Authentic Connections
Despair among men is already a global epidemic and increasing at an alarming rate. Even high-functioning “successful” men succumb to substance abuse and even suicide. In fact, 80% of suicides are men. Without the permission, tools, or role models, men don’t talk about their feelings. Instead, they keep silent, suppressing their thoughts and emotions and driving themselves further into isolation. On the Authentic Connections podcast, co-hosts Jeff Singer and Richard Gabel engage in unscripted conversations about topics and issues that men think about but rarely talk about. The goal is to normalize substantive, honest dialogue among men (and their families) to promote connection and wellness. Richard is a psychiatrist, teacher, and Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He and Jeff suggest that men who feel they need assistance should seek help from qualified professionals. The podcast is intended to act as a catalyst for positive change; it is not meant to diagnose, treat, or prescribe. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast to facilitate conversation and inspire action to reduce isolation and loneliness.
Episodes

Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
Traditional Masculinity is Toxic to Men
Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
Often overlooked is how masculine facades of strength and confidence are toxic to men. Men are not allowed to be vulnerable and struggle to connect with friends and family on a deep level, driving isolation and loneliness.

Monday Aug 26, 2024
Generational Perfectionism
Monday Aug 26, 2024
Monday Aug 26, 2024
Each generation of parents is affected by the social, economic, and political realities in which they grew up as children. Further, their fundamental parenting style is a reaction to the methodology of their parents. Perfectionism is one of the most invisible and toxic concepts that often result in high levels of anxiety and despair. Read: The Fourth Turning is Here by Neil Howe

Monday Aug 26, 2024
Perfectionism is Killing Young Athletes
Monday Aug 26, 2024
Monday Aug 26, 2024
Athletics at any level seem to offer an antidote to loneliness: community and belonging, purpose, support, exercise, and healthy diet. Yet, the rates of depression and suicide are skyrocketing among college athletes. Read CNN Health

Monday Aug 26, 2024
The Work-Life Balance Myth
Monday Aug 26, 2024
Monday Aug 26, 2024
Compartmentalizing and creating structures around professional and personal time is a modern concept designed by corporations to dehumanize work, disassociate people from facets of their lives, and drive competition for jobs. The time you spend working is not separate from your life. In fact, all the time in every day is your life. How you spend your time and with whom you spend it should be a conscious and intentional decision to construct a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Sunday Aug 25, 2024
Physical Isolation
Sunday Aug 25, 2024
Sunday Aug 25, 2024
People tend to live in personal cocoons - disconnected from other humans. The gig economy, work from home, online shopping, suburban sprawl - all contribute to living in isolation. Many people also move for work or educational opportunities, leaving established communities and social groups. Read: Japanese apartment building combats loneliness