Exploring Masculine and Men’s Groups with Jason Lange

Explore the transformative power of men’s groups in this episode of Great Dad Talks with expert guest Jason Lange. Whether you’re a new dad overwhelmed with the changes that come with parenthood or a seasoned father looking to connect on a deeper level, this episode offers essential insights and actionable advice.

In this episode, you will be able to:

1. Understand men’s groups’ purpose and variety, offering support and connection through shared experiences.
2. Explore the challenges men face with vulnerability and the importance of creating a safe, honest environment for growth.
3. Learn how men’s groups support fathers in balancing responsibilities and emotional well-being.
4. Gain insights into evolving masculinity, integrating masculine traits with empathy and awareness.
5. Discover long-term benefits of men’s groups, including intimacy, belonging, and a supportive community for personal growth.

Hello, everyone! It’s Paul Banas from GreatDad.com, back again with another enriching episode of the Great Dad Talks podcast. This week, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Jason Lange, a coach specializing in masculinity, men’s groups, and the nuanced challenges facing modern fathers. Our discussion spanned a broad range of topics, from the essence of men’s groups to the evolving concept of masculinity. Here’s a deeper dive into our conversation.

The Essence of Men’s Groups

For many men, the concept of men’s groups can be daunting, often tangled up with misconceptions about what they entail. Jason started by demystifying this notion:

“A men’s group, in a lot of ways, one of the most basic definitions is we take that and we turn our attention on each other.” This involves supporting each other through challenges, holding each other accountable, and creating a safe space where men can express their vulnerabilities without judgment.

Key qualities of men’s groups include:

• Accountability: Encouraging self-improvement and setting personal goals.
• Presence: Focusing on being mentally and emotionally available for one another.
• Support: Providing emotional and practical assistance during difficult times.

The Importance of Feeling Safe

A recurring theme in our discussion was the concept of safety within these groups. Jason pointed out that for many men, opening up is hindered by past experiences of judgment or shame.

“Safety isn’t the absence of threat. It’s the presence of connection.” This connection allows men to feel seen and supported, which is crucial for personal growth.

Why Dads Need Men’s Groups

As dads, it’s easy for many of us to put ourselves last, leading to feelings of isolation and being overwhelmed. Men’s groups provide a space for fathers to recharge and be vulnerable among peers.

Jason shared a personal insight: “When I am under resourced as a father, I will default and regress back to parenting the way I was parented.” Men’s groups offer resourceful avenues to break these patterns and become better fathers.

Benefits of men’s groups for fathers include:

• Resourcing: A place where no demands are placed on you, allowing you to just be.
• Perspective: The opportunity to hear feedback from other dads about parenting challenges.
• Community: Building friendships and a sense of belonging with other men who share similar experiences.

Navigating Masculinity in Today’s World

In our conversation, Jason also tackled the complex issue of modern masculinity. There are conflicting paradigms of what it means to be a man today.

“New masculinity, you know, healthy masculinity… it’s when we have both connected to our awareness,” Jason explained. This involves balancing power, empathy, and awareness to lead effectively.

Making Men’s Groups Work

One aspect we delved into is the commitment to these groups. Participants often drop out due to various reasons, yet the long-term benefits are well worth the sustained effort. The intimacy and ongoing support you find in men’s groups create a foundation for personal development.

Join or Learn More

If you’re considering joining a men’s group or simply want to learn more, Jason offers a free hour-long coaching session at evolutionary.men/talk. It’s a great chance to explore how you can bring more support and resilience into your life as a father.

In closing, this conversation with Jason Lange was a powerful reminder of the strength and courage it takes to reach out for support. Men’s groups stand as an enriching resource for any dad navigating the complexities of fatherhood.

Until next time, stay strong and continue growing as dads. And remember, you’re not alone on this journey.