Oct. 16, 2026

Breaking The Silence of Depression and Discovering Purpose

Breaking The Silence of Depression and Discovering Purpose Ep 424, October 16, 2026

Climbing the Second Mountain: A Conversation with Neil Smith on Purpose and Mental Fitness

What do you do when you reach the pinnacle of your career, only to find that the life you’ve built no longer aligns with your desires? Real Men Feel host Andy Grant sat down with Neil Smith, a former television executive, to explore this complex journey. With a background that includes producing shows like “The Apprentice” and “Grand Designs,” Neil walked away from his successful career to co-found Mettle, a men’s mental fitness app, alongside Bear Grylls. Together, they delve into themes of purpose, vulnerability, and the importance of mental health for men.

Success, Unfulfillment, and the Second Mountain

Neil Smith’s illustrious career in television had all the hallmarks of success, from adventure-filled productions to high-level roles within major companies. Yet, despite this external success, Neil felt unfulfilled. He describes this phase of his life as climbing a “second mountain,” which emphasizes purpose over traditional achievements. Neil stepped away from his established career to focus on social impact, particularly in men’s mental health.

The Journey to Mettle and Removing Stigmas

Neil responded to his personal crisis by creating Mettle, an app designed to meet men where they are—without requiring them to talk initially. Based on feedback from hundreds of men, Neil identified common barriers, like the perception that available resources are “too female” or “too woo-woo.” Mettle aims to break down these barriers by providing a safe, masculine-friendly environment supported by science, with the trusted figure of Bear Grylls leading the charge.

The Importance of Community and Communication

Throughout their conversation, Neil emphasizes that the male mental health crisis is not so much about mental illness as it is about a lack of communication. Men are conditioned to remain stoic, viewing vulnerability as a weakness. Creating spaces, whether digital through Mettle or in peer groups, where men can express vulnerabilities without fear of judgment, is crucial. Neil notes that these environments, where communication is encouraged, have been shown to help men significantly.

Breaking Through Isolation

Neil shares his own experiences with depression in his 20s, which he kept hidden for a decade. This personal story forms the backbone of Mettle’s mission: providing a tool for those who feel isolated and unable to seek conventional help. The app acts as a stepping stone, encouraging men to take those first steps towards mental fitness at their own pace.

Overcoming the Fear of Vulnerability

Andy and Neil discuss the societal conditioning that makes many men afraid to show vulnerability and ask for help. Neil reflects on his own fears during his periods of depression, noting that the fear of being perceived as weak often outweighs the actual relief talking can provide. Mettle attempts to ease this journey by offering anonymity and a gradual path toward openness.

Conclusion

Neil’s message to men is clear: You are not alone, and opening up will not lead to expulsion from your community. Instead, it often strengthens bonds and creates a more profound shared experience. Through initiatives like Mettle, Neil hopes to help men find purpose and build lives of service and fulfillment.

Join the Conversation

For those interested in starting this journey of self-discovery and communal support, check out Andy’s men’s community, Authentic AF, at realmenfeel.org/group. Remember, your experiences, feelings, and vulnerabilities are important, and they don’t define you unless you let them.

Connect with Neil and Mettle

Mettle — https://bemettle.com/
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/be.mettle
LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-s-smith/

Tune In

Watch this episode on YouTube.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
Enjoy Real Men Feel on Spotify
Authentic AF Community | https://realmenfeel.org/group

Breaking The Silence of Depression and Discovering Purpose - Real Men Feel 424 with Neil Smith

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Breaking The Silence of Depression and Discovering Purpose