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.
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Top 10 Real Men Hug Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Real Men Hug episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Real Men Hug for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Real Men Hug episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
Ep. 22 || Balancing Pills, People, and Purpose: Walking the Path to Better Health Together
Real Men Hug
10/17/24 • 22 min
In this episode, Ben and Jim explore the balance between medication, meaningful connections, and long-term health. They discuss how pills can be a temporary bridge toward healthier habits but shouldn’t replace physical activity and relationships. Ben shares personal stories about his own weight loss journey, the mental and physical connection, and the power of forgiveness in healing. Whether you’re starting your journey or seeking sustainability, this episode reminds us that we’re all walking the path to better health together.
Takeaways:
- Medication can be part of the process, but it’s important to include physical activity and community in your wellness journey.
- Forgiveness and letting go of resentment can lead to significant improvements in physical health.
- You don’t have to go at it alone—lean on friends, family, and even online communities to stay motivated.
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09/05/24 • 36 min
In this episode of Real Men Hug, hosts Jim and Ben take a deep dive into the concept of empathy, highlighting the crucial difference between empathy and sympathy. While sympathy involves feeling for someone, empathy goes a step further by sharing and bearing the weight of someone else’s burdens. Through personal stories, such as Ben's journey with health struggles, they explore how empathy can take an emotional toll, especially when it comes to balancing caring for others with caring for oneself.
The discussion touches on both the challenges of empathizing with people in pain and the surprising difficulty of sharing in others' joy. Jim and Ben also share practical ways to demonstrate empathy, such as being a “laundry fairy” and offering meaningful, tangible help.
Key Discussion Points:
- Empathy vs. Sympathy: Why empathy involves a deeper, more emotional connection.
- Empathy in Joy and Sorrow: The difficulty of empathizing with happiness and why pain often feels easier to connect with.
- Setting Boundaries: The importance of balancing your own emotional health while supporting others.
- Practical Empathy: Real-world examples of how small acts of service, like doing laundry or bringing a meal, can make a big difference.
The episode wraps up by underscoring the importance of stepping into people’s lives in a meaningful way, rather than offering vague promises of support.
And hey, if you appreciate what we’re doing here and want to support the show, consider buying us a coffee! Your support helps us keep these conversations going.
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Moving from What If to What Is: Thriving with ADHD and Other Forms of Neurodiversity (w/ Dr. Matthew Zakreski)
Ben and Jim enjoy a fascinating conversation with the insightful Dr. Matthew Zakreski. Listen in as they delve into the complexities of neurodiversity, focusing on ADHD, academic giftedness, and other neurodivergent conditions. They explore how these differences can shape experiences and offer a unique perspective on thriving in a world that often misunderstands them.
Dr. Matt shares his personal origin story, revealing that he was diagnosed as gifted in second grade and later discovered his ADHD in high school when academic challenges surpassed his innate abilities. He recounts the difficulties he faced, including being bullied and feeling overwhelmed by social-emotional challenges. These experiences fueled his passion for neurodiversity and his desire to help other kids who struggle with similar issues, leading him to become a psychologist and advocate.
Ben and Jim join Dr. Matt in discussing his practical advice on managing ADHD-related anxiety, emphasizing the importance of moving from the uncertainty of "what if" to the actionable "what is." The discussion touches on emotional intensity, the challenges of social media comparison, and the importance of self-care. Dr. Matt provides insights into understanding context as a reason, not an excuse, and how this perspective can foster a more supportive environment for neurodivergent individuals.
They discuss strategies for building supportive systems, proactive outreach, and the value of empathy and understanding from friends and family. The conversation also addresses the role of past trauma in shaping current experiences and the healing power of connection.
Things get about as deep as they ever have as Ben, Jim, and Dr. Matt explore the role of faith in dealing with the challenges of neurodiversity, including finding solace and strength in spiritual practices.
Lastly, they highlight the importance of being a lifeline for others, sharing stories and practical advice on offering support to those navigating the complexities of neurodivergence.
And hey, if you love what you hear, consider supporting the show at buymeacoffee.com/realmenhug. Your contributions keep us going and help us bring you more episodes filled with laughter, insights, and relatable stories. Join us in growing and strengthening our community of real men who aren't afraid to hug it out. Thank you for being a vital part of our journey!
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Ep. 25 || Cornerstone Concerns: Navigating Christian Nationalism, Inclusivity, and Faith in Politics
Real Men Hug
12/05/24 • 43 min
In this episode of Real Men Hug, Ben and Jim discuss the controversies surrounding their alma mater, Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Under the leadership of President Gerson Moreno-Riaño, the university has faced significant challenges, including a faculty vote of no confidence on October 21, 2021, just before his inauguration.* Allegations of resistance to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts have caused widespread unrest among alumni and students, sparking protests and online calls for reform.** The decision to cut entire departments, like the humanities, and enact mass layoffs has further raised questions about the institution’s direction and commitment to providing a balanced, faith-based education.***
Beyond the campus controversy, Ben and Jim also tackle the broader intersections of politics, faith, and the role of the church in modern society. They reflect on how these institutions can either perpetuate division or act as conduits for unity and justice. Drawing from personal anecdotes and current events, they discuss the challenges of navigating these tensions with authenticity and grace. The conversation delves into the church's responsibility to engage with social and political issues without losing sight of its spiritual mission, as well as how Christians can advocate for inclusivity and truth in polarized times.
This episode challenges listeners to reflect on their personal and collective roles in fostering connection, inclusivity, and positive change, both within their communities and in the broader social and political landscape.
Sources:
*Religion News: Cornerstone University to hold vote of no confidence on incoming president
**The Roys Report: Cornerstone University student protests racial issues under new president
***Current: Cornerstone University fires tenured professors and terminates all humanities programs
1 Listener
08/22/24 • 41 min
In this 20th episode of Real Men Hug, Ben and Jim explore the multifaceted nature of gratitude. Ben shares his unique perspective from a life spent rubbing elbows with both CEOs and the homeless, offering deep reflections on how gratitude manifests across different walks of life.
The episode dives into the challenges of maintaining gratitude amidst privilege and adversity, with Ben providing thoughtful insights on how to find balance in a world often defined by extremes. Jim brings his own experiences to the table, discussing how a simple Jenga block exercise helped him and his wife rediscover thankfulness during a tough season.
Together, they tackle the obstacles that can hinder gratitude—such as entitlement, indifference, and comparison—and offer practical strategies to cultivate a mindset of thankfulness, no matter your circumstances. This episode is a thoughtful exploration of how gratitude can reshape our perspectives and enhance our lives.
Join Ben and Jim for a rich conversation filled with personal stories, practical advice, and a challenge to reflect on what you’re grateful for in your own life.
And hey, if you appreciate what we’re doing here and want to support the show, consider buying us a coffee! Your support helps us keep these conversations going.
1 Listener
07/11/24 • 40 min
In this episode of Real Men Hug, Ben and Jim explore the complex world of social media and its impact on parenting, politics, and mental health.
Ben and Jim reflect on how social media has become a double-edged sword, bringing both connectivity and complications. Ben shares a personal story about the regret of allowing his son access to Snapchat, highlighting the platform's potential to expose young users to harmful content, leading to a broader discussion on the influence of platforms like TikTok on their kids and themselves.
Parenting today is vastly different due to social media. Ben and Jim discuss the importance of open communication with their kids, setting boundaries, and balancing trust and vigilance. Ben also reveals how social media was a lifeline for him, helping him discover his ADHD and seek treatment, emphasizing the importance of managing anxiety and maintaining a supportive approach to parenting in the face of social media challenges.
The hosts discuss how social media often amplifies extreme views and creates echo chambers, stressing the importance of seeking diverse perspectives to foster a more balanced understanding of political issues. They also explore how focusing on positive interactions can mitigate some of the negative effects of social media.
As they wrap up, Ben and Jim acknowledge the pioneering role parents today play in the digital age. There’s no instruction manual for raising kids with social media, and they emphasize the importance of learning together and supporting each other through these challenges.
And hey, if you love what you hear, consider supporting the show at buymeacoffee.com/realmenhug. Your contributions keep us going and help us bring you more episodes filled with laughter, insights, and relatable stories. Join us in growing and strengthening our community of real men who aren't afraid to hug it out. Thank you for being a vital part of our journey!
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Ep. 2 || Embracing Vulnerability: Jim's Journey from Childhood Ridicule to Emotional Freedom
Real Men Hug
01/04/24 • 58 min
In this eye-opening episode of Real Men Hug, we dive into Jim's story. Born as the emotional one in a family of five siblings, he was always deemed 'abnormal.' Struggling with feeling emotions in a family that viewed such sensitivity as weakness shaped his childhood and his path. Years later, we witness Jim's transformation into a pillar of emotional strength; someone capable of consoling others. Hear about the internal conflicts he grappled with, his journey towards embracing his emotional side, and how it saved the life of co-host, Ben. It's a riveting exploration of breaking free from 'the norm' and celebrating emotions in all their complexity.
1 Listener
01/18/24 • 54 min
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.
1 Listener
05/30/24 • 56 min
In this episode of Real Men Hug, hosts Jim and Ben navigate their personal journeys through challenging life events, reflecting on the role of forgiveness in healing and moving forward. They share updates on their family lives and dive deep into their experiences with betrayal and abuse. Ben shares a poignant story about working for an organization that functioned like a cult, detailing the emotional toll it took and how he found freedom through forgiveness. Jim revisits the frustration he had with a former employer's laziness in repairing his home. Together, they pause and reflect on the themes of letting go, seeking counseling therapy, being open to the time it takes to heal, and whether or not to let the person who wronged you off the hook. The discussion extends to the complexities of self-forgiveness, setting boundaries, and the importance of forgiving for personal healing. Tune in to uncover how forgiveness can transform pain into peace and why it is essential for personal growth.
And hey, if you love what you hear, consider supporting the show at buymeacoffee.com/realmenhug. Your contributions keep us going and help us bring you more episodes filled with laughter, insights, and relatable stories. Join us in growing and strengthening our community of real men who aren't afraid to hug it out. Thank you for being a vital part of our journey!
1 Listener
1 Comment
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Ep. 26 || Final Episode: Farewell from Jim & Ben
Real Men Hug
12/26/24 • 45 min
In this bittersweet finale of Real Men Hug, Jim and Ben reflect on the transformative journey of their podcasting adventure. Over the past year, they’ve shared laughs, deep dives into mental health, stories of personal growth, and vulnerable moments of connection—all while modeling authentic friendship and challenging societal norms around masculinity.
This episode is packed with heartfelt reflections and hilarious behind-the-scenes anecdotes, from Ben’s ADHD-fueled doorbell chaos to Jim’s lessons in climbing out of the metaphorical well. They reminisce about highlights like hosting inspiring guests (shoutout to Dr. Matt Zakreski and Jamie and Mahlon from Round Table Mindset!), tackling tough conversations about identity and bitterness, and hearing how the show has made a real impact on listeners’ lives.
While Real Men Hug may be ending, Jim and Ben are both stepping boldly into new seasons of life. Jim shares his plans to build his next business venture, dabble in ASL, and even pen a fantasy story for his kids. Meanwhile, Ben looks forward to deepening his spiritual direction practice, writing creatively, and continuing his health journey.
And don’t miss the surprises after the ending...!
Thank you, listeners, for being part of this journey. Real Men Hug may be signing off, but the love, connection, and authenticity live on.
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FAQ
How many episodes does Real Men Hug have?
Real Men Hug currently has 27 episodes available.
What topics does Real Men Hug cover?
The podcast is about Society & Culture, Personal Journals, Podcasts and Relationships.
What is the most popular episode on Real Men Hug?
The episode title 'Ep. 21 || The Weight of Empathy: Caring Without Losing Yourself' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Real Men Hug?
The average episode length on Real Men Hug is 47 minutes.
How often are episodes of Real Men Hug released?
Episodes of Real Men Hug are typically released every 14 days.
When was the first episode of Real Men Hug?
The first episode of Real Men Hug was released on Nov 30, 2023.
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