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Vulnerability isn't something we often associate with fathers and sons, but in this raw, emotional episode, two dads and their 20-year-old sons break down those barriers completely. What happens when fathers ask their sons to grade their parenting performance, with nothing held back?

Jean-Jacques (JJ) and Stéphane (our host), who are cousins of the same age, both have sons born in April 2005 – Christian "Kiki" and Julien. Despite their parallel journeys, their paths diverged through divorce and different parenting arrangements. This conversation reveals the profound impact these circumstances had on their father-son relationships.

The young men don't hold back. They discuss what they wish had been different – from the desire for more emotional connection to wishing their fathers had pushed them harder in sports. Particularly moving is Julien's revelation about growing up primarily without his father after divorce, and how this created both appreciation for the time they did have and regret for what was missed. Kiki opens up about the communication difficulties that led him to feel isolated despite living with both parents.

What makes this conversation extraordinary isn't just the honesty, but the grace with which these young men view their fathers' imperfections. They acknowledge that their dads were navigating parenthood without a roadmap, often trying to break cycles from their own Haitian upbringing while figuring out the delicate balance between pushing their sons toward excellence and nurturing their emotional well-being.

The conversation culminates with both sons expressing how they envision their relationships evolving as they move deeper into adulthood – with hopes for friendship, mentorship, and continued growth together. Their insights offer a powerful template for how father-son relationships can mature and heal with honest communication.

Ready to examine your own parenting journey or understand your relationship with your father in a new light? This episode will inspire you to have the difficult, necessary conversations that lead to deeper connection and healing. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of authentic manhood.

Thank you for supporting us by following the show, leaving a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and sharing with your family. We'll catch you next week when we share conversations surrounding real issues we deal with every day. Manhood Matters.

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What does it take to abandon the safe path and build a business from scratch in your early twenties? Vince Starrs (29) and Justin Bradford (22) reveal the raw truth behind their entrepreneurial journeys, from teenage side hustles to founding thriving tech companies.

These young founders share a refreshing perspective on success that challenges conventional wisdom. Rather than asking "what if I fail?" they've built their careers on the mindset of "even if it takes time, I'll succeed." Their stories debunk the myth that you need privileged backgrounds or extensive formal education to create wealth – instead, they emphasize the power of proximity to success, learning through action, and unwavering persistence.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when they discuss their deliberate decision to remain single during these formative business years. "The best women are behind a paywall," Vince explains, suggesting that focusing on personal development first creates better relationship opportunities later. While potentially controversial, their perspective reveals a strategic approach to life planning that prioritizes long-term vision over immediate gratification.

Most compelling is their advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: isolation to hear your internal voice, learning to say no to distractions, identifying blue ocean opportunities, and embracing failure as essential education. Justin's insight that "we spend so much time listening to outside noises that we lose touch with our internal voices" serves as a powerful reminder for anyone feeling stuck or uncertain about their path.

Whether you're a young person contemplating entrepreneurship, someone considering a career pivot, or simply fascinated by the mindsets of successful founders, this episode offers practical wisdom and genuine inspiration from two individuals who've rejected conventional paths to create extraordinary results on their own terms.

RESOURCES:

Essentialism by Greg McKeown https://a.co/d/eMIUz62

Blue Ocean Strategy by Chan Kim & Renée Mauborgne https://a.co/d/73wJ8Rv

FOLLOW @vincestars & @justinthementor on IG

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When a new self-appointed relationship "guru" begins racking up millions of views on social media with inflammatory advice about men, women, and money, the Manhood Matters team steps in to set the record straight. This episode dissects the dangerous trend of unqualified influencers who gain massive followings by pandering to relationship pain points and stoking gender wars for clicks.

The hosts draw a direct parallel to Derek Jackson—the previous relationship advisor who preached standards to women while mistreating his own wife—and unmask how these personalities profit from division. From claims that "no man with real money cares if she's a gold digger" to contradictory advice about texting behaviors, the team breaks down why these viral soundbites attract attention while damaging real relationships.

What makes this conversation particularly compelling is how the panel—featuring a therapist, a business owner married 23 years, and other relationship veterans—offers nuanced counterpoints from lived experience. They explore the difference between women desiring security versus being reduced to gold diggers, why financial provision should never equal ownership, and how the best relationships involve mutual contribution beyond money.

Most troublingly, they observe how these harmful messages primarily circulate within the Black community, potentially widening relationship divides rather than healing them. As one host powerfully notes: "I'm convinced social media is about making the human race regress."

Whether you're navigating your own relationship or concerned about the advice your loved ones are consuming online, this episode provides crucial perspective on distinguishing harmful clickbait from genuine relationship wisdom. Join us as we challenge toxic narratives and offer healthier frameworks for understanding partnership, provision, and mutual respect.

What relationship advice have you encountered online that seemed questionable? Share your thoughts and join our growing community of listeners seeking authentic conversations about manhood, relationships, and personal growth.

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Most men never received proper instruction on the fundamentals of personal grooming. From skincare routines to cologne application, haircare to nail maintenance - these skills aren't intuitive, they're learned. When a woman complains about her partner's hygiene, it often signals a gap in knowledge rather than laziness.

At The Men's Refinery in Conyers, Georgia, owners Cedric Mews and Alvino Sanders have created a sanctuary where men can receive grooming services without the discomfort of traditional salons. This clothing and grooming lounge offers everything from haircuts and shaves to manicures, pedicures, custom clothing & shoes, and even features a members' area with a golf simulator - all designed specifically with men in mind.

Our fascinating conversation with Cedric, master barber Alvino Sanders, therapist Quentin Opong, and veteran Kelly Saunders explores how personal appearance affects both others' perception and self-confidence. We tackle sensitive topics like male baldness (and the psychological impact of hair loss), proper cologne application (hint: two spritzes, not a shower), and why those neglected feet matter more than you think. The experts share wisdom on building proper grooming rituals, finding authentic personal style beyond expensive brands, and teaching young men the self-care habits that build lifelong confidence.

Whether you're struggling with thinning hair, never had a proper skincare routine, or simply want to elevate your personal presentation, this episode delivers practical guidance from men who understand the intimate connection between grooming, confidence, and success. Your appearance speaks volumes before you say a word - make sure it's telling the right story. Follow us and leave a five-star review to support conversations that truly matter for modern men.

MEN’S REFINERY: 948 Railroad St NW, Conyers GA 30012

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https://www.instagram.com/themensrefinery_?igsh=MWlvZWg5eGhyOWg3OA==

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Warning: This episode mentions suicide.

What happens when we finally pause to address the part of ourselves we leave on autopilot the most—our minds? In this powerful episode, recorded at a community wellness day in Atlanta, we witness raw conversations about mental health that challenge everything we think we know about strength and vulnerability.
From the projects of Staten Island to Super Bowl glory, Dominique Easley shares how childhood trauma shaped his worldview: "I never thought about anything outside of the next day." Now retired from the NFL, he's pursuing a career as a therapist, transforming his pain into purpose. Alongside him, we meet Floyd Stewart, who faced a stage 4 cancer diagnosis not with defeat but with spiritual determination, creating Divine Luminance Juices to heal himself and others.
The true emotional center comes when Antoinette Roberts speaks about losing her son to suicide 21 years ago. "Resilience is BS," she declares, challenging the myth that has kept so many silent in their suffering. "I watched them put my son in the ground and I didn't crack a tear because of resilience." Her organization, the J Holman House, now supports suicide loss survivors while working to prevent future tragedies.
Stephanie Carnegie, whose Totality Wellness Inc. organized this day of healing, reveals a shocking truth: suicide is the second leading cause of death for Black youth ages 10-14, yet most remain unaware of this crisis. Her upcoming documentary "Butterflies Jump Too" aims to shatter this silence.
Through sound bowl therapy, guided meditation, and honest dialogue, these conversations remind us that vulnerability is our greatest strength. As Coach Munnn puts it: "It's not about making time, it's about creating the life you want to live."
Check on your strong friends. The ones who seem to have it all together might be struggling the most. This episode isn't just about awareness—it's about action, healing, and reclaiming our full humanity.

RESOURCES:

https://www.totalitywellness.org/

https://www.easleyfoundation.org/

https://divineluminancejuices.com/

https://www.thejholmanhouse.org/

https://www.atlantapublicschools.us/jlinvictus

SOCIALS:

Coach Munnn: https://www.instagram.com/coachmunnn?igsh=MWhkaW1vMTRxdmhoeQ==

Dominique Easley: https://www.instagram.com/easie91?igsh=MTl6anBwdWUyZTFrcw==

Steph Carnegie: https://www.instagram.com/steph.carnegie?igsh=OW5lamp6NGl2Ynpz

Totality Wellness: https://www.instagram.com/totality.wellness?igsh=bjg2anY5N2d3ODln

100 Black Men of South Metro Atlanta: https://www.instagram.com/100southmetroatl?igsh=aDRhMGE2MjNkYTJh

The J. Holman House: https://www.facebook.com/share/1C5rHkEvF4/?mibextid=wwXIfr

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Ever wonder why you're constantly drained, struggling to keep up with life's demands, or finding yourself irritable with the people who matter most? The answer might be simpler than you think.

"We have to stop pouring into people. We must fill ourselves first, and then everyone else catches the overflow," explains psychologist Jonah Bell. This conversation brings him together with Kenneth “Scooter” Reddick, founder of Brothers Brunch Foundation and Marine veteran Kelley Saunders for a raw, unfiltered look at men's mental health—a subject that affects far more of us than we're willing to admit.

Recorded in the authentic setting of U Got Next Barbershop in Douglasville, Georgia, this episode shatters misconceptions about mental health, especially for Black men. You'll discover why mental health isn't a diagnosis but rather a practice—like physical fitness—requiring consistent maintenance. The panelists offer practical strategies anyone can implement, from intentional breathing and proper sleep to understanding how our unresolved traumas manifest in our children.

"You can't cuss, fuss, or beat you out of your child—it's birthed into them," Scooter reveals, highlighting how our unhealed wounds become our children's inheritance. The conversation delves into accountability, purpose-finding, and why even eight-year-olds benefit from having a therapist as a "life coach." For fathers, husbands, sons, and anyone who cares about them, this episode provides the roadmap to better mental wellness without stigma or shame.

Ready to fill your cup first? Press play, take notes, and join us in changing the narrative around men's mental health. Your family, your work, and most importantly—you—deserve nothing less than your mentally healthiest self.

Follow the panelists and please support these wonderful organizations:

IG @brothersbrunchfounddation @soberscooter @old_united_log_llc @100southmetro.org @kelleywsaunders @iam_mrmakeitmakesense

www.brothersbrunchfoundation.com

www.oakandgrey.com

www.ugotnextbarbershop.com

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Testosterone deficiency remains one of the most misunderstood health issues affecting men today. Despite impacting millions of men over 30, myths and misconceptions continue to prevent many from seeking help for symptoms that dramatically affect their quality of life.

In this revealing conversation with nurse practitioner Minal Patel from Game Day Men's Health, we explore the reality of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) beyond the stigma and misinformation. Minal expertly explains how testosterone naturally declines with age and various lifestyle factors, leading to symptoms many men simply attribute to "getting older" – persistent fatigue, depression, weight gain despite exercise, decreased libido, and cognitive challenges.

The discussion clarifies crucial distinctions between medically supervised hormone optimization and performance enhancement, addressing common fears head-on. We learn that proper testosterone therapy isn't about becoming superhuman but rather restoring optimal function for your body's individual needs. Minal details the comprehensive monitoring process that ensures safety, the various treatment options available, and why lifestyle factors like exercise remain essential components of successful therapy.

Perhaps most importantly, this episode challenges the masculine identity issues that often prevent men from addressing hormone health. As Jabari and I share our personal experiences and hesitations, the conversation opens a judgment-free space for men to consider whether their symptoms might have a treatable underlying cause.

Whether you're currently experiencing symptoms of low testosterone or simply want to understand this critical aspect of men's health, this episode provides the medically-sound information needed to make informed decisions about your wellbeing. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how addressing hormone health could help you reclaim your energy, motivation, and zest for life.

Forward this episode to the men in your life who might benefit from this conversation – the information shared could be life-changing. And remember, if you're experiencing symptoms, consult with a qualified healthcare provider who specializes in hormone health.

Resources: https://gamedaymenshealth.com/alpharetta/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/share/1D9yZtwges/?mibextid=wwXIfr

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Remember when men had hobbies? Not just squeezing in an occasional round of golf or gaming session, but actually dedicating regular time to activities that brought them joy and connection with other men. This disappeared cultural norm became the catalyst for one of our most reflective conversations yet.

Our panel dives into the complex reasons why modern men struggle to prioritize leisure. From self-imposed productivity guilt to societal expectations and relationship dynamics, we unpack the shame many feel about taking time for themselves. As our host poignantly asks, "Why aren't we doing more of that? Why aren't we doing a little bit of an escape or just something to help us?" The answers reveal how deeply many men have internalized the message that their value lies primarily in their productivity.

This conversation takes a fascinating philosophical turn when discussing whether men should even pursue happiness as a goal. While some argue that contentment and achievement should be the focus for men rather than euphoric happiness, others passionately advocate that men deserve joy and must recognize this right. Through personal stories of material success without fulfillment, we explore how purpose—not possessions—ultimately brings satisfaction. One guest shares his journey from having "a hundred thousand dollars in the bank and feeling nothing" to finding profound fulfillment in community work.

Perhaps most importantly, we highlight the irreplaceable value of male connection through shared activities. Whether fishing, gaming, sports, or simply gathering together, these spaces create opportunities for mentorship, advice-sharing, and authentic relationships that men desperately need but rarely prioritize. As we conclude, the message becomes clear—making time for hobbies isn't selfish; it's essential for maintaining sanity and becoming better men, fathers, and partners.

Join our ongoing exploration of modern masculinity and share your thoughts with us at manhoodmatterspodcast@gmail.com. What hobbies have you abandoned, and which ones bring you back to yourself?

Resources: The Way of Men by Jack Donovan https://a.co/d/6OfSyMl

Support the show

Email us at manhoodmatterspodcast@gmail.com
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Host: StéphaneAlexandre
IG: @stephanealexandreofficial
Music by Liam Weisner

Sponsored by www.OnsiteLabs.net
(833) 878-3323