Welcome back, Manlihood ManCast listeners! In today’s episode, we have a captivating guest joining us, someone whose journey through life has taken him to some truly extraordinary places. Ruwan Meepagala is not just a man of many talents but also a man with a story that will le
ave you eager to dive deeper into the world of masculinity. He’s been featured on prestigious platforms like the BBC, Bloomberg, AskMen, and Psychology Today.
But before we delve into our conversation with Ruwan, let’s get to know him a bit better.
Who is Ruwan?
Ruwan Meepagala is a man of many dimensions. He’s a survivor of a unique and challenging experience, having spent two enlightening (and dark) years in a matriarchal cult. This captivating chapter of his life has been covered by various media outlets, but Ruwan promises that the most intriguing details are reserved for his book, which he is serializing. Be sure to subscribe to get the first chapter: https://www.ruwando.com/subscribe.
Beyond his experiences in the cult, Ruwan is a self-proclaimed history nerd, sharing his insights through his academic project, the History of Man Podcast. You can find all his articles for free on Substack: https://www.ruwando.com/history-of-man-articles and tune in to his podcast episodes on any podcasting app.
On a personal note, Ruwan is a devoted father to a baby girl and a loving husband to his beautiful wife. He also has a passion for chess and invites you to challenge him on chess.com: https://www.chess.com/member/ruwan. In addition to his intellectual pursuits, Ruwan holds a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, is an enthusiast of MMA and Muay Thai, and dabbles in amateur furniture-making.
But that’s not all! Ruwan Meepagala is also the host of the Ruwando Podcast: Psychology for Men with Brains and Balls. In this podcast, he explores archetypal masculinity, relationship polarity, practical philosophy, and more, sometimes featuring intriguing guests.
To connect with Ruwan and explore his work further, visit the following links:
Don’t miss this intriguing conversation with Ruwan Meepagala on the Manlihood ManCast, where we’ll uncover the layers of masculinity and explore the depths of his unique experiences. Stay tuned, gentlemen!
Welcome to another episode of Manly Chunks of Wisdom on the Manlihood ManCast. At Manlihood, we understand that many men lead busy lives and may not have the time to read lengthy books or philosophical treatises to gain insight into how to live life to the fullest. That’s why we’re here to offer you bite-sized chunks of manly wisdom that you can apply to your life today.
In this episode, we’ll be exploring the profound wisdom of Soren Kierkegaard, a Danish philosopher, theologian, and poet who lived in the 19th century. We’ll be sharing some of his best quotes and insights to help inspire you to be a better man. As always, if you enjoy these Manly Chunks of Wisdom, be sure to check out our free book at Manlihood.com/chunk. Thanks for tuning in, and let’s dive into the wisdom of Soren Kierkegaard.
“I stick my finger into existence and it smells of nothing.”
― Soren Kierkegaard
“People understand me so poorly that they don’t even understand my complaint about them not understanding me.”
“Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.”
― Søren Kierkegaard
“The function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays.”
― Soren Kierkegaard
“People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for the freedom of thought which they seldom use.”
― Søren Kierkegaard
“Life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced.”
― Soren Kierkegaard
“There are two ways to be fooled. One is to believe what isn’t true; the other is to refuse to believe what is true.”
― Soren Kierkegaard
“The most common form of despair is not being who you are.”
― Søren Kierkegaard
“What labels me, negates me.”
― Soren Kierkegaard
“Marry, and you will regret it; don’t marry, you will also regret it; marry or don’t marry, you will regret it either way. Laugh at the world’s foolishness, you will regret it; weep over it, you will regret that too; laugh at the world’s foolishness or weep over it, you will regret both. Believe a woman, you will regret it; believe her not, you will also regret it… Hang yourself, you will regret it; do not hang yourself, and you will regret that too; hang yourself or don’t hang yourself, you’ll regret it either way; whether you hang yourself or do not hang yourself, you will regret both. This, gentlemen, is the essence of all philosophy.”
― Søren Kierkegaard
“The Bible is very easy to understand. But we Christians are a bunch of scheming swindlers. We pretend to be unable to understand it because we know very well that the minute we understand, we are obliged to act accordingly.”
“The proud person always wants to do the right thing, the great thing. But because he wants to do it in his own strength, he is fighting not with man, but with God.”
― Soren A. Kierkegaard
“A fire broke out backstage in a theatre. The clown came out to warn the public; they thought it was a joke and applauded. He repeated it; the acclaim was even greater. I think that’s just how the world will come to an end: to general applause from wits who believe it’s a joke.”
“If I were to wish for anything, I should not wish for wealth and power, but for the passionate sense of the potential, for the eye which, ever young and ardent, sees the possible. Pleasure disappoints, possibility never. And what wine is so sparkling, what so fragrant, what so intoxicating, as possibility!”
“To venture causes anxiety, but not to venture is to lose one’s self…. And to venture in the highest is precisely to be conscious of one’s self.”
― Søren Kierkegaard
“Face the facts of being what you are, for that is what changes what you are.”
― Søren Kierkegaard
“Above all, do not lose your desire to walk. Everyday, I walk myself into a state of well-being & walk away from every illness. I have walked myself into my best thoughts, and I know of no thought so burdensome that one cannot walk away from it. But by sitting still, & the more one sits still, the closer one comes to feeling ill. Thus if one just keeps on walking, everything will be all right.”
― Søren Kierkegaard
“How did I get into the world? Why was I not asked about it and why was I not informed of the rules and regulations but just thrust into the ranks as if I had been bought by a peddling shanghaier of human beings? How did I get involved in this big enterprise called actuality? Why should I be involved? Isn’t it a matter of choice? And if I am compelled to be involved, where is the manager—I have something to say about this. Is there no manager? To whom shall I make my complaint?”
― Søren Kierkegaard
“There is nothing with which every man is so afraid as getting to know how enormously much he is capable of doing and becoming.”
― Soren Kierkegaard
Thanks for listening, and if you like these Chunks of Manly Wisdom, you’ll love the book that we put together for you. You can get it FREE at http://Manlihood.com/chunk
The right tool for the job. It’s a concept that men understand well. Today’s guest talks about the RIGHT TOOLS for Fatherhood.
https://youtu.be/QOzsYN9JjrI
Kent Evans of Manhood Journey
Welcome to the Manlihood ManCast, I’m excited to introduce our guest today, Kent Evans. Kent is the Executive Director and co-founder of Manhood Journey, a ministry that helps dads become disciple-makers. Kent understands what it takes to be a dad, with 27 years of marriage to his wife April and raising 5 sons and one daughter-in-law.
After a successful 20-year career as a business leader, Kent embarked on biblical Fatherhood ministry projects. He’s been featured on various media platforms including television, radio, web outlets, and podcasts. Kent has spoken at parenting and men’s events and is also an author of three books.
Books by Kent Evans
Kent’s first book, Wise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around You, provides guidance for men to find mentors and wise counsel. His second book, The Manhood Journey: Charting a Course to Biblical Fatherhood, focuses on helping dads not only be good or great fathers, but godly ones.
In his newest book, Bring Your Hammer: 28 Tools Dads Can Grab From the Book of Nehemiah, Kent provides key tips to help dads become more godly fathers. I’m excited to have Kent on the show today to discuss his journey, his work with Manhood Journey, and his latest book. Welcome, Kent!
Your life, and your freedom are really up to you. Today’s guest started out as a freelance sports photographer, and pursued that passion until it turned into the life he always wanted to live.
https://youtu.be/44ydFMd-ld8
Today’s guest on the Manlihood ManCast is Vincent Pugliese
Vincent Pugliese is an award-winning sports photographer, entrepreneur, author, and founder of Total Life Freedom School and Mastermind.
Vincent earned his Bachelor’s degree in Communication from Ohio University, where he was named National Champion for the William Randolph Hearst Photojournalism Championship prior to graduation. He has photographed for all leading wire services and various national and local publications throughout the United States, including major sporting and news events such as the Super Bowl, World Series, NHL Final, NBA Conference Finals, The Kentucky Derby, and Wrestlemania.
Vincent’s passion for freedom has led him to believe that having control over your time, money, and the work you do is the ultimate key to living a life of freedom. He homeschools his three boys with his wife Elizabeth, and together they teach others how to achieve total life freedom. Vincent’s new book, Freelance to Freedom, provides a roadmap for creating a side business to achieve financial, time, and life freedom, and it was published by Morgan James Publishing in early 2018.
Welcome to the Manlihood ManCast, the podcast for men, where we focus on personal development and explore the stories of men who are making an impact in the world. Today, we’re honored to have with us Morgan Elliott, a filmmaker and Canton native, who directed the documentary “Potty Town.”
Who is Morgan Elliott?
Meet Morgan Elliott, the talented director behind the hit documentary film “Potty Town.” Not only did this film reach the top 15 on the iTunes/Apple chart for documentaries in the U.S., but it is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime. In addition to his work on “Potty Town,” Morgan has a wealth of experience in the film industry as a writer, editor, and cinematographer. He has also served as the DoP on several award-winning short films.
“Potty Town” tells the story of one man’s humorous and sometimes tumultuous journey as he battles small town government officials to preserve his artistic toilet creations and defend his first amendment rights. This quirky film is a must-see for anyone interested in a unique blend of comedy and social commentary.
Morgan Elliott Background
Morgan Elliott is a talented young filmmaker who has always had a passion for storytelling. He grew up in Canton, New York, and after studying film in college, he decided to pursue a career in the industry. He has worked on a variety of projects in the past, but “Potty Town” marks his first time in the director’s chair. He’s excited to share his vision with audiences everywhere, and we can’t wait to see what he has in store for us.
About Potty Town
“Potty Town: Where Protest Meets Porcelain” is a new documentary that tells the story of Frederick J. “Hank” Robar Sr., and his 25-year-long dispute with the Northern New York town of Potsdam. The film recounts how Robar’s first toilet garden was sown when he reportedly asked the town for a zoning change at one of his properties on Market Street. The request was denied due to traffic concerns, but the town approved a Dunkin’ Donuts franchise to open just three blocks away. This led to the start of a porcelain protest that has now grown across six different properties, with the town making several attempts to uproot the flower-filled potties.
The documentary explores the motivations behind Robar’s decision to create the toilet gardens, and how they’ve evolved over time. Morgan Elliot’s film also delves into the impact of the gardens on the local community and the relationship between the town and Robar. This film is a true story of protest and resilience that will have audiences captivated.
More from Morgan Elliott and Potty Town
Here are some links to find out more information about Morgan Elliott and Potty Town:
We would like to thank Morgan Elliott for joining us today, and we encourage you to watch “Potty Town” on Amazon Prime Video!
Thank you for listening to the Manlihood ManCast, the podcast for men. Be sure to tune in next week for more great content on personal development and the stories of men who are making a difference in the world.
When he was 16 years old, Justin was given a death sentence by the doctors. He weighed 799 pounds. Crippled by anxiety, panic attacks, and an eating disorder, his body became his prison.
Listen to Justin Willoughby on the Manlihood ManCast on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Youtube or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Set Goals. Do the Work. Change Your Life. WITH BROTHERS. – Join the Arrows and Iron Brotherhood – http://manlihood.com/brotherhood
One Step
Justin’s first workout was one step. The next day, it was two. Eventually, those steps would become a milestone that changed his life forever.
600 Pounds Down
Over the next several years, Justin lost 600 pounds without weight loss drugs or surgery, and now he has dedicated his life to helping others get fit, and live a life free from obesity.
In this episode of the Manlihood ManCast, Josh Hatcher talks with Harvey Laguerre. Harvey is podcast, a baseball fan, but his primary role is that of a stay-at-home dad.
Josh and Harvey talk about a number of things, including the stigma of a man not pursuing a career in order to raise his family, Harvey’s perspective on the world as a black man, and a meaningful conversation that gets to the heart of what it means to be a man.
Harvey Laguerre is a 47 year old, stay-at-home dad of 4.
During the pandemic, Harvey started a marriage and relationship podcast with is wife called “Love is Black.” That podcast’s success emboldened Harvey to start a new podcast, specifically for men.
Men are the P.R.I.Z.E. podcast is the result of years of learning what it means to be a man in the world today.
Harvey says, “The definition of masculinity has changed drastically and not for the better. Attributes that were once manly, are now toxic. What has not changed is the lack of safe spaces for men to express their emotions. Being a vulnerable man is not celebrated like it should be. This podcast is that safe space for men to open up and reveal their inner monologue.”
The “Men Are The Prize” is a podcast for men to be open and vulnerable. Harvey uses PRIZE as an acronym, and that acronym directs his conversations with his guests.
Each letter represents a characteristic men need to succeed.
Listen to the Latest Episode of the Manlihood ManCast: a podcast for men on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Youtube or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Fight Club is a monthly live panel discussion moderated by Josh Hatcher in his living room with several other men
This episode features: Josh Hatcher Dan Karrasch Dwayne Edgar Abe Hatcher
In this second installment of Fight Club, Josh Hatcher, Dan Karrasch, Dwayne Edgar, and Abe Hatcher talk about the reason young people do stupid things like cooking chicken in Nyquil (a “trend” similar to the Tide Pod Challenge).
Identity Issues
The group also talks about young people who “identify as” feline, or who crave a mental health diagnosis in order to feel belonging and acceptance.
They talk about how each of us longs for belonging, and how we need to understand our identity.
There are plenty of side discussions about politics, faith, and brotherhood. Make sure to tune in.
Be a part of FIGHT CLUB LIVE
Once a month, Josh will host Fight Club Live at his house, live streaming the discussion on Facebook. You can join the guys and be a part of the discussion. Check out our Facebook Event for the event dates.
Today, September 30, is International Podcast Day! Today at Manlihood, we thought it would be a great opportunity to celebrate our podcast for men.
International Podcast Day™ is September 30th and is an international celebration of the power of podcasts.
In 2004, Adam Curry and Dave Winer were credited for the invention of podcasting. It wasn’t until Ben Hammersly wrote about the online audio shows in the Guardian newspaper that the term “podcasting” was coined.
It’s been almost 20 years since then, and we now have 2.4 million podcasts with 66 million episodes globally. There are more podcasts than anyone could ever listen to!
The Manosphere
Blogs centered around personal development for men have been around for quite awhile, but one of the more earth-shaking moments in the manosphere was the birth of The Art of Manliness Podcast in 2009.
In 2013, I sent an email to a handful of men that I respected, and pitched an idea. I wanted to make a website to equip, educate, entertain, and engage men to be better husbands, fathers, and leaders. The men had some great feedback. My hope was that I had just created a superhero team to build this crazy thing, only to find out, that most of them never really got involved.
At first, I was dissapointed, but one of them told me, “Josh, this is YOUR thing. We’re behind you, and we support you. But this is YOUR dream. YOU are the guy that needs to do it.”
And so I did.
Testing 1.2.3.
My first real job was at WFRM Radio in Coudersport, PA at 14 years old. I was running the board for Pittsburgh Pirates games, DJ’ing and announcing on Saturday mornings, recording commercials, and having the time of my life. I went to college for communications, with a broadcasting specialty, spinning plenty of Christian records on the campus radio station. I went on to work at a few more radio stations, as a news director, a DJ, a talk show-host.
Way before all of that, I used to play with a tape recorder, making my own DJ’d mix tapes. Most people hate the sound of their own voice when they hear it played back. I’ve been listening to mine for so long, I’m usually not bothered by how I sound, and I’ve developed the voice and production skills to be able to use it to make a living at various points in my life.
The Birth of the Manlihood ManCast
I always knew I wanted to build the blog into a podcast. But I hesitated for a long time. Part of me was afraid that I was going to be sending it out into the void. Why would anyone listen? Why invest the time, energy, and emotion into something for 20 people?
After listening to other podcasts, I kept telling myself- You can do that. You have all of the skills, the knowledge, the wisdom to create that.
But it was hard to pull the trigger. Self-doubt kept plaguing me.
I was stuck in this place where I knew I could start it, but I didn’t want to fail. I wasn’t quite ready, I didn’t know what would work, or what listeners wanted to hear. I had a plan, but it was just ideas and lots of scrawled notes in a journal, and nothing concrete.
I had a conversation online with Ryan Michler, and he said, “Start before you are ready.”
And that wisdom made a lot of sense. Just do it, and you can work out the details later. You can fix what isn’t working when you actually do something other than thinking and dreaming.
So we decided to get started by recycling some of our blog content into episodes. If you scroll back on your podcast app to the earliest episodes, you’ll see that the Manlihood ManCast then definitely isn’t what it is now! But I started.
Podcasting is important to me. This is the entrance into people’s hearts and minds as I do the mission I’ve been called to do.
What is it that drives Manlihood? Our Purpose, Mission, Vision, and Values.
Purpose:
Because the world needs men to lead in their families and communities, and because so many men have struggled to understand their value, Manlihood exists to help men become better men.
Mission:
The Manlihood Mission is to Educate, Equip, and Entertain Men in an Engaging Way.
Vision:
The Manlihood vision is to create resources to educate and equip men, to foster a thriving community of men, where bonds of brotherhood and accountability form. We seek to help men be better fathers, husbands, leaders, friends. We want to build through Manlihood a financially sustainable architecture that can support itself, but also to incubate ideas and opportunities from within the Manlihood community that support our purpose and mission.
Values:
Men matter.
Family matters.
Integrity and Honor matter.
Personal Responsibility matters. (If it is to be, it’s up to me.)
Men thrive and grow in community and brotherhood with each other.
Truth is everywhere. Wisdom knows how to pick it out.
Men should value and respect women. (People should respect people.)
Perseverance, Self-control and Self-discipline are sacred and essential.
Words are powerful, and how we use them matters.
Leadership is steeped in influence and responsibility. (Everyone is a leader, and everyone should embrace and nurture that role.)
As we talk to outdoor tv personality and wilderness guide Jim Shockey on this episode of the Manlihood ManCast, we learn about the way people crave adventure, the way the outdoors is healing, and the importance of hunting for managing the balance of nature.
Listen to Josh Hatcher’s interview with Jim Shockey on the Manlihood ManCast – Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Youtube | or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Jim Shockey is an award-winning outdoor writer, hunter, wildlife photographer and videographer, outfitter and wilderness guide, and naturalist.
Shockey owns several outfitting territories in the Canadian wildlands, and helps many adventurers trek through the backwoods on epic hunts.
He’s also known for his proficiency with muzzleloaders, rifles, and archery.
Jim Shockey on Television
Shockey is the former producer and host of Jim Shockey’s Hunting Adventures and Jim Shockey’s Uncharted on Outdoor Channel and Jim Shockey’s The Professionals on Outdoor Channel and Sportsman Channel.
He has won 15 Golden Moose Awards from 2009-2017.
More About Jim Shockey
He is a retired Honorary Lieutenant Colonel of 4 Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (4CRPG) Canadian Armed Forces and is a Member International of the Explorer’s Club in New York City.
Jim attended Simon Fraser University and Carleton University and was an all-American swimmer and member of the Canadian National Water polo team, attending two World Championships.
Jim Shockey and the Hand of Man Museum
In this episode of the Manlihood ManCast, Jim Shockey talks about his lifelong project, The Hand of Man Museum. When he was a young boy, he had a vision to create this museum, and he has spent his whole life collecting natural history and ethnographic arts from Western Canada.
In 2019, he opened the Hand of Man Museum of Cultural Arts and Conservation on Vancouver Island, Canada. Tens of thousands have been through this amazing museum, which is funded entirely by voluntary donations.
