Breaking out of the box of conventional masculinity opens up a world of new possibilities. What if being a man meant so much more than what society tells us?

In this episode, we’re thrilled to explore what it means to live beyond the constraints of traditional masculinity. We're talking about shaking off the cultural conditioning that shapes men, tapping into our imagination, and finding new forms of freedom. Plus, we’ll uncover ways to foster intimate, emotionally understanding relationships among men and redefine what it means to take responsibility. Trust us, you don't want to miss these insights!

So, let's think about it. The conventional idea of masculinity often feels like a suit of armor – heavy, restrictive, and outdated. But what if we told you that taking off this armor can lead to a life that's freer and more authentic? We also discuss the importance of taking ownership of our actions and how this shift can strengthen our relationships, both platonic and romantic. Imagining a world where masculinity and femininity are seen as a spectrum could reshape how we view leadership and community roles.

Our conversation is just scratching the surface, and we’re excited to continue this journey with you. Tune in to the full episode and join us as we explore how to live beyond boundaries.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• Breaking free from traditional male roles and societal expectations
• The importance of emotional intimacy and vulnerability among men
• Embracing the spectrum of masculine and feminine energies in our lives

If you're interested in finding answers to your most pressing questions, or to submit a question of your own for an upcoming episode, go to jonsymes.com/drop-in. We host a free monthly drop-in for you to join the discussion!

👉🏻To watch all episodes, head over to jonsymes.com/podcast
👉🏻Feel free to drop Jon a line at jonsymes.com/contact
👉🏻To connect with Jared, visit jaredarchbold.org

In every man's life, there's a phase where questions outnumber the answers and understanding oneself feels like solving a never-ending puzzle. Today's episode is a raw, insightful look into men’s journeys from adolescence to adulthood.

In this episode, Jared explores how we become the men we are today, starting from birth when we absorb everything around us. As we progress, we notice differences between boys and girls and model ourselves on the men in our families, learning by mimicking. Early wounds shape our self-perception, and as we grow, we seek identity beyond family, influenced by peers and cultural figures. Adolescence introduces new dynamics like dating, and we try on various identities to see what fits. This quest for self continues into early adulthood, often causing friction with our family's expectations as we seek independence and authenticity.

We also reflect on how stepping into adulthood is more than just a biological milestone; it’s a call to question, heal, and redefine who we are. We discuss how our early experiences have sculpted our identities and the necessity of finding authenticity amidst societal expectations.

Are we products of our environment, or is biology our destiny? We argue that the soul's unique spark pushes us to question and break free from societal expectations.

Our episode today has scratched the surface of what it means to navigate the turbulent waters of growing up and finding personal authenticity. Listen in, and let's explore more of these themes together.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• Teenage rebellion and the search for identity
• The impact of early experiences on personal growth
• Redefining authenticity and questioning societal norms

If you're interested in finding answers to your most pressing questions, or to submit a question of your own for an upcoming episode, go to jonsymes.com/drop-in. We host a free monthly drop-in for you to join the discussion!

👉🏻To watch all episodes, head over to jonsymes.com/podcast
👉🏻Feel free to drop Jon a line at jonsymes.com/contact
👉🏻To connect with Jared, visit jaredarchbold.org

Navigating the modern world feels chaotic, especially when it comes to understanding our roles. This episode explores how past societal shifts have impacted the way men see themselves and their place in the world today.

Today, Jared Archbold and I, Jon Symes, dig into some serious stuff. We talk about our loss of spiritual connection, how modern governance has shaped behaviors, and why empathy gets sidelined in a patriarchal culture. We explore the transition from natural coexistence to institutional control, examining both men's gains and losses in this shift. And hey, we're also hinting at what's coming up next – the tough questions about who we are and why we follow certain societal norms.

Jared opens up about his discomfort with how we've drifted from a spiritual connection to a more institutionalized view of it. We've lost touch with the natural world and our empathy, something men really need to thrive. On my end, I discuss how governance and distant powers have distorted our ability to coexist, leading to a culture dominated by men and, unfortunately, at the expense of women. Both of us agree there's a narrative at play here, shaping our daily interactions without clear heroes or villains, just people navigating a corrupted culture.

If you're ready to question societal norms and find a way out of a culture that's thrown us off balance, tune in. And don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• The shift from spiritual interconnection to institutionalization
• How patriarchy benefits and limits men
• The historical context of men's roles in society

If you're interested in finding answers to your most pressing questions, or to submit a question of your own for an upcoming episode, go to jonsymes.com/drop-in. We host a free monthly drop-in for you to join the discussion!

👉🏻To watch all episodes, head over to jonsymes.com/podcast
👉🏻Feel free to drop Jon a line at jonsymes.com/contact
👉🏻To connect with Jared, visit jaredarchbold.org

Men are grappling with societal shifts that redefine what it means to be masculine. We're moving away from traditional norms and exploring emotional competence and empathy.

In this episode, we dive into the changing landscape of masculinity and how it impacts men's mental and physical well-being. We discuss the pressures of traditional gender roles, the benefits of embracing emotional openness, and the influence of gym culture and societal expectations. We'll also reflect on the importance of emotional intelligence and the value of forming meaningful relationships.

We talk about how traditional male behaviors, like the "stiff upper lip" mentality, have discouraged men from seeking help, leading to poor health outcomes and a tendency to sacrifice personal desires for career success. Jared and I also share personal stories about how societal norms influenced our upbringings and affected our well-being. It's essential to break free from these rigid molds and create space for individuality and emotional expression. By doing so, men can lead more fulfilled lives and cultivate deeper relationships, both personally and professionally.

Don't miss this episode; we unpack all this and more to help you find new ways of living authentically. Tune in now and start your journey towards a freer, more balanced life.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• The impact of traditional masculinity on men's health and well-being
• The importance of emotional competence and empathy
• Breaking societal conditioning to live more authentically

If you're interested in finding answers to your most pressing questions, or to submit a question of your own for an upcoming episode, go to jonsymes.com/drop-in. We host a free monthly drop-in for you to join the discussion!

👉🏻To watch all episodes, head over to jonsymes.com/podcast
👉🏻Feel free to drop Jon a line at jonsymes.com/contact
👉🏻To connect with Jared, visit jaredarchbold.org

Understanding the state of men today is key to addressing the challenges we face. From risky behaviors to mental health, the data paints a stark picture of modern male existence.

In this episode, we're getting real about the disturbing stats affecting men in 2024. We dive into life expectancy gaps, risky behaviors, and the alarming state of men's mental health. We'll also dissect how societal norms have shaped and confined us, leading to this troubling state.

We kick off this episode with some eye-opening stats. Men live six years less than women, largely due to higher rates of smoking, excessive drinking, and avoiding medical care. The problem isn’t just bad habits; it's a culture that fails to encourage men to prioritize their health.

Socially, half of all men find their online communities more engaging than offline ones. For men aged 18-29, the numbers are even starker—they're more likely to be single and spend more time gaming. This speaks to a deeper issue of isolation.

Education provided another shock. While men led in bachelor's degrees in 1970, today, women have surged ahead, making up 51% of the college-educated workforce. Yet, men still dominate executive roles. What's going on here?

Finally, and perhaps most alarmingly, we need to talk about mental health. Nearly half of all men have thought about suicide in the last two weeks. We need a revolution in how men address their mental well-being because what we’re doing now just isn’t working.

Needless to say, it's time we break the mold. Listen to the episode to hear more about the alarming state of men today and what we can start doing about it.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• Life Expectancy and Risky Behaviors: The health dangers men are facing
• Social Isolation and Online Communities: How men are connecting (or not)
• Mental Health Crisis: The alarming rates of depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts

If you're interested in finding answers to your most pressing questions, or to submit a question of your own for an upcoming episode, go to jonsymes.com/drop-in. We host a free monthly drop-in for you to join the discussion!

👉🏻To watch all episodes, head over to jonsymes.com/podcast
👉🏻Feel free to drop Jon a line at jonsymes.com/contact
👉🏻To connect with Jared, visit jaredarchbold.org

In a world where being a man is more complicated than ever, it's like navigating a maze where the walls keep shifting. Emotional intelligence, authentic masculinity, and finding our place without shame – these are just a few of the puzzles we aim to solve.

Today, we’re tackling what it means to be an authentic man in 2024 and why it’s crucial for men to break free from outdated norms. We'll talk about the struggles men face, the shifting dynamics between men and women, and how we can find a new, fulfilling way to show up in the world.

So, what’s changing in the landscape of masculinity? We’ve seen a seismic shift in how men are expected to show up in the world – from rigid, traditional roles to more emotionally open and inclusive ones. We're talking about everything from the pressures of the American Dream to why men’s mental health needs a front-and-center focus. And let's not shy away from the tough stuff, like why men's suicide rates are alarmingly higher than women’s or the lingering impact of pre-#MeToo dynamics.

We’re not here to offer one-size-fits-all solutions; we’re here to provoke thought, inspire change, and build a community.

If you’re ready to explore what it truly means to be an authentic man today, make sure to tune in to our first episode. Join us to question the old ways and carve a new path forward.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• The evolving definition of masculinity
• The impact of cultural and parental influences on men
• Breaking free from outdated societal norms

If you're interested in finding answers to your most pressing questions, or to submit a question of your own for an upcoming episode, go to jonsymes.com/drop-in. We host a free monthly drop-in for you to join the discussion!

👉🏻To watch all episodes, head over to jonsymes.com/podcast
👉🏻Feel free to drop Jon a line at jonsymes.com/contact
👉🏻To connect with Jared, visit jaredarchbold.org

Questions Men Ask is a podcast dedicated to exploring the heart of what it means to live a purposeful and fulfilling life as a modern man. Hosts Jared Archbold and Jon Symes dive deep into the complexities of manhood, from existential inquiries to practical steps for personal development.

Tune in for insightful interviews with thought leaders, live coaching, and stories that resonate with the modern man's quest for meaning, happiness, and courage. Join our monthly community calls and be part of the conversation.

Follow and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your preferred platform.

If you're interested in finding answers to your most pressing questions, or to submit a question of your own for an upcoming episode, we host a free monthly drop-in for you to join the discussion! Go to www.jonsymes.com/drop-in

👉🏻To watch all episodes, head over to www.jonsymes.com/podcast
👉🏻Feel free to drop Jon a line at www.jonsymes.com/contact
👉🏻To connect with Jared, visit https://jaredarchbold.org/