by Gene Crawford | Oct 27, 2025 | Podcast
Let’s challenge some stereotypes by dissecting this “10 Harsh Masculine Truths” post and reframing toxic masculinity as an issue of individual character. Through stoic principles, we emphasize humility, resilience, and genuine strength over cynicism or bravado. Shifting to the life in the Dojo, we explore the true meaning of earning a Blackbelt, not as an end goal but as the beginning of lifelong learning, teaching, and humility. We discuss aging as a martial artist and the importance of inclusivity and respect within the community. Finally, we unpack emotional authenticity in men, using the “crayon box” metaphor to encourage a broader range of expression, touching on gaming, comics, and other outlets that reveal how growth and effort define real strength.
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by Gene Crawford | Oct 20, 2025 | Podcast
Modern society stands at a crossroads between integrity and adaptation. In this episode, we explore whether evolving cultural norms erode traditional virtues across martial arts, entrepreneurship, and politics. Drawing from the voices of the great Stoics, we examine how societal pressure challenges long-held standards and values. We then uncover the essence of the warrior ethos, rooted in wisdom, justice, fortitude, and temperance, through examples from Gladiator, Naruto, and real-world practice. We dissect leadership in the modern age, contrasting authenticity with performative virtue. From Marcus Aurelius to today’s influencers, we reveal how social media often rewards image over integrity, urging a return to genuine strength and disciplined conviction.
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by Gene Crawford | Jul 21, 2025 | Podcast
What defines real masculinity in a world full of noise and posturing? In this episode, we examine the quiet strength of Tom Hardy and Keanu Reeves—two men who embody humility, discipline, and dedication without seeking validation. From Hardy’s jiu-jitsu tournaments to Reeves’ relentless film prep, we explore how martial arts and consistent practice reflect true inner strength. Contrasting their grounded ethos with the spectacle-driven antics of “manfluencers,” we highlight the value of self-improvement over performance. Tune in for a powerful reflection on authenticity, presence, and redefining masculinity through silence, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth.
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by Gene Crawford | Jul 14, 2025 | Podcast
Author and modern masculinity advocate Kelvin Davis joins us to explore the difference between being a “nice guy” and being a good man. Drawing from his upcoming book, Kelvin shares seven transformative principles—from setting boundaries to self-respect—that challenge performative niceness and promote authentic integrity. We dive into how social media often rewards superficial validation over sincere action, and why honest communication matters more than ever. Kelvin reflects on his inspiring journey—from a childhood dream sparked by a JCPenney ad to founding Notoriously Dapper, overcoming body-shaming, and building a modeling career rooted in body positivity and self-worth. He opens up about personal growth through therapy, quitting alcohol, and reevaluating relationships during the pandemic. This candid conversation highlights the power of self-reflection, discipline, and internal validation. Whether you’re navigating modern relationships or redefining your role as a man, this episode offers grounded insight into becoming the kind of man who leads with honesty, respect, and purpose.
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by Gene Crawford | Jul 7, 2025 | Podcast
This episode tackles the spectacle of performative masculinity and the rise of man-fluencers like Liver King, Wes Watson, and Jack Donovan. We expose the marketing behind ancestral tenets, supplement empires, and controversial ideologies. From Liver King’s arrest to Jack Donovan’s far-right leanings, we question what’s real versus contrived. We highlight the contrast between performative posturing and authentic growth, featuring a post from Kelvin Davis as a grounded example. We also critique how workouts like Murph get hijacked by social media. Wrapping with a wild gorilla-versus-humans debate, this episode blends serious critique with humor to explore what masculinity really means today.
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