In this episode, therapist and author Alex unpacks how even “normal” childhoods can leave lasting emotional imprints. He shares his personal story of fatherlessness and family mental health struggles, offering a rare, vulnerable look at how early emotional needs shape adult behavior. We explore how men often suppress emotions due to societal pressures and why mentorship and healthy male role models are critical. Alex’s reflections offer a compassionate lens on healing, resilience, and redefining masculinity.

Episode Highlights:

00:35 - Unmet needs in childhood drive over-functioning in adulthood

04:17 - The absence of a male role model left a gap

08:26 - Helping others means also doing the work on yourself

10:52 - We say we’re ready—but until it costs us comfort, we’re not

16:30 - Depression is numbness, not sadness

18:21 - We don’t see the world as it is—we see it as we are

21:36 - When being right matters more than being close, love doesn’t stand a chance

26:39 - Old wounds speak loud when you're under pressure

33:29 - What happens when struggle is skipped?

38:20 - Having protection changes how the world treats you

43:42 - A huge part of the problem is men not talking

48:40 - What true therapy needs

55:17 - Feeling leads to healing

01:01:28 - Generational gap in financial expectations

01:04:35 - Parental love can coexist with emotional neglect

01:13:44 - We All Inherit Pain. What We Do With It Is Our Power

Learn more about Alex

Website: https://www.alexhoward.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexhowardtherapy/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexhowardtherapy

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AlexHowardtv

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083

In this episode, we sit down with Drewe, a former professional footballer turned high-performance coach, as he opens up about the challenges of being a man in today's world. Drewe shares a powerful story about his son’s struggle with expressing his emotions, shedding light on the critical importance of validating rather than suppressing feelings. We dive deep into the complexities of modern masculinity, exploring the societal pressures men face, the emotional isolation in professional sports, and the need for authentic leadership in football. Drew also reflects on his personal journey of overcoming addiction and emotional numbness, which shaped his coaching philosophy focused on authenticity and addressing deeper emotional issues. This conversation offers profound insights into the power of emotional health and true connection, both on and off the field.

Episode Highlights:

01:08 - Validation Over Suppression

07:05 - Toxic shame often begins with “you are” statements

11:13 - Men need more spaces to be real

13:45 - Healing through Return to Authentic Self

18:51 - Distinguishing between ego, sabotage, and raw competitive fire

23:10 - Why the absence of positive male figures can impact personal development

26:56 - Support Systems in Professional Football

29:16 - The Business of Football and Its Challenges

31:53 - Authenticity in Leadership

36:58 - Psychological support is essential in leadership

40:38 - Dis-ease stems from misalignment

44:08 - The Connection Between Fear and Control

49:17 - Political and Cultural Pushback

52:22 - Consequences of Inauthenticity

54:26 - Authenticity Heals More Than The Body

57:29 - Performance Coaching Is About Revelation, Not Instruction

59:18 - The magic formula for success and inner peace

01:04:40 - 3 Powerful Steps to Transform Your Life

Learn more about Drewe

Website: https://www.sweatandcourage.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweatandcourage/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachfear/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sweatandcourage/

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083

In this episode, we sit down with two incredible guests, Seth and Mike, for a heartfelt conversation about masculinity, personal journeys, and the power of connection. Seth, a father of three, reflects on how growing up without his father inspired him to be a more present dad. He shares stories from his early career in the music industry, including working with Whitney Houston's fan club, and how those experiences shaped his view of relationships and success. Mike, who grew up in the care system in South London, opens up about the challenges he faced, including navigating violence and a lack of trust. Throughout the episode, Seth and Mike explore themes like kindness, resilience, and the importance of small acts of love—like offering someone a sandwich—which can make a huge difference in someone’s life. Their journey highlights the impact of empathy, mentorship, and the simple yet powerful ways we can show up for each other.

Episode Highlights:

01:09 - Seth's Journey as a Dad

02:42 - Working with Whitney Houston's Fan Club

04:39 - Mike's Diverse Background

10:07 - The Language of Love

13:56 - Experience is Everything

18:36 - A Scary Home Invasion

20:25 - Why I Couldn’t Trust Anyone Around Me

27:22 - Being the Kid Who Saw What Others Didn’t

30:07 - The Real ‘Peckham’ of Birmingham

33:29 - What Happened to the Days of Open Doors and Free Play?

36:59 - Why We Need Real Friendships

42:38 - Camaraderie Beyond Race

43:58 - When You Know They’ve Got Your Back

50:45 - The Unmatched Magic of Live Music

55:43 - Rebuilding After the System Let Me Down

01:00:22 - The Key to Surviving Parenthood

01:05:22 - Why Presence Matters More Than Perfect Parenting
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083