The Masculine Wilderness Podcast

Epik Project
  • 5.0 (6)
  • SOCIEDAD Y CULTURA
  • CADA DOS SEMANAS

Not only is masculinity a wilderness, we often feel alone in it. Male loneliness is at epidemic levels which is not only tragic, it correlates to more men seeking commercial sex. Unfortunately, the demand for commercial sex is precisely what drives human trafficking! On this podcast, we discuss aspects of modern masculinity with leaders across various social justice and professional backgrounds so you can increase your tools for navigating the Masculine Wilderness.

  1. Justice Reimagined: How Empathy, Data & Collaboration Can Stop Trafficking Before It Starts with Kristen Hubbell

    1 SEP

    Justice Reimagined: How Empathy, Data & Collaboration Can Stop Trafficking Before It Starts with Kristen Hubbell

    What if the future of justice isn’t about punishment—but prevention? In this episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, Kristen Hubbell—former FBI agent and founder of Prevention Now—shares her extraordinary journey from federal law enforcement to leading one of the most innovative organizations in the fight against human trafficking. Kristen reveals why justice without empathy falls short, why collaboration across communities is non-negotiable, and how technology—from big data to artificial intelligence—is reshaping what prevention can look like. Her insights challenge us to think differently about exploitation, not only as a criminal issue but as a human one that requires humility, curiosity, and shared responsibility. And for men listening, this conversation is especially urgent: Kristen offers a direct call to action for how men can step into leadership, accountability, and advocacy in the fight to protect the vulnerable. This episode isn’t just about trafficking—it’s about redefining justice for a new era. 00:00 Introduction to the Masculine Wilderness Podcast 01:03 Kristin Hubbell’s Journey into Anti-Violence Work 03:38 Evolving Understanding of Justice 05:35 Responsibility for Justice 07:18 Transition from FBI to Anti-Trafficking Work 10:53 Founding Prevention Now 14:10 The Importance of Collaboration 15:10 Data as a Storytelling Tool 18:03 Empathy in Law Enforcement 22:13 Integrating Collaboration in Anti-Trafficking Work 26:57 Collaborative Efforts Against Human Trafficking 28:51 Utilizing Data for Community Collaboration 32:13 Understanding Risk Factors in Human Trafficking 36:18 The Role of Technology and AI in Prevention 44:06 Empathy and Understanding in Addressing Exploitation 47:55 Defining Prevention in the Anti-Trafficking Movement 🎧 Listen now and discover how empathy, collaboration, and innovation can transform the fight against trafficking. Let’s Connect: 🌐 Learn more about Kristin’s work: www.prevention-now.org 🌐 Explore the movement to disrupt exploitation: www.epikproject.org

    1 h
  2. The Weight of Telling the Truth: A Survivor’s Journey to Advocacy with Kathy Bryan

    21 JUL

    The Weight of Telling the Truth: A Survivor’s Journey to Advocacy with Kathy Bryan

    What does it cost to turn your pain into purpose, and how do you keep going when the weight of your story feels unbearable? In this powerful episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, Kathy Bryan, founder of The Genesis Project and a survivor of human trafficking, opens up about the long, courageous road from survival to leadership. With unflinching honesty, Kathy shares what it truly means to become an advocate while still carrying the emotional residue of past trauma. This conversation goes far beyond statistics or headlines. It’s a deep dive into the realities of trafficking across urban and rural communities and the nuanced challenges survivors face when their stories become public tools for change. Kathy doesn’t just share her experience; she issues a call to action. You’ll hear about the critical role parents play in prevention, why traffickers are targeting increasingly younger children, and how digital culture has transformed the landscape of exploitation. Kathy offers practical, heartfelt advice for families navigating a world that often feels out of control and reveals what true connection looks like between parents and children. This episode is a gut-check, a guide, and a testament to the power of resilience. If you want to understand the human side of trafficking and how to make a real difference, start here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Masculine Wilderness Podcast 01:36 Kathy's Journey: From Trafficking to Advocacy 09:31 The Cost of Sharing a Survivor's Story 14:49 The Genesis Project: Building Futures 22:22 Understanding Trafficking in Rural Communities 24:54 Statistics and Myths Surrounding Trafficking 28:26 Understanding the Risks: A Shocking Reality 31:07 Empowering Parents: Navigating Safety in a Digital World 33:49 The Harsh Truth: Child Trafficking vs. Other Dangers 36:38 Breaking the Silence: The Stigma of Sex Trafficking 41:08 The Role of Men: Accountability and Cultural Change 47:39 Survivor Perspectives: The Emotional Toll of Injustice 50:45 Practical Advice for Parents: Engaging with Your Children 52:10 Masculine Wilderness Theme.mp3 Let's Connect: www.epikproject.org https://thegenesisproject.life https://www.instagram.com/simplykathy/, https://www.instagram.com/thegenesisprojectlife/ https://www.facebook.com/simplykathy/ https://www.facebook.com/thegenesisprojectlife

    52 min
  3. The Way Back to Yourself: Emotional Mastery, Masculinity & the Rise of Men’s Work with Andrew Carruthers

    7 JUL

    The Way Back to Yourself: Emotional Mastery, Masculinity & the Rise of Men’s Work with Andrew Carruthers

    Why are so many men disconnected from their inner lives and what does it take to find the way back? In this intimate and soul-stirring episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, Andrew Carruthers invites us into a conversation many men never get to have about shame, emotional expression, and the quiet longing for authenticity. A former hairdresser turned Wayfinder, Andrew has spent years helping others navigate their emotional terrain, and now he’s sharing the raw truths and hard-earned wisdom that shape his work. Together, Andrew and Tom explore the cost of silence in men’s lives, the weight of unspoken guilt, the armor of stoicism, and the stories that keep us from fully showing up. But this isn't a conversation about what’s wrong with men. It's a powerful reckoning with what’s possible for men: real emotional presence, radical self-awareness, and a return to community. They go deep on the cultural rise of men’s work, not as a trend, but as a response to crisis. Andrew speaks directly to young men craving purpose, connection, and a path toward wholeness. His message is clear: you are not broken but must be brave enough to meet yourself. If you're ready to drop the mask and step into something deeper, this episode will challenge you, inspire you, and leave you feeling less alone. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Masculine Wilderness Podcast 01:10 Andrew Carruthers: The Wayfinder Journey 03:19 From Hairdressing to Coaching: A Personal Evolution 09:49 Understanding the Clientele: Leaders and Educators 14:39 Masculine Mythology: Shaping Identity and Work 18:35 Emotional Presence: Challenges for Men 24:45 The Role of Shame in Men's Lives 25:36 The Cycle of Shame and Confirmation Bias 26:57 The Power of Men's Groups 29:09 Cultural Expectations of Masculinity 31:22 The Evolution of Men's Work 33:31 Emotional Expression in Older Generations 36:38 Tools for Emotional Awareness 39:20 Difficult Conversations for Older Men 41:47 Rites of Passage and the Role of Elders 45:01 The Openness of Younger Generations 47:21 Finding Enoughness and Community Support 49:14 New Chapter Let's Connect: www.epikproject.org www.outofstep.life Donate: www.epikproject.org/donate

    49 min
  4. Healing the Wound: Masculinity, Exploitation & the Power of Story with Penny Ronning

    21 ABR

    Healing the Wound: Masculinity, Exploitation & the Power of Story with Penny Ronning

    What if the key to ending exploitation lies in the courage to tell the truth? In this gripping and deeply personal episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, Penny Ronning—leader of the Yellowstone Anti-Trafficking Task Force—shares a raw and unfiltered look at the realities of commercial sexual exploitation and why men must be part of the solution. Through the lens of her own family’s history—marked by her mother’s survival of childhood trauma—Penny opens a powerful dialogue on how generational wounds shape us, and how storytelling can become a lifeline for healing. This isn’t just a policy conversation—it’s a human one. Together, Penny and Tom tackle the uncomfortable questions many avoid: What does it mean to be a man in a world where children are sold for sex? How can we hold space for both accountability and empathy? And what kind of leadership does it take to dismantle an industry built on silence? They explore the urgent need for cultural shifts, community-based solutions, and legislative change—but more importantly, they underscore why men’s voices are essential in this movement. This episode is a rallying cry for courageous leadership, emotional honesty, and relentless compassion. If you care about protecting the most vulnerable, if you believe that healing is possible, and if you're ready to face hard truths with an open heart, this episode is your invitation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Masculinity and Healing 02:40 Penny Ronning's Journey and Background 05:59 The Impact of Trauma on Lives 11:37 Legislation and Advocacy for Survivors 14:35 The Power of Storytelling in Healing 17:30 The Intersection of Art and Activism 24:05 Challenging Myths About Trafficking 29:15 Legislative Changes in Montana 33:58 Understanding the Demand for Exploitation 36:10 Collaborative Efforts Against Exploitation 37:22 The Role of Men in Addressing Exploitation 40:32 Empowering Voices in the Conversation 43:39 Humanity at the Core of the Issue 46:31 Community Solutions to a Societal Problem 50:15 Cultural Change and Responsibility 52:44 Mobilizing Male Allies 55:39 Leadership and Courage in Advocacy Let's Connect: www.epikproject.org Instagram: @pennyronning LinkedIn: Penny Ronning on LinkedIn Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czwA-IY89R8&t=657s

    1 h y 1 min
  5. Masculinity on the Edge: Grievance Politics, Andrew Tate & More with Dr. Pasha Dashtgard

    14 ABR

    Masculinity on the Edge: Grievance Politics, Andrew Tate & More with Dr. Pasha Dashtgard

    What’s really driving the rise of male supremacy—and how do we bring young men back from the edge? In this gripping and timely episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, Dr. Pasha Dashtgard unpacks the complex, high-stakes terrain of modern masculinity in an age defined by digital distortion, political polarization, and emotional disconnection. This conversation dives deep into the undercurrent of grievance politics—how a generation of disillusioned young men is being radicalized by influencers like Andrew Tate, and what that says about the state of modern manhood. But this isn’t a takedown—it’s an excavation. What’s missing in the lives of these men? What’s the void they’re trying to fill? And how can society respond without shame or silence? The conversation doesn’t shy away from the emotional labor men have long suppressed—or the toll that takes on women and communities. Instead, it offers a bold vision for healing: grounded in relational intelligence, responsibility, and the courage to redefine what strength actually looks like. This episode is a wake-up call, a roadmap, and a challenge. If you're a man searching for meaning, a parent raising sons, or someone who simply wants to understand the cultural reckoning happening right now—press play. This is the conversation we all need to be having. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Masculine Wilderness Podcast 01:52 The Rise of Male Supremacy and Online Radicalization 05:23 Grievance Politics and Its Historical Roots 12:25 The Impact of Rapid Social Change on Masculinity 15:44 Current Masculine Currents: Male Supremacy, Misogyny, and Isolation 23:24 The Impact of Masculinity on Self-Perception 29:24 Isolation and Emotional Labor in Male Relationships 35:27 The Influence of Andrew Tate and Male Supremacy 40:00 Building Healthier Masculinity: Solutions and Strategies 51:45 Masculine Wilderness Theme.mp3 Let's Connect: www.epikproject.org www.instagram.org/epik_project https://perilresearch.com/team/pasha-dashtgard/

    52 min
  6. The Cost of Silence: Trauma, Healing & the Role of Men in Breaking the Cycle

    7 ABR

    The Cost of Silence: Trauma, Healing & the Role of Men in Breaking the Cycle

    What happens when a survivor becomes the leader of a movement? In this raw and deeply human episode, Tom sits down with Toni McKinley—Executive Director of the Magdalen House in Austin, Texas, and a survivor of sex trafficking herself—for one of the most profound conversations this show has ever hosted. Toni doesn't just talk about trauma—she’s lived it, studied it, and transformed it into powerful leadership. Together, Tom and Toni unpack what trauma actually does to the brain, how memory is affected by abuse, and why traditional approaches to healing often fall short. But this conversation isn’t about theory—it’s about what it takes to rebuild your life from the ground up and why safe, supportive housing is absolutely essential for recovery. And for the men listening—this one is especially for you. Toni speaks directly to the heart of what it means to be a man in today’s world. She challenges the cultural narratives that silence men emotionally and shares actionable tools for self-reflection, emotional growth, and healing generational wounds. They explore how men can show up—truly show up—for their families, their partners, and themselves. This episode will shift your perspective on trauma, leadership, and the real meaning of resilience. If you’ve ever wondered how to break cycles of pain and step into a role of healing and leadership, this is your blueprint. Warning: This conversation might just change the way you see yourself. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Magdalen House and Its Mission 03:00 Understanding the Need for Supportive Housing 05:57 The Impact of Trauma on Survivors 09:07 Toni's Personal Journey and Healing Process 11:55 The Science of Trauma and Its Effects 14:49 Navigating Trauma Responses 18:01 Resilience and Recovery from Trauma 21:06 The Importance of Understanding Trauma 24:06 Toni's Story and the Power of Narrative 30:54 Understanding Trauma and Memory 32:31 The Importance of Relationships in Healing 34:54 Community and Connection: Healing Together 35:42 Navigating Relationships Post-Trauma 40:14 The Role of Men in Healing and Relationships 45:01 Men and Trauma: Breaking the Cycle 51:27 Agency in Healing: Taking Responsibility 54:07 Advice for Men: Healing Starts at Home Let's Connect: www.epikproject.org https://www.magdaleneaustin.org https://www.tonimckinley.com/ Instagram: @MagdaleneATX @Toni_Adventures1 Facebook: MagdaleneATX on Facebook LinkedIn: Toni McKinley on LinkedIn Magdalene House of Austin on LinkedIn

    53 min
  7. The Next Generation of Change: How Young Advocates Are Fighting Exploitation with Sarina Cooper and Ashlynn Fredendall

    31 MAR

    The Next Generation of Change: How Young Advocates Are Fighting Exploitation with Sarina Cooper and Ashlynn Fredendall

    What does it really take to dismantle systems of exploitation? In this powerful episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez sits down with trailblazing advocates Sarina Cooper and Ashlynn Fredendall for an eye-opening conversation about the urgent fight against sex trafficking and exploitation. They pull back the curtain on their journeys into advocacy, revealing the deep connections between sustainability, social justice, and the movement to protect the most vulnerable. Together, they explore the growing wave of young leaders stepping up to drive cultural change, the vital role of men in reshaping narratives around exploitation, and the responsibility of older generations to support and uplift the next wave of advocates. This conversation isn’t just about the problem—it’s about the solutions, the hope, and the momentum building in the fight for justice. Packed with raw insights, inspiring success stories, and hard-hitting truths, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand how we can dismantle systems of harm and create a future rooted in empowerment and human connection. Don’t miss the closing reflections on self-care, resilience, and why no advocate should have to walk this path alone. Tune in now—this is a conversation that could change everything. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Masculine Wilderness Podcast 01:03 Understanding the Work of World Without Exploitation and My Friends Are Not For Sale 02:54 Personal Journeys into Advocacy 05:59 The Intersection of Sustainability and Social Justice 11:28 Mobilizing Youth Against Exploitation 14:43 The Role of Peer-to-Peer Education 18:52 Success Stories in Advocacy 25:26 The Impact of Direct Human Connection 27:31 The Influence of Andrew Tate on Young Men 34:16 Young Men Advocating Against Misogyny 40:13 Supporting Youth in the Fight Against Exploitation 47:26 Finding Life Beyond Advocacy 50:20 Masculine Wilderness Theme Let's Connect: www.epikproject.org www.epikrpoject.org/myfriendsarenotforsale www.worldwithoutexploitation.org www.worldwithoutexploitation.org/youth

    51 min
  8. From the Field to Fatherhood: Ashton Clark on Manhood, Mentorship & Legacy

    24 MAR

    From the Field to Fatherhood: Ashton Clark on Manhood, Mentorship & Legacy

    In this episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez sits down with educator and coach Ashton Clark for a powerful conversation about resilience, growth, and the impact of mentorship. Ashton takes us on a journey from his early years in Vancouver, Washington, through the highs and challenges of college football, and into his current role as a counselor and coach. They explore how sports shape character, the pressures of athletic culture, and the pivotal moments that define Ashton’s path. He opens up about personal loss, the importance of community, and the values that guide him as a husband and father. With reflections on his relationship with his wife, Aisha, and his hopes for his children’s future, Ashton shares hard-won lessons on love, respect, and the power of showing up for others. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating life’s transitions, seeking wisdom on raising the next generation or looking for inspiration on turning challenges into growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Masculine Wilderness Podcast 01:20 Ashton's Journey: From Student to Counselor 03:52 Formative Experiences of Manhood 09:43 The Impact of Sports on Character 14:42 Transitioning to College Football 21:30 Navigating College Sports Culture 28:19 Transitioning from Athletics to Life Beyond 32:39 Facing Tragedy and Finding Purpose 35:40 The Importance of Brotherhood and Community 41:03 Love and Relationships: A Journey with Aisha 46:34 Parenting with Intent: Values and Lessons 49:02 Challenges Facing Today's Youth 53:00 Hopes for the Future: Raising Respectful Children Let's Connect: www.epikproject.org

    55 min
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Not only is masculinity a wilderness, we often feel alone in it. Male loneliness is at epidemic levels which is not only tragic, it correlates to more men seeking commercial sex. Unfortunately, the demand for commercial sex is precisely what drives human trafficking! On this podcast, we discuss aspects of modern masculinity with leaders across various social justice and professional backgrounds so you can increase your tools for navigating the Masculine Wilderness.

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