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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by Gene Crawford | Jun 30, 2025 | Podcast
In this episode, Aaron and I explore how AI is reshaping motivational content, from remixed clips of figures like Huberman and Dispenza to imagined mashups of Steve Jobs and Tony Robbins. We dive into the evolution of motivational media, questioning whether AI-enhanced messages empower or dilute the core message. Using stories like the Outdoor Boys’ content remixing, we examine what this means for creators and consumers. The takeaway: motivation has gone digital, but action still matters most. Whether crafted by humans or algorithms, the real growth comes when we turn inspiration into effort and move beyond passive consumption into real-world application.
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by Gene Crawford | Mar 31, 2025 | Podcast
Step into the shifting world of modern masculinity as we unravel the image transformations of tech icons—beginning with Mark Zuckerberg. Once the hoodie-clad coder, Zuckerberg’s new fighter-physique and stoic stare tell a different story. But why the change? We peel back the layers of this calculated rebranding and explore how media crafts masculine ideals—from the “tech bro” archetype to martial arts influencers like Joe Rogan.
Through vivid stories, personal reflection, and pop culture references, Shekeese and I examine the spectrum of masculinity: traditional, toxic, and healthy. What messages are we absorbing? What should we pass on?
This episode invites you to question the media mirror, seek authenticity, and redefine strength—not as performance, but as purpose. Tune in for a deeper look.
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by Gene Crawford | Apr 1, 2024 | Podcast
In our tech-dominated society, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters – our authenticity. Let’s dig deep into the essence of being true to oneself while grappling with the rapid advancements of technology that are reshaping our world.
Joni me and Sherard “Shekeese” Duvall as we look at the complexities of social pressures and the emotional labor involved in juggling different personas across varied contexts. In a world where digital communication overshadows face-to-face interactions, the episode emphasizes the lost art of active listening and the importance of eye contact in building genuine connections. We discuss the common frustrations of inattentive communication and the rich personal growth that stems from truly engaging with others.
Each chapter of the podcast delves into specific aspects of authenticity and technology:
- The power of gratitude and the emotional resonance of life’s milestones.
- The weight of social pressures and the strength found in personal integrity.
- The fundamental role of eye contact and attentiveness in meaningful communication.
- The delicate balance of thoughtful communication, particularly in the age of text and email.
- The essence of carrying oneself with confidence and respect, drawing parallels from martial arts to everyday life.
- The intricate relationship between humanity and technology, acknowledging both its benefits and potential harm.
- The ubiquitous presence of screens and the importance of understanding our ‘screen world.’
This episode is not just a reflection but a call to action – to become more aware, prepared, and educated as we navigate the evolving digital landscape. It’s a reminder that in an age where technology can augment reality, our authenticity remains the most potent force of all.
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by Gene Crawford | Jun 19, 2023 | Podcast
How much do our cultural roots play a role in shaping our identity and sense of self? We explore this thought-provoking question and share our experiences of connecting to our ancestors and preserving our family’s cultural heritage. As we navigate through our busy lives, it’s essential to prioritize experiences over possessions, and we discuss the impact of this philosophy on our children. Embarking on adventures like a trip to Alaska, we strive to instill a mindset in our kids that “the only way to know life is to live life” – a wise quote from Sherard’s aunt. We also delve into the complexities of detachment, intuition, and the influence of social media algorithms on our mental health.
We examine the responsibilities and potential liabilities of social media platforms in today’s digital world. How can we ensure that platforms protect us from false information, and is it time for more regulation? Join us for this enlightening conversation that will challenge your perspectives and leave you inspired.
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