Blog
“Facing Your Shadow: Why Real Strength Begins Underground” with Connor Beaton
In this Men Talking Mindfulness episode, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider explores the power of facing your shadow and how true strength begins within. Drawing on Carl Jung’s wisdom, this piece dives deep into shadow work, shame, and the unconscious patterns driving high performers. Learn why integration—not perfection—is the path to authentic leadership, inner peace, and lasting fulfillment.
“Fight the Monsters” with Ben Owen
In this Men Talking Mindfulness feature, Jon Macaskill shares the incredible story of Ben and Jess Owen, founders of We Fight Monsters, a Memphis nonprofit transforming drug houses into recovery homes. Their mission—Be a badass. Save a kid.—embodies redemption, compassion, and courage in action. Through confronting inner demons, restoring broken lives, and turning pain into purpose, this episode explores what it truly means to fight darkness with light and lead with heart.
“Why So Many Boys and Men Are Falling Behind And What We Can Do About It” with Joseph Fuller
In this Men Talking Mindfulness episode, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider join Harvard’s Joseph Fuller to explore why so many boys and men are falling behind—and what can be done about it. From declining education rates and workforce shifts to the stigma around trades and loss of purpose, they unpack the data and offer real solutions: expanding apprenticeships, teaching essential “power skills,” and rebuilding mentorship for young men. A must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of education, work, and male identity in today’s changing world.
The Silent Brain Drain: Decision Fatigue
In this Men Talking Mindfulness episode, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider explore the hidden toll of decision fatigue—how countless daily choices silently drain your brain’s energy, fueling stress, impulsivity, and burnout. From strategies like front-loading tough decisions and simplifying routines to boundary setting and mindful recovery, they share practical tools and real-life stories to help you protect your focus, conserve willpower, and make better choices when it matters most.
Why Rites of Passage Still Matter Today with Darren Silver
In this Men Talking Mindfulness episode, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider explore why rites of passage still matter in today’s world. From ancient traditions to modern challenges, they unpack how intentional thresholds create meaning, strengthen resilience, and anchor transformation through community. Featuring Darren Silver, this conversation dives into why we still need rituals that mark change, belonging, and growth.
Servant Leadership in a "They Work For Me" World! with Howard Behar
In this Men Talking Mindfulness episode, Jon Macaskill & Will Schneider explores servant leadership with Howard Behar, former President of Starbucks, and the lessons that put people at the center of culture and success. From compassionate emptiness to the Six Ps of leadership, this conversation unpacks how presence, purpose, and persistence create teams that thrive. A timely reflection on 9/11, sacrifice, and leading with humanity first.
When Dopamine Becomes the Enemy with Dr. Trish Leigh
In this Men Talking Mindfulness episode, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider unpacks how modern dopamine traps—especially porn—rewire the brain, fueling anxiety, low motivation, and disconnection. With neuroscientist Dr. Trish Leigh, we explore how to reset pleasure pathways through mindfulness, healthy habits, and authentic connection. Discover how to reclaim joy, intimacy, and purpose in a world hooked on artificial stimulation.
The Way of the Peaceful Warrior in Everyday Life with Dan Millman
In this Men Talking Mindfulness episode, Jon Macaskill explores The Way of the Peaceful Warrior with Dan Millman—unpacking how grit, compassion, presence, and resilience can coexist in everyday life. Discover how challenges become training, why actions matter more than feelings, and how simple practices like mindful breathing can transform stress into strength.
The Aftermath of Success with Apolo Ohno
In this episode of Men Talking Mindfulness, Jon Macaskill unpacks what happens after achievement—the aftermath of success. From the emptiness that can follow milestones to the power of curiosity and resilience in transitions, this conversation offers practical wisdom for athletes, veterans, leaders, and anyone facing life beyond their biggest goals.
Love, Loss, and Letting Go ... Caring for Our Aging Parents
In this heartfelt episode of Men Talking Mindfulness, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider sit down with David Valadez to explore one of life’s most tender leadership tests—caring for aging parents. They share wisdom on presence, grief, and self-care, offering practical guidance and emotional insight for anyone navigating this season of role reversal. A powerful conversation on love, resilience, and finding purpose in caregiving.
Becoming the Person You Were Meant to Be with Dr. Robb Kelly
In this episode of Men Talking Mindfulness, we explore the real meaning of purpose with Dr. Robb Kelly—not as something to find, but something to build through action and self-ownership. We unpack how shame, false identities, and external expectations keep men stuck, and how reclaiming your story can reignite your mission. If you're ready to stop waiting for purpose and start creating it, this grounded and powerful conversation is for you.
Manhood in the Age of Machines with CHAT GPT
In a world where masculinity is being redefined and AI is accelerating cultural change, the true threat isn't technology—it's confusion. This thought-provoking conversation explores how artificial intelligence reflects the values we feed it and how modern men can use it as a tool for self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and growth. Dive into a powerful reframe of manhood beyond outdated stereotypes, and discover how presence, integrity, and curiosity can shape both the future of masculinity and the ethical evolution of AI.
Perform Without the Mask with Clint Bruce
Discover why true high performance isn't about pretending or masking struggle. In this powerful podcast episode, we explore how authentic leadership, mental clarity, and emotional resilience fuel real success. Learn how letting go of the pressure to "lock it up" can unlock your full potential. Tune in now to transform the way you lead, compete, and live.
Rewiring a Broken Brain with Dan Carcillo
In this powerful follow-up to our conversation with Dr. Mark L. Gordon on brain inflammation and trauma, we explore the lived experience of traumatic brain injury through the story of Dan Carcillo—two-time Stanley Cup champion turned healing advocate. After suffering seven concussions and nearly losing everything, Dan shares how he rebuilt his life using plant medicine, functional healing, and full-spectrum brain recovery. Discover how cutting-edge science and ancient tools are transforming the way we approach mental health and TBI recovery.
When the Mission Ends… But the Mind Keeps Marching with Dr. Varpas de Sá Pereira
In this powerful episode of Men Talking Mindfulness, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider explore Warrior Withdrawal Syndrome with Dr. Varpas de Sá Pereira, a former USASOC operator turned psychologist. They unpack the emotional fallout that occurs when structure and purpose vanish—whether after military service or high-intensity careers—and how identity, clarity, and mental health are deeply impacted. Tune in for a transformative conversation on redefining who you are when the mission ends.
When the Mission Ends… But the Mind Keeps Marching with Dr. Varpas de Sá Pereira
On this episode of Men Talking Mindfulness, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider sit down with Green Beret Nick Lavery to explore the raw truth about resilience, adversity, and choosing strength in the face of loss. After losing his leg in combat, Nick returned to active duty—proving that brokenness is optional, and mental toughness is built through choice, not chance. Tune in for a powerful conversation about grit, recovery, and showing up when life doesn’t ask if you're ready.
What If Your Mind Isn’t Broken... What If Your Brain Just Needs Help? with Mark Gordon, MD
In this powerful episode of Men Talking Mindfulness, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider talk with renowned neuroendocrinologist Dr. Mark L. Gordon about how brain inflammation, caused by stress, trauma, aging, and more, can mimic mental health struggles like anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Learn how hormone imbalances and neuroinflammation may be the hidden root of your symptoms, and discover cutting-edge strategies for healing and reclaiming your focus, energy, and emotional well-being. If you’ve tried everything and still feel off, this conversation could be the missing link to true mental and brain health.
The Spirit We've Suppressed with Tim Ryan
In this thought-provoking episode of Men Talking Mindfulness, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider sit down with former Congressman Tim Ryan—author of Healing America—to explore how mindfulness can help restore the American spirit. From the crisis of masculinity to the rise of disconnection and distraction, this conversation dives deep into what it means to lead with purpose, rebuild community, and reconnect with emotional strength. With insights on parenting, education, veterans, and the power of presence, this episode offers a grounded, bipartisan path forward for healing ourselves and our nation—one mindful step at a time.
Reinvention Begins in Discomfort with Nate Boyer
In this powerful episode of Men Talking Mindfulness, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider explore the uncomfortable, uncertain, and transformative process of reinvention with special guest Nate Boyer, former Green Beret, NFL player, and filmmaker. Together, they dive into how discomfort is not a sign to run, but a signal that something deeper is shifting. From everyday choices to life-altering decisions, true reinvention isn’t about dramatic overhauls, it’s about aligning with your truth, one brave step at a time. If you're standing at the edge of change, this conversation offers clarity, courage, and a call to stop living on autopilot.
Jocko Willink - Is Discipline a Trap or Freedom?
In this impactful episode of Men Talking Mindfulness, Jon Macaskill and Will Schneider sit down with retired Navy SEAL and best-selling author Jocko Willink to unpack the deeper meaning behind his famous mantra: “Discipline equals freedom.” They explore how true discipline isn’t about restriction, but about reclaiming control, direction, and peace of mind in a chaotic world. From building structure to avoid burnout, to understanding how daily habits shape identity, this conversation reveals how discipline can quietly unlock the freedom we’re all searching for. Tune in and rediscover your power to choose, act, and grow.