Mindfully Masculine: Personal Growth and Mental Health for Men

On "Mindfully Masculine" we support and encourage men who strive to level-up their lives as we share books, media, and personal stories on mental health and well-being. Challenges in your life? We deliver the tips and tools that truly help.

Charles and Dan are just two guys talking about relationships, masculinity, and authenticity. Join them as they discuss books and media, as well as their (sometimes messy) personal stories, to encourage men to join the fight for their mental, physical, and emotional health--because a world of healthy, resilient men is a thriving and more secure world for everyone.

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Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness

Episodes

Tough Guys and Tooth Fairies: Clean That Mouth!
Yesterday
Tough Guys and Tooth Fairies: Clean That Mouth!
Ever wondered about the unexpected connections between oral hygiene and German's chocolate cake? Settle in as we embark on a lively journey through the world of self-care for men, starting with those pearly whites. Our latest Mindfully Masculine Podcast episode isn't just a treasure trove of dental wisdom—it's a rollicking adventure through personal anecdotes and myth-busting that will leave you both informed and chuckling. We peel back layers of oral care marketing and share our own experiences with the latest dental gadgets and routines.Hold on to your toothbrushes because we're dissecting everything from the efficacy of floss picks to the smooth, minty allure of alcohol-free mouthwash—and why it might not be for everyone. Our discussion doesn't shy away from the nitty-gritty of mouth care equipment, debating the merits of electric toothbrushes and tongue scrapers. Plus, get a front-row seat to Charles's 20-day Crest product suite experiment, where I test the limits of at-home (tooth) whiteness. By the time we're through, you'll be equipped with personal perspectives on everything from flossing techniques to the truth behind that fresh, tingly sensation.Wrap up your dental deep dive with us as we delve into the world of teeth whitening and oral health tips. Whether it's weighing the pros and cons of professional treatments or exploring the health impacts of your sugar and fat intake, we're covering all the bases. And for those contemplating the cost and convenience of dental tourism or invisible aligners, we've got firsthand insights to guide you. So join our candid conversation, and let's navigate the maze of mouth care together—because a healthy smile is always in style.Support the show
From Sidelines to Spa Days: Exploring Men's Wellness
Mar 11 2024
From Sidelines to Spa Days: Exploring Men's Wellness
Ever been caught between the adrenaline rush of a sports game and the zen-like tranquility of a spa day? Charles and Dan, strike that balance in our latest Mindfully Masculine episode, as we swap tales from our spa experiences and weigh in on the recent Super Bowl buzz. Our chat delves into Travis Kelce and Coach Andy Reid's sideline exchange, where we touch on the intricacies of respect, authority, and race in sports. But it's not all about the gridiron; self-care aficionados and rookies alike will find solace as we peel back the layers on facials, even for the bearded among us.Picture the perfect facial treatment—now imagine navigating that with a five o'clock shadow. That's the conundrum we unpack, sharing the highs and lows of spa care while sporting facial hair. We also reminisce over the indulgence of a certain pumpkin facial mask, enjoyed year-round, and chuckle over our attempts to ration the podcast's coveted crumble cookies. But it's not just fluff; we critically examine the claims behind various spa treatments, pondering whether they stand up to scientific scrutiny or if they're just another dose of feel-good hedonism.To wrap up, consider this a crash course in savvy spa consumerism. From upselling maneuvers to navigating the sea of advanced skin treatments like LED therapy, we equip you with the know-how to make informed decisions. We share our own journeys, advising on the importance of easing into skincare routines and the underrated value of a trusted aesthetician relationship. Whether you're a grooming guru or a newcomer to the world of men's self-care, our episode offers a fresh perspective on looking good, feeling great, and staying sharp—inside the spa and out on the field.Support the show
Sheet Mask Shenanigans
Mar 4 2024
Sheet Mask Shenanigans
Ever thought a hydrating face mask was just a slick way to scare off anyone at the door? Well, we took the plunge, beards and all, and let's just say, our coffee sipping technique needed some serious innovation. We wax comical about our latest foray into the world of men's self-care, sharing our skirmishes with the slippery adversaries known as sheet masks. But it's not all laughs—we also chat about the Tiny Habits method and how your better half could be your allies on this journey towards glowing skin and maybe, just maybe, glowing personalities.Then there's the trip down memory lane to the days when facial masks were a one-trick pony: clay or peel-off, take it or leave it. We compare war stories of beauty mishaps (that time Dan turned into a lobster pre-date night, anyone?), discuss the finesse needed in mask application, and take a moment to ponder the satirical genius of "American Psycho." Korean sheet masks make an appearance, too, as we balance the wonders of convenience with the need for a discerning eye while shopping online. Spoiler alert: Dan's got a game-changing under-eye gel mask recommendation that might just make you the most awake-looking person in any Zoom meeting.Wrapping up, we swap tales of Valentine's Day from a single guy's perspective, busting myths and toasting to "Pal-entine's Day" and self-love with the same zeal we'd apply to our newly favored face masks. And for a dose of pure heartfelt cheer, Charles recounts the joy of donning the Easter Bunny suit at a local nursing home — because who says you need to be a kid to find magic in a person-sized rabbit? Stay tuned for candid banter, unexpected skin care wisdom, and the kind of stories that make life a little bit brighter.Support the show
Winter Whiskers and Pretty Faces
Feb 19 2024
Winter Whiskers and Pretty Faces
Picture the scene: you're sidled up in the frosty pre-dawn of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, bundled up and brimming with excitement, awaiting the famous groundhog's springtime prophecy. It's almost Groundhog Day, and we're cracking the lid on this time-honored tradition, from securing the perfect spot to witness Phil's annual weather prediction to the history that burrows deep to its Germanic roots. Expect tales of camaraderie in the chills of February and the warm glow of a shared experience, as Charles and Dan chat about looking forward to this quirky day and the surprising trivia of a certain legendary movie.Stepping out of the cold, let's turn up the heat on skincare. Our faces brave the elements, so they deserve a little pampering, right? This episode is packed with our personal grooming tips and product recommendations as we navigate the sea of facial cleansers and shower routines. I'll reveal why shower shaving is a game changer and how keeping duplicate grooming items in strategic places saves your skin and your sanity. Dive into our journey with various under-eye creams, including the battle between high-end luxury and budget-friendly options, and learn how to weave a night cream practice into your nightly rituals.But it's not just about keeping our skin in check; it's also about understanding and supporting each other. Acne can be a formidable foe, and as we share our own skin struggles, we unpack the importance of a consistent skincare routine and the value of expert advice. We attempt to bring all our insights to the table, making this episode a heartfelt blend of practical tips and empathetic conversation. Whether you're a Groundhog Day enthusiast, a skincare novice, or simply on the hunt for some cozy camaraderie, join us for an episode that digs beneath the surface and nurtures both tradition and personal care.The referenced Orca hat:https://a.co/d/4dO8VbRSupport the show
Tattoos are Self-care?
Feb 5 2024
Tattoos are Self-care?
Have you ever stared at a tattoo and wondered about the story it tells? Charles and Dan are peeling back the ink this week on Mindfully Masculine, as we tackle the complex dynamics of self-care and identity in the realm of tattoos and beyond. We're diving into the reasons why some men choose to remain a blank canvas, sharing personal tales that range from cultural influences to the potential for regret with permanent body art. But it's not all serious business; we'll whisk you away on a culinary detour, discussing how our taste buds have matured from filet mignon to the robust flavors of a New York strip.Tattoos often stand as silent sentinels of personal history, but what happens when they no longer represent who we are? We get candid about the emotional weight of inked memories and the significance of choosing a symbol that evolves with you. Not only do we explore the personal side of tattoos, but we also scrutinize the practicalities—from the painful realities of removal to the necessity of aftercare. Let's not forget the role of habits and systems in shaping success; we're revealing how the enchantment of life can be found in the simplest of routines, from the skincare regime that guards your canvas to the supplements that fuel our bodies.As the conversation takes a turn towards the sunny side, we sift through the nuances of sunscreen safety and skincare. You'll hear about our personal experience with mineral-based sunscreens and the challenge of finding a balance between health and aesthetics. Before we wrap up, we extend an invitation for you to join our mindful journey. Tattoo enthusiast or not, we're here to explore the intricacies of modern masculinity with you. So, subscribe or follow Mindfully Masculine—let's continue to build habits, break stigmas, and talk about steak in ways that might just surprise you.Support the show
Skin Deep Conversations on Grooming, Tanning, and Nutrition
Jan 29 2024
Skin Deep Conversations on Grooming, Tanning, and Nutrition
Ever wondered how to navigate the complex seas of men's skincare without capsizing under the weight of scented moisturizers and aftershaves? Let Charles and Dan be your seasoned crew on this voyage. We're confessing our skincare sins, from our often neglected routines to the greasy aftermath we all dread. But it's not all smooth sailing; we're tackling the tough questions about when to moisturize, the battle of the fragrances, and the simple alternatives that could save your skin from the deep end.As our journey progresses, we cast a line into the sun-kissed waters of tanning and the risks versus rewards of chasing that bronzed deity look. Chafing—a plight as old as thighs themselves—is candidly discussed alongside practical tips to keep you gliding through life sans friction. And as for that golden glow? We're charting a course for achieving it without inviting the unwanted stowaways of UV damage, all while considering the environmental impact our sun protection choices make.Before we dock, we take a detour through the foggy realm of nutrition research, dissecting the reliability of self-reported studies with the precision of seasoned sailors. And as the ink dries on our discussion about the colorful world of tattoos, we invite you to become part of our crew by following or subscribing. Trust us, it's smoother sailing ahead with every episode of the Mindfully Masculine podcast, where we ensure your next port of call is always informed, enlightened, and engaging.Support the show
Are Your Fingers and Toes Gross?
Jan 22 2024
Are Your Fingers and Toes Gross?
Ever wondered how manicures could boost your overall health? Strap in for a riveting journey through self-care and personal growth with insights from Garrett Munce, as we lay out the connection between exercise, diet, sleep, and your mood. Dan's return to the weights paints a vivid picture, while the audiobooks in my ear these days offer golden nuggets on thriving in your personal and professional life.Rising with the sun or hitting snooze; what's your battle cry? We chew over the conundrum of crafting the perfect morning routine, balancing discipline with the body's cry for rest. Digging into the grooming habits that spell out self-care for men, we crack open the lid on maintaining both hand and foot hygiene. It's not just about looking good, it's about feeling prime - and we share our own salon escapades and homegrown hacks that keep us in top shape, no polish necessary.Lastly, let's talk about those salon visits that often come with an unexpected side of comedy. We share a chuckle over the offer of nail color—shoutout to Carson Daly's black nail—and trade stories about the unexpected joys and perils of public bathrooms. We wrap things up by tipping our hats to the likes of Adam Carolla, whose humor and craftsmanship underscore the message: self-improvement can certainly come with a side of laughter. Join us for a hearty conversation that'll leave your spirits lifted and perhaps inspire a pampering session of your own.Books That Charles Mentioned:The Road Back To YouThe On-purpose PersonThe Big StickSupport the show
The Myths of Unconditional Love and Relaxing Baths
Jan 15 2024
The Myths of Unconditional Love and Relaxing Baths
Ever wondered if unconditional love is truly possible, or just a beautifully wrapped myth? Charles and Dan crack open this topic and so much more on our latest Mindfully Masculine podcast. From the unexpected social connections made through pickleball to the crucial role of self-care in the modern man's life, we share our personal anecdotes and insights. The conversation then deepens as we scrutinize the concept of unconditional love, questioning its existence and the potential harm in expecting love without conditions from anyone, be it our partners, children, or pets.Picture this: you're knee-deep in a relationship where you're giving it your all, but something feels off. That's neediness knocking at your door, and it's a tell-tale sign of an imbalance in the give-and-take dynamic. We dissect this tricky subject, reflecting on how social media skews our love expectations and the importance of a balanced social life. And for those moments when you need to recharge? We'll guide you through the self-care maze, weighing the pros and cons of baths and showers, even invoking the 'Iceman' Wim Hof to discuss the invigorating effects of cold showers.As the curtain falls on our podcast episode, we leave no stone unturned, diving into the finer points of skincare with essential oils and colloidal oatmeal, and sharing personal experiences that blend the reflective with the practical. Setting realistic expectations for love and relationships, we conclude with heartfelt advice on maintaining effort in partnerships and embracing self-kindness. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to Mindfully Masculine, this episode promises to resonate with your quest for a more introspective and balanced masculine journey."Tamborine" by Chris Rockhttps://www.netflix.com/title/80167498Support the show
Eating, Breathing, Sleeping, Pooping
Jan 1 2024
Eating, Breathing, Sleeping, Pooping
Have you ever sipped on a green juice and wondered if it's truly the elixir of health? Strap in, as we dissect fasting and detoxes with raw honesty, sharing not just our own roller coaster experiences, but the hard-hitting skepticism that surrounds them. We engage in a vibrant discussion about the allure of quick health fixes, from the energizing highs of fasting to the often-debated efficacy of detox regimes. Get ready for a candid exploration of personal anecdotes, the impact of natural cycles on sleep, and whether the feel-good factor is due to toxin eviction or the body's innate responses.Juice cleanses - they're not just for the health zealots. Join us as we recall the trials of subsisting on liquid nourishment, inspired by tales of transformation and an undeniable curiosity. We unravel the narrative of choosing berries over burgers and the tug-of-war with persistent cravings. Beware of the post-cleanse world; we confront the challenge of sustaining weight loss and the reality of reverting to our processed food paramours. Our journey through dietary revelations doesn't end with the last sip; we share the organic denouement of our juice journey, spilling insights on health and well-being.But there's more to our well-being than what we consume and expel. We weave into the critical conversation the underestimated champion of health—sleep. We share insider secrets to achieving that perfect slumber, from bone broth fasts to the balance of electrolytes. Hear personal tales about sleep environments and the surprising accessories that might just revolutionize your night. We round off our chat with a foray into the impacts of breathing techniques on sleep, the social stigmas surrounding mouth breathing, and the ever-present challenge of hearing loss in our families. All this, plus a quirky nod to the unconventional ways one might profit from nature's call!Support the show
Merry Christmas and Get Off The Couch!
Dec 25 2023
Merry Christmas and Get Off The Couch!
You thought wearing a custom "cat dad" sweater would be just a funny holiday gimmick? Turns out, it sparked an entire episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and even some unexpected wisdom. From the warmth of old college tales to the cool victories of an accomplished legal eagle friend, this chat has it all. And if you're curious about non-traditional healing, you're in for a treat—Dan shares the surprising relief he discovered through alternative therapies like acupuncture and cupping for his tennis elbow.Navigating the modern world's diet dilemmas, we examine the evolutionary quirks of fat storage and the tricky balance of calorie intake versus physical activity. We get candid about our personal journeys with ketosis and exercise, revealing how they've shaped our appetites and energy levels. We also celebrate the universal plus sides of physical activity, like how it bolsters heart health, no matter how differently our bodies might dance to the tune of workouts and caffeine buzzes.As we wrap up, we extend a heartening hand to anyone who feels daunted by the gym scene, sharing actionable advice and encouraging words to help you find your fitness groove. Discover how simple pleasures like stretching can lead to profound health benefits, and why now is the best time to jump on the home fitness train. So, whether you're a gym pro or still finding your footing, tune in for an episode that's all about moving forward to a healthier, happier you—ugly sweaters optional, but highly recommended for added fun!Support the show