Podcasts about Iron Council

In this week's AMA, Ryan and Kipp tackle tough listener questions on becoming more self-aware, navigating the pain and decisions around infidelity, and setting boundaries to disincentivize bad behavior in relationships and parenting.  They also explore meaningful rites of passage for young men, fostering responsibility in teens, and the lessons they wish they could share with their younger selves. Honest, direct, and actionable, this episode blends inspiration with real-world strategies for men striving to lead with integrity. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Introduction 03:18 First listener question – Skill, habit, or mindset shift 14:09 How much infidelity is too much to forgive 27:06 Considering separation over chemical dependency 39:55 Rite of passage for your son 46:44 Handling entitled teenagers 54:44 Advice to your teenage self 01:05:32 Promotions and closing remarks Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

Why can't women just understand men? Why can't men just understand women? The short answer is, “we're not supposed to.” If we were, we wouldn't really have any need for each other, would we? My guest today, Adam Lane Smith, has made it his life's work to get closer to helping men understand women and help us understand our own natural tendencies in relationships. Today, Adam and I talk about emotional starvation, the concept of CEO/COO between men and women, the ‘red flags' that your marriage is struggling, what men and women do to cause each other pain, and how men can lead in their relationships much more effectively. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Finding Purpose and Chasing It 00:59 – Building a 200-Year Family System 02:51 – Two Worlds: Secure vs Insecure Attachment 05:55 – Teaching People Safety vs Creating Secure Attachment 07:27 – Maslow's Hierarchy and Emotional Safety 10:46 – Safety for Men as Peace 14:19 – Security Starts Outside the Relationship 17:38 – Rebuilding a Marriage After Decades 20:53 – Invalidation and Dismissal in Relationships 22:23 – Venting vs Bringing Concerns 27:18 – The Purpose of Female Feelings as Data 29:36 – Men and Women's Brains Are Meant to Interlink 32:05 – The Ancient Fear of Not Being Believed 37:25 – Emotional Starvation in Relationships 40:38 – Signs She's Thriving or Starving Emotionally 45:13 – Four Levels of Safety Women Need 48:24 – Level 1: Physical Safety 50:07 – Level 2: Resource Safety 52:00 – Choosing the Right Woman for Your Circle 55:08 – Defining Masculine and Feminine Roles 58:32 – How Men Decide and Women Refine 01:02:05 – Level 3: Emotional Safety 01:04:29 – Level 4: Bonding Safety Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

Twenty five years ago China Mieville's second novel, Perdido Street Station, introduced the world to the fantastical city of Bas Lag. It went on to win the Arthur C Clarke and British Fantasy awards, and be nominated for the Hugo, Nebula, World Fantasy, Tiptree, and Locus awards among others. Perdido Street Station was followed by two further novels set in Bas Lag, The Scar and Iron Council and then Mieville turned his attention to other worlds. Today China joins Gary and Jonathan to chat on the podcast for the first time to look back at Perdido Street Station, how it was written and where it came from, and how he feels about it now. We also chat a little about what he's doing next.   As always, our sincere thanks to China for making the time to talk to us, and we hope you enjoy the discussion. Note: The original cover art for Perdido Street Station (shown above) was by British artist Les Edwards (painting as Edward Miller). You can see more of his work here.

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler passionately defends hunting, addressing misconceptions and highlighting its ecological and ethical benefits. He explores the historical role of hunting in human survival, its impact on conservation, and the reverence of consuming what you kill. Michler provides data-driven arguments to counter anti-hunting sentiments, emphasizing population management, habitat preservation, and sustainable practices. He also offers practical advice for aspiring hunters.  Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges assumptions and celebrates hunting's role in human tradition and environmental stewardship. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Addressing Hunting Misconceptions 04:09 - The Cycle of Life and Homo Sapiens 08:10 - Consequences of Stopping Hunting 10:33 - The Truth About Trophy Hunting 12:56 - The Decency of an Honorable Death 15:21 - Hunting vs. Slaughterhouse 17:43 - The Reverence of Eating What You Kill 20:04 - Sustainable Hunting Practices 22:27 - Hunters' Contributions to Conservation 27:15 - Getting Started with Hunting Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this AMA episode, Ryan and Kipp explore the tension between motivation and meaning in today's self-help culture. They dive into headline topics like the Tim Kennedy stolen valor controversy, then tackle listener questions on marriage doubts, healing journeys, ex-partner conflicts, starting a podcast, and when to pivot in life. Expect honest, grounded advice around boundaries, intentional living, and balancing life's demands without burnout. A must-listen for men navigating growth, fatherhood, and purpose. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Tim Kennedy & the Stolen Valor Debate 08:29 - Should You Have Doubts Before Marriage? 16:35 - Mistakes When Starting a Podcast 22:34 - Growth & Healing: What's Top of Mind 27:01 - Parenting Disagreements with Your Ex 32:30 - When Is It Time to Quit or Pivot? 38:42 - Handling Overwhelm & the Four Quadrants 46:19 - Living an Intentional Life 55:31 - Reclaiming Your Identity from People-Pleasing 1:04:00 - Hiring Help: Building a Team for Your Mission Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Boxing is known as the “Sweet Science,” but the name doesn't quite do it justice. The amount of work, effort, blood, sweat, tears, and beatdowns is anything but sweet. But that doesn't mean there aren't so many powerful lessons to be learned from what my guest today, Ed Latimore, calls the “Hurt Business.” Today, Ed and I talk about how and why people either buy into you (or not), why the next win or loss is just a setup for the next experience of your life, the power of consciously choosing to start over in life and after setbacks, why you're only as good as your last win, and why “old endings” are nothing more than “new beginnings.” SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Intro & reconnecting 02:05 – Early podcast memories 04:05 – Building influence through storytelling 06:20 – The power of brand over product 08:40 – Writing the memoir: process and lessons 10:21 – You're only as good as your last win 17:06 – Everything is an audition 23:33 – When to throw in the towel 30:10 – Why most people shouldn't box 33:22 – Fighting serious people comes at a cost 35:01 – Who chooses a life of combat? 39:32 – The worst guy to fight 46:00 – Identity, curiosity, and starting over 48:56 – How to connect with Ed 51:20 – Nobody's coming to save you 52:33 – Final thoughts & wrap-up Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

Ryan Michler, in this week's Friday Field Notes, delivers an inspiring episode on becoming a steadfast presence for family and community. He shares seven actionable strategies to navigate life's challenges while supporting others, emphasizing clear communication, firm boundaries, and emotional resilience.  Michler urges men to embody trustworthiness and capability, ensuring they're the reliable "rock" others depend on during tough times. Packed with practical advice and motivational insights, this episode empowers listeners to lead with strength and serve those they love. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction: The Challenges of Life 02:03 - Communicate Your Desires 04:14 - Have Clear Boundaries 06:41 - Do Not Lie 09:02 - Honor Your Word 11:20 - Stay Emotionally Level-Headed 13:41 - Become More Capable 16:04 - Build Your Presence 20:46 - Conclusion: Serve Those You Love Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Join Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen in this engaging "Ask Me Anything" episode, diving into listener questions on career leaps, mentoring kids, handling feedback, and setting boundaries. From advice on applying for a higher job to being a positive role model for a niece and nephew, they share practical insights for personal growth.  The episode also explores the evolution of the Iron Council and the value of its community, offering actionable tips for men striving to thrive. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Catching Up and Weekend Recap 03:59 - Applying for a Higher Job 08:05 - Being a Role Model for Kids 15:08 - Evolution of the Iron Council 25:19 - Handling Performance Review Feedback 35:31 - Balancing Boundaries and Openness 44:37 - Battle Planner Clarifications 48:44 - Staying Connected with Order of Man Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

We're all tempted, at times, to allow our ego to get the better of us. Many of us feel like we're on top of the world until the precise time we find ourselves on the bottom of it. My guest today, Aaron Hale, found himself in just that scenario as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal tech on a routine assignment when he was blown up by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) that caused him to lose sight and, later, his hearing. Today, we talk about the fear of being stuck, gratitude for our struggles and adversities, overcoming our greatest fears, how positivity and negativity are infectious, and how you can re-size your ego or have it re-sized for you. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:15 - Aaron's Military Background and Injury 01:10 - Details of the IED Incident 02:04 - Injuries Sustained from the Explosion 04:36 - Medical Evacuation and Tom Cruise Encounter 06:34 - Recovery at Walter Reed 08:31 - Realization of Permanent Blindness 09:20 - Mental State Post-Injury 11:12 - Family Support During Recovery 13:11 - Connecting with Fellow Injured Veterans 17:01 - Overcoming Suicidal Thoughts 19:46 - Adapting to Sensory Loss 21:30 - Battle with Bacterial Meningitis 25:17 - Inspiration from Eric Weihenmayer 26:58 - Transition to Running and Physical Challenges 30:49 - Learning to Run Blind 34:47 - Running Badwater 135 Ultra Marathon 40:34 - Experiencing Runs Without Sight 42:45 - Building Trust with Guides 44:45 - Loss of Balance and Adaptation 51:22 - Mastering the Art of Falling 52:13 - Future Goals and Ventures 54:02 - Launching Point of Impact Podcast 56:13 - Gratitude for Life's Challenges 58:19 - Closing Thoughts and Appreciation   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler tackles the overwhelming stress men face in their roles as providers and protectors. He offers five practical strategies to manage stress effectively, emphasizing personal responsibility over societal expectations. Michler encourages men to identify stress triggers, eliminate distractions, prioritize health, break monotonous routines, and adjust life's tempo without losing direction.  Through actionable advice and personal insights, he empowers listeners to reduce stress and enhance performance, ensuring they can serve their families and communities without crumbling under pressure. Join the conversation at facebook.com/groups/orderofman. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction to Stress and Masculinity 02:04 - Overview of Five Tips 04:18 - Tip 1: Identify the Root of Stress 06:34 - Tip 2A: Remove Stressors 09:01 - Tip 2B: Eliminate Distractions 11:28 - Tip 3: Prioritize Mental, Emotional, and Physical Health 16:05 - Tip 4: Mix Up Your Routine 18:27 - Tip 5: Change Tempo, Not Direction 20:48 - Recap and Call to Action Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this "Ask Me Anything" episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen dive into listener questions, exploring themes of faith, letting go, and pursuing purpose. They discuss building male camaraderie through action, overcoming overthinking, and embracing "I don't know" to find peace. From marathon training insights to serving others and knowing when to offer empathy versus tough love, this episode offers practical wisdom for men striving to live with intention. Join the Iron Council brotherhood at orderofman.com for more. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Catching Up 05:29 - Strengthening Faith and Prayer 12:39 - Marathon Training Insights 16:44 - Letting Go and Overcoming Overthinking 30:39 - Defining a Life Well-Lived 36:25 - Going All-In on Order of Man 46:07 - Empathy vs. Tough Love in Leadership 53:54 - Reincarnation Animal Discussion 57:19 - Battle Planner and Closing Thoughts   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

We're all well-aware of the stigma associated with men's mental health. Men are often told overtly or covertly to be just be quiet, do your job, and get your work done. And, while there is certainly some validity to us getting the job done when people are relying on us, it's also valid to consider the mental and emotional battles we often fight as men. Today, I am joined by retired Green Beret, Nick O'Kelly to talk about his time in service the mental and emotional anguish he faced, and what he's done to overcome the challenges of anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation. We talk about how a man begins to confront these issues, finding the balance between bearing down and getting the help we need, how to find teams and avenues of support without feeling weak, and how to confront the stigma (even though we all deal with it) of men's mental health SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Men's Mental Health Stigma 01:05 - Balancing Pride and Duty 03:12 - Debating Vulnerability 04:27 - Military Career Transitions 06:36 - Family Dynamics and Decisions 09:22 - Managing Career Expectations 11:36 - Spousal Support and Sacrifice 14:36 - Masculine and Feminine Dynamics 18:37 - Expectation Management Challenges 21:23 - Trust in Relationships 25:16 - Decision-Making Struggles 28:26 - Imposter Syndrome in Financial Planning 31:58 - Onset of Mental Health Struggles 37:55 - Consequences of Seeking Help 43:29 - Personal Anxiety Experience 47:32 - Spiritual and Physiological Factors 52:29 - High Achievers and Mental Health 54:16 - Connecting with Nick's Work Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler shares an inspiring message about becoming the person you aspire to be through consistent action. Reflecting on his adventures, from Alaska to Africa, he emphasizes that small, daily habits shape identity and success. Michler addresses overcoming setbacks like divorce or financial struggles, urging listeners to combat imposter syndrome and act now. He breaks down practical steps across four key areas—calibration, connection, condition, and contribution—to live with purpose and achieve goals, encouraging men to take small victories and seek guidance to expedite progress. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:03 - Introduction and Reflections on Adventures 02:23 - Overcoming Setbacks and Imposter Syndrome 04:50 - Calibration: Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Health 07:08 - Connection: Building Meaningful Relationships 09:32 - Condition: Prioritizing Physical Health 11:56 - Contribution: Adding Value and Financial Wisdom 14:22 - Celebrating Small Wins and Staying Consistent 16:39 - Closing Thoughts and Call to Action Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this engaging "Ask Me Anything" episode, Ryan Michler and Shawn Villalovos tackle listener questions on emotional intelligence, co-parenting challenges, manifesting goals, and personal growth. They share practical strategies for managing emotions, setting boundaries in difficult relationships, and taking action to achieve dreams. Reflecting on Ryan's book Sovereignty, they discuss evolving perspectives on life's past, present, and future. With personal anecdotes and actionable advice, this episode inspires men to show up authentically and pursue excellence despite life's challenges. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Episode Introduction 01:57 - Emotional Intelligence Strategies 22:00 - Navigating Co-Parenting Conflicts 38:15 - The Power of Manifesting Goals 43:36 - Reflecting on Sovereignty's Past, Present, and Future 55:15 - Aligning Personal Goals with Purpose Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Considering how often we utilize technology, we don't spend as nearly as much time as we should protecting ourselves against the inherent vulnerabilities and bad actors who would exploit the very tools designed to improve our lives. The fact of the matter is, cybersecurity has become a huge issue (only to become more relevant as technology advances). My guest today, Dr. Eric Cole, has spent decades learning, understanding, and teaching people how to protect themselves and their loved ones from cyber-threats. Today, we talk about the apps that are more dangerous than others, how best to keep your children safe from online predators, what he calls, cyber-hygiene, why passwords are dead and what to do about it, and why social media will never fully protect children. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction   00:21 - Welcoming Dr. Eric Cole   00:26 - Importance of Cybersecurity for Families   01:24 - Dangers of Sharing Personal Information Online   02:47 - Targeting Vulnerable Individuals   04:26 - Impact of Technology on Parenting   05:45 - Prevalence of Child Exploitation   08:12 - Monitoring Kids' Online Interactions   10:00 - Social Media Security Measures   12:16 - Identifying Suspicious Accounts   15:00 - Limiting Kids' Access to Smartphones   19:09 - Balancing Technology Use   22:32 - Monitoring Social Media Comments   26:00 - Risks of Location Tracking in Photos   30:06 - Moving Beyond Passwords   32:31 - Avoiding Malicious Links   35:13 - Value of Online Protection Services   37:51 - Cell Phones and Privacy Concerns   43:03 - Importance of Software Updates   45:20 - Benefits of Using VPNs   46:43 - Upgrading Technology Safely   49:20 - AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement   52:43 - Practical Cybersecurity Tips   54:24 - Closing Remarks   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler explores how men can embrace calculated risks to achieve success in relationships, health, wealth, and quality of life. He shares five actionable strategies—defining your vision, measuring risk versus reward, hedging bets, conducting a SWOT analysis, and seeking coaching—to ensure risks are prudent and aligned with personal goals. Michler emphasizes preparation and intentionality to minimize threats and maximize opportunities, urging men to act boldly yet wisely. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Episode Introduction 00:26 - The Importance of Calculated Risks 02:10 - Know What You Want 03:52 - Measure Risk vs. Reward 06:11 - Hedge Your Bets 10:39 - Avoid Complacency 13:00 - Conduct a SWOT Analysis 15:24 - Seek Coaching 17:45 - Connect and Take Action Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Join Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen for an engaging "Ask Me Anything" episode, tackling listener questions on personal growth, leadership, and life challenges. From choosing dream podcasts to reclaiming sovereignty in marriage, they share actionable insights and heartfelt advice.  Ryan reflects on a decade of Order of Man, while both discuss overcoming mid-season slumps with mindset shifts and practical strategies. Tune in for inspiration, humor, and wisdom to become the man you're meant to be. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Episode Intro and Banter 02:34 - Top Podcasts to Guest On 07:12 - First Cars and Nostalgia 11:20 - Crafting and Sticking to Your Vision 19:17 - Reclaiming Sovereignty in Marriage 33:18 - Order of Man: Proud Moments and Growth 37:07 - Rucking vs. Rolling in Q3 39:58 - Handling a Spouse's Gas Tank Habits 46:32 - Beating the Mid-Season Slump 52:29 - Wrap-Up and Announcements Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Every man is different. Some men are intense and need to learn how to pull back on the reigns. Others are passive and need to learn how to crack the whip. My guest today, former Navy SEAL and French Foreign Legionnaire is a man who more closely resonates with the former but understands the implications of both. Today, Taylor and I talk about how and why men self-sabotage themselves, the importance of internal vs. external validation, how a “Battle Rhythm” helps a man maximize his performance, why success doesn't “flash,” it “glows,” and why every man is searching for inner peace and clarity. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Episode Introduction 00:18 - Welcoming Taylor Cavanaugh 00:55 - Taylor's Early Struggles and Navy SEAL Aspiration 03:55 - Roots of Self-Sabotage 06:04 - Strengths as Weaknesses in Military Life 09:10 - Backsliding Despite Purpose 11:39 - Transition to Civilian Life 14:45 - Building Internal Discipline 16:25 - Addressing Different Personalities 20:40 - Importance of Battle Rhythm 23:12 - Morning Routine for Clarity 25:36 - Turning Point from Despair 29:36 - Joining the French Foreign Legion 31:05 - SEAL Experience in the Legion 34:16 - Lessons in Simplicity and Patience 37:26 - Significance of a New Identity 40:35 - Starting Coaching from the Legion 43:48 - Connecting with Taylor's Programs 44:50 - Closing Remarks Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler explores the multifaceted role of a man as a provider, extending beyond financial support. Drawing from Maslow's hierarchy of needs, he outlines fou key provisions: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. Michler emphasizes equipping loved ones wit skills, emotional resilience, and a sense of purpose rooted in objective truth. With actionable insights he inspires men to lead their families toward abundance and fulfillment. Tune in to learn how to ste into your role as a protector, provider, and leader. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00- Introduction to Providing for Your People   02:40 - Physical Provision: Meeting Physiological Needs   05:03 - Mental Provision: Ensuring Safety and Skills   09:47 - Emotional Provision: Building Resilience and Belonging   14:41 - Spiritual Provision: Guiding Toward Purpose   19:24 - Framework for Effective Provision   21:07 - Closing and Call to Action Visit orderofman.com/battleready Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

In this episode of the Ask Me Anything series, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorenson dive into hard-hitting questions from listeners about fatherhood, masculinity, personal growth, and navigating life's toughest transitions. They discuss what it means to be a man in today's culture, the power of physical discipline, balancing martial arts training, and overcoming shame and failure. With raw honesty and practical insight, they challenge men to take ownership, build resilience, and lead with purpose—especially when life demands a reinvention from the ground up. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 News & personal updates 14:22 Devotional roles: husband, father, son 22:43 Thoughts on Liver King 28:18 Balancing jiu-jitsu with other martial arts 34:47 Leading yourself through life transitions 42:43 Fitness and its impact on mindset and leadership 52:53 Training goals into your 50s, 60s & 70s 55:34 Identity, inner dialogue, and breakthrough moments Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Is there a clear and deliberate agenda against men and boys in culture today? Or, is it simply a byproduct of the relative ease of modern times. My guest today, Pastor Douglas Wilson, makes the case that it's a combination of both and, more accurately, than “modern times,” a result of “wealthy times.” And, if that is the case, what should men do for ourselves and for the future of our children and this world? Today, Doug and I talk about rebuilding strength and order in our lives and instilling it in our boys, how exactly men can step up against the lunacy and degeneracy we see in modern culture, why men make inferior women and vice versa, why reality calls for us, as men, to reckon with the dangerous times in which we live, and why masculinity cannot (and, should not) be legislated away. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome   01:03 - Softness in Society and Masculinity   03:36 - Exploitation in a Soft Society   04:17 - The Need for Righteous and Hard Men   06:30 - Hard Times Create Strong Men   07:58 - Men's Role as Protectors   09:16 - Historical Context of Church Femininity   14:53 - Corporate vs. Individualized Worship   17:51 - Egalitarianism and Traditional Roles   20:27 - Reclaiming Masculinity in Culture   22:57 - Preaching for Truth vs. Consensus   24:30 - Learning Masculinity Through Imitation   28:54 - Single Mothers and Masculine Role Models   31:19 - Balancing Risk and Safety in Raising Boys   37:06 - The Impact of a Pampered Society   41:49- The Decline of Risk-Taking in Men   46:18 - Male-Female Dynamics and Patriarchy   53:29 - Masculinity as Sacrificial Responsibility   57:13 - Promoting Man Rampant and Other Works   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler tackles the crisis of male isolation, emphasizing the need for strong male connections. He introduces the "BBQ Test," a framework to evaluate potential brothers-in-arms based on five key questions: enjoyment, resilience, depth, principle, and capability.  Michler challenges men to reject cultural lies about lone masculinity, urging them to build networks of virtuous men. He shares personal insights and offers the Iron Council as a resource for forging these bonds. Join Ryan to discover how to cultivate meaningful, growth-oriented relationships. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - The Struggle of Male Connection 02:39 - Importance of Frameworks and Networks 05:06 - The BBQ Test Concept 07:32 - Question 1 & 2: Enjoyment and Resilience 10:01 - Question 3: Deep Thinker or Stooge 12:21 - Question 4: Principled Man 16:44 - Question 5: Capability 18:43 - Evaluating Your Circle 21:08 - The Iron Council Solution 23:30 - Call to Action   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen dive into powerful listener-submitted questions around change, brotherhood, leadership, emotional vulnerability, and navigating fear in uncertain times. They explore how desperation and inspiration spark transformation, the traits that make up a strong inner circle, and the importance of vigilance in a chaotic world.  Additionally, they explore spiritual perspectives, navigating major life transitions, and emotional expression as fathers. Real talk, real insight — this episode offers practical and heartfelt guidance for men striving to lead with strength and clarity. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Opening Banter & Headlines 08:08 – Desperation vs. Inspiration: How Change Happens 15:42 – Building Your Inner Circle 32:22 – Dealing with Eternity and Purpose 41:10 – Managing Fear in Uncertain Times 49:15 – Leading Through Major Life Transitions 52:43 – Emotional Expression as Fathers 59:00 – Iron Council Invitation & Wrap-Up Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Too many men are wandering around aimlessly through life doing just enough in their existence to make it through one more day. That's part of the reason I founded Order of Man and bring in incredible men like my guest today, Cody Jefferson. Cody is on a mission to help men find their purpose and live a life they're called to live. Today, Cody and I talk about why so many men feel they're always behind and never enough, the pressures a man faces daily and how to relieve them correctly, the source of joy and peace in a man's life, how your body will tell you a lot about your attitude and efforts in life, why men should focus on who they are, not what they do, and so much more. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Friendship 01:11 - Trusting God's Timing 02:59 - Learning from Challenges 05:41 - Being Known vs. Being Seen 07:07 - Overcoming Vices 09:24 - Impact of Self-Sabotage 11:24 - Fear of Success 13:35 - Transition from Ministry 14:38 - Practical Self-Care 19:35 - Lessons from Past Mistakes 23:18 - Health Crisis and Realization 27:04 - Divine Inspiration 30:24 - Importance of Wise Counsel 34:57 - Death and Resurrection 40:13 - Understanding Purpose 43:14 - Calling to Help Others 46:46 - Judging Actions vs. Souls 49:36 - Overcoming Ego 53:16 - Areas of Growth 57:21 - Building a Deeper Connection Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle listener questions in this Friday Field Notes "Ask Me Anything" episode. They explore escaping life's ruts, timing for starting a business, simplifying battle plans, staying disciplined, interviewing high-profile figures, and sharing advice confidently. Recorded early due to a hunting trip, their practical insights and relatable analogies inspire men to take action and live purposefully. Join the Iron Council at orderman.com/ironcouncil for more. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Hunting Plans 09:38 - Escaping Life's Ruts 18:00 - Timing for Starting a Business 24:21 - Simplifying Battle Plans 34:31 - Maintaining Discipline 45:31 - Framing a High-Profile Interview 51:10 - Sharing Advice Confidently 01:03:21 - Iron Council Enrollment and Wrap-Up

In this powerful episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler tackles imposter syndrome, urging men to reject feelings of inadequacy and embrace their divine purpose. He challenges the notion of being an imposter, labeling it as selfish and rooted in insecurity.  Michler provides a candid, no-nonsense perspective, offering five actionable steps to reframe negative self-stories, unpack insecurities, and lean on others' belief in oneself. With raw honesty, he inspires listeners to recognize their worth and take bold action to become the men they're meant to be. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:30 - Introduction to Imposter Syndrome 02:56 - The Selfish Nature of Imposter Syndrome 04:42 - Acknowledging Strengths and Weaknesses 06:54 - Value is Subjective 08:56 - The Comparison Trap 11:07 - You're Not an Imposter, You're Learning 12:57 - Imposter Syndrome is Just a Story 14:58 - Unpacking Insecurities with the Five W's 17:07 - Journaling to Confront Insecurities 19:11 - Rewriting Your Past Story 21:22 - Crafting a New Story 24:50 - Leaning on Others' Belief in You 27:05 - Rejecting Imposter Syndrome 29:11 - Moral Imperative to Be Your Best 31:18 - Closing Thoughts and Iron Council Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this AMA episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorenson dive into key questions from listeners on navigating relationships, living with purpose, processing intense emotions, and making tough life decisions. They also explore personal family traditions, the importance of frameworks and accountability, and how to know when it's time to pivot. With honest, practical insights and stories from their own experiences, this episode is packed with value for any man seeking growth, clarity, and strength in all areas of life. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Intro and catching up 01:38 – Navigating early relationship struggles 08:05 – Living life unabashedly 16:41 – Family summer traditions 20:17 – Processing strong emotions like anger and sadness 30:11 – Running away or moving toward opportunity 40:11 – What would you prioritize if your life was on the line? 45:06 – What to cut out to move forward 48:31 – Turning knowledge into action 54:24 – Preparing for the Forge event & final thoughts Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

I believe that most men know they're leaving room on the table for personal and professional growth and while their diagnosis may be correct, the prescription is wrong. Most men seem to believe that if only their circumstances were different (their boss, their wife, their financial prosperity, etc.), their lives would be better. But the reality is a new circumstances, without a change you yourself, will only produce more of the same. My guest today, Andrew Shaw, has made it his life's work to help men break free from the patterns that are holding them back, many of them subconscious. Today, we talk about discipline, resilience, the importances of what he calls, “choice points,” the critical differences between taking fault and taking responsibility, and how many men have over-corrected against the attack on masculinity. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction 00:27 - Discussing Content and Masculinity 02:34 - Cultural Views on Masculinity 06:15 - Overទ - Reactions and Overcorrections 08:17 - Common Issues Men Face 15:17 - Masculine Traits and Relationships 23:24 - Starting with Self-Alignment 28:14 - Embracing Discomfort for Growth 35:42 - Physical and Emotional Integration 46:40 - Connecting with Andrew Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Ryan Michler delves into the concept of the "integrity gap" — the disparity between what men know they should do and what they actually do. He explores how this gap hinders personal growth, results, and relationships, urging listeners to bridge it through actionable steps. Michler provides six introspective questions to help men align their actions with their aspirations, fostering purpose and impact. Tune in to discover how to close the integrity gap and become the man you're meant to be. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introducing the Integrity Gap 02:23 - Risks of the Integrity Gap 08:17 - Impact on Your People 10:41 - Who Are You Ideally? 14:56 - Who Are You Currently? 18:22 - What Needs to Happen Daily? 20:14 - What Information Do You Need? 22:38 - What Systems Do You Need? 24:50 - What Do You Need to Do Right Now? 26:34 - Adapting to Life's Challenges Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

In this Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle questions around forgiveness, grief, confidence, and masculine responsibility. They explore how to regain momentum after major life setbacks, navigate strained relationships with parents, and balance humility with confidence.  The hosts also discuss toxic masculinity, fatherhood, and the importance of modeling strength and integrity. This episode is a call to rise above a “heart at war” and live as a man of purpose—even in the face of fear, trauma, and adversity. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Opening & News Headlines 03:50 – Forgiving Parents Without Reconnecting 17:18 – Confidence and Humility in One Hand 24:35 – Facing Mortality & Leading Your Family 35:42 – Regaining Momentum After Loss 40:59 – Prioritizing Fitness vs. Financial Goals 48:37 – Why Most Men Stay Stuck 59:05 – Toxic Masculinity, Feminism & Prevention   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

From the time we were little boys and young men, the topic of sex has always seemed to conjure up thoughts of embarrassment and shame. It's unfortunate (to say the least) considering that most men equate sex with the woman in their lives an integral part of the relationship and connection. My guest today, Alex Grendi, has made it his life's work to explore men's relationships with sex and how we can not only get more of it but make it more meaningful for ourselves and the women in our lives. We talk about porn's impact on sexual relationships, how to overcome childhood shame around the conversation of sex, how to solicit and ask for feedback in your performance in the bedroom (including how to ask for what you want), why nice guys never get what they want from intimacy, and the psychological and physiological issues men deal with when with their lady. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Episode Introduction 00:25 - Misconceptions About Men and Sex 00:56 - Shame and Societal Expectations 02:05 - Defining "Good" at Sex 03:22 - Impact of Pornography 04:32 - Healthy Perspective on Sex 06:01 - Creating Safety in the Bedroom 07:44 - Balancing Quickies and Intimacy 09:18 - Pornography and Performance Issues 10:54 - Navigating Religious Shame 12:02 - Talking to Kids About Sex 14:57 - Overcoming Shame and Insecurity 18:19 - Steps to Address Performance Anxiety 22:51 - Managing Stress for Better Intimacy 25:05 - Exploring Non-Genital Pleasure 29:24 - Importance of Foreplay 32:18 - Honoring Your Own Needs 36:14 - Mastering Edging Techniques 41:30 - Removing Ejaculation as the Goal 44:42 - Communicating Desires Effectively 50:28 - Leadership in Intimacy 53:06 - Reframing Sexual Intentions 55:42 - Connecting with Alex Grendi   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler explores the powerful concept inspired by Gladiator and Marcus Aurelius: “What we do echoes in eternity.” Michler emphasizes the importance of adopting a long-term perspective in life to avoid emotional impulsivity, short-term gains, and scarcity mindsets.  He shares three key mindsets for maintaining focus on lasting goals and three practical strategies—pausing before acting, applying the “five-five-five rule,” and prioritizing long-term results—to achieve meaningful outcomes. Michler's insights inspire listeners to make decisions that resonate beyond the present, fostering a legacy of impact and growth. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:18 - Introduction 02:42 - Why Long-Term Perspective Matters 07:21 - Avoiding Short-Term Thinking Traps 09:38 - Strategy 1: Stop Before You Act 11:56 - Managing Emotional Responses 13:57 - Strategy 2: The Five-Five-Five Rule 16:04 - Strategy 3: Focus on Long-Term Results 18:06 - Building Lasting Relationships 20:27 - Recap and Call to Action Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this week's Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler—joined midway by Kipp Sorensen—tackles questions from listeners about discipline, balance, relationships, and personal growth. They share insights on training consistency in summer, defining identity, healing after breakups, and leading a family with intensity and joy.  Whether you're navigating divorce, redefining your vision, or trying to stay focused in a distracted world, this episode delivers powerful mindset shifts and practical takeaways to help you become the man you're meant to be. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Intro & Memorial Day Reflection 02:49 – Staying Consistent with Training in Summer 05:02 – Balancing Drive and Family Presence 09:46 – Responsibility vs. Enabling in Family 14:28 – Dating After Divorce 22:20 – Discovering Identity and Vision 32:48 – Lessons from Darkest Moments 42:49 – Financial Readiness for Marriage 46:13 – Moving On After a Breakup 50:20 – Closing Remarks & Call to Action Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Every single man listening to this is familiar with discipline and has applied it (to varying degrees) in his life. We generally think of discipline as an overall good thing (and, I think it is) but it can often lead to bouts of frustration and unnecessary suffering if utilized incorrectly. My guest today, Craig Ballantyne, makes the case that discipline, although, a powerful force for productivity comes with strings attached, and isn't the end-all, save-all it's often made out to be. Today, we talk about what true discipline is not, why chasing the wrong target is so common and what to do about it, what I call the “self-help hangover” and how to avoid it, why you should know the distinction between standards and expectations, and how to avoid what Craig calls, “The Doom Loop” in your life. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Defining Discipline 00:42 - Level 10 Effort and Level 10 Problems 01:48 - Identifying Your Level 10 Problem 04:21 - The Importance of Focus and Self-Reflection 06:32 - Calibration and Goal Setting 07:54 - Facing Difficult Conversations 10:44 - The Hero's Journey and Overcoming Fears 13:13 - Personal Growth Through Challenges 15:49 - Suffering vs. Sacrifice 18:54 - Reframing Sacrifice for Joy 21:21 - Choices and Personal Responsibility 23:44 - Inspiring Stories of Resilience 25:35 - Motivation and Maximizing Potential 27:54 - Breaking the Doom Loop 30:27 - Effortless Discipline Systems 33:46 - The Power of Systems Over Willpower 37:09 - Accountability as a Life Hack 40:31 - Raising Standards for Success 43:55 - Standards vs. Expectations 46:12 - Controlling Thoughts, Words, and Deeds 48:27 - Identity and Core Values 50:35 - Creating a Vision for Your Future 52:45 - Where to Connect and Learn More Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler shares four strategies to avoid bitterness amid life's challenges. He urges men to take responsibility for their circumstances, emphasizing decision-making, reframing adversity, learning from experiences, and applying lessons for growth. Michler highlights the dangers of victimhood and encourages gratitude and proactive change to transform struggles into opportunities. With personal anecdotes and practical advice, he inspires listeners to rise above frustration and embrace their potential. Visit orderofman.com/battle-ready for tools to implement these principles and become the man you're meant to be. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:10 - Introduction: The Trap of Bitterness 02:30 - Strategy 1: Make a Decision 04:55 - The Stories We Tell Ourselves 07:24 - Strategy 2: Reframe Your Circumstances 09:47 - Gratitude as a Tool for Growth 11:30 - Strategy 3: Learn from Experiences 13:50 - Strategy 4: Apply the Lessons 15:47 - Embracing Discomfort and Responsibility 17:54 - Tools for Improvement: The Battle Planner 20:05 - Closing: Take Action, Rise Above Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this "Ask Me Anything" episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle listener questions on toxic leadership, writing books, jumpstarting motivation, the meaning crisis, and connecting with stepkids. They explore overcoming self-help burnout, emphasizing the power of fun to recharge motivation, and discuss finding purpose in a pleasure-driven culture. With practical advice and personal insights, they inspire listeners to take action, build influence, and live meaningfully. Join the conversation at orderofman.com and themensforge.com. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Weekend Recap 02:55 - Dealing with Toxic Leadership 19:06 - Writing Books: Plans and Challenges 23:53 - Jumpstarting Motivation 34:44 - The Meaning Crisis: Causes and Solutions 43:23 - Overcoming Self-Help Burnout 54:41 - Building Influence with Stepkids 01:02:15 - Community Updates and Resources Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Purpose is a factor of life that every man knows will improve his quality of life. Unfortunately, we seem to be in an era when purpose is increasingly abysmal in the lives of too many men. Men in all walks and stages of life are floundering around aimlessly, wondering why they're anxious, depressed, and alone. My guest today, Garrett Unclebach, former Navy SEAL, is a man who is intimately familiar with why and how purpose drives men to step up, take charge of their lives, and succeed. We unpack why a man must look beyond himself, how surrendering in certain circumstances could lead you to an incredible place you've never considered, the power of equanimity and how to cultivate it, why being faithful when you have nothing leads to a life of prosperity and abundance, and how to judge what you should be doing and who you should be doing it with. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Episode Introduction 00:35 - Ryan's Recent Event in St. Louis 01:00 - Garrett's Men's Group and Camping Trip 02:40 - Developing Leaders and Train the Trainer 05:00 - Rewarding Leadership Moments 06:27 - Hunting Memories and Mentorship 07:16 - Family and Fatherhood 09:29 - Shared Hunting Experiences in Africa 11:25 - The Impossible Life and Control 12:32 - Mentoring Navy SEAL Tadpoles 14:46 - Finding Peace Beyond Outcomes 16:39 - Balancing Heart and Consequences 19:10 - Joseph's Dream and Purpose 22:35 - Discovering Purpose Through Heart and Hand 25:09 - God's Plan and Personal Growth 26:51 - The Question Every Man Asks 29:31 - The Power of Perspective and Beliefs 32:43 - Faith, Works, and Serving Others 35:57 - Transformation Over Behavioral Change 39:13 - Balancing Service and Personal Fulfillment 42:09- Living and Dying for Purpose 45:01 - Equanimity and Staying Under the Weight 47:35 - Taking Responsibility for Choices 49:32 - The Mindset of Inevitability 52:30 - Resilience vs. Delusion 56:33 - Learning from Scars and Pain 58:09 - Chip on the Shoulder Mentality 01:01:28 - Purpose Over Temporary Identity 01:03:13 - Mission vs. Vision 01:05:22 - Connecting with Garrett and Closing Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler explores how creating options leads to true freedom. Expanding on the concept of "discipline equals freedom," Ryan argues that personal responsibility, open-mindedness, and sovereignty are key to unlocking a life of choice. He shares four actionable strategies to cultivate options, emphasizing self-improvement, avoiding rigid thinking, aligning relationships, and prioritizing liberty. Ryan inspires listeners to take control of their lives and pursue their desired path. Join the Iron Council at orderofman.com/ironcouncil for more. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction to Options and Freedom 02:35 - Fix Yourself First 04:59 - Never Pedestalize Anything 09:43 - Coinciding vs. Conflicting Interests 14:05 - Sovereignty as the Path to Liberty 17:45 - Reclaiming Your Sovereignty 20:00 - Closing Thoughts and Call to Action Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Join Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen for an engaging Ask Me Anything episode, tackling listener questions on sobriety, respect, body image, entrepreneurship, and relationships. From navigating a teen's insecurities to balancing co-parenting conflicts, they share practical advice and personal insights. With humor and heart, they explore overcoming the comparison trap and building a fulfilling life. Sign up for the Men's Forge at themensforge.com and join the Iron Council at orderofman.com/ironcouncil. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00:00 - Episode Intro and Roomba Mishap 00:01:50 - Sobriety and Overcoming Past Mistakes 00:07:52 - Respect: Earned vs. Given 00:13:24 - Supporting a Teen's Body Image Struggles 00:22:25 - Bedros Kulian Event and Personal Growth 00:24:17 - Escaping the Comparison Trap 00:32:55 - Men's Forge Event Plans 00:35:54 - Starting a Business: Key Tips 00:44:24 - Co-Parenting and Team Commitments 00:49:00 - Fitness Goals and Gym Humor 00:51:51 - Letting Go of Relationships 00:57:53 - Call to Action and Closing   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Leadership is a word that has become completely bastardized in modern culture. Everywhere you turn, someone is hyping you up on why you need to become a better leader, the benefits of leading versus following, and how exactly you should do it. But what if I told you, it's not the tactics that make you a leader but the mindsets that spell the difference. My good friend, brother, and leadership coach, Kipp Sorensen, joins me today to talk about what it really means to lead in a world where every man thinks they're leading well. We address the two types of destructive leaders, the “BAR” acronym (behavior, actions, results) and which to focus on, how 83% of people in the workforce view their position in the company (and what you can do about it), why a “compensation” package is about more than just money, and the do's and don't's of effective leadership. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Business Talk   01:48 - Exploring Leadership Challenges   04:30 - How Authority Changes People   06:18 - Persecutors vs. Rescuers in Leadership   10:26 - Stanford Prison Experiment Insights   13:07 - Balancing Motivation and Honesty   17:19 - Becoming a Leader-Coach   21:41 - The Mindset of Great Leadership   23:21 - Applying Leadership at Home   29:49 - Defining the Leader-Coach Role   36:31 - Balancing Accountability and Empathy   41:29 - Focusing on Results, Not Behaviors   49:54 - Ownership and Choice in Leadership   56:00 - Handling Limited Resources   01:02:09 - Leading Family vs. Employees   01:09:20 - Closing and Kipp's Contact Info Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this poignant episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler delves into the pitfalls of people-pleasing, drawing from personal reflection. He identifies five critical signs—saying yes when you mean no, avoiding conflict, feeling responsible for others' emotions, tying self-worth to praise, and feeling burned out or resentful. Michler shares candid insights, referencing No More Mr. Nice Guy by Dr. Robert Glover and Let Them by Mel Robbins, offering practical anecdotes to break the cycle. Through raw honesty, he encourages listeners to set boundaries and prioritize self-care to become their authentic selves. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:19 - Introduction to People-Pleasing 04:53 - Recommended Resources 07:21 - Sign 1: Saying Yes When You Should Say No 09:49 - Sign 2: Avoiding Conflict at All Costs 13:25 - Sign 3: Feeling Responsible for Others' Feelings 18:53 - Sign 4: Struggling with Self-Worth Without Praise 28:04 - Sign 5: Feeling Burned Out, Resentful, and Unseen 34:50 - Actionable Steps and Closing Thoughts Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this "Ask Me Anything" episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen dive into a St. Louis event recap, sharing its triumphs and challenges. They tackle listener questions on sibling conflicts, leaving work stress behind, the pressures of leadership, marriage cycles, discovering personal values, and managing credit scores. With candid insights, Ryan and Kipp explore self-validation, intentionality, and aligning actions with values, offering practical advice for men striving to live purposefully. Join them for an inspiring discussion on growth and resilience. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00.088 - Event Recap: St. Louis Experience 06:40.662 - Handling Sibling Conflicts 13:54.412 - Leaving Work Stress at Home 24:18.870 - The Weight of Leadership 41:44.558 - Marriage Cycles: Fact or Fiction? 51:40.632 - Discovering Your Personal Values 57:09.762 - Credit Scores and Financial Responsibility 01:02:15.275 - Call to Action: Divorce Not Death   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

We've all heard the quote, “Hard times create strong men. Strong men create good times. Good times create weak men. Weak men create hard times.” Today, I have the author of that quote, Geoff Hopf on the podcast to talk about what he meant when we penned that phrase. Today, we talk about moral weakness and lacking skillsets, why masculinity does not need to be redefined, why accepting reality is such a crucial part of men's growth, why all men want to be part of something great, the 4 pillars of survival, and overcoming illogical belief systems. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Introduction 01:24 – Geoff's background and law enforcement experience 06:35 – Transitioning to writing and becoming an author 11:18 – Daily writing habits and productivity 15:47 – Finding purpose through creative work 20:26 – Violence, masculinity, and raising boys 26:55 – Personal responsibility and fatherhood 33:10 – Social media, distraction, and mental clarity 39:42 – Freedom of speech and cancel culture 44:51 – Lessons from fatherhood and legacy 50:15 – Final thoughts and where to find Geoff's work   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler delivers a powerful message on embracing failure as a catalyst for growth. Drawing from personal experiences, he outlines six actionable strategies to learn from setbacks, including avoiding complacency, focusing on controllables, and forgiving oneself. Michler emphasizes resilience and personal responsibility, urging listeners to let go of past mistakes and build a better future. His candid, motivational approach inspires men to confront challenges head-on and transform adversity into opportunity.  SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction: The Inevitability of Failure 02:53 - Six Strategies to Learn from Failure 05:13 - Complacency Kills 07:33 - Externalities Are Rarely the Problem 11:47 - Build New, Let Go of the Old 15:16 - Do Not Grow Bitter or Label 19:27 - Forgive Yourself 27:04 - Focus on the Controllables 28:52 - Closing: Transform Challenges into Growth Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this episode of Ask Me Anything, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorenson tackle tough, real-world questions from men facing divorce, personal setbacks, and disconnection at home. They dive into how optics impact execution, how to master emotional resilience through stress, and why ego can sabotage your growth.  From powerful mindset shifts to tactical advice for navigating separation and fatherhood, this episode is packed with hard truths and uplifting insights. Whether you're healing, leading, or rebuilding—this one hits home. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Technical Troubles and Weekend Recap 05:45 – Viewer Questions Begin 06:02 – What to Do When Divorce Hits 10:07 – Reconnecting Without Shared Interests 15:09 – Rebuilding After a Breakup 21:45 – Divorce Logistics and Legal Readiness 27:59 – How to Apologize to Your Kids 32:23 – Blessings Hidden in Disappointment 44:58 – Would You Want Your Son to Live Your Life? 52:07 – Hierarchical Decision-Making 52:34 – Optics vs. Execution Debate 59:00 – The Brain's Argument With Itself 01:02:24 – Optics as a Sign of Respect 01:04:50 – Final Thoughts and Hope Through Hard Times Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

It can be challenging to be faithful towards your goals and objectives in the seemingly endless supply of trials and adversity. Whether you're dealing with a crippling financial situation, devastating divorce, or something like my guest today, Hal Elrod, dealt with, a life-threatening cancer diagnosis. In spite of all that, and more, you have responsibilities to take care of and duties to fulfill. So, how do you do it? Today, Hal and I talk about being realistic in your pursuits by balancing the line between probable and possible, what is a true miracle and how to create more of them in your life, the powerful connection between mind and body (and, how to use it), and using affirmations in a way that works. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 — Reconnecting After Nearly a Decade 00:45 — Hal's Cancer Diagnosis and Immediate Challenges 03:35 — Fear of Death vs. Fear for Family 06:14 — The Miracle Equation: Unwavering Faith and Extraordinary Effort 08:17 — Preparing for Death While Fighting to Live 13:08 — The Role of Affirmations in Healing 14:20 — Beating Cancer: Mindset vs. Reality 18:35 — The Mind-Body Connection and Healing Miracles 21:28 — Dr. Bernie Siegel's Insights on Cancer Survival 23:20 — Choosing Hope Over Despair 24:51 — Fear of Failure and Others' Opinions 27:11 — Defining and Creating "Miracles" 30:09 — Faith Without Works Is Dead 31:25 — The Origin of the Miracle Equation 36:44 — The Sales Miracle: A $20,000 Breakthrough 39:42 — When Other People Influence Your Outcomes 41:29 — Overcoming Major Setbacks with the "Until" Mindset 44:53 — Adjusting Goals Without Losing Faith 45:51 — Michael Jordan and Unwavering Faith in Action 48:13 — Is It Faith or Delusion? 51:08 — What's Next After The Miracle Morning? 55:09 — Hal's Next Project: Mastering Action and Inner Peace 57:38 — Where to Find Hal Elrod's Work Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Ryan Michler shares seven essential mindsets for effective money management in this episode of Friday Field Notes. Aimed at men striving to protect, provide, and preside, Michler emphasizes money as a tool and metric of value, urging listeners to overcome emotional pitfalls and societal misconceptions. He outlines a strategic approach—fortify, neutralize, attack—and stresses the importance of professional support. With practical wisdom, Michler empowers men to master their finances and fulfill their potential. Tune in to rethink money and elevate your financial game. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Episode Introduction 00:37 - Money as a Metric of Value 02:57 - The Duty to Earn 07:45 - Money as a Tool 10:09 - Eliminating Emotions 15:00 - No Room for Amateurs 19:45 - Fortify, Neutralize, Attack 27:03 - Knowing Your Role Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Join Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen in this week's Ask Me Anything, exploring the pursuit of pleasure versus the pleasure of pursuit, the cultural shift of young men toward the right, and the power of solitude. They tackle listener questions on imposter syndrome, fatherhood, divorce, dating, financial decisions, and personal growth. With humor and insight, they debunk overhyped headlines, like the "astronaut" space crew, and share actionable advice for living purposefully. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Opening Banter and Headlines 01:25 - The Pleasure of Pursuit 06:30 - Space Crew Rant 13:06 - Imposter Syndrome in Job Interviews 20:42 - Lessons from Kids 24:06 - Patience as a Father 28:40 - Why Women Leave Relationships 37:43 - Dating After Divorce 44:36 - Making Financial Decisions 48:08 - Lessons from Hard Times 53:59 - Young Men Moving Right Politically 59:26 - Call to Action Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

It's no secret that most men want to find love in life and someone they can partner with throughout life. But the reality is that far-fewer men are doing the work required than ever before. And, for those who are actively looking for love, many of them are floundering when it comes to approaching women and building interest that could potentially lead to a long-term relationship. David Meessen is a man who has made it his life's work to help men understand why they struggle and why society, at large, seems to be continually stacking the deck against the type of relationships the men listening to this podcast are looking for. Today we talk about why men seem to be so intimidated in approaching women, the skills (and, they are learnable skills) you can develop to have a more successful dating life, why “Progressive Desensitization” is such a valuable option in love and in life, the alarming statistics around romantic relationships and young men's increasing aversion to them, and how radical honestly (not overly-agreeableness) is what creates attraction. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Opening & Dating Stats Alarming for Men 01:34 – The Harsh Reality of Dating Apps 03:09 – How Dating Apps Work Against Most Men 04:27 – Learning to Play the Dating Game 05:26 – Sacrificing Values for Connection 06:37 – Approach Anxiety and Desensitization 08:51 – Start Small: Building Momentum Through Socializing 10:01 – Rejection is Often Kind – and Necessary 11:23 – Don't Pedestalize Her – Have Options 12:46 – We Live in a Friendly or Hostile Universe 14:16 – Oversharing as a Powerful Connection Tool 15:21 – Men Struggle to Share Their Strengths 16:29 – Assume the Burden of the Conversation 17:51 – Bitterness Towards Women & Scarcity Mindset 19:58 – Reality is Better Than Fear-Based Fantasies 22:13 – You Crave the Experience, Not the Person 23:31 – Compatibility vs. Chemistry 25:16 – Communication is a Learnable Skill 26:29 – Influence vs. Manipulation 30:54 – Authenticity in Style & Presence 32:34 – Confidence is Just as Authentic as Humility 33:10 – Radical Honesty and Sharing Values Early 35:42 – Relationships Built on Aligned Values 37:27 – Disagreement is Attractive 39:33 – Common Mistakes in Online & Real-Life Dating 41:39 – Learn Humor to Boost Social Skills 43:03 – Don't Skip the Ask – Get the Contact 44:59 – Women Get Approached Less Than You Think 46:11 – How to Approach in the Gym the Right Way 47:52 – Meeting Quality Men Matters Too 49:03 – Why Intelligent Men Struggle with Connection 52:15 – Expression Freedom & Compatibility 53:22 – Choose to See the Best in Each Other 54:26 – Final Thoughts & Where to Find David Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler explores the concept of self-betrayal, defining it as failing to act on known responsibilities or instincts. He discusses its consequences, including anxiety, poor relationships, and unfulfilled potential, and identifies emotional signs like frustration and impatience. Ryan provides actionable steps to overcome self-betrayal, such as listing neglected tasks, taking immediate action, and journaling emotions. Encouraging listeners to align actions with their values, he offers resources at orderofman.com. Tune in to learn how to bridge the integrity gap and live a more fulfilled life. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction to Self-Betrayal 02:55 - Sources of Intuition and Emotion 05:19 - Consequences of Self-Betrayal 07:44 - Recognizing Self-Betrayal Symptoms 12:30 - External vs. Internal Factors 19:25 - Actionable Steps to Overcome Self-Betrayal 26:05 - Journaling and Reflecting 28:30 - Additional Resources and Closing   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready