A Man's Journey: Recent Episodes

Alex Lange

A podcast documenting stories of men who like many, live with out connection to self. This journey highlights the action men take to change the narrative of their story to live a life of complete fullness!

Send us Fan Mail

What makes a great dad and son team? We open that question with Grayson, my oldest, by tracing a 96-mile Camino de Santiago walk that became a rite of passage, a test of grit, and a masterclass in showing up for each other. From numbered bunks and foggy climbs to tears by a train track and a hard last mile, the story moves from playful details—blue hair and borrowed espresso—to the deeper truth that love looks like going one more step, together.

I share why I chose the Camino when Grayson turned ten and how a planned twelve days became six intense ones. We unpack the real moments that forge trust: sitting down in the dirt when your kid breaks down, admitting you hurt too, and choosing to carry the next few meters side by side. Grayson names what matters most to him—wrestling in the living room, showing up at games, hiking, surfing, being silly—and we translate that into a simple blueprint for fatherhood: play often, listen first, and keep the agenda light so a child’s voice can lead.

We also talk about grief after losing his brother and how movement helped us feel without getting stuck. Surfing big sets, failing to punch through, trying again—these small acts of courage shaped a stronger body and a steadier heart. Along the way, we recall another storm-soaked trek, rangers rerouting us off a flooded path, and the comedy of drying clothes with a hairdryer until it melted. The thread that ties it together is presence. Not perfection. Not performance. Presence.

If this conversation stirs something, send a message you’ve been holding back. Tell your son what you’re proud of. Ask your dad for more of what brings you together. Then hit follow, share this with a friend who needs it, and leave a review so more fathers and sons can find their way here.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of A Man's Journey, host Alex Lange engages in a heartfelt conversation with his nephew Easton and son Grayson about what it means to be a man, the importance of bravery, and navigating emotions like anger. They share personal stories and insights, emphasizing the value of family, support, and being present in the moment. The discussion also touches on the unique experiences of military children and offers advice for kids facing challenges.

Takeaways

Being a man involves providing and helping others.
It's important to feel emotions and not just push them away.
Kids are resilient and can adapt to new experiences.
Anger can be difficult to manage, but it's important to regulate it.
Talking about feelings can help in difficult situations.
Spending time with family is crucial because life is unpredictable.
It's okay to ask for help when feeling overwhelmed.
Engaging in fun activities can help pass the time during tough moments.
Every child has unique challenges, and it's important to support one another.

Send us Fan Mail

A man can spend years living a script he never wrote—until life refuses to let him ignore the truth. Alex opens the most personal chapter of his journey: a daughter’s DNET brain tumor, his own brain lesions, a marriage on the brink, and the institutional pressure to comply when his health and integrity said pause. What follows is a raw, unpolished account of making the hardest choice—choosing himself—so he could finally choose his family with clarity.

We walk through hospital hallways, cold ocean breaths, and the claustrophobia of uncertainty. A near-accident on a crowded bridge forces him to stop pushing his symptoms aside. Cold immersion becomes more than a challenge; it’s a nervous system reset that teaches presence under stress. Men’s work replaces isolation with honest mirrors and accountability. Sobriety clears the static. Journaling and meditation become daily anchors. When an exemption is denied and a career hangs in the balance, Alex refuses to outsource his conscience. Administrative separation isn’t just an ending; it’s a beginning. The family reorients around presence—selling the house, choosing RV life, and prioritizing health, connection, and honest communication.

Along the way, there are terrifying nights—like a 15-minute seizure during a COVID infection—and unexpected grace, as seizures later subside and an MRI notes involution. The deeper lesson surfaces: masculinity isn’t hollow stoicism; it’s responsibility rooted in truth. Lead your nervous system, then lead your family. Trade numbing for practices that build capacity. Let community hold you to your word. And when the system asks you to betray yourself, remember that self-leadership is the foundation for love, fatherhood, and legacy.

If this story moved you or gave you language for your own turning point, share it with a brother who needs it. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us: What choice brought you back to yourself?

This episode was recorded in the beginning of 2024. I still wanted to release this to talk about my own journey leading into A Man's Journey.

Send us Fan Mail

Aaron Payne shares his journey of overcoming alcoholism and transforming his life through fitness and self-improvement. He emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with healthy and supportive individuals who can hold you accountable. Aaron discusses the positive impact that exercise and a healthy diet had on his mental and emotional well-being, as well as his relationships with his wife and children. He highlights the significance of communication, vulnerability, and out-serving your partner in building a strong and fulfilling relationship. Aaron's story serves as a reminder that transformation requires effort, time, and a commitment to continuous growth. In this conversation, Aaron Payne and Alex Lange discuss the importance of physical fitness and nutrition for transformation and healing. They emphasize the impact of these factors on brain health, hormone balance, and overall well-being. Aaron shares his personal journey of overcoming addiction and depression and how it has positively influenced his relationships with his children. He encourages men to be the role models they want their children to emulate and to prioritize their own self-care. Aaron offers coaching services and can be contacted through email or social media.

This episode was recorded in beginning of 2024.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Chris shares his transformative journey from being a middle school band teacher to becoming a successful entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast. He discusses the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of family and masculinity in his growth, and how journaling has played a crucial role in his self-discovery and personal development. Chris emphasizes the significance of discipline, mental strength, and the power of community in overcoming obstacles and achieving one's goals. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the importance of effective communication, extreme ownership in relationships, and the evolution of fatherhood. They discuss how personal development, fitness, and community play crucial roles in shaping one's legacy and the impact of these elements on family dynamics. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of being present and intentional in parenting, the transformative power of coaching, and the necessity of investing in oneself for long-term growth.

This episode was recorded in Beginning of 2024.

Takeaways

Chris transitioned from a music teacher to an entrepreneur.
He lost 60 pounds through fitness and discipline.
COVID-19 impacted his business and mental health significantly.
Family support was crucial during his challenging times.
Journaling helped him clarify his thoughts and goals.
He emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and mental strength.
Chris's journey includes a focus on masculinity and fatherhood.
He became obsessed with Jiu-Jitsu as part of his fitness journey.
Effective journaling techniques can lead to self-discovery.
Building a supportive community is vital for personal growth. Effective communication is essential for making an impact.
Extreme ownership requires taking responsibility for one's actions.
Being present as a husband and father is crucial for family relationships.

Send us Fan Mail

In this conversation, Hugo Correa shares his journey of self-discovery, focusing on the importance of emotional awareness and the impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships. He discusses the challenges he faced in his marriage and how he learned to connect with his emotions, ultimately leading to personal growth and a deeper understanding of himself and his role as a father and husband. The discussion emphasizes the significance of vulnerability, the influence of past traumas, and the necessity of emotional intelligence in fostering healthy relationships. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of emotional processing, the importance of self-awareness and acceptance, and the necessity of loving the journey of personal development. They discuss the lion mentality, emphasizing the value of embracing the process rather than just focusing on the end goal. The dialogue also explores emotional maturity and intimacy in relationships, highlighting how understanding and processing emotions can lead to deeper connections. The speakers share insights on how men can cultivate emotional intelligence and integrity, ultimately fostering healthier relationships and personal growth.

This episode was recorded in Beginning of 2024.

Takeaways

The journey of self-discovery is essential for personal growth.
Childhood experiences significantly shape adult behavior and relationships.
Emotional awareness is crucial for connecting with others.
Men often struggle with vulnerability due to societal expectations.
Acceptance of one's feelings is the first step towards healing.
Falling in love with the process leads to fulfillment.
The lion mentality emphasizes the importance of the hunt over the prize.
-Building a connection to self is essential for growth.
Emotional maturity involves knowing when to express feelings.
Emotional intimacy is key to healthy relationships.

Send us a text

Ose Akile shares his journey of fatherhood and the creation of Legacy Leaders, a platform that teaches men how to master the domains of family life and create holistic balance without self-sacrifice. He discusses the challenges he faced as a first-time father, including his wife's postpartum depression and the shift in attention and communication within their relationship. Ose also opens up about his own struggles with depression and how he turned to external outlets, such as basketball and an affair, to cope. However, he eventually realized the importance of internal solutions and personal growth, leading him to prioritize his family and become the best version of himself. In this conversation, Ose discusses the importance of being a present and intentional father, drawing from his own experiences of growing up with divorced parents. He emphasizes the impact that co-parenting can have on children and the need for both parents to work together as a team. Ose also shares his mindset shift from being a victim to taking control of his life and becoming a leader in fatherhood. He introduces Legacy Leaders, his coaching program that helps fathers transform their lives and become better men and fathers.

Send us a text

In this raw and revealing episode, relationship coach Jordan Gray shares his powerful journey from a childhood marked by bullying and a suicide attempt to becoming a guide for men navigating intimacy, self-awareness, and emotional healing.

We dive deep into:
— The truth behind men’s emotional suppression
— Why vulnerability isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom
— The pivotal role of men’s groups in personal growth
— How modern masculinity is being redefined through emotional intelligence
— The creative power of sexual energy and the need for honest conversations about pornography, desire, and connection

Jordan unpacks how self-actualization, communication, and authentic support systems are reshaping the way we relate—to ourselves and to each other. If you’re ready to rethink what strength, healing, and intimacy really mean, this conversation is for you.

Send us a text

In this vulnerable and inspiring episode, Colin Skinner opens up about his battle with Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism—and how he took the unconventional path toward natural healing. Colin explores the power of mindset, emotional honesty, and the deep connection between nature and wellness. He shares how journaling, support systems, and lifestyle changes not only restored his health but made him a more present father and grounded man.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that healing isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, spiritual, and deeply personal. Whether you're facing your own health challenges or supporting someone who is, this episode offers hope, perspective, and practical tools to move forward with intention.

Send us a text

In todays deeply reflective episode, James opens up about his journey from a childhood marked by pressure and emotional confusion to a life centered on purpose, healing, and legacy. Once seen as the "golden boy," James quietly battled shame, guilt, and the weight of unmet expectations.

Through raw conversation, he unpacks the silent struggle many men face—how emotional addiction, self-comparison, and the inner critic can derail growth. But James doesn’t stay in the pain—he shares how breathwork, forgiveness, and radical responsibility became tools for transformation.

This episode is a call for men to stop hiding behind performance, start owning their story, and lead from a place of emotional intelligence, intention, and authenticity—especially as fathers, partners, and leaders.

Send us a text

In this deeply honest and inspiring conversation, Derrick Johnson opens up about his journey through self-development, coaching, military service, and the powerful transformation that came through fatherhood. From the discipline of fitness to the lessons learned in failure, Derrick shares how surrounding himself with strong men, facing his past, and embracing mentorship helped shape the man—and father—he is today.

We explore how childhood trauma, communication, and intentional parenting play a role in breaking generational cycles and building a lasting legacy. Derrick doesn’t shy away from the hard questions—how shame can sabotage fatherhood, how unschooling can unlock a child’s passion, and how time management is a superpower for modern dads.

Whether you’re a new dad, a man on a mission to grow, or someone navigating the balance of career, relationships, and purpose—this episode is a wake-up call to invest in yourself, lead with love, and raise the kind of legacy that outlives you.

Send us a text

This is a powerful and vulnerable conversation, Nate Feathers opens up about his personal journey of transforming fear and regret into purpose through conscious fatherhood. Speaking with Alex, Nate reflects on how fear-based decisions, shame, and the influence of an oppressive church shaped his early experiences as a father — and the painful realization that he needed to rewrite that narrative.

Together, they explore what it means to parent with intention, presence, and self-discipline. Nate shares the deep regrets that motivated him to change and how he now coaches other men to confront their past, reclaim their identity, and foster emotionally safe, trusting relationships with their children. This episode is a heartfelt call to fathers everywhere to be active, vulnerable, and committed to raising children in freedom and authenticity.

Send us a text

In today’s episode, Alex and Traver dive deep into the transformative journey of confronting personal pain and embracing authentic masculinity. Traver shares his powerful story of hitting rock bottom, reflecting on how societal expectations and the ‘nice guy’ archetype often trap men in cycles of inauthenticity. Together, they explore how childhood experiences shape adult behaviors, the importance of taking responsibility, and the necessity of facing one’s inner darkness to uncover deeper truths. This conversation highlights the awakening of men’s consciousness in today’s changing world, the role of brotherhood and community in emotional growth, and the profound power of surrendering to the journey of self-discovery.

Robert Bill Jr. shares his journey from suppressing his emotions and working hard to experiencing anxiety and panic attacks, to finding healing and transformation through breathwork, meditation, and yoga. He realized that the traditional idea of fatherhood didn't align with his values and set out to create his own fatherhood story. Through his own transformation, he now helps other men and fathers find presence, calmness, and connection in their lives. The conversation explores the importance of taking ownership and responsibility for one's life and emotions. It emphasizes the need to create a life that aligns with one's values and promotes inner strength and resilience. The discussion also highlights the impact of stress on the nervous system and the importance of creating a safe environment for personal growth. The role of somatic work, such as breathwork and meditation, in regulating emotions and building emotional resilience is also discussed. The conversation concludes with the recognition of the profound influence fathers have on their children and the importance of breaking generational patterns and providing them with healthy habits and tools for navigating the modern world.

Takeaways

The traditional idea of fatherhood may not align with your values, and it's important to create your own fatherhood story.
Practices like breathwork, meditation, and yoga can help men find presence, calmness, and connection in their lives.
By transforming ourselves, we can become better partners and fathers, and break generational cycles.
Focusing on personal growth and embracing opportunities for change can lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. Take ownership and responsibility for your life and emotions.
Create a life that aligns with your values and promotes inner strength and resilience.
Recognize the impact of stress on the nervous system and create a safe environment for personal growth.
Engage in somatic work, such as breathwork and meditation, to regulate emotions and build emotional resilience.
Break generational patterns and provide children with healthy habits and tools for navigating the modern world.

Robert can be found on Instagram at the.uncommon.dad or his website https://www.uncommondads.com/

Greg Denning shares his journey from a broken and impoverished background to living an extraordinary life. He emphasizes the importance of mindset, heartset, and skillset in transforming one's life. Greg also highlights the significance of community and how it played a crucial role in his personal growth. He encourages men to raise their standards, take responsibility for their lives, and continuously improve themselves. Greg shares his experience of breaking down walls of loneliness and learning to connect and love others. In this conversation, Greg Denning discusses the importance of healing from past wounds and developing a heart set that allows for love and connection. He emphasizes the power of journaling to understand triggers and transform beliefs. Greg also shares his personal experiences with overcoming challenges and how they have shaped his mindset and skillset. He highlights the significance of reading and continuous personal development in becoming a better man. Greg offers various resources, including his podcast, app, masterclass, and coaching, to support men in their journey of self-improvement.

Takeaways

Mindset, heartset, and skillset are essential for transforming one's life and achieving extraordinary success.
Building a community of like-minded individuals is crucial for personal growth and support.
Raising personal standards and taking responsibility are key to living an extraordinary life.
Breaking down walls of loneliness requires vulnerability and a willingness to connect and love others.
Continuous self-improvement and increasing one's capacity to love are important for building meaningful relationships. Healing from past wounds is essential for personal growth and the ability to form healthy relationships.
Developing a heart set of love, kindness, and forgiveness allows for deeper connections with others.
Journaling is a powerful tool for understanding triggers, transforming beliefs, and processing emotions.
Challenges and hardships can be opportunities for growth and learning.
Continuous personal development, including reading and skill development, is crucial for becoming a better man.

Greg is an Executive Life and Business coach for entrepreneurs and businessmen with families, the creator of the Be The Man Masterclass & Tribe, and The Extraordinary Family Life Formula. He is the host of Be The Man &The Extraordinary Family Life Podcast.

He can be found on social media on IG at @greg.denning

More information can be found at Gregdenning.com

In this episode we meet Joshua Laycock. He's a father of 2, husband, mens coach, and commercial insurance specialist. We go into not all journey's start with a painful moment that we think of. We learn about how he went from living the dream, to living the dream intentionally.

Joshua can be found on Instagram at @joshua.laycock

This episode can be watched on Youtube: Living from the Inside out with Joshua Laycock

In this episode we talk about the father wound. Andrew dives into the beginning of his transformation six years ago. We dive into three of the hardest situations in his life and how he recognized he was running away from himself. We discuss his recent transition to Costa Rica and his journey as a writer & coach.

Andrew can be found on instagram @andrewblaircoaching

Video can be watched on youtube: Welcome to the Jungle

In this episode we meet Robert Wunderlich. Robert is a 3rd degree BJJ black belt, and Men's Coach. He owns his own BJJ facility. He has 2 children and a married for 10 years. We go in-depth how brazilian jiu jitsu correlated with mens work and his journey and the ever lasting lesson we can take away from archeology.

Robert can be reached through Instagram @wunderbjj99 and online through his website https://arvadajiujitsu.com

In this episode we dive into Mike Campbell's story. We go back to 2009 where he received a phone call he wasn't expecting, while grieving his mothers death, and starting a business. He discusses how that journey has led him to become a mens coach.

Mike can be found on instagram @mikecampbellmc and his website www.mikecampbell.com.au

In this episode we meet with Mike Danson, we learn about his time in the Marines and his journey on getting out. We discuss his journey post military and his search for brotherhood and connection along the way. Mike can be found at either instagram or LinkedIn at the links below.

https://www.instagram.com/mike_perspective_s/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-danson-2b4a0aaa/?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fl.instagram.com%2F

In this episode we meet Johnny King. We go back 12 years where Johnny was gifted a Tony Robbins experience and when arriving home from the event his wife asked him for a divorce. We go in depth about the transformation he experienced throughout that process and why he chose to ultimately work with men.

Johnny can be found at johnnyking.com or on IG @johnnyking

The video can be watched on youtube at: Becoming Kings

In this Episode, we learn about living intentionally with Victor. I came across Victor and his family in December of 2021. My wife and I had just come back together after separating and we wanted to do something that would bring us together. We came across Nomads with a purpose. Their intentional living and conscious lifestyle is something we craved. When was the last time you were able to disconnect from the grind and really connect with yourself and those around you on a deeper level.

Victor and his family can be found at www.nomadswithapurpose.com

Additionally, if you are interested in coaching he can be found on Instagram @coach_victor_robledo.

In this episode, we dive deep into Dylan Bain's story. Eight years ago he was on welfare, getting food stamps, and working three jobs to survive. While teaching, he was faced with a decision. That decision changed the trajectory of his life and allowed him to fulfill his ultimate dream.

Dylan can be found on Instagram at @rejectdomestication or his website www.fiscallysavage.com

This episode can be watched on youtube : Freezing Lemons with Dylan Bain

In this episode we dive into Thriving with Bipolar disorder. Chris VanDeventer is a man that I met while going through the UNcivilized Leadership and Coaching program. We jump into when he learned about his diagnosis and how he has thrived by extreme vulnerability. He is a Uncivilized men's coach, storyteller, and poet.

He can be found at

Website https://www.becomingchristopher.com/

IG and TikTok: @becoming_christopher_

In this episode of A Man's Journey we dive into Zac Millers Journey with PTSD. Zac was a first responder for 10 years. After 10 years of suppression and coping with alcohol he realized he was living with PTSD. Zac shares how he shifted the narrative for himself and begun to thrive with this condition.

Zac can be found on Instagram at

@ztm419

You can also check the video out on youtube.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4UOzf6qdI4

In this Episode, we catch up with Matt Halson. A Devoted father and husband who realized his lack of connection with his father due to a tragic work accident was carrying over into his own relationship with his wife and kids. We highlight the moment he realized that and the action he took to overcome those issues.

Matt can be found on Instagram

@father_of_the_tribe_au

Website

https://forgeaheadcoach.wixsite.com/matt-halson

You Tube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVS0YpHjnRN04Ykue-ZTGFQ