Aug. 22, 2025

The Secret Struggles of Successful Men: Executive Loneliness

The Secret Struggles of Successful Men: Executive Loneliness

The Secret Struggles of Successful Men Ep 367 August 22, 2025

Exploring Vulnerability: Nick Jonsson on Executive Loneliness and Mental Health

In this episode of 'Real Men Feel', host Andy Grant speaks with Nick Jonsson, a TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and advocate for executive mental health and male isolation. They discuss the hidden struggles high-performing men face, the societal stigma around vulnerability, and how men can foster more emotionally connected lives. Nick shares his personal journey through divorce, career challenges, and hitting rock bottom before seeking help.
They emphasize the importance of men's groups, proactive vulnerability, and authentic connections to combat loneliness. The episode also explores the cultural differences in expressing and hiding loneliness and provides practical steps for men to start opening up and seeking support.

The Turning Point

The conversation kicks off with a critical question from Andy: can society reach a point where men don't have to reach the depths of despair before seeking help? Nick candidly shares his journey, reflecting on his own transformative moment—after confronting immense personal pain and loss, he found his life changing for the better once he dared to ask for help. He highlights the importance of proactive vulnerability and how it can reshape our approach to masculinity.

Nick's Experience of Isolation

Nick recounts his own experience of going through a difficult divorce and career resignation while presenting a facade of success. Despite having everything outwardly—career achievements and societal status—internally, he struggled with fears of inadequacy. He explains how societal and corporate pressures made him apprehensive about being vulnerable, fearing it would stall his career growth.

Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability

The episode emphasizes the need for spaces where men can safely express their vulnerabilities before crises hit. Nick runs men's groups in Southeast Asia, offering a supportive environment that encourages men to share their feelings. This practice, as he describes, helps men handle life's challenges with emotional honesty, preventing the need for a crisis before seeking help.

The Journey to Sobriety

Sobriety plays a significant role in Nick's life transformation. He touches upon his experience in 12-step programs that taught him the value of seeking help and embracing vulnerability without guilt or shame. This change fostered a healthier lifestyle, enabling him to be more open in professional and personal spheres.

Acceptance and Connection as Antidotes to Isolation

Both Andy and Nick discuss how men's groups and fostering open dialogues can combat loneliness. Encouraging men to find and engage in communities where they feel a sense of belonging can make a significant difference. Nick advises those who feel isolated to seek out groups or professional help, highlighting the extensive support networks available worldwide.

A Call to Action for Genuine Connection

The episode concludes with a powerful call to action: for men to embrace vulnerability and reach out for help. Whether through friends, professional services, or community groups, taking the first step is crucial. Andy and Nick urge listeners to find their tribes—whether through sports, hobbies, or men's groups—to foster connection and prevent isolation.

#RealMenFeel

Conclusion

In closing, Andy reminds his audience of the importance of self-care and staying connected. He invites everyone to join Authentic AF, a free community for men seeking genuine connections, visit realmenfeel.org/group.
This episode encourages embracing vulnerability as a strength and highlights the importance of connection in overcoming life's challenges. Join the movement towards redefining what it means to be a man in today's world.

 

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Listen on Apple Podcasts.
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Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group

Resources
Executive Loneliness by Nick Jonsson — https://amzn.to/4mmFqrA

The Secret Struggles of Successful Men - ep 367 with guest, Nick Jonsson

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