Don Talk - Conversations with Mike Turner

Don Talk
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Welcome to Don Talk — Conversations with Mike Turner, where real men have real conversations about life, legacy, leadership, and everything we carry in between. I’m Mike Turner, and this is a space for conversations that challenge us to think deeper, heal stronger, grow intentionally, and become better men. Because being a Don isn’t about power. It isn’t about ego or pretending to have all the answers. It’s about responsibility. It’s about growth. It’s about showing up—for ourselves and for the people we love. We’re talking relationships, mental health, fatherhood, purpose, faith, culture, success, failure, and the things men experience but don’t always know how to say out loud. And ladies, you’re invited into the conversation too. Because sometimes understanding the men in your life starts with hearing the conversations they don't always have in front of you. This is Don Talk — Conversations with Mike Turner. Real Men. Real Talk. Real Life.

Episodes

  1. 2h ago

    Do Men Lose Themselves When They Become Fathers?

    Do men lose themselves when they become fathers? Becoming a dad can be one of the greatest experiences of a man’s life — but nobody talks enough about what fatherhood can cost you emotionally. Your priorities change. Your freedom changes. Your relationships change. And somewhere between providing, protecting, parenting and trying to be the man your family needs, you may start wondering: Who am I outside of being a father? In this episode of Don Talk — Conversations with Mike Turner, we have an honest conversation about the side of fatherhood men don't always say out loud. We talk about: • Losing your sense of identity after becoming a father • The anxiety and pressure that comes with raising children • Why dads sometimes feel guilty for wanting time for themselves • Balancing fatherhood, relationships and personal fulfillment • How our own childhood experiences shape the fathers we become • The emotional support fathers often don't receive • Whether becoming a parent means giving up part of your freedom • The complicated feelings of sacrifice, responsibility and even regret • Why taking care of yourself can actually make you a better father Fatherhood can give a man tremendous purpose. But that doesn't mean the transition is easy. Sometimes becoming a good father requires figuring out how to remain a whole man at the same time. So here's the question: Can you be a great father without losing the man you were before you had children? Drop your answer in the comments. Fathers especially — what changed most about YOU after having kids? If conversations like this matter to you, subscribe to Don Talk and join us for real conversations about fatherhood, relationships, identity, mental health and the things men carry but don't always say. CHAPTERS 00:00 Reflections on Fatherhood & Future Aspirations 25:00 Parenthood, Identity & Self-Discovery 42:16 The Anxiety of Parenthood 42:59 Fatherhood: A Different Kind of Fun 53:08 The Truth About Parenthood 1:28:41 Self-Care, Guilt & Personal Fulfillment 1:43:23 What Society Expects From Fathers 2:05:28 Regret, Responsibility & Parenthood #Fatherhood #MensMentalHealth #DadLife #Parenting #BlackFathers #MensHealth #FatherhoodJourney #ModernFatherhood #DonTalk #MikeTurner

  2. 2d ago

    Stay Strong Bro: The Phrase We Need to Rethink

    The conversation delves into the importance of male friendship and support, the struggles of finding community and purpose, and the exploration of self-worth and value in relationships. It highlights the need for deeper connections and the impact of societal expectations on self-perception. The conversation delves into the pressure to stay strong, the struggle to find a sense of home and belonging, and the need for emotional outlets. It also explores the themes of seeking purpose and connection, highlighting the challenges and experiences of individuals in navigating these aspects of life. Takeaways Importance of male friendship and supportStruggles with finding community and purposeSelf-worth and value in relationships Seeking purpose and connectionStruggles with finding a sense of home and belongingThe pressure to stay strong and the need for emotional outlets Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Male Friendship02:58 Struggles with Finding Community and Purpose10:11 Self-Worth and Value in Relationships33:03 The Pressure to Stay Strong36:20 Struggles with Finding Home and Belonging45:01 Seeking Purpose and Connection

  3. 2d ago

    Why Some Men Struggle to Love | Love Languages vs. Survival Languages

    The conversation delves into personal well-being, financial concerns, self-care, and the impact of societal expectations on self-worth. It also explores the concept of love languages in relationships and the alignment of love languages between partners. The conversation delves into the importance of effective communication, the impact of love languages and survival languages on relationships, and the significance of self-love. It also explores the role of upbringing in shaping one's understanding of love and the distinction between survival and love in relationships. The conversation delves into the nature of love and pain, exploring the concept of survival versus thriving in relationships. It touches on the impact of past experiences, parenting, societal influences, and gender roles on the perception of love and survival mentality. The shift from survival to thriving is emphasized as a key factor in fostering love and growth in relationships. Takeaways Love languages and survival languagesUnderstanding love languages in relationships Effective communication is keyLove languages and survival languages impact relationships Love and painSurvival vs Thriving Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Co-host Banter01:08 Checking In: How Are You Doing Today?02:06 Personal Well-being and Financial Concerns03:06 Balancing Investments and Family Support04:16 Prioritizing Self-care and Personal Growth07:01 Reflection on Achievements and Future Outlook08:05 Reframing Expectations and Self-worth10:20 Value Beyond Productivity and Societal Expectations15:37 Love Languages and Survival Languages Discussion43:28 Survival vs. Love: Impact on Relationships46:23 The Nature of Love and Pain47:48 Pain as a Sign of Growth49:45 Learning and Growth from Experience51:07 Shift in Perception of Love and Survival Mentality53:03 Parenting and Shifting Perspectives on Love and Survival54:15 Survival Mentality and Parenting56:27 Forced Survival by Design58:01 Gender Roles and Survival Mentality01:01:12 Conflicting Ideologies in Relationships01:02:05 Thriving and Love01:06:24 Reflection and Growth in Relationships

  4. 2d ago

    Code Switching & Identity: Who Are You When You Stop Performing?

    The conversation explores the concept of code-switching and its impact on personal and professional interactions. It delves into the experience of reverse code-switching and cultural adaptation, highlighting the challenges and nuances of navigating different cultural contexts. The discussion also addresses the changing standards of professionalism and the evolving nature of qualifications and standards in various domains. The conversation delves into the complex topic of code switching, exploring its impact on identity, survival, and cultural authenticity. It also addresses the importance of self-acceptance and the wisdom gained from life experiences. The discussion highlights the role of language, gender, and cultural suppression in the context of code switching, offering valuable insights into the human experience. Takeaways Code-switching as a form of adaptationThe evolving nature of qualifications and standards Code switching as a means of survivalThe importance of authenticity and self-acceptance Chapters 00:00 Evolving Qualifications and Standards32:29 The Art of Code Switching36:15 The Scene in Roots42:20 Navigating Gender and Identity48:26 Cultural Suppression and Success59:58 The Wisdom of Experience

  5. 2d ago

    Code Switching to Survive: The Hidden Cost of Being Black in America

    The conversation delves into the topic of code-switching, exploring its origins, impact, and the need to navigate two worlds. It touches on the concept of safety, the pressure to prove belonging, and the necessity of code-switching in colonized spaces. The speakers share personal experiences and insights, highlighting the challenges and complexities of code-switching. The conversation delves into the concept of code-switching and its impact on personal and professional interactions. It explores the influence of children in shaping behavior, the intersection of professionalism and cultural identity, and the definition of success in different contexts. Takeaways Safety and the need for acceptance drive the practice of code-switching.Code-switching is a mechanism for success and survival in colonized spaces.The pressure to prove belonging and the impact of code-switching on personal identity are significant aspects of the experience. Code-switching is influenced by the presence of children and the desire to maintain authenticity in their eyes.Professionalism is subjective and often influenced by Eurocentric standards, leading to a lack of authenticity in professional settings.Success is defined differently for each individual, with personal experiences and survival often shaping one's perception of success. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Two Worlds32:09 The Influence of Children33:45 The Impact of Code-Switching on Behavior35:03 The Art of Cold-Switching and Professionalism38:04 The Authenticity of Cultural Identity44:02 The Subjectivity of Professionalism and Success

  6. 2d ago

    Men - Would You Move for Love?

    The conversation delves into the impact of relocation on relationships, exploring the dynamics of moving for love and career. It highlights the challenges and decisions involved in relocating, as well as the long-term effects on personal and professional lives. The conversation delves into the challenges and personal growth associated with moving for love, as well as the importance of self-acceptance and understanding in relationships. It explores the emotional impact, struggles, and sacrifices involved in making such a move, as well as the significance of personal motivation and self-encouragement. The themes of acceptance, support, and individuality in relationships are also highlighted, along with the power of words and the impact of conditional love and acceptance. Takeaways Relocating for love and careerThe impact of relocation on relationships Moving for lovePersonal growth and self-acceptance Chapters 00:00 Relocating for Love and Career01:02:25 Personal Growth and Self-Reflection

  7. 2d ago

    Daughter, Women and the Way We Show Up

    The conversation delves into the impact of daughters on men's self-perception and the dynamics of fatherhood in relation to daughters. It explores the transformative effect of daughters on men's self-perception and the unique challenges and responsibilities of fatherhood in raising daughters. The conversation delves into the philosophy of parenting and the importance of inclusion, openness, and interaction in a child's development. It also explores the impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior and the process of self-reflection and growth. The dialogue highlights the significance of vulnerability and the role of impactful words in shaping personal growth. The conversation delves into the impact of past experiences on relationships, highlighting a pivotal moment that changed the approach to women. It also explores the power of a woman's words and the influence of a daughter on personal growth and resilience. Takeaways Fatherhood and daughter relationshipsThe impact of daughters on men's self-perception Parenting with openness and inclusionReflecting on childhood experiences The impact of past experiences on relationshipsThe power of a woman's words Chapters 00:00 The Impact of Daughters on Men's Self-Perception03:42 Fatherhood and Daughter Relationships23:09 Parenting Philosophy and Inclusion26:24 Teaching Life Skills Through Interaction27:38 Parenting Styles and Self-Reflection30:01 Recognizing Flaws and Growth35:40 Vulnerability and Self-Improvement42:13 Impactful Words and Personal Growth48:12 The Impact of Past Experiences55:48 The Power of a Woman's Words01:09:54 The Influence of a Daughter

  8. 2d ago

    Breaking the Strong Black Male Myth

    The conversation delves into the myth of the strong black man and the impact of societal expectations on emotional expression. It explores the origins of emotional suppression, the impact of emotional suppression on mental health, the role of emotional expression in relationships, and the societal and cultural influence on emotional expression. Additionally, it discusses the need for emotional intelligence and support, the challenge of societal expectations, the importance of emotional release, and the response to emotional expression. The conversation delves into the importance of embracing and expressing emotions for a meaningful life. It explores the role of strength, protection, and emotional security, as well as the biblical perspective on emotions. The discussion also highlights the need for emotional support and empathy among men, challenging traditional gender norms. The conversation delves into the importance of open and honest communication, the impact of isolation, the role of friends in decision-making, the influence of media and music, the importance of real conversations, and the definition of true friendship. It emphasizes the need for supportive and understanding friendships and the significance of vulnerability in relationships. Takeaways Emotional suppression in menImpact of societal expectations on emotional expression Embracing and expressing emotions is essential for a meaningful and full life.Men are often taught to be protectors and providers, but emotional security is equally important. Importance of open and honest conversationsThe need for supportive and understanding friendships Chapters 00:00 The Myth of the Strong Black Man02:58 The Origins of Emotional Suppression06:02 The Impact of Emotional Suppression09:06 The Role of Emotional Expression in Relationships11:52 The Societal and Cultural Influence on Emotional Expression15:09 The Need for Emotional Intelligence and Support17:57 The Challenge of Societal Expectations21:05 The Importance of Emotional Release23:56 The Response to Emotional Expression27:35 Embracing Emotions for a Meaningful Life28:32 Teaching Emotional Resilience to Children29:21 The Importance of Allowing Emotions30:13 Supporting Emotional Expression38:25 The Role of Strength and Protection40:40 The Biblical Perspective on Emotions42:26 Defining Protection and Emotional Security45:37 Perception and Self-Image50:31 The Need for Emotional Support Among Men52:13 The Need for Vulnerability52:45 The Impact of Isolation53:14 The Role of Friends in Decision-Making56:36 The Influence of Media and Music57:36 The Importance of Real Conversations01:14:33 The Definition of True Friendship

  9. 2d ago

    Manhood, Relationships, and Trauma

    The conversation delves into the impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior, the role of communication in relationships, recognizing and addressing triggers, personal views on infidelity and marriage, and the influence of family on views of marriage and relationships. The discussion highlights the importance of honesty in relationships and the lasting impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior. The conversation delves into the deep emotional journey of two individuals, exploring vulnerability, reframing masculinity, and navigating emotional growth. It uncovers past trauma, addresses the impact of father-son relationships, and emphasizes the healing power of forgiveness. The meaning of 'Don Talk' is revealed, and personal stories are shared, aiming to uplift and inspire others. Takeaways Honesty in relationshipsImpact of childhood experiences on adult behavior Embracing vulnerabilityReframing masculinityNavigating emotional growth Chapters 00:00 Influence of Family on Views of Marriage and Relationships33:29 The Bond Between Two People34:23 Uncovering Past Trauma36:27 Father-Son Relationship39:23 Dealing with Traumatic Experiences40:25 The Need for Expression44:03 The Healing Power of Forgiveness51:15 Facing Fear and Overcoming It55:56 The Meaning of 'Don Talk'01:02:05 Sharing Personal Stories01:05:56 Redefining Masculinity

  10. 3d ago

    Survival Mode is Destroying Men and Most Don't Even Know They're In It

    The conversation explores the concept of survival mode and its impact on men's lives. It delves into the signs and characteristics of survival mode, as well as the methods for recognizing and addressing it. The guests share their personal experiences and approaches to dealing with survival mode, offering insights and strategies for self-assessment and transformation. The conversation delves into the impact of survival mode on individuals, the correlation between achievement and survival mode, and the long-term health effects of staying in survival mode. It also explores the emotional and physical toll of survival mode, the importance of self-care, and the need for regular health screenings. Takeaways Survival mode can manifest as feeling mentally overloaded, avoiding important decisions, overthinking simple choices, and struggling to rest without guilt.Recognizing the signs of survival mode and understanding its impact is crucial for self-assessment and transformation.Approaches to addressing survival mode include self-assessment tools, therapy, and a structured program for rebuilding and reinforcing new behaviors. Survival mode can have a significant impact on an individual's emotional and physical well-being.Achievement can serve as an umbrella that hides individuals behind survival mode, and long-term health effects of staying in survival mode can be detrimental. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Sipping on Beverages01:19 Life and Well-Being Check-In04:53 The Impact of Survival Mode20:48 Recognizing Survival Mode26:27 The Impact of Survival Mode35:11 Achievement and Survival Mode43:24 Long-Term Health Effects

  11. 3d ago

    The Silent Struggle of Dads No One Talks About

    What happens to a man's identity when he becomes a dad? We often discuss how men raise their children, but we rarely talk about what fatherhood does to the man himself. In this episode of Don Talk, hosts Mike Turner and Dar’Ron sit down with R. Manasseh Thornton—author of Uncharted Territory, social-work professional, and longtime stay-at-home dad. Together, they dive into a funny, vulnerable, and uncomfortable conversation about modern fatherhood, identity loss, sacrifice, purpose, and men's mental health. Manasseh describes becoming a father as the ultimate "murdering of the ego"—a moment when personal dreams, freedom, and mental health take a back seat to the responsibilities of being a provider and protector. Years later, as his sons grow up, he faces the silent struggle many men experience: "Who am I now?" If you have ever felt like you lost yourself in parenting, or wondered how to balance being a good father with pursuing your own goals, this episode is for you. You can love your children and still miss your pre-kid freedom. 🕒 CHAPTERS / TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - What happens to a man when he becomes a father? 02:15 - The stay-at-home dad reality & identity loss 05:40 - Overcoming anxiety, pressure, and the "murdering of the ego" 09:10 - Raising teenagers and breaking generational trauma in parenting 13:35 - Marriage, money, sports, and the rising cost of raising kids 17:20 - How to find your purpose and dream again after kids grow up 📌 WHAT WE TALK ABOUT IN THIS EPISODE: * Losing and rediscovering your identity after becoming a dad * Why fathers put their dreams on hold for their families * The reality of being a stay-at-home father and dealing with isolation * Fatherhood, responsibility, anxiety, and finding your purpose * Why becoming a dad makes a man more serious, driven, and protective * Raising teenagers and learning to parent differently than your own father did * Missing your pre-kid freedom without regretting your children * Finding the courage to dream again when your kids no longer need you the same way Once his children became self-sufficient, Manasseh began searching for that creative "wind" again. This isn't a conversation about fathers abandoning responsibility. It's about recognizing that Dad is still a man underneath the title. 💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION: * Fathers: Who were YOU before you became a dad, and how much of that man still exists today? Drop your thoughts below. * Women: Ask the father in your life this question, and really listen to his answer. 🎙️ ABOUT DON TALK: Real Men. Real Life. Real Talk. Subscribe for honest conversations about men's mental health, fatherhood advice, relationship dynamics, modern masculinity, identity, purpose, emotional healing, and the silent struggles men carry. #Fatherhood #MensMentalHealth #DadLife #MensMentalHealthMatters #DonTalk #FatherhoodJourney #ParentingTipsForDads #StayAtHomeDad #Masculinity #IdentityCrisis #DadsOfInstagram #NewDad Tips #RaisingTeenagers #MensCoaching

  • 11 Episodes

About

Welcome to Don Talk — Conversations with Mike Turner, where real men have real conversations about life, legacy, leadership, and everything we carry in between. I’m Mike Turner, and this is a space for conversations that challenge us to think deeper, heal stronger, grow intentionally, and become better men. Because being a Don isn’t about power. It isn’t about ego or pretending to have all the answers. It’s about responsibility. It’s about growth. It’s about showing up—for ourselves and for the people we love. We’re talking relationships, mental health, fatherhood, purpose, faith, culture, success, failure, and the things men experience but don’t always know how to say out loud. And ladies, you’re invited into the conversation too. Because sometimes understanding the men in your life starts with hearing the conversations they don't always have in front of you. This is Don Talk — Conversations with Mike Turner. Real Men. Real Talk. Real Life.

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