The Manspace
A podcast for men who want to understand and improve themselves and their relationships, hosted by Dr. Matt Brown and Dr. Rob Porter and clinical therapist Mike Porter.
Ep. 227 How Do I Talk to My Kids About Mental Health?
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Spaceparents! On today's episode, we talk about how to talk to your kids about mental health. Spoiler, you should talk often and openly about what you and they are feeling. You don't have to label it--you can just talk about what's going on for them. But don't worry. We have more to say than that. Listen in.
Keywords
mental health, parenting, emergency room experiences, communication, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, youth mental health, emotional well-being, mental health awareness, anxiety, mental health, parenting, communication, emotional support, children, d...
Ep. 226 How Can I Be Confident?
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Spacemen, you're something special. And you should tell yourself that. Not in a "My mom says I'm special," sort of way, but in a "I like myself" kind of way. Because it really matters that we speak and think good things about ourselves. We need to develop narratives that remind us that we are worth something. Come on, spacemen. You know you're beautiful.
Keywords
confidence, self-affirmation, personal growth, relationships, self-worth, beauty of places, Dr. Mario, life experiences, masculinity, mental health
T...
Ep. 225 Making Friends: Book Review--The Buddy System
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SpaceAmigos! On today's episode, we review the book, The Buddy System. It's got a bunch of helpful hints about how to make and maintain friends. Obviously, none of us spaceamigos need that, but in case you want a few tips to level up your game, listen in. And maybe even read The Buddy System.
Keywords
friendship, male relationships, buddy system, intentionality, humor, pop culture, actionable steps, self-help, mindfulness, communication
Takeaways
Ep. 224 What if Life Hasn't Worked Out Like I Thought?
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Spacemen, don't be upset, or too excited, but Rob's not on the episode. But hey, sometimes life doesn't work out like you thought. See what I did there? Today, Matt and Mike process how expectations don't always match reality. But don't worry. Finding a community of friends...and the Manspace?...can help you flow with the ups and downs of life. Listen in and find some hope.
Keywords
life expectations, emotional turmoil, social media impact, vulnerability, male friendships, self-discovery, mental health, community support, personal growth, letting...
Ep. 223 Can I Change and Still Be Myself?
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Spacechangers, prepare to board the Ship of Theseus. On today's episode, we talk about change. Specifically, how much can you change and still be yourself. I'll be honest, it's a bit of a philosophical discussion and I LOVE IT. Listen in and start changing!
Keywords
identity, change, Ship of Theseus, personal growth, relationships, self-discovery, transformation, essence, self-reflection, emotional health
Takeaways
Ep. 222 Manspace Resolutions
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New year, new spaceman! Today is our annual resolution episode. Matt, Mike, and Rod talk about what they want to work on this year. And we make some resolutions for the show. Listen in and hold us accountable.
Keywords
banter, humor, new year, health, wellness, therapy, addiction, relationships, resolutions, pie making
Takeaways
Ep. 221 UFOs and U! Can Aliens Make You a Better Man?
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ET Phone Spaceman. Sup spacemen. Today, we explore an interest of Matts; UFOs. Or, as they are not more accurately called, UAPs. Despite what you may be thinking, this episode is not full of conspiracy theories. But it IS focused on how looking at things a little differently and being open to a differently way of thinking can make you a better man. Tune in and find out.
Keywords
UFOs, UAPs, Roswell, gas station food, documentaries, quantum physics, relationships, time, cultural perspectives, memory
Ep. 220 Tipping a Toe into The Tipping Point...see what I did there?
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Spacebookers, Gather! Today, we talk about The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell. If you haven't read it, shame on you. Now get over your shame and go read it. You'll thank me.
Keywords
Malcolm Gladwell, Tipping Point, Connectors, Mavens, Salesmen, Stickiness Factor, Learning, Hopeful Literature, Nonverbal Communication, Patterns in Life
Takeaways
Ep. 219 How Honest Should I Be?
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Spacemen, get ready for some honesty. Today, Matt, Mike, and Rob...but mostly Matt and Mike, because Rob keeps dropping out, talk about how much honesty is good in a relationship. Turns out, you don't have to say everything. But honesty still matters. Listen in and find out how much.
Keywords
honesty, relationships, vulnerability, intimacy, communication, feedback, personal growth, emotional intelligence, self-awareness, interpersonal dynamics
Takeaways
Honesty is crucial in relationships, but it must be balanced with politeness.N...Ep. 218 Can Hanging Out With My Friends Make Me A Better Man?
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Spacemen, welcome to Kansas City. Well, sort of. On today's episode, we're talking about our trip and what we gained from it. And really, how important it is to spend time with your buddies. So grab a friend, and listen in.
Keywords
travel, masculinity, friendship, aging, humor, experiences, relationships, stories, laughter, life lessons
Takeaways
Ep. 217 Can Gratitude Save My Relationship
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Spacemen, clickbait!! Just kidding. It's not. But today, we are talking about gratitude and how important it is. Can it save your relationship? No. But it won't NOT save your relationship. And you'll feel better doing it. We talk about a few ways you can practice it without feeling like you're blowing smoke. So listen in and be grateful you did.
Keywords
humor, gratitude, relationships, emotions, commitment, love, everyday life, parenting, communication, therapy, gratitude, relationships, positivity, mindset, communication, appreciation, emotional health, personal growth, problem-solving, t...
Ep. 216 What Does It Mean To Be Vulnerable
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Listen up Spacemen. We've been getting some mixed messages lately about what it means to be a man and be vulnerable. Like, be soft, but not TOO soft. Be manly, but not too aggressive. I mean, what's a guy to do? Well, listen in and we'll tell you.
Keywords
strength, vulnerability, confidence, human experience, emotional depth, personal growth, resilience, self-assuredness, scars, healing
Takeaways
Ep. 215 How to Be Confident and Humble
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Spacemen, be confident. That is all.
Not really. Today, we talk about how to manage being confident and humble--not letting your ego overtake your interactions or let your insecurities dominate your behavior. I know what you're thinking, "You can't even do that, Rob." Well, you're not wrong. But I can try. Listen in and see how I do.
Keywords
humility, vulnerability, self-discovery, confidence, personal growth
Takeaways
Ep 214. Is AI Ruining My Relationship, Pt. 2!
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Spacemen, in an act of defiance, I am not using AI to write this. Believe it or not, I never do. On today's episode, we explore the dark side of AI and how relying on it can create confirmation bias and really mess up relationships. Stop asking chat about your spouse. You're putting in biased information, so you'll get biased feedback. No bueno. Instead, listen to The Manspace Podcast.
Keywords
AI, relationships, communication, emotional distance, validation, therapy, technology, intimacy, marriage, divorce
Ep. 213 Can History Make You a Better Man? Destiny of the Republic Book Review
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Storytime, spacemen. Gather as we discuss the book Destiny of the Republic. If you haven't read it, shame on you. I won't spoil it, but I will spoil the episode. Today we talk about how you can find principles that will move you toward being a better man everywhere you look. So look around. And listen in. And go read the book. Sheesh.
Keywords
games, book discussion, history, assassination, medical misunderstandings, delusion, lessons, relationships, open-mindedness, Garfield
Takeaways
Ep. 212 Are School Cell Phone Bans Helping? Interview with Dr. Tyler Howe
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Spacemen, get off your phone. And get intentional! On today's episode, we interview Dr. Tyler Howe, a district Assistant Superintendent and former high school principal, about his experience implementing a school-wide phone ban. Turns out, there were a number of positive effects, not unlike other schools are reporting. We discuss how to approach this idea with your kids. Cause we always provide. Don't we?
Keywords
cell phone policy, school environment, education, student engagement, phone-free learning, parental feedback, school safety, educational outcomes, student behavior, community r...
Ep. 211 Healthy Male Competition
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Spacemen, prepare yourself for a rare audio treat. At the end of the episode, you get to hear the song Rob is most embarrassed by. The rest of the episode with pale in comparison. That's what it's about---comparison. Well, more competition, but the good kind. Listen in and love it.
Keywords
competition, self-worth, comparison, healthy competition, personal growth, motivation, sports, mental health, relationships, podcast
Takeaways
Ep. 210 Integration and The Masculine Triangle
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Email me at manspacetherapy@gmail.com for information about the e-course!
In this final episode of the series, Matt discusses the integration of the 7 chambers and the masculine triangle, focusing on the transformation of pain into peace, presence, and purpose. He emphasizes the importance of body awareness and emotional growth, guiding listeners through the process of acknowledging pain and living authentically. The conversation culminates in the explanation of the masculine triangle, which represents sacrifice, abundance, and a life of meaning, and concludes with practical advice on implementing these concepts in daily...
Ep. 209 How Do I Make Friends?
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Spacemen, I can tell that we are gonna be friends. On today's episode, Matt and Rob snub their other friend Mike to explore the complexities of making friends as adults. This is another listener request. So listen in and go make some friends.
Keywords
friendship, adult friendships, social anxiety, making friends, shared experiences, vulnerability, social dynamics, men's mental health, connection, community
Takeaways
Ep. 208 The Journey Through the Four Chambers of the Heart
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Email me at manspacetherapy@gmail.com for more info on the course!
In this episode, Matt delves into the four chambers of the heart, exploring their symbolic meanings and how they relate to emotional health. He discusses the pain chamber, choice chamber, life chamber, and power chamber, emphasizing the importance of processing pain, making choices, embracing life, and activating personal power. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of emotional and physical health, encouraging listeners to engage with their feelings and transform their experiences into growth and strength.
Keywords
...
Ep. 207 How Do I Fight Fair?
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Summary
In this episode of the Man Space, the hosts (that's us--Matt, Mike, and Rob) dive into the complexities of communication and conflict resolution, exploring the concept of 'right fighting' and how it impacts relationships. They discuss the importance of understanding, empathy, and effective communication in resolving conflicts, while also addressing the challenges of dealing with partners who may not be fighting fair. The conversation touches on personal experiences, therapy insights, and practical advice for navigating difficult conversations. WE SOUND AMAZING!!
Keywords
communication...
Ep. 206 The Seven Chambers of a Man's Soul: Chambers of the Mind
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Send me an email at manspacetherapy@gmail.com to gain access to the beta version of the e-course. Limited to 10 spaces.
In this conversation, Matt explores the concept of the 'Seven Chambers of the Man's Soul,' focusing on the psychological and emotional states that men often navigate. He introduces three primary chambers of the mind: the Compliance Chamber, the Withdrawal Chamber, and the Defiance Chamber, each representing different coping mechanisms and emotional responses. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing these chambers to foster emotional awareness and personal growth, ultimately...
Ep. 205 Essentialism and the Power of Saying No.
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Spacemen, do less. But be more effective at it. On today's episode, we talk about the book Essentialism by Greg McKeown. More specifically, we talk about how it matters to know when to say no to something and when to focus in on what you do best, making you more effective. Listen in. And say less.
Chapters:
[00:00] Introduction and Weekend Plans
[05:30] The Patron Saint and Disc Golf
[10:15] Continuing Education and Licensing
[15:45] Conference Talks and Professional Development
[20:00] The Impact of Bo...
Ep. 204 Are You In Survival Mode?
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In this episode, Matt explores the journey of self-discovery for men, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and understanding pain rather than ignoring or pushing through it. He discusses common scenarios that men face in daily life, highlighting how external orientation can lead to a lack of internal fulfillment. The conversation encourages men to break free from societal expectations and to focus on their internal experiences to create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Takeaways
Men are often socialized to ignore or push through pain.Recognizing pain is essential...Ep. 203 Becoming a Better Man: Interview with Dr. Matt Brown
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Spacemen, we're so meta. We interview ourselves. But really, on today's show, Mike interviews Matt about his new course he's developed to help men understand themselves better. Matt will be doing some bonus episodes about this topic, so listen in and dive deep. That sounds amazing.
Key Topics:
The rhythm of survival mode in men's lives The importance of self-awareness and personal growth Navigating parenting challenges and supporting children The role of intuition and wisdom in decision-making Dillhole's upcoming course for men
Ep. 202 What If My Marriage Sucks? ...But What If It Doesn't?
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SpaceCadets! Don't worry. I didn't demote you. I just needed a different intro. Keeping it fresh. Because today, we talk about how you can focus on the right things and maybe things won't suck as much as we think. Listen in and be grateful for The Manspace.
Keywords
marriage, communication, technology, gratitude, positivity, relationships, therapy, education, self-confidence, parenting
Takeaways
Ep. 201 Am I Having a Midlife Crisis?
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Spacemen, calm down. You're probably NOT having a midlife crisis. We, your faithful space-admirals might be, but not you. Today, Matt, Mike, and Rob talk about midlife transitions and the best way to navigate. Listen in and get all worried about your own life transitions.
Key Topics:
The emotional journey of sending children to college Redefining personal and professional goals in midlife The impact of community and social connections Humor and resilience in facing life's transitionsQuotes:
"It's not...Ep. 200 Giving and Receiving Feedback
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Don't forget to give us feedback here!
Today is our 200th episode. That's right. We're so talented we were willing to just keep going supported only by your love and the generous soda donations of a few spacemen. But today, we give each other meaningful feedback. We talk about how to give and receive it to allow it to be helpful rather than hard. So, give us some of your feedback and let us know. And then listen in as we weep.
Keywords
Ep. 199 Double Standard in Relationships?
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Spacemen, do you ever feel like there's a double standard in your relationship? You're not alone. There sometimes is. But then, not as much as you think, or in the way you might think. Matt, Mike, and Rob talk about that double standard and how important it is to take accountability. So, I'm saying it's your fault. Listen in.
Keywords
vulnerability, emotional connection, relationship expectations, gender dynamics, accountability, personal growth, social narratives, communication, self-esteem
Takeaways
Ep. 198 Men and Creativity: Taking a Risk
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Before I forget, here's a link to our Feedback Form for Episode 200. Give us some honest feedback. We can take it...well, Rob might struggle with it, but I think he'll be okay.
On today's episode, Matt, Mike, and Rob talk about creativity as it relates to masculinity and risk-taking. Sometimes we just need a nudge.
Key Topics:
The intersection of creativity and masculinity Overcoming creative blocks and the role of discipline Personal stories of creative expression The importance of redefining creativity beyond trad...Ep. 197 Relying on Other Men
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Spacemen, let's get intimate. I mean, don't we do that on every episode? Well, we don't really do it on this episode. But we do talk about how important it is to connect with other men and how research supports the idea of men spending time together. So, tell your wife it's boys night, listen to the Manspace, and head out to Buffalo Wild Wings...except not really. It's not very good. I don't know. I don't see what the big deal is. Lots of TV's, yes. But the food is meh. Maybe...
Ep. 196 Are You Suffering from Scarcity Brain?
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Spacemen. Don't pretend like you're reading this. I know you don't have time. So, I'll entertain myself. On today's episode, we explore the depths of the mind. We do a 45 minute DEEP meditation. Literally, it's 45 minutes of total silence. Prepare to peer into the deep recesses of your brain.
Fine. It's not really that. But does it really matter? You're gonna listen. The question is, are you getting your friends to listen?
Today, we're talking about the book Scarcity Brain by Michael Easter. It's a good one. We look at...
Ep. 195 Three Tips to Being a Better Husband
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How do you be a better husband? I know. You don't know. Or do you? Do we? We do. Did that get confusing? Maybe. But the episode isn't. It's got the three tips you need to be the husband you've always wanted to be. Tune in. Figure it out.
Keywords
relationships, communication, therapy, soda, relationships, emotional honesty, self-development, life lessons, personal growth, gas station stories, navigating life, partnership tips, emotional presence
Takeaways
Future plans can be shaped by current d...
Ep. 194 Is Stress Exhausting You?
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Manmaste Spacemen. Today's not a mindfulness episode, but we do talk about stress. Cause guess what, you're probably too stressed. The annoying part about stress is that it's like the frog in the boiling pot--we don't always notice it killing us slowly.
Lucky for you, the Manspace is here. We'll guide you through knowing and understanding how stress is affecting you and how it might be exhausting you. So calm down and listen in.
Keywords
exhaustion, stress, masculinity, emotional awareness, self-discovery, health, change, co...
Ep. 193 What is Respect?
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Spacemen, I demand respect! Except, that's not really how that works. On today's episode, we talk about respect with your spouse and your kids. Turns out, a lot of us are getting it wrong. Spoiler alert, respect is pretty directly related to the connection you have with the other person. So, if you want respect, figure out how to connect with someone. Guess you don't need to listen to the episode now. But still do. It would be the respectful thing to do.
Keywords
r...
Ep. 192 Masculinity Tests: Don't Put Too Much Stock In Them
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SpaceWarriors, gather ye spearbuds while ye may. And listen in. On today's episode, Matt, Mike, and Rob tackle another masculinity test. This one is at https://masculinetest.com/home/. Go try it out and let us know your answers.
As per usual, we break down why this test is flawed. In the end, tests like this can really only give you a heads up on some places you might want to work on. But don't put too much stock in it.
So, take the test and listen in.
Sp...
Ep. 191 Learning to Live Without: Lessons from Sailing with Phoenix
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Ahoy Spacemen! Today on the show, Mike and Rob talk about Sailing with Phoenix. If you don't know who that is, are you even living your life vicariously through social media? Spaceman, get on my level.
Mostly, we talk about how there is real advantages to learning to live without things. It's not always good to get anything you want whenever you want. Try cutting some stuff off. I mean, I'm not suggesting a finger or anything, but maybe social media or something. Just not The Manspace. No one should live w...
Ep. 190 The Manspace Vs. The Manosphere
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Spacemen, unite against the Manosphere. On today's episode, Matt, Mike, and Rob correct some harmful thinking that is perpetuated by the manosphere (men online who buy into the 'Red Pill' philosophy--to be honest, it's pretty sexist). We challenge the sexist ideas as damaging to women, men, and relationships. And we propose a rallying call to be a better man to help raise a generation of better men. Mount up!
Keywords
band reunion, graduation, Manosphere, red pill philosophy, relationships, differentiation, mentoring, young men, emotional health, self-awareness<...
Ep. 189 Finding Your Inner-Man: Iron John Book review
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Hairy Spacemen, come forth from your cages and find your golden ball. If you don't know what I'm talking about, shame on you for not reading the book. On today's episode, we talk about Iron John and how to find our inner man. I mean, that sounds deeper than it is, but we do have some good conversations about finding what we've lost. Don't believe me? Listen in. And look what AI has to say about it:
In this conversation, the hosts delve into the themes presented in the book 'Iron J...
Ep. 188 Work/Life Balance? What's That?
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SpaceEmployees! Gather for a space-wide mandatory meeting as we discuss office politics and how you are balancing your work life with your personal life. Keep in mind, balance doesn't always mean equal time. So, you should probably be giving MORE time to The Manspace.
I might be off about that. I can't remember what I said in the episode, but it was probably something like that. But, I do know that Mike and Rob break down the sometimes messed up ways we view work and the balance we strike with it. S...
