Real Men Hug

May 30 2024 2
Real Men Hug Podcast artwork

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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Ep. 14 || Forgiveness: For Your Peace, Not Their Pardon

May 30 2024 56 mins  
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, deta

Ep. 13 || Crafting Connections: A Blueprint for Lasting Friendships in Adulthood

May 16 2024 40 mins  
In a world where adult friendships often take a backseat, hosts Ben and Jim embark on a journey through the complexities of maintaining meaningful connections amidst the chaos of various life stages, including raising young children. Drawing from their own experiences and heartfelt insights, they navigate the highs and lows of friendship with candor, humor, and understanding.From s

Ep. 12 || (pt. 2) Deconstructing Gender Norms: Real Talk with Jamie and Mahlon from Roundtable Mindset

May 02 2024 45 mins  
In this episode of Real Men Hug, hosts Jim and Ben sit down with Jamie and Mahlon from Roundtable Mindset to explore the impact of societal gender norms on various aspects of life. Together, they delve into the significance of mutual respect, open dialogue, and personal growth beyond traditional expectations.Throughout the conversation, Jamie and Mahlon emphasize the importance of

Ep. 11 || Deconstructing Gender Norms: Real Talk with Jamie and Mahlon from Roundtable Mindset (Part 1)

Apr 25 2024 53 mins  
Dive into a riveting collaborative dialogue between Real Men Hug and Roundtable Mindset as they bravely confront the age-old assumptions and societal norms that shape our perceptions of gender roles. In this illuminating episode, listeners are invited to challenge the rigid confines of traditional masculinity and femininity, as the hosts fearlessly explore the intricacies of roles

Ep. 10 || Real Men, Real Marriage: Conversations on Love, Loss, and Learning Together

Apr 11 2024 76 mins  
"Mawage. Mawage is what brings us together today." The iconic words of The Impressive Clergyman from The Princess Bride perfectly set the stage for today's episode!Join hosts Ben and Jim as they open up about the highs and lows of marriage. They candidly share experiences from their own individual marriages with humor, honesty, and empathy.From everyday triumphs to unexpected hurdl

Ep. 9 || Toxic Positivity: Good Intentions Gone Bad

Mar 28 2024 52 mins  
In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Ben and Jim delve into the complexities of toxic positivity, shedding light on its detrimental effects on emotional well-being. Through personal narratives and reflections, they navigate the societal pressures that often compel us to suppress our vulnerabilities under the guise of unwavering positivity.Exploring the societal pressures that d

Ep. 8 || From Yesterdog to the Grand River: Our Hometown of Grand Rapids, MI

Mar 14 2024 59 mins  
In this episode of Real Men Hug, join Jim and Ben as they kick back and reminisce about their adventures of growing up around, and ultimately returning to, their hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan. From chowing down on Yesterdog's mouthwatering (depending on who you ask...) delights to cruising along the serene White Pine Trail, they paint a vivid picture of the good times they've

Ep. 7 || Failing Forward: When Bitterness Robs Your Joy

Feb 29 2024 72 mins  
Dive into the deep end with us as Jim candidly unravels his career voyage, laying bare the trials he's faced. From career disappointments to grappling with depression and anxiety, he shares his journey with the honesty and candor that you find regularly on our podcast. Ben lends his insights and observations, having witnessed Jim's professional challenges. Together, they stress the

Ep. 6 || Do You Even Nerd, Bro?: Gatekeeping and Geek Culture

Feb 15 2024 56 mins  
In this episode of the Real Men Hug podcast, hosts Ben and Jim immerse themselves in the realm of nerdy hobbies, sharing how these pursuits have enriched their lives. They fondly recall their adventures, from Ben's geocaching exploits to Jim's spirited escapades at Renaissance fairs, where he often donned the guise of the legendary Dread Pirate Roberts. Alongside their nostalgic re

Ep. 5 || The Man in the Mirror: Ben's Pursuit of Identity

Feb 01 2024 56 mins  
In this episode, Jim and Ben focus on Ben's journey of identity transformation. They explore how personal experiences such as relational strain, vocational loss, and personal growth have shaped and reshaped who they are. The conversation delves into the influence of external voices on Ben's initial career choices and both of their ongoing pursuit of living authentic lives. This epi