Real Men Hug
Real Men Hug
Ben Kraker / Jim Van Stensel
Step into the realm of "Real Men Hug," where authenticity reigns supreme. Our podcast offers a refreshing blend of candid conversations, heartfelt exploration of emotions, and invaluable insights into mental well-being, tailor-made for both men and the women who hold them dear.Discover us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred platform, ready to accompany you on your journey. Don't forget to tap that like button and subscribe for a regular dose of wisdom. And if our episodes resonate with you, share the love with your tribe and leave a review that brightens our day!Tune in bi-weekly, every other Thursday, as hosts Jim Van Stensel and Ben Kraker lead the charge into meaningful discussions that promise growth and connection.
Ep. 13 || Crafting Connections: A Blueprint for Lasting Friendships in Adulthood
In a world where adult friendships often take a backseat, hosts Ben and Jim embark on a journey through the complexities of maintaining meaningful connections amidst the chaos of various life stages, including raising young children. Drawing from their own experiences and heartfelt insights, they navigate the highs and lows of friendship with candor, humor, and understanding.From sharing laughter over shared hobbies to weathering the storms of life together, Ben and Jim explore the essence of...
May 16, 2024
40 min
Ep. 12 || (pt. 2) Deconstructing Gender Norms: Real Talk with Jamie and Mahlon from Roundtable Mindset
In this episode of Real Men Hug, hosts Jim and Ben sit down with Jamie and Mahlon from Roundtable Mindset to explore the impact of societal gender norms on various aspects of life. Together, they delve into the significance of mutual respect, open dialogue, and personal growth beyond traditional expectations.Throughout the conversation, Jamie and Mahlon emphasize the importance of challenging outdated practices and fostering inclusivity in understanding gender roles. They share insights on ho...
May 2, 2024
45 min
Ep. 11 || Deconstructing Gender Norms: Real Talk with Jamie and Mahlon from Roundtable Mindset (Part 1)
Dive into a riveting collaborative dialogue between Real Men Hug and Roundtable Mindset as they bravely confront the age-old assumptions and societal norms that shape our perceptions of gender roles. In this illuminating episode, listeners are invited to challenge the rigid confines of traditional masculinity and femininity, as the hosts fearlessly explore the intricacies of roles within marriages and families.Through candid anecdotes and introspective musings, the hosts peel back the layers ...
Apr 25, 2024
53 min
Ep. 10 || Real Men, Real Marriage: Conversations on Love, Loss, and Learning Together
"Mawage. Mawage is what brings us together today." The iconic words of The Impressive Clergyman from The Princess Bride perfectly set the stage for today's episode!Join hosts Ben and Jim as they open up about the highs and lows of marriage. They candidly share experiences from their own individual marriages with humor, honesty, and empathy.From everyday triumphs to unexpected hurdles, Ben and Jim dive deep into the complexities of married life.But it's not just about weathering storms; it's a...
Apr 11, 2024
1 hr 16 min
Ep. 9 || Toxic Positivity: Good Intentions Gone Bad
In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Ben and Jim delve into the complexities of toxic positivity, shedding light on its detrimental effects on emotional well-being. Through personal narratives and reflections, they navigate the societal pressures that often compel us to suppress our vulnerabilities under the guise of unwavering positivity.Exploring the societal pressures that dictate how men should express themselves emotionally, Ben and Jim debunk the myth that strength equates to stoici...
Mar 28, 2024
52 min
Ep. 8 || From Yesterdog to the Grand River: Our Hometown of Grand Rapids, MI
In this episode of Real Men Hug, join Jim and Ben as they kick back and reminisce about their adventures of growing up around, and ultimately returning to, their hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan. From chowing down on Yesterdog's mouthwatering (depending on who you ask...) delights to cruising along the serene White Pine Trail, they paint a vivid picture of the good times they've shared.Jim and Ben dive into what makes Grand Rapids special - the tight-knit community. They swap stories ...
Mar 14, 2024
59 min
Ep. 7 || Failing Forward: When Bitterness Robs Your Joy
Dive into the deep end with us as Jim candidly unravels his career voyage, laying bare the trials he's faced. From career disappointments to grappling with depression and anxiety, he shares his journey with the honesty and candor that you find regularly on our podcast. Ben lends his insights and observations, having witnessed Jim's professional challenges. Together, they stress the vital role of community and seeking aid amidst adversity. Tune in for an authentic and relatable exchange.Suppor...
Feb 29, 2024
1 hr 12 min
Ep. 6 || Do You Even Nerd, Bro?: Gatekeeping and Geek Culture
In this episode of the Real Men Hug podcast, hosts Ben and Jim immerse themselves in the realm of nerdy hobbies, sharing how these pursuits have enriched their lives. They fondly recall their adventures, from Ben's geocaching exploits to Jim's spirited escapades at Renaissance fairs, where he often donned the guise of the legendary Dread Pirate Roberts. Alongside their nostalgic reminiscences, they discuss the enduring appeal of classic PC games like Duke Nukem and King's Quest, reflecting on...
Feb 15, 2024
56 min
Ep. 5 || The Man in the Mirror: Ben's Pursuit of Identity
In this episode, Jim and Ben focus on Ben's journey of identity transformation. They explore how personal experiences such as relational strain, vocational loss, and personal growth have shaped and reshaped who they are. The conversation delves into the influence of external voices on Ben's initial career choices and both of their ongoing pursuit of living authentic lives. This episode highlights how challenges, though difficult, often contribute to a deeper understanding of one's true s...
Feb 1, 2024
56 min
Ep. 4 || The Power of No: Setting Healthy Boundaries
In this episode of Real Men Hug, hosts Ben and Jim open up about the essentials of setting boundaries. They chat about why it's crucial for your emotions and personal growth, sharing stories about navigating pushback from loved ones and underscoring the importance of good communication.Tune in as Ben and Jim get real about those awkward moments when boundaries get crossed, emphasizing the need to stand your ground. Listen in and uncover the transformative power of no.Support the Show.
Jan 18, 2024
54 min
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