Nov. 28, 2025
Breaking Out Of The Man Box: Betting On Yourself and Redefining Masculinity
Breaking Out Of The Man Box: Betting On Yourself and Redefining Masculinity Ep 381, November 28, 2025
Embracing Vulnerability and Transforming Trauma
Real Men Feel host Andy Grant interviews Eugene Z. Bertrand, a master of social work candidate at Columbia University, trauma-informed mental healthcare advocate, and first-time author. Eugene discusses how the Real Men Feel podcast significantly impacted his life and shaped his approach to addressing and reframing trauma. The conversation covers Eugene's personal experiences with domestic violence, the importance of vulnerability, and using creativity as a healing tool.
Eugene highlights his work as a mitigation specialist, focusing on rehabilitation rather than incarceration, and emphasizes the importance of betting on oneself, positive affirmations, and investing in personal growth. Finally, Eugene shares insights on the unique challenges faced by black men in mental health and advocates for a trauma-informed justice system.
Meet Eugene: From Pain to Purpose
Eugene Z. Bertrand is a master of social work candidate at Columbia University. With a steadfast determination, he advocates for mental health and vulnerability, challenging societal norms about masculinity, especially in the black community. During his discussion with Andy Grant, Eugene opens up about his journey of personal growth and the impact of creativity in healing trauma.
The Power of Vulnerability
As Eugene shares his story, he emphasizes the importance of vulnerability as a strength rather than a weakness. Confronting the "man box" stereotype, especially for black men, Eugene encourages an open dialogue about emotions and mental health. He highlights the misconceptions surrounding domestic violence and stresses how essential it is to break the silence and dismantle stigma.
Creative Expression as a Tool for Healing
Eugene's book, "Resilience: Breaking the Chains," reflects on reframing trauma and converting pain into purpose. He explains that real healing starts with creative expression, whether through poetry, writing, or any form of art. For Eugene, writing and expressing his experience of surviving domestic violence has been transformative and empowering.
Alternatives to Incarceration: A Broader Perspective
Working as a mitigation specialist, Eugene strives to bring compassion and understanding into the justice system. He argues for alternatives to incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation and community support—essentials for fostering true transformation in offenders and fostering healthier communities.
Connection Between Trauma, Mental Health, and Incarceration
Throughout the discussion, Eugene aligns his insights on trauma, mental health, and incarceration, pointing out their interconnected nature. He stresses the need for a trauma-informed justice system that considers personal histories and mental health conditions, aiming for rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Betting on Yourself
A key theme Eugene shares is the concept of "betting on yourself." Growing up with ADHD and anxiety, he speaks about the importance of self-belief amid adversity. By reaching out and taking risks, Eugene illustrates how confidence and self-investment can lead to meaningful connections and robust personal growth.
Conclusion
Eugene Z. Bertrand's first podcast appearance on Real Men Feel stands not only as an inspiration but as a call to action. His journey is a reminder that vulnerability can lead to resilience, connection, and purpose. For those looking to continue these conversations and build a supportive network, joining communities like Authentic AF can be life-changing.
Remember, you don't have to walk your path alone. Join Andy and Eugene, along with many other men dedicated to authenticity, courage, and growth, in the Authentic AF community at realmenfeel.org/group.
Tune In
Watch this episode on YouTube.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
Enjoy Real Men Feel on Spotify
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
Enjoy Real Men Feel on Spotify
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Connect with Eugene
Eugene Z Bertrand → https://eugenezbertrand.com/
LinkedIn → linkedin.com/in/eugene-bertrand
Resources
Resilience: Breaking the Chains by Eugene Z Bertrand — https://amzn.to/44oc8Sq
200 Powerful Positive Affirmations and 6 Simple Tips to Put Them to Work by Andy Grant — https://amzn.to/4p2k8kd
200 Powerful Positive Affirmations and 6 Simple Tips to Put Them to Work by Andy Grant — https://amzn.to/4p2k8kd
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