What if the “strong” version of you is actually the one that speaks honestly, asks for help, and stops trying to be perfect? That question sits at the center of our conversation with licensed clinical social worker and men’s coach Mordy Gottlieb, whose journey from pastry chef to 13 months in treatment to leading men’s groups reframes what real strength looks like.
We dig into the pressure men feel to hold it all together, how perfectionism keeps peace just out of reach, and why shame multiplies in isolation. Morty explains why men’s groups are uniquely powerful: accountability and compassion delivered by peers create embodied safety that a solo therapy hour can’t replicate. From literal backpack exercises to the vulnerability of candlelit “10 shames, 10 regrets,” he shows how structure and protection allow men to finally put the mask down and be seen without being destroyed by it.
You’ll hear practical ways to start small and build confidence: make your bed to rebuild self-trust, ask a simple question in the store to practice micro-risk, and anchor attention in the part of your body that feels safe when anxiety spikes. We also explore embodied movement and ecstatic dance as bold training grounds for nervous system freedom—no steps to memorize, no “wrong” moves, just the habit of being real in public. Then we bring it home to relationships: crafting clear agreements, telling the truth without dumping, and honoring needs even when you don’t fully understand them. The throughline is simple and hard—your worth is not earned by performance. Act from dignity, not for it.
If you’re tired of carrying the invisible backpack, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share with a brother who needs it, and leave a review with the one micro-risk you’ll take this week. Ready to trade the mask for real connection? Join us and step forward.

-------------------------------------------------------

Join the Evolved Men Circle (Free Community)

If the podcast hits home and you’re tired of trying to grow alone, step into the Evolved Men Circle — our free online community where men come together to lead themselves with more clarity, courage, and integrity.

Inside, you’ll find resources like A Man’s Guide to Self-Leadership, guided journaling prompts, and real conversations with men who are committed to becoming stronger, more grounded leaders.

👉 Join the Evolved Men Circle

Ready to go deeper? The Evolved Men Brotherhood

For men who want more structure, support, and accountability, there’s the Evolved Men Brotherhood — a paid, committed community designed for real growth. This isn’t a small-group program; it’s a space built for men who want consistent coaching, clear direction, and a Brotherhood that grows with them.

If you’re ready to be surrounded by men who rise together week after week, you can learn more or join here:

👉 Explore the Evolved Men Brotherhood

Enjoying the podcast?

Follow and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify — it helps more men find this work.

For More, visit us at EvolvedMenProject.com | Facebook | Instagram | Youtube

-------------------------------------------------------