#171: Building Healthy Masculinity - Ted Bunch

Today's Man Alive podcast guest, Ted Bunch, is the Chief
Development Officer of A Call to Men. He is a leading voice
on male socialization, the intersection of masculinity and
violence, and healthy, respectful manhood. Ted is the co-author
of The Book of Dares: 100 Ways For Boys to be Kind,
Bold and Brave. The book has been called “a direct answer to
parents’ cries for building healthy masculinity, respect, and
emotional literacy in their sons.”


Many men did not grow up feeling safe to reveal all parts of
themselves. They are then tempted to hide their hopes, fears,
desires and emotions.


The Man Box is now understood as a way to
view the limiting persona and characteristics many men have been
trained to emulate. Whether its parents, teachers, media, or the
culture, the message has been clear for many generations: In
order to be manly, you have to be strong and tough. You can't
fall apart, need help or ask for it. 


Thankfully times are changing. You are likely seeing and hearing
more organizations and people talking about the importance of
welcoming men's vulnerability.

Today's conversation is an important one to support men to be
free from cultural limitations, creating more safety and
well-being for all. 

We discussed:


How being socialized into cultures of sexism hurts everyone,
including men 

Ways to welcome your kids emotions and authenticity 

What it will take to decrease the astronomical rate of men's
anxiety, depression and suicide

The importance of speaking up rather than staying
silent 

The Book of Dares and integrating A Call to Men's principles
into communities




When you're done with this episode, I highly recommend watching
my TEDx talk called: What 1,000 Men's Tears Reveal
About the Crisis Between Men and Women. It's important
that you're supported in your vulnerability and this talk is a
great first step. Men and women have expressed how helpful this
was for them to hear!  


Connect with Ted
 Website: https://www.acalltomen.org/


Connect with Shana James


Website: shanajamescoaching.com/3ways


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