Authenticity Episodes

The Hollow Man Syndrome: Redefining Success, Vulnerability, and the New Alpha Host Andy Grant interviews Kenyada Meadows, a Bank of America senior vice president and master certified executive coach, about “hollow man syndrome”—men who appear successful but feel empty and unfulfilled. Meadows explains the metaphor of a strong tree with decaying roots and describes how hollowing out can manifest as strained relationships, self-medicating, short tempers, or acting out. He contrasts traditional “al...

Men’s Health, Loneliness, and Real Masculinity Host Andy Grant opens by saying men need truth and connection, not shame or fake strength. After a guest postpones due to health news, Andy shares he has a colonoscopy scheduled and urges men to prioritize physical health: get annual checkups, know family history, ask doctors questions, and follow colorectal cancer screening guidance, noting rising deaths under 50 and citing Chadwick Boseman and James Van Der Beek. He then discusses an internatio...

Escaping the Success Trap: When Achievement Still Feels Empty Host Andy Grant discusses “the success trap,” where men achieve promotions, money, status, and accomplishments yet feel empty, disconnected, and numb. Citing a Forbes article, he explains the paradox that believing we’re successful can limit growth by creating fear of risking standing in others’ eyes, even when success lacks meaning. Drawing from his corporate experience and nearly 400 Real Men Feel episodes, he describes signs and ou...

Midlife Identity, Men Speaking Up, and Finding Fulfillment After 50 Andy Grant interviews UK-based Philip Briscoe, host of the Mid-life Men Podcast, about his midlife turning point at 50 after leaving a tech job where he felt undervalued and realizing he didn’t know who he was beyond work. Philip describes how stress and lack of fulfillment contributed to depression, anxiety, poor sleep, and lifestyle-related health issues including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and fatty liver,...

Real Men Feel: 10-Year Anniversary—From Blab to Authentic AF Andy Grant celebrates 10 years of Real Men Feel, which first went live on February 23, 2016 on Blab, and thanks co-founder Appio Hunter, past guests, and listeners for helping create a space where men can talk about the full range of emotions. The episode features audio from the very beginning of the first 2016 episode, a clip from episode 100 about two and a half years later reflecting on how the show grew from a planned monthly, 30-m...

Are You Being Real? In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant addresses the skepticism surrounding authenticity, particularly among men. He explores how the term has been diluted and misused across contexts, reducing it to a mere buzzword. Andy revisits the core values of his show—authenticity, vulnerability, and compassion—while sharing personal experiences that illustrate the genuine meaning of being authentic. He emphasizes the importance of honesty, responsibility, and emotional o...

Unlocking the Real You: The Power of Animal Archetypes In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant is joined by Eric Gee, a published author, life and writing coach, who shares his unique personality typing system based on animal archetypes. They discuss how this system provides deeper insights into oneself beyond superficial traits, helping individuals make better life choices across careers, relationships, and personal growth. Eric elaborates on common misconceptions in traditional perso...

Transformative Fatherhood with Jon Hord: From Reactive to Present In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant speaks with Jon Hord, founder of the Engaged Father Project. Jon shares his journey from a stressed-out father to becoming an emotionally regulated, present parent. They discuss intentional parenting, emotional regulation, and redefining strong fatherhood. Jon explains the importance of self-awareness, vulnerability, and conscious choices in improving fatherhood. He also discuss...

Overcoming Life's Inner Prisons In this compelling episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant interviews Matt Melvin, author of 'Bullied Behind Bars.' Matt shares his harrowing experiences of incarceration, bullying, and isolation, focusing on the mental prison of blame and anger that lingered long after his physical release. The conversation delves into the challenges many men face, such as shame, fear, and past trauma, and discusses the importance of emotional survival, men's groups, and what i...

Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant is joined by Tyler Foley, a keynote speaker and author of 'The Power to Speak Naked.' They delve into topics such as masculinity, leadership, vulnerability, and the complexities of jealousy and control for men. Tyler shares how his communication skills and diverse influences shape his masculinity and confidence. The conversation also explores relationship dynamics, including how to be supportive of a su...

Navigating Grief with Gratitude: A Conversation with Steve Gamlin In 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 bein...

Breaking Down Barriers with the LezBro In 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 pract...

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 oppo...

From Silence to Strength: A Veteran's Journey In 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 ta...

Breaking the Chains: Reframing Trauma In 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...

Overcoming Addiction and Adversity: The Kelley Gulledge Story In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant speaks with former professional baseball player Kelley Gulledge, who shares his powerful journey from battling crack cocaine addiction to achieving sobriety and overcoming multiple sclerosis. Kelley opens up about his struggles, the pivotal moments that led to his recovery, and the importance of faith, family, and perseverance. This inspirational conversation delves into the depths ...

Facing Imposter Syndrome and Grief In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes Alain Dumonceaux, founder of The Awakened Man, to discuss imposter syndrome and grief. Alain shares his personal journey of loss and self-discovery, including the death of his father-in-law and nearly losing his marriage. He explains how these experiences motivated him to create a supportive community for men to find purpose, power, and wholeness. Alain delves into the concept of awakening, the impor...

Craig Perra, a renowned expert in overcoming compulsive sexual behaviors, sex addiction, and porn addiction, discusses the profound impact of shame, the importance of leading all parts of oneself, and the necessity of creating healthy sexual habits.

Healing the Father Wound: Kevin Palmieri's Journey to Self-Worth In this powerful episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes Kevin Palmieri, founder and co-host of the Next Level University podcast. Kevin shares his transformative experience of meeting his father for the first time at age 27 and how it shaped his life. From dealing with imposter syndrome in his youth to overcoming rock bottom moments and contemplating suicide, Kevin's journey exemplifies resilience and personal growth. ...

Exploring Emotional Literacy and Attachment Styles In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant delves into the crucial topic of emotional literacy with guest Alexandra Velez, creator of Secure School. They discuss the importance of recognizing, naming, and navigating emotions as a foundation for emotional intelligence, and how these skills significantly impact personal and relational well-being. Alexandra provides insights into how early life experiences and societal norms shape emotional ...

Unpacking Narcissism Real Men Feel host Andy Grant converses with Sterlin Mosley, a therapist, professor, and author specializing in relationships, attachment, and personality dynamics. The discussion delves into the complexities of narcissism, exploring what it truly means, how it manifests in both men and women, and its impact on relationships. Sterlin shares valuable insights on recognizing narcissistic traits, managing relationships with narcissists, and addressing one's own narcissistic ...

From Boyhood to True Manhood Real Men Feel host Andy Grant engages in an insightful conversation with Alessandro Frosali, a men's coach and host of the S-T-F-U-A-L podcast. Alessandro shares his transformational journey from hitting rock bottom in his marriage to reclaiming integrated manhood. The discussion explores the crucial differences between boyhood and manhood behaviors, the significance of rites of passage, and the importance of elder wisdom in modern life. Alessandro also highlights...

Transforming Firefighter Wellness Real Men Feel host Andy Grant converses with Robbie Nebergall, a veteran firefighter and founder of the Reclaim fitness program. Robbie discusses the physical and mental toll that the firefighting profession can take, breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health, and how his program aims to transform the health and well-being of firefighters. He addresses the cultural resistance to change within the fire service and underscores the importance of community,...

Embracing Vulnerability In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant speaks with Dawud Wallace, a speaker, entrepreneur, and advocate for emotional wellness rather than suppressing them, and advocates for creating safe spaces for men to share and support one another, especially among Black men. They discuss themes such as caregiving, grief, mental health, and masculinity. Dawud shares his personal experiences of caring for his sick mother from a young age, dealing with grief, and the import...