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. 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...
Ep. 187 How Do I Talk to My Partner about Sex?
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Spacemen, go light some candles. Maybe put on some soft Sade and then sit down and listen in as Matt, Mike, and Rob walk you through how to talk about sex with your lady.
It's not that there's a perfect way to do this, but there are ways to make sure it's healthy and effective. We've got lots of tips. The biggest one, you ask? Don't have the conversation with your lady expecting to have sex immediately afterwards. Just good, healthy, verbal intercourse. Buckle up!
K...
Ep. 186 Anxious-ADHD Couple, Part 2
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Sup SpaceDistracted men. Today on the Space, Mike and Matt answer your questions about ADHD-Anxious couples. We get a little more specific and give a little more direction. Just like SpaceAdmirals should. Listen in. We'll steer you right.
Keywords
ADHD, anxiety, relationships, mindfulness, coping strategies, mental health, personal growth, communication, societal expectations, emotional intelligence
Takeaways
Understanding and change are crucial in relationships.Viewing partners as growth opportunities fosters better dynamics.Anxiety often leads to miscommunication and m...Ep. 185 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
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SpaceImposters! Don't worry. We know you're real. Remember that game your kids played for a second? Among us? Well that's what we're doing today--discovering the imposter.
Today, Mike and Rob talk about imposter syndrome: how it affects us and some tips to combat it. So, believe in yourself and listen in.
Keywords
imposter syndrome, mental health, self-doubt, anxiety, personal growth, confidence, men's issues, podcasting, self-acceptance, personal development
Takeaways
Imposter syndrome is a common experience fo...Ep. 184 Confront Your Insecurities
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Spacemen, it's time to read a book. That's right. Today, we talk about the book The Eden Project. But really, we're talking about how to confront your own insecurities. According to AI, we talk about the importance of self-reflection, the role of insecurities in relationships, and the need for personal accountability. And if AI says it, it must be good. So grab a blanket and your insecurities and listen in.
Keywords
therapy, personal growth, relationships, insecurities, couples therapy, self-reflection, emotional health, accountability, communication, individual work
Ep 183 Make Fun of Your Friends
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Sup Spacelosers. Just kidding. I could never tease you guys. Or could I? Maybe it's good for our relationship. Matt, Mike, and Rob will break it down for you. People have been talking about it on the interwebs, so you know it must be good. Of course, your space admirals will let you know what you should believe. Listen in.
Keywords
teasing, humor, friendships, male bonding, social dynamics, self-deprecation, trust, communication, relationships, laughter
Takeaways
Teasing can strengthen f...Ep. 182 Take Responsibility for your Crap
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Spacemen, own your stuff. Don't do this martyr thing where everything is your fault. Totally ineffective and the emotional equivalent of making someone else's pain about you. Matt and Rob break down why men sometimes take too much repsonsbility and why that ineffective. And we'll tell you how to stop doing it. So...you're gonna want to listen.
Keywords
farts, humor, emotional intimacy, relationships, male emotional responses, self-awareness, stoicism, emotional mastery, connection, vulnerability
Takeaways
Humor can be a...Ep. 181 Are You Driven By Money or Fame?
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Spacemen, you vain men. On today's episode, we talk about what drives your behavior. Specifically, we talk about Dr. Arthur Brooks and his concepts of what drives us toward happiness. Matt, Mike, and Rob talk about Money, Honor, Pleasure, or Power--Dr. Brooks' concepts--and which one drives them. Guess which one Rob's is...I may have just let it slip. But listen in and find out.
Keywords
Manspace, motivations, power, money, pleasure, honor, personal identity, mental health
Takeaways
Ep. 180 Listen to Your Gut
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Mga kosmonawt! That's Tagalog for spacemen...maybe. I don't actually know that word. But I don't need to. I just went with my gut. Just like today's episode. Matt, Mike, and Rob talk about the difference between following emotions, anxiety, and your gut. Turns out, there's a difference. We'll show you the way. THEN, listen to your gut.
Keywords
soda, leadership, discomfort, instincts, emotions, gut feelings, mental health, anxiety, decision making, self-trust
Takeaways
Discomfort often drives motivation a...Ep. 179 Lessons for Living. BOOK CLUB
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Spacenerds. Gather your fellow spacenerds and retire to the spacenerdery for some book club. Today, we talk about Lesson for Living by Phil Stutz.
We get real deep on important ideas the book brings up. Like connecting with something bigger than you, creating, and discipline. It's like we just dish out lessons for living. See what I did there? Man. Is there anything I can't do? Listen in and find out.
Keywords
podcast, conversation, Stutz, Lessons for Living, manhood, fatherhood, wisdom, mental health, se...
Ep. 178 Are You an Anxious - ADHD Couple?
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Spacemen, FOCUS! Or calm down. But probably, focus. Is your relationship a mix of an anxious person and an ADHD person? Or one who is high strung and one who is free-wheeling? Well then listen in. We'll take care of everything.
Today, Matt, Mike, and Rob break down, reframe, and rework the dynamics of an anxious "productive" partner with an ADHD "dreamer" partner. It's actually pretty common, and not really what you might think. But I don't want to spoil it. You'll just have to listen in.
...
Ep. 177 The Importance of Discipline...I Think
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Spacemen, go run a lap. Get your discipline on. Today's episode is about discipline. But, like usual, Matt and Rob meander their way there and cover all the topics. We actually cover a listener request of the relationship between food, exercise, and mental health. Sorta. So buckle up.
Keywords
battle ready, discipline, mental health, exercise, masculinity, overthinking, food, sports, self-mastery, mindfulness
takeaways
Discipline is essential for achieving personal goals.Mental health is not just about feeling happy; it's about understanding and accepting y...