
How to Teach Like a Man with JD Fleming | Building Men Podcast Ep.212
Explicit content warning
05/10/24 • 52 min
Welcome to another insightful episode of our podcast where we delve into the intricacies of modern masculinity, teaching, and the enduring quest for authenticity in both education and manhood. I'm your host, Dennie Morolda, and joining me today is JD Fleming, a high school computer science teacher and the author of "Teach Like a Man." Together, we're going to unravel the complexities of being a male educator in today's fast-paced digital world and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the education system.
Episode Highlights:
- Navigating Modern Masculinity: JD Fleming shares his perspective on the challenges young men face today, emphasizing the need for positive male role models amidst the overwhelming influence of social media. We discuss fostering deeper connections among students and the importance of face-to-face communication.
- Pandemic and Education: We peel back the layers of the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on education, particularly its effects on high school seniors. Our discussion includes the innovative strides made in digital learning and the call for an educational system overhaul, starting with our youngest learners.
- Role of Male Educators: Reflecting on our personal paths to teaching, we explore the influence of male role models and the societal perceptions that may deter men from the profession. We consider the financial implications and the transformative power of mentorship.
- Journey to Manhood: Delving into the personal narratives of transitioning to adulthood, we examine the challenges faced by men without strong paternal figures, highlighting the impact of these experiences on career choices and the importance of finding one's purpose.
- Authenticity in Education: Our conversation turns to the power of vulnerability and authenticity as we share our personal growth journeys and the lessons learned along the way. We emphasize the strength in sharing one's own vulnerabilities and the aspiration to build a supportive network of men.
- Building Connections: We underscore the importance of connections within the teaching profession and encourage aspiring educators to embrace their individual strengths and authenticity.
Key Moments You Don't Want to Miss:
- [0:00:02] The crucial role of real-life connections in an increasingly digital age
- [0:07:47] How COVID-19 reshaped the educational landscape and the path forward
- [0:15:07] The importance of male mentorship in education and personal development
- [0:23:24] The personal journeys to teaching and overcoming life's challenges
- [0:34:50] Embracing authenticity and vulnerability in educational roles
- [0:48:19] The call to action for listeners to support and join the conversation
Connect with JD Fleming:
JD's work and his book "Teach Like a Man" are a testament to the transformative power of positive influence in the classroom. To learn more about JD Fleming, his teachings, and his community of men striving to be their best selves, visit teachlikeaman.com and connect with him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Final Thoughts:
As we wrap up this episode, we invite you to reflect on the value of authenticity, the need for empathy, and the critical role of connections in shaping the future of education and the growth of our young men. Join us in this heartfelt exploration and be part of the movement towards a more understanding and resilient society. Thank you for tuning in, and remember to keep building those connections.
THE FOUNDATION - Virtual Community for Young Men
Work with Dennis as your 1 on 1 coach
If our podcast resonates with you, please consider rating, reviewing and sharing it with anyone who you believe would benefit from the message.
Visit our sponsors -
Welcome to another insightful episode of our podcast where we delve into the intricacies of modern masculinity, teaching, and the enduring quest for authenticity in both education and manhood. I'm your host, Dennie Morolda, and joining me today is JD Fleming, a high school computer science teacher and the author of "Teach Like a Man." Together, we're going to unravel the complexities of being a male educator in today's fast-paced digital world and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the education system.
Episode Highlights:
- Navigating Modern Masculinity: JD Fleming shares his perspective on the challenges young men face today, emphasizing the need for positive male role models amidst the overwhelming influence of social media. We discuss fostering deeper connections among students and the importance of face-to-face communication.
- Pandemic and Education: We peel back the layers of the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on education, particularly its effects on high school seniors. Our discussion includes the innovative strides made in digital learning and the call for an educational system overhaul, starting with our youngest learners.
- Role of Male Educators: Reflecting on our personal paths to teaching, we explore the influence of male role models and the societal perceptions that may deter men from the profession. We consider the financial implications and the transformative power of mentorship.
- Journey to Manhood: Delving into the personal narratives of transitioning to adulthood, we examine the challenges faced by men without strong paternal figures, highlighting the impact of these experiences on career choices and the importance of finding one's purpose.
- Authenticity in Education: Our conversation turns to the power of vulnerability and authenticity as we share our personal growth journeys and the lessons learned along the way. We emphasize the strength in sharing one's own vulnerabilities and the aspiration to build a supportive network of men.
- Building Connections: We underscore the importance of connections within the teaching profession and encourage aspiring educators to embrace their individual strengths and authenticity.
Key Moments You Don't Want to Miss:
- [0:00:02] The crucial role of real-life connections in an increasingly digital age
- [0:07:47] How COVID-19 reshaped the educational landscape and the path forward
- [0:15:07] The importance of male mentorship in education and personal development
- [0:23:24] The personal journeys to teaching and overcoming life's challenges
- [0:34:50] Embracing authenticity and vulnerability in educational roles
- [0:48:19] The call to action for listeners to support and join the conversation
Connect with JD Fleming:
JD's work and his book "Teach Like a Man" are a testament to the transformative power of positive influence in the classroom. To learn more about JD Fleming, his teachings, and his community of men striving to be their best selves, visit teachlikeaman.com and connect with him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Final Thoughts:
As we wrap up this episode, we invite you to reflect on the value of authenticity, the need for empathy, and the critical role of connections in shaping the future of education and the growth of our young men. Join us in this heartfelt exploration and be part of the movement towards a more understanding and resilient society. Thank you for tuning in, and remember to keep building those connections.
THE FOUNDATION - Virtual Community for Young Men
Work with Dennis as your 1 on 1 coach
If our podcast resonates with you, please consider rating, reviewing and sharing it with anyone who you believe would benefit from the message.
Visit our sponsors -
Previous Episode

Breaking the Cycle of Generational Suffering with Rob Pengelly | Building Men Podcast Ep.211
In this episode, we delve deep into the landscape of men's mental health, highlighting the unique challenges men face in expressing vulnerability and compassion. Rob's journey is not only one of personal growth but also sheds light on the strength that comes from honest self-reflection.
We then pivot to the complexities of parenting, especially the nuanced dance of guiding and understanding our children. Dennis reflects on the importance of introspection and meaningful questioning as tools for breaking free from negative patterns. We also discuss how these practices can help foster open communication with our children and aid in navigating the turbulent waters of teenage parenting.
The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as we explore the emotional odyssey of reconnecting with estranged family members and the courage it takes to confront difficult dynamics. We celebrate milestones in sobriety and share strategies that have helped us remain grounded. Dennis and Rob also highlight the profound personal revelations that have marked their transformative journeys.
As we wrap up, we emphasize the significance of laying a strong foundation in life, the resilience required to rise above life's challenges, and the legacy of change we hope to leave behind. Dennis shares his emotional experience of reconnecting with his estranged father and how such actions can empower and heal.
Join us as we discuss:
- The transformative power of vulnerability and gratitude in men's mental health
- The role of parenting and self-reflection in personal growth
- The importance of presence and open dialogue in relationships, especially with teenagers
- The courage to confront and heal from past traumas and the impact on identity
- Strategies for maintaining sobriety and overcoming alcohol addiction
- The value of breaking generational cycles of suffering and creating a narrative of empowerment
This episode is not just a story of individual healing but an invitation to ignite a flame of inspiration for others to embark on their own paths to empowerment. Whether you are a man struggling with mental health issues, a parent seeking deeper connections with your children, or someone looking to build a resilient foundation in life, this episode is for you.
Listen, reflect, and take that extra step in your journey of self-improvement.
Remember to subscribe, share, and leave a review for the Building Men podcast. Let's continue building men together.
Connect with Rob Pengelly:
https://www.instagram.com/progress.over.perfection.coach
Connect with Dennis Morolda:
www.buildingmen.io
https://www.instagram.com/building.men/
THE FOUNDATION - Virtual Community for Young Men
Work with Dennis as your 1 on 1 coach
If our podcast resonates with you, please consider rating, reviewing and sharing it with anyone who you believe would benefit from the message.
Visit our sponsors -
Next Episode

Empowering Men Towards Authenticity and Leadership | Building Men Podcast Ep.213
In this episode, we explore the vital traits that contribute to the making of a true man. We delve into the virtues of honesty, integrity, accountability, and courage, and the impact they have on leadership and service to others. Join us on this journey to challenge the traditional views of manhood and to embrace a more authentic and virtuous way of living.
Episode Breakdown:
- Introduction to Joe Ehrmann's TED Talk and the Building Men Program (0:00:02)
We kick off with a personal narrative on how Joe Ehrmann's life story and the loss of his brother led to the inception of the Building Men program. We delve into how his experiences and his TED Talk, played pivotal roles in shifting the cultural norms of masculinity, especially in sports. - Exploring the Essence of Manhood (0:13:33)
Reflect on the incredible rarity of existence and the importance of finding one's purpose. This segment examines the characteristics of manhood that extend beyond physical strength and material success, highlighting virtues like integrity, honesty, courage, humility, and the importance of being other-centered. - Building Men Podcast Promotion (0:24:44)
We encourage listeners to engage with the Building Men community through our website and email. We invite feedback and sharing of our message and thank our audience for their commitment to growth and character development.
Key Transcript Excerpts:
- Joe Ehrmann's transformative journey from an NFL player to a coach and mentor after a personal tragedy, and how his philosophies on masculinity, expressed in his TED Talk, inspired the Building Men program.
- A deep dive into the qualities that define true manhood, including responsibility, integrity, honest communication, and the strength to face adversity. It also emphasizes physical health, humility, self-discipline, and the capacity to foster loving relationships.
Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking episode that is more than just a conversation; it's an invitation to be part of a community that champions character, integrity, and the redefinition of manhood. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a movement that is changing lives and shaping a better future for men everywhere.
THE FOUNDATION - Virtual Community for Young Men
Work with Dennis as your 1 on 1 coach
If our podcast resonates with you, please consider rating, reviewing and sharing it with anyone who you believe would benefit from the message.
Visit our sponsors -
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