Real Men Feel with Andy Grant

Fueling Growth with Gratitude and Grief: Finding Purpose in the Shadow of Loss

Navigating Grief with Gratitude: A Conversation with Steve GamlinIn this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes Steve Gamlin, known as the Motivational Firewood Guy. Steve shares his journey of grief and gratitude after losing his wife, Tina, in December 2024. The conversation delves deep into the process of living and creating with a broken heart, the power of visualization, and the impact of everyday kindness. Steve also discusses the importance of authentic expression and being honest about where you are in life. This heartfelt discussion is both uplifting and profoundly human, providing insights into how to find strength and purpose amid profound loss.00:00 Introduction and Personal Tragedy00:41 Meet Steve Gamlin: The Motivational Firewood Guy01:46 The Origin of Motivational Firewood03:50 Understanding Visualization and Vision Boards08:15 The Power of Everyday Kindness14:02 Navigating Grief and Sharing the Journey19:09 Personal Journey Through Grief20:49 Rebuilding and Moving Forward21:26 The Importance of Lived Experience23:26 Honoring Tina Through Vision Boards27:03 Daily Habits and Positivity33:29 Future Relationships and Self-Discovery35:32 Final Thoughts and ConnectionConnect with SteveSteve Gamlin — http://SteveGamlinSpeaker.comFacebook — https://www.facebook.com/SteveGamlinLinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevegamlin/Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:Join me and connect with other like-minded men in theAuthentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/groupInstagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrantAndy Grant | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!Real Men Feel | http://realmenfeel.orgYouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel#RealMenFeel ep 385

No Competition, Just Growth: The Lez Bro's Take on Men's Work

Breaking Down Barriers with the LezBroIn this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant talks with Aastha Lal, a lesbian coach who is transforming men's relationships by providing a safe, non-competitive, and non-judgmental space for growth. Aastha shares her journey in creating the LezBro, a coaching practice where men can explore vulnerability, emotional honesty, and mindfulness. They discuss common challenges men face, such as reactivity and the need for connection, and highlight practical solutions through mindfulness and meditation. Aastha's unique approach bridges the divide in how men approach emotional openness and mental well-being, creating a ripple effect that benefits their relationships and communities. Join Andy and Aastha as they dive deep into the importance of emotional safety and the unexpected benefits of having a lesbian coach for straight men.00:00 Introduction: The Starvation for Connection00:29 Meet the Guest: Aastha Lahl, The LezBro Coach01:17 The Birth of LezBro: A Safe Space for Men03:00 Common Reactions and Client Experiences04:46 The Importance of Vulnerability and Mindfulness09:43 Challenges Men Face: Emotions and Reactivity12:38 Mindfulness in Practice: Real-Life Applications17:12 Connection in Relationships: Single vs. Married Men19:18 Outdated Masculinity and Emotional Expression27:35 Practical Steps for Men: Starting the Journey31:29 Conclusion: Final Thoughts and ResourcesConnect with AasthaTheLezBro — https://www.thelezbro.com/Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/the.lezbro/Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:Join me and connect with other like-minded men in theAuthentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/groupInstagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrantAndy Grant | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!Real Men Feel | http://realmenfeel.orgYouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel#RealMenFeel ep 384

Embracing Vulnerability: What More Men Should Know

In this unique clip show, host Andy Grant of Real Men Feel compiles powerful, honest answers from 17 previous guests to one pivotal question: 'What do you wish more men knew?' These responses shed light on the significant themes of love, vulnerability, self-worth, and emotional resilience. From emphasizing the importance of self-love and accountability to advocating for better sexual health and emotional expression, these insights reveal a common thread—strength and vulnerability are not opposites, but essential mates. This episode encourages men to be true to themselves and engage deeply with others.00:00 Introduction to Real Men Feel00:37 The Power of Vulnerability03:34 Embracing Emotional Resilience07:35 Redefining Masculinity14:18 The Importance of Sexual Health17:20 Conclusion and Community InvitationConnect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:Join me and connect with other like-minded men in theAuthentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/groupInstagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrantAndy Grant | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!Real Men Feel | http://realmenfeel.orgYouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel#RealMenFeel ep 383

Veteran Triumphs Over Silent Struggle: Winning The War After The War

From Silence to Strength: A Veteran's JourneyIn this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant interviews Louis Stockley Jr., an army veteran, father, coach, and founder of Before 22. Louis shares his story of serving 17 years in military and federal service, facing emotional shutdowns, and nearly losing his family to his video game addiction. He discusses the pressures of masculinity, how the military shaped him, and the harrowing experiences of transitioning to civilian life. Louis also talks about his turning point and the creation of Before 22, a movement to help veterans find purpose, brotherhood, and support before falling into severe mental health crises. Join Andy and Louis as they explore the importance of vulnerability, brotherhood, and service in reclaiming one's life and voice.00:00 Military Programming and Emotional Suppression00:40 Introduction to Real Men Feel and Guest Louis Stockley Jr.01:27 Louis Stockley's Military Background and Early Challenges03:13 Lessons in Masculinity and Military Discipline07:55 A Painful Lesson in Commitment10:17 Transitioning to Civilian Life18:28 Struggles with Trust and Isolation21:32 The Turning Point: Overcoming Video Game Addiction28:01 Discovering the Power of Fitness29:00 Helping a Friend in Need32:56 The Impact of Brotherhood35:32 Facing Personal Challenges38:10 Understanding Veterans' Struggles41:18 The Mission of Before 2247:33 Encouraging Vulnerability and Seeking Help52:33 Final Thoughts and ResourcesConnect with LouisLinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/lstockley/Louis on TikTok — https://www.tiktok.com/@vetcoachlouisBefore 22 — https://www.tiktok.com/@before22adayLouis on IG — https://www.instagram.com/vetcoachlouisBefore 22 — https://www.instagram.com/before22aday/Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:Join me and connect with other like-minded men in theAuthentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/groupInstagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrantAndy Grant | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!Real Men Feel | http://realmenfeel.orgYouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel#RealMenFeel ep 382

Breaking Out Of The Man Box: Betting On Yourself and Redefining Masculinity

Breaking the Chains: Reframing TraumaIn this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant talks with Eugene Z. Bertrand, a master of social work candidate at Columbia University, advocate for trauma-informed mental healthcare, and first-time author. Eugene discusses his journey of turning pain into purpose by reframing trauma as resilience and the significance of vulnerability for healing. Topics include dismantling myths and stigma around domestic violence, betting on oneself, the intersection of trauma and mental health with incarceration, and the importance of representation and support systems. Eugene also shares about his impactful book 'Resilience: Breaking the Chains' and his role as a mitigation specialist in a federal public defender's office.00:00 Introduction and Myths Around Domestic Violence00:23 Meet Eugene Z. Bertrand01:21 Eugene's Journey and Impact of Real Men Feel02:03 Discussing the Man Box and Male Vulnerability04:35 Creativity as a Healing Tool06:01 Eugene's Book: Resilience Breaking the Chains12:06 Challenges and Opportunities in Mental Health for Black Men16:38 Mitigation Specialist Role and Rehabilitation23:08 Betting on Yourself and Personal Growth26:54 Final Thoughts and ConnectionConnect with EugeneEugene Z Bertrand — https://eugenezbertrand.com/LinkedIn — linkedin.com/in/eugene-bertrandResourcesResilience: Breaking the Chains by Eugene Z Bertrand — https://amzn.to/44oc8Sq200 Powerful Positive Affirmations and 6 Simple Tips to Put Them to Work by Andy Grant — https://amzn.to/4p2k8kdConnect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:Join me and connect with other like-minded men in theAuthentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/groupInstagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrantAndy Grant | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!Real Men Feel | http://realmenfeel.orgYouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel#RealMenFeel ep 381