with Mat Best” – Order of Man Podcast“The Churchill School of Adulthood – Lesson #1: Develop a Mighty Moral Code” – The Art of Manliness Podcast“The Pursuit with Pete Roberts” – Order of Man PodcastSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Assume – suppose to be the case, without proof.As the saying goes, when you assume, you make an ass of ‘u’ and ‘me’. Unfortunately, we men assume all the time.We assume that our wife knows what we are thinking.We assume that others know what’s going on.We assume that what we have to say doesn’t have any value or that others already know what we are thinking.The thing about assumptions is that they are almost always wrong. Your wife does not know what you’re thinking. That thought you were hesitant to share could have been exactly what a struggling friend needed to hear.Assuming is triggered by fear and also by ego, and it can lead you down a slippery slope. That slippery slope can have a negative effect on your marraige, your relationship with your kids, your job, and importantly, yourself.One of the many dangers of assuming is creating unspoken expectations, which results in covert contracts. A covert contract is an unspoken agreement you have between you and somebody else. You expect someone to do something without actually telling them about it. Then, when they don’t hold up their end of this unspoken bargain, we hold it against them. Men make these covert contracts all the time, and they are manipulative. The results of covert contracts can be devastating.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad dive into why men make assumptions and enter into covert contracts with others. They talk about what drives this sort of behavior in men and why it’s so damaging. Most importantly, they talk about how you can stop assuming. The key is to say exactly what you need to say. While we can be driven by fear, that fear wants us to expect the worst.What, honestly, is the worst that can happen when you simply tell the truth and be intentional?Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Pack - a group of wild animals, especially wolves, living and hunting together.In Rudyard Kipling's seminal classic The Jungle Book, the boy Mowgli is raised by wolves. These wolves lived by a law, famously known as The Law for the Wolves. The preeminent line of that law isFor the strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack.Men, like wolves, need a pack. They need a group of men to raise them up and challenge them for more. These groups of men thrive on the individual skills and attributes of each of the members of the pack. Much like a great quarterback needs great defensive line and special teams play to be successful, all men need to be able to rely on others and they need to know that others are consistently relying on them. It's a crucial, symbiotic relationship that is necessary amongst men. And sadly, too many men don't recognize this.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad discuss the concept of the pack and the tremendous power in finding a pack. They share stories, examples, and insights into this powerful concept and help identify how men can build a pack of their own. Both men share their experiences in finding a pack and how so doing changed the trajectory of their lives, helping them discover what they're truly capable of. Finally, they also discuss the value that we as men bring to our pack, and why this symbiosis is so vital. Too many men live in fear or lack the understanding of why a pack is necessary, and the guys discuss why this mindset that must change. Men need other men. The Law for the Wolves starts with a powerful admission: "NOW this is the law of the jungle, as old and as true as the sky, And the wolf that shall keep it may prosper, but the wolf that shall break it must die". Being a lone wolf does not work. A lone wolf without a pack dies.Show Notes:Coach's Corner - The Wolf And The PackLinkedIn - The Strength of The Wolf Is The PackSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Funk - a state of depression We as men find ourselves dealing with highs and with lows. All too often, those lows can turn into ruts that we struggle to shake. A bad day can quickly turn into a bad month or a bad year if you simply allow it to. It's so much easier for a man to live in ignorance and continue down a path of destruction and find himself self-medicating with vices than it is to pick himself up and get to work on addressing the problem. However, those subconscious decisions that lead to the quick dopamine hits porn, drinking, etc. provide only exacerbate the problem and leave too many men waking up one day asking themselves why they've gotten where they are.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad dive into how men get into funks and how they can work their way out of them. They discuss some recent events in their lives, the struggles they've each faced, and how they have worked through them, or are continuing to work through them. We, as men, too easily fall into the trap of allowing ourselves to fall deeper and deeper into a rut before trying to work our way through it. Quite frankly, the results can be devastating. Action is necessary, but too many men find themselves overwhelmed and feeling as if they can't do it. The key is to not go through something alone. By simply reaching out and making an effort, we discover that so many men are ready to help us out if we simply ask.Show Notes:Atomic Habits - James ClearSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Preparedness – a state of readiness, especially for war.There are few topics that capture a man’s imagination more than preparedness.Whether it’s being prepared for a rainy day, the threat of invasion, or the inevitable zombie apocalypse, the idea of being prepared is something that almost every man has thought about.While the idea of a self-sustaining homestead in Montana with enough ammo and provisions to last years is exciting, preparedness is much more foundational and essential than that. As is the case with any endeavor, starting small is the key. Making sure you have enough food and water along with basic necessities and provisions to get you through a week or two is something that you can easily execute, starting today.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad discuss the idea of preparedness, what it is and how any man can start to prepare himself and his family for any situation.They share stories and have an honest and open conversation about what preparedness looks like for them, how they’ve handled previous situations, and what they are currently doing to take care of their families to handle likely scenarios.They also discuss why it’s crucial to be able to comfortably hunker down at home in an emergency for a week or two and why it’s equally important to have a bug-out bag ready if staying where you are is not an option.This is a free-flowing conversation filled with a lot of tips and real-life advice.Show Notes:Building a Black Out Box (SuburbanSteader.com)Building a Bug Out Bag (The Survival Podcast)5 Food Preservation Methods (The Backyard Pioneer)Intro To Preparedness (The Survival Podcast)Copy Canning Basics (The Florida Hillbilly)Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Conversation – a talk, especially an informal one, between two or more people, in which news and ideas are exchanged.As men, we are required to have difficult conversations from time to time. Too many men run from these conversations or handle them poorly. The consequences of avoided or poorly handled difficult conversations can be significant.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad provide five tips for success with difficult conversations. They share some experiences and stories of both what you should and shouldn’t do. While these difficult conversations never get easier with time, applying some principles and advance planning goes a long way in making them not only manageable but successful.These five tips are:Come preparedCheck your ego at the doorWhen everyone feels like they gave up something, it’s a winDifficult conversations don’t get easier with timePractice makes better, not perfectSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Negative – a word or statement that expresses denial, disagreement, or refusalToo many men are wired to always say yes, or in other words, to never say no.You’re asked to do something you don’t want to (or should) do, but say yes anyway. You’re stressed and overburdened at work, but when your boss asks you to take over a project, you simply say yes.Simply put, you say yes, even though you have no business saying yes. You say yes, even if the person asking you to do something really wants you to say no. You’re consciously putting your well-being, happiness, and overall masculinity at risk by doing things you know you shouldn’t or not doing things you should.Why?So many men are people pleasers and Nice Guys. They’ve told themselves that how they feel doesn’t matter or that they don’t want to let others down.On the other hand, there are situations where a man wants to say no but should say yes. This comes in the form of saying no to a job opportunity where there is some perceived risk. It comes in the form of not starting that workout plan or lifestyle change, simply because that discomfort seems impossible. Many men have self-limiting beliefs that they’re not willing to stare down and address. Too many men spend time thinking of the worst that can happen.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad dive into this concept and explore why men are likely to do something they have no desire to do, or why they’re so likely to say no to something that they shouldn’t. They share some personal stories and experiences, and answer the important question men face when things get uncomfortable (and consequently say yes when they should be saying no): What’s the worst that can happen?When you spend some time truly asking yourself that question, you will start to see that the preconceived conclusions you’ve drawn almost never play out that way, and you’re selling yourself short by simply not doing what you should. There’s so much growth awaiting a man who truly owns his intentions and can tell others no (or yes).Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Outside – not within the boundaries or confines of a placeMen are meant to spend time outside. Throughout history, it has been the responsibility of men to farm, hunt, trap, homestead, forage, and protect. Men are wired to not only spend time outside but to thrive outside. We live in an age of convenience and comfort. Where a man can move quickly from his luxurious bed to his comfortable couch where he can settle into a day of Xbox and Netflix while ordering DoorDash. Such is the world in which we live that if a man chooses to, he doesn’t have to leave his house for anything, including work. This comfort is unnatural and is destroying the souls and bodies of men everywhere.The benefits of spending time outside are immeasurable. Whether it’s physically, mentally, or emotionally, getting outdoors is great for a man. We’re not just talking about getting into the forest or out on the ocean. Simply getting outside to go on a walk or to do some yard work is not only beneficial for a man but essential. In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad give you three big reasons why men must spend time outside. They cite examples and share experiences where simply getting outside will improve your life in a variety of ways, ranging from lowered cortisol levels (cortisol is your body’s stress hormone) to re-introducing a level of risk and adventure to your life. Simply by making a concerted effort to spend even a few minutes a day outside, you will see a dramatic improvement physically, mentally, and emotionally. You will also begin to rediscover that untamed man living inside of you.These three reasons are:Physical benefitsMental benefitsProblem Solving CapabilitySubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Integrity – the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightnessA man of character must live a life of integrity.The definition of integrity is “the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles”. As men, it is our duty and obligation to be men of both our word and our actions. To be unrelentingly honest and to live with integrity. To execute when time gets tough. To never stop showing up for our families, our loved ones, and especially, ourselves. When men fail to live in integrity, every single element of their lives suffers. Too many men hide some dark secrets behind a morally good facade and would be absolutely terrified if someone were to simply find out. This isn’t to say that good men are perfect or are constantly living in integrity, as every man has inner demons he must stare down and overcome. When men are honest, they find tremendous power to lead their families and communities. We, as men, must strive to live in integrity, no matter how hard it may seem.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad discuss integrity and its unbelievable, life-changing power. They share some personal stories and examples of how they had to make a conscious decision to simply stop living a dishonest life to reclaim their masculinity by making the conscious choice to be unrelentingly honest men of character. They also share some struggles they still face, as the journey to living in integrity is a life-long endeavor. If you feel that you are not a man of integrity, there is a path before you. It may not be easy, but nothing truly worthwhile in life is. Do not act as if you were going to live ten thousand years. Death hangs over you. While you live, while it is in your power, be good.- MARCUS AURELIUSSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Resiliency – the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughnessWhy a man must be resilient?Every man is met with challenges and adversity. Every man is presented with situations that seem impossible to overcome, or at the very least, extremely difficult. There are times when a man may find himself hanging on by a thread, feeling that he can’t go on.It’s in that moment that a man must choose resiliency. He must choose to stand up and fight. Whether it’s in a relationship, in his career, or staring down his demons, a man has to make a conscious decision to be resilient. That conscious decision will not only help him endure but will ultimately change this man forever. Through hard times comes tremendous growth and opportunity. Hard times create strong men.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad discuss the concept of resiliency and why it’s integral in a man’s life. They share various examples and stories of how they faced challenges and having resiliency not only allowed them to overcome but to thrive, grow, and mature. The guys’ lives changed drastically simply by choosing to be resilient, fight, and to not give up.You can experience the same. In this episode, we talk about what resiliency is, how it can be developed, and why it is so critical for men to experience hard things. We also dive into the mindset of how to develop resiliency if you are unsure of yourself and where to begin. Any man should become resilient. Too many men find themselves giving up or not even trying. It’s time to rewrite that narrative and change your life by learning to stand up and fight.Show highlights and links include:The Obstacle Is The Way by Ryan HolidayGrit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela DuckworthSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Prioritization- the action or process of deciding the relative importance or urgency of a thing or things.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad dive into prioritization. Specifically prioritization in busy times. When things get chaotic, men need to be structured, prepared, and organized.We all get busy. Sometimes we get really busy, and things always seem to arise when you least expect them. How many times have you had to deal with an unexpected fire at work or an incredibly stressful situation at home that you simply weren’t prepared for? It happens all the time. Life rarely goes as planned. However, when times get difficult, it’s incredibly important to be structured and disciplined. You need to know how to respond, and by so doing, you will be able to confidently navigate these stormy waters. The guys review various practices, tools, and tactics that they’ve implemented and give some good insight into various things that you can incorporate to be a more structured, disciplined man who can properly prioritize and execute.Show highlights and links include:Atomic Habits by James ClearDeep Work by Cal NewportA Time: The Busy Manager’s Action Plan for Self Management by James NoonGetting Things Done by David AllenTodoist AppGoogle Keep AppEvernote AppEisenhower MatrixTime BlockingManager Tools PodcastSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Competition – the activity or condition of striving against one another to gain or win somethingIn this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad dive into competition and competitiveness. We live in a world where being competitive is being seen as somehow toxic, but competition brings the best out of men and is necessary. Every man not only craves competition but needs it to push himself.Whether it’s an athletic endeavor, trying to win the attention of a pretty girl, playing board games with your family, or working toward a promotion at work, men regularly find themselves in competitive situations.And men want to win.We are not wired to be apathetic or indifferent. Healthy competition brings out the best in men as it helps them not only level up and be better, but it raises the levels of the men around them. It’s necessary and has been a part of the human condition since the dawn of time.Yet we live in a world where men are now being judged or torn down for wanting to be competitive and exhibit a desire to win. The resultant apathy has created a generation of weak men, and it’s up to us to change that. It’s important to note that there’s unhealthy competition, fueled by poor emotional responses. Any man can recognize the difference between that and healthy competition that makes men BETTER.Show highlights and links include:Why men are sociologically wired to be competitiveCompetition can also be a personal endeavorWhy apathy and indifference hurts a manGreat article from The Art of ManlinessRelentless by Tim GroverSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Marriage - the legally or formally recognized union of two people as partners in a personal relationship (historically and in some jurisdictions specifically a union between a man and a woman).In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad discuss a topic that may seem controversial, but shouldn’t be. Your wife should always come before your kids. As fathers, it’s very easy to prioritize your children, but putting your kids before your wife can have a damaging and lasting impact.When you watched your wife walk down the aisle, you promised at that moment to always provide for her, protect her and give her a good life. Then a few years go by and you look up to competing priorities: a job, personal interests, a mortgage, and very importantly, kids. Many men put their kids first and base their lives around their kids, often at the expense of their wife. That erodes marriage and ultimately erodes fatherhood.The guys discuss why this approach is not ok and how prioritizing your wife both helps your marriage and helps your kids. Kids deserve to have a family ecosystem where they know their dad loves their mom unconditionally and fiercely.Show highlights include:She was there before them, she’ll be there after themPrioritizing kids deprioritizes marriage and in turn, your wifeNo one wants a marriage that’s “friends sleeping together”Strong marriages are role models for kidsSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Leadership – the ability of an individual or a group of individuals to influence and guide followers or other members of an organization.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad sit down with Ian Roth to discuss his upcoming book, Big Stick Leadership.The title of the book stems from Theodore Roosevelt’s mantra of big stick diplomacy: “Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far.” Teddy Roosevelt was one of the greatest leaders in American history, and the principles he applied to his leadership are just as applicable today as they were at the turn of the 20th century.Being a leader is something all men face. Whether that’s professionally or personally, becoming an effective leader is something at the forefront of many men’s lives. However, we are surrounded by examples of men who either speak loudly and carry a small stick or speak softly and carry a small stick.Many men have poor examples of leadership in their lives and can see first-hand the destruction left in the wake of poor leadership. However, men can develop into great leaders, and this conversation focuses on where to start.The guys and Ian dive into the attributes and characteristics of what a big stick leader looks like (and doesn’t look like) while sharing examples throughout the conversation. This conversation also segues into Ian’s book, his reverence for Teddy Roosevelt, and his ahead-of-its-time philosophies.As this is Ian’s first foray into writing a book, men have a very unique opportunity to not only get early access to excerpts of his book but can also contribute to its writing. Check it out at https://ianmroth.com/ and subscribe to his Substack, where he is regularly posting progress updates: https://bigstickleader.substack.com/.Contact Ian RothInstagramTwitterSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Brotherhood – an association, society, or community of people linked by a common interest, religion, or tradeThere is incredible power in forming a band of brothers, specifically a group of men, who can hold each other to a higher standard. In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad sit down and talk about the power of building a band of brothers. A band of brothers is different than a group of buddies. While having friends and buddies is important and vital to a man, men need a group that goes beyond that. A band of brothers is a group of men who can challenge each other, push each other, and hold each other accountable. It’s a group of men who are in the trenches of life together. They are unafraid to call another man out and help him get back on track. This group of men will not simply tell you what you want to hear, but what you need to hear.Many men have been deceived into thinking that the quintessential man is a lone wolf who is out there doing it on his own. No man is meant to go through life without other men by his side. A lone wolf simply cannot fulfill his potential as a man. The guys share their experiences of learning to build their band of brothers. They discuss the benefits of having a band of brothers and how it’s directly impacted their lives. Specifically how having a band of brothers helped them face down challenges and adversity, growth opportunities, and various life events. We, as men, were not created to go through life alone without the brotherhood of other men.The guys also provide some tips and guidance on how you can set out to build a band of brothers. Too many men don’t have established relationships with other men or rely on their significant other to fill this gap. It’s imperative that a man foster these relationships with other men. There are different ways to set out on building that. Whether that’s with a group of friends, a church group, or at work, there are men out there for you to build a bond, a brotherhood, with. You just need to look and be unafraid to ask.Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Suffer – experience or be subjected to something bad or unpleasantIn this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad have the opportunity to sit down with our friend, world-class professional strongman, bodybuilder, and fitness coach Anthony Diehl. Anthony shares the incredible journey that took him from working in corporate America to being able to build a successful coaching business. Oh, and he also conquered the strongman world! He finishes by talking about his pivot into bodybuilding and how he’s focused on providing incredible resources to other coaches.What sets a man apart is a willingness to suffer. Take risks. Be ok failing. Anthony discusses the trajectory of his life and how it took a powerful turn simply because he was willing to take risks and potentially fail. He, like many of us, was presented with some pivotal moments in his life to take a chance. Ultimately he chose to take them. Anthony leveraged the foundation he had set for himself in his professional career to create a thriving business, and he shares some tips and advice he learned along the way. He also discusses some of the other projects and companies he’s working with and how he refuses to settle, simply because he is willing to suffer.Anthony is the self-proclaimed World’s Strongest Nutrition Coach. He has helped hundreds of men and women transform their lives through fitness and nutrition. If you are interested in his coaching or want a great, inspirational, no-holds-barred follow, you can check him out on Instagram (link below). Also, support him and his friends at Hunt Lift Eat on Instagram at @huntlifteatofficial, or check out their website at https://www.huntlifteat.com.Contact Anthony DiehlInstagramTwitterAnthony’s LinkTreeSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Service – the action of helping or doing work for someoneOn this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad have the honor of sitting down with our friend David Body of Operation Restored Warrior. David shares his story, including how we all met, then dives into the incredible work that Operation Restored Warrior does.So many veterans have been impacted by their decision to serve their country. They consider it an honor to serve this great nation, but many of them return home broken. That brokenness continues to follow them throughout their lives. Each day, twenty-two veterans commit suicide, in so many ways because they have lost their way. Operation Restored Warrior is a non-profit, nondenominational Christian organization whose purpose is to help these warriors restore themselves through the healing of Jesus.Operation Restored Warrior hosts 5-day Drop Zones at various locations across the US where the primary focus is on healing a man’s heart. The goal is for veterans to find inspiration and renewed vision to help them take on the challenges that have held them back. David goes into depth on the renewal that these men experience after these events and their renewed focus on helping rescue other veteran warriors.If you know any former service members or law enforcement officers that are struggling, encourage them to check out Operation Restored Warrior at the links provided below.Contact ORWLink TreeInstagramFacebookEmailContact David BodyInstagramSubscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Debt – an obligation that requires one party, the debtor, to pay money or other agreed-upon value to another party, the creditor.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad dive into the concept of Financial Freedom. There are a million different types of advice surrounding debt elimination and investing, but regardless of whose advice speaks to you, the fact of the matter is that a man mired in debt is shackled by it.The guys spend some time going over some of their experiences around debt, including near bankruptcy, and how simply making the effort to address that has changed their lives. That effort includes not only eliminating debt but making a conscious effort to save and invest. Once you have established financial freedom, opportunities open, and your life will change. If you are unsure of where to begin, start with tracking. Once you track your income and expenses, you can devise a plan to conquer your finances and change your life.Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Self-Investment – the ability to invest your energy, time, and perhaps some money into enhancing, nurturing, and growing your mindset.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad explore why it’s so critical that a man invests in himself. It’s a misnomer that investing in one’s self is solely financial, and the guys spend a lot of time discussing various ways they have invested in themselves and the incredible growth and development that has come from that effort.Men often don’t believe in themselves enough to invest in themselves. That sort of self-talk needs to stop. Taking the time to invest in yourself can start small, but much like investing in the stock market, those small steps, when repeated consistently, will produce incredible results. Investing in yourself requires sacrifice, but that sacrifice is necessary. No good thing in life comes without sacrifice or work. Starting to invest in yourself today will set you up for unbelievable success.These are some of the questions/topics that the guys address in this episode:Why should a man invest in himself?Why investing in yourself doesn’t require money.Why making sacrifices to invest in yourself is worthwhileHow you can start investing in yourself TODAYFollow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Excuse - a reason or explanation put forward to defend or justify a fault or offense.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad explore why men have been so good at making excuses. Excuses have plagued every man at one point or another. However, learning to stop making excuses will change your life. They discuss examples of learning to push past the allure of making excuses and provide some actionable steps that will help you overcome the desire to make excuses. Men are guilty of saying things such as "I don't have time" or "I can't do it." Why does a man tell himself this narrative and allow himself to spiral? Lives with unlimited potential can be derailed by something as simple as an excuse. Pushing past the desire to make excuses makes a man stronger and more resilient. Embracing the struggle enables a man to prioritize and execute. Ultimately, choosing to no longer make excuses will bring you closer to fulfilling your potential as a man, a husband, and a father. These are some of the questions/topics the guys address in this episode: What is an excuse?Why do we make excuses?Identifying where you are failing.What do you need to shed to get things done?Creating a routine will help you stop making excuses.Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Service - the action of helping or doing work for someone.In this episode of Untaming Masculinity, Dan and Brad explore service. What does it mean to serve? How does performing service benefit a man and help him become masculine? Why serving others is the key to a purpose-driven life? They discuss some stories of service in their lives and reflect on how others serving them set a foundation for the kinds of men they've become.Learning to serve others not only enriches your life, but it brings power and purpose. Choosing a life of service will bring you closer to God and will establish a foundation that comprehensively helps you be better. Some questions answered in this episode are:Why should a man serve others?How does service enrich a man and make him more masculine?How can I begin serving others?Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Imposter Syndrome - doubting your abilities and feeling like a fraud.In this episode, Dan and Brad dive into something that plagues many men: Imposter Syndrome. Why is it that so many capable men succumb to feelings of inadequacy and feeling as if they're not enough? They answer some difficult questions and have a deep discussion on ways they have both overcome imposter syndrome in their lives and steps you can take to start to do the same.Overcoming imposter syndrome and finding a greater sense of purpose can change your life. Few men understand the power and potential that they have hidden behind feelings of inadequacy. Some steps that are identified in this episode to help address this include being humble, asking questions, providing value, and realizing that you have been put in situations for a reason. Imposter syndrome, as is the case with any challenge, can be overcome through intentionality and continued focus.Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Routine - a sequence of actions regularly followed; a fixed program.In this episode, Dan and Brad discuss the power of routine and answer the questions that many guys ask around this life-altering concept. Namely, what is a routine? Why is having a routine important? How can I develop a routine?While wanting to create a routine is a great start, it's important to create one that is sustainable. A sustainable routine will ultimately change your life, so the guys provide some tips to get you started. Specifically, they discuss how to create a routine that will become a non-negotiable part of your day and review the benefit of why you should treat them as SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time Bound).Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat. – Theodore RooseveltIn this episode, Dan and Brad dive into the concept of the Strenuous Life and how the idea of intentional struggle will benefit every man. They both talk about their individual journeys to live a Strenuous Life and the profound growth that’s come from choosing to embrace it.While this concept was popularized by Theodore Roosevelt, it’s something that is equally important today. Roosevelt lived a life embracing the difficult and made himself into one of the greatest men to ever live. We too can choose the Strenuous Life and become strong both physically and mentally, which will allow us to become men of integrity and tremendous strength.Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

The Latin term aut faciam aut viam inveniam means “I will either find a way or make one”. Every man is faced with challenges. Some are great and some are small. When confronted with these challenges, a man should do all in his power to find a way to accomplish them or make one.In this episode, Dan and Brad discuss what it means to find a way or make one, the significance of this motto, and how this mindset was developed in each of them. They share some real-life examples from getting in shape to following in the footsteps of a father to finding a way to salvage a marriage. There’s always a way through, but that way through requires work and resiliency.Follow Untaming Masculinity on your favorite podcast app, YouTube, and Instagram.Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review

Welcome to Untaming Masculinity. In this introductory episode, Dan and Brad talk about what they are looking to accomplish by sharing their message. They also spend some time discussing their individual journeys toward being untamed, intentional, purposeful men and their desire to help other men understand and restore their purpose in life.In a world where so many messages tell you that being a man is offensive or toxic, it’s more important than ever that men rise up to be their best selves as husbands, fathers, and leaders. It’s vital for a man to not only recognize his value but to reclaim the tenacity, passion, and strength that makes men, men.Subscribe and ShareSubscribe to our YouTube channelConnect with Dan on Instagram and TwitterConnect with Brad on Instagram and TwitterFollow Untaming Masculinity on Instagram and TwitterJoin the Untaming Masculinity Facebook GroupPlease leave us a rating and review