The King Within: Modern Masculinity and the Sovereign Man

Mike Salemi
  • 5.0 (59)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The King Within explores what it means to embody true strength, purpose, and presence in every area of a man’s life. Hosted by performance coach Mike Salemi, this show bridges the worlds of movement, mindset, and meaning—helping men reclaim their vitality, master their nervous system, and lead from a grounded center. From elite athletes to modern-day warriors, every conversation dives deep into the frameworks, tools, and inner work required to live, love, and lead with integrity. Subscribe for weekly conversations on high performance, embodiment, leadership, and holistic wellness. 💪 Join The Grounded King Collective → thegroundedking.com Mention 'PODCAST' for a special discount 🌐 Learn more → coaching.mikesalemi.io

  1. 153: Why Integrating Childhood Wounds Is a Must For Becoming a Present Partner

    3D AGO

    153: Why Integrating Childhood Wounds Is a Must For Becoming a Present Partner

    📺 Watch on YouTube and Spotify "I'm telling you, this is how. You have to go through the process of initiation to even have the embodiment inside to meet them in a way that they are going to let you through their 7 gates and actually then give you the glory of what's in there. You don't get through those gates for free. You got to earn it. That's the initiation." says Mike Elliot, men's transformation guide and mentor, who joins The King Within podcast to illuminate what it truly means to become an initiated man—and the real-world rewards that follow, from deep emotional intimacy to revitalized passion in relationships. In this episode of The King Within, Mike Elliot shares why initiation isn’t a solo journey, but a descent—from head to heart, from isolation to relational healing. Through raw stories from his own evolution, Mike Elliot explains why men freeze, shut down, or resist fatherhood and how these patterns are invitations to break intergenerational cycles and step into leadership. He offers a riveting look at how the masculine and feminine can harmonize—how praise, presence, and attunement unlock new dimensions of connection, not only with a partner but with life itself. Tune in to discover how initiation, embodied presence, and men's work are redefining leadership, intimacy, and purpose for modern men—and why thriving relationships are never just relationships, but the gym where greatness is forged. 5 Key TakeawaysInitiation happens in relationship, not isolation. Find a mentor or group where you feel safe and lean in—transformation breeds in connection, not solitude.Attunement is healing. Practice being deeply present and receptive with those around you—let them feel seen, heard, and valued.Embrace discomfort as your path to growth. Shadow and resistance aren’t flaws—they’re invitations to integrate, mature, and lead with authenticity.Prioritize clarity, confidence, and connection in your relationships. Show up with the 3 C’s—mirror your partner’s brilliance and praise their gifts daily.Stop waiting to “feel ready.” Take courageous action—integrate your fears, let go of control, and step into the next chapter of your evolution now. Memorable Quotes"Initiation is actually dropping from the head into the heart, doing the descent into this physical body, the journey that it's already experienced that hasn't fully integrated." "There needs to be an understanding that every relationship that comes to us in life is inviting us to use the medium of that relationship for our own awakening." "When we learn how to meet them, when we learn how to understand their world and make that more of our mission and take up more space to learn how to do that well, it will soften and open them, and they will want to give you the juicy feminine." Connect with MikeWebsite: https://www.itsmikeelliott.com Coaching: https://www.itsmikeelliott.com/coaching Newsletter: a href="https://www.itsmikeelliott.com/newsletters/the-initiated-man-newsletter/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 7m
  2. How Ani Manian Tapped into the Mathematics of the Universe to Overcome Burnout

    FEB 5

    How Ani Manian Tapped into the Mathematics of the Universe to Overcome Burnout

    📺 Watch on YouTube and Spotify “There is a mathematical proof for our infinite worth. That’s what allows us to realize that we belong, that we were created by God, universe, source—there was no mistake,” says Ani Manian, founder of Scale with Psychology, who joins The King Within to challenge the very paradigms most men live by. Ani Manian, whose life’s work has helped create more than $2 billion in company exits, unpacks why true freedom and business success are found not by grinding harder but by learning to get paid simply to exist as your authentic self. On this eye-opening episode of The King Within, discover how Ani Manian guides high-performing men out of self-sacrifice, endless hustle, and old programming into a new reality where subtraction—not addition—is the secret to thriving business and relationships. He delves into how constraint, radical authenticity, and lovingly applied boundaries allow your work—and life—to become a state of flow. The result isn’t just higher revenue, but more peace, energy, and time with those you love. Tune in and let Ani Manian turn everything you thought you knew about scaling success—and yourself—on its head. If you desire to build smarter, not harder, and to master the art of having it all, this episode is for you. 5 Key TakeawaysYou have the power to design a life and business that energizes you, not drains you—here’s how to seize it now: Constraint is leverage. Cap your work hours and watch your creativity and effectiveness explode—set clear boundaries this week and see what happens.Optimize for getting paid to exist, not just to work. Align your business and offers with who you authentically are—audit your work for what feels like performance and strip it back.Measure success by raising your floor, not chasing higher ceilings. Improve the consistency and sustainability of your “worst” months—focus on stability before growth.Invest in ruthless self-honesty. Face the truth about where you’re at and what you want—no more hiding from the mirror, ask yourself the tough questions today.Build from subtraction, not addition. Remove what doesn’t light you up—skills, clients, offers—and sculpt your masterpiece by taking away what isn’t truly you. Challenge yourself to act on just one of these and witness how rapidly your life, energy, and results begin to shift. Memorable Quotes"We all have infinite worth. The mathematical proof for that is because we exist, and the universe that we exist inside of—and that which we are—is a perfect mathematical equation.""Perfection is actually a result of meticulous subtraction, not addition. When it comes to ourselves, we’re subtracting the untruths, we’re subtracting the illusions, the self-doubt, and not feeling worthy. These are illusions; they're not real.""If I see myself as valuable, if I see my own value, then I will make the decisions, hold the beliefs, have the thoughts, and take the actions that will then cause that value to be reflected back to me from the world."Connect with AniWebsite: https://scalewithpsychology.com/ Instagram: a...

    1h 40m
  3. The Importance of Downshifting Out of Work Mode in Creating Intimacy and Calm at Home

    JAN 29

    The Importance of Downshifting Out of Work Mode in Creating Intimacy and Calm at Home

    📺 Watch on YouTube and Spotify Tuesday, February 10th Downshift Workshop at 4pm PST The Grounded King - Downshift Workshop Captivate “If you prioritize it and you know what to do with where you’re at in that moment, f**k, is it worth it? And once you get some wins around this, it will be generative. It will be momentum that you can build.” says Mike Salemi, host of The King Within, as he dives deep into the overlooked power of transition—not just from the workplace, but from the restless grind of ‘go mode’ into presence with family, connection, and true rest. In this solo episode, Mike Salemi unpacks the critical “downshift” ritual that too many high-performing men neglect, and how failing to intentionally shift states sabotages relationships, intimacy, sleep, and one’s sense of self. Sharing both personal stories and insights from years coaching men who “seem to have it all” on paper yet feel emotionally adrift, he challenges the myth that grit and willpower alone make the difference at home. Instead, Mike Salemi reveals a simple, practical framework and offers a taste of the protocols he’s used to help countless men—starting with naming your state (wired, depleted, overloaded, or disconnected), and matching nervous-system responsive strategies to meet it. Ready to be the man your family runs toward, not from—and finally show up as your calm, grounded self when it matters most? Tune in to The King Within for an eye-opening look at the hidden key to presence, better sleep, and connection that every successful man has been missing. 5 Key TakeawaysDon’t let your work mode bleed into family time—set a clear transition ritual, even if it’s just two minutes, before entering your home space.Recognize your state: are you depleted, overloaded, wired, or disconnected? Check in with yourself before engaging with loved ones.Drop into your body—slow your breath, feel your feet, breathe into your belly to shift gears from stress to presence.Skip default habits like grabbing a beer or just taking a shower—instead, use intentional protocols that change your nervous system, not just your environment.Prioritize the downshift—make it non-negotiable so your family gets the best, most present version of you each night. Memorable Quotes"If you prioritize it and you know what to do with where you're at in that moment, is it worth it. And once you get some wins around this, it will be generative. It will be momentum that you can build.""Your family needs you there, all of you, in your roots, in your heart, not just in your head. Yes, your head is one part of it, but it's not the whole thing.""You need a cue, you need a signal that go mode, threat mode is over."Click Here for our Black Friday Specials! (expires by Midnight PST December 1, 2025) 🔥 Work With Mike=== mention "PODCAST" for a special discount) === Apply for The Grounded King Collective → a href="https://mikesalemi.io/thegroundedking" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    28 min
  4. Why Embracing Masculine Nutrients Holds the Key to Deep Family Connection with Lauren Salemi

    JAN 22

    Why Embracing Masculine Nutrients Holds the Key to Deep Family Connection with Lauren Salemi

    📺 Watch on YouTube and Spotify "I could tell that you needed that so bad. And, like, part of me...it was a gift to be able to give that to you as opposed to, like, you, like, demanding it, you know, or being like, you know, I just gotta get out of here," says Lauren Rose Salemi, holistic coach, private chef, and partner to host Mike Salemi, as she joins The King Within for a rare, intimate episode unpacking the art of conscious gifting in partnership. Known for her intuitive ability to tune into her husband’s true needs—often before he’s voiced them—Lauren Rose Salemi brings powerful insight into how couples can foster deep connection not by doing more for each other, but by skillfully creating the space each person needs to truly thrive. In this episode, Lauren reveals why gifting her husband three solitary nights in the woods may be the most nourishing act of love yet—and how both masculine and feminine partners can resource themselves without slipping into resentment, abandonment, or the “laundry list” logistics of busy family life. Tune in for Lauren’s perspective on the five essential masculine nutrients, her candid reflections on relationship dynamics and rebuilding trust, and how she and Mike Salemi map out their entire year to stay not just regulated, but deeply connected. Find out why giving your partner the space they crave—when done with true heart—can be the highest act of devotion. 5 Key TakeawaysHere’s how to fuel deeper presence, connection, and masculine leadership—starting right now: Don’t wait for overwhelm to strike; schedule regular solo time in nature, unplugged and free from all demand. Make it happen before burnout hits.Open honest dialogue with your partner—ask for what you truly need and listen for their silent needs too. Communication is your lifeline for genuine trust.Nourish your body with purposeful movement. Lift, wrestle, walk, breathe—whatever brings physical power online and moves stuck energy.Stop dumping every emotion onto your partner. Build your brotherhood or support group so you can process, reflect, and sharpen each other outside the relationship.Plan your year with resourcefulness in mind—quarterly retreats, family check-ins, calendar commitments. Proactivity protects your connection and fuels your leadership. Memorable Quotes"I put a lot of hope into, okay, if I give him what he needs or if you give yourself what you need in this, doing this in a healthy, productive way, I hope that when you come back, you’ll feel more resourced, regulated, and rested.""I think every relationship is different. The state of trust and integrity of the man and the relationship going into it is so important. If we’re rebuilding trust right now, I need some level of safety within myself before I can genuinely give this kind of gift.""As a family, it’s so important to find the bridges between freedom and connection and realize our goal is actually the same. When you have your cup full as a man, it will inherently allow us to be truly connected upon your return and when you’re physically here."Connect with LaurenLauren's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitaltheory Resources...

    1h 31m
  5. 149: The Importance of Nervous System Regulation in Breaking the Cycle of Family Conflict

    JAN 15

    149: The Importance of Nervous System Regulation in Breaking the Cycle of Family Conflict

    📺 Watch on YouTube and Spotify “Patience isn’t something you do—it’s what’s left over when your system isn’t defending itself,” says Mike Salemi, host of The King Within podcast, who returns for a powerful solo episode dedicated to fathers striving for more presence and patience at home. Drawing from his own journey and years spent coaching men who “seem to have it all, yet feel like they're losing what matters most,” Mike Salemi unpacks the myth that patience is a quality we can simply will into existence. Instead, he reveals it's the natural outcome of nervous system regulation, self-awareness, and the stories we tell ourselves about control, vulnerability, and safety. In this episode, Mike Salemi explains why so many men lose composure with their families—especially after performing well at work—and how deeper issues of self-protection and core beliefs about power and weakness can sabotage our relationships. He shares actionable tools rooted in nervous system regulation, story work, and presence, inviting listeners to rewire old patterns and step into true leadership at home. Tune in to The King Within for a breakthrough conversation that will give you practical steps to transform frustration into connection—and start building the family life you truly desire. 5 Key TakeawaysPresence is everything—put your feet on the ground, breathe, and choose to be fully present with your family every day.Train your nervous system—recognize when you’re on edge and use breathwork or a mindful pause to return to calm before you react.Interrogate your reactions—when anger rises, ask yourself, “What is this trying to protect me from?” and get curious, not judgmental.Revisit memories of ease—recall times you felt safe and relaxed, and practice returning to that state to teach your body it’s okay to soften.Express, don’t suppress—write out your triggers, fears, and costs in a journal to release tension and gain clarity before it spills over at home. Memorable Quotes"Patience isn't something that you do; it's what's left over when your system isn't defending itself.""You're teaching yourself how to lead your nervous system and your family in a completely new way, but it takes time and takes reps.""Courage, curiosity, and commitment—that's what this work really requires if you want to go deep within yourself and really change the patterns you're not proud of, and step into more of the man you're looking to become."Click Here for our Black Friday Specials! (expires by Midnight PST December 1, 2025) 🔥 Work With Mike=== mention "PODCAST" for a special discount) === Apply for The Grounded King Collective → https://mikesalemi.io/thegroundedking Men of Movement Retreat → https://mikesalemi.io/retreats 1:1 Coaching - a href="https://mikesalemi.io/coaching" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    23 min
  6. Why Keeping a White Belt Mentality Holds the Key to Lifelong Mastery with Xande Ribeiro

    JAN 8

    Why Keeping a White Belt Mentality Holds the Key to Lifelong Mastery with Xande Ribeiro

    📺 Watch on YouTube and Spotify “Humbleness is understanding that there's always something to learn from anybody,” says Xande Ribeiro, legendary multi-time Jiu Jitsu world and ADCC champion, who joins The King Within podcast for a spirited and deeply honest conversation on cultivating a true warrior mindset. Xande Ribeiro reveals why keeping a “white belt mentality” is the secret not just to mastery in martial arts, but to growth as a man, father, and leader. He shares moving stories—from childhood street brawls in Brazil to champion-level competition—on how discipline, humility, and challenge fuel his path, even as he continues to compete at 44. With a rare vulnerability, he breaks down why martial arts is more than fighting: it’s preparation for life, teaching kids resilience, emotional regulation, and the power of community in a world of shrinking families and square screens. Tune in to The King Within to discover the warrior’s blueprint for thriving in hard times, reframing fear as fuel, and building trust and authenticity at home and in every arena of life. This episode will make you rethink what it means to be strong, humble, and truly unstoppable. 5 Key TakeawaysEmbrace the warrior’s mindset—do something challenging every day to build resilience and strength, even when life feels comfortable.Model humility: Adopt a white belt mentality and stay open to learning from anyone, regardless of your level or achievements.Prioritize community—step into group environments, let yourself interact, and push past shyness or isolation.Reframe fear as your ally; use it to sharpen your awareness and fuel your growth, not to hold you back.Lead by building trust—surround yourself with people that inspire you, allow yourself to be vulnerable, and reciprocate support. Memorable Quotes"Humbleness is understanding that there's always something to learn from anybody. It's not because I'm the Michael Jordan of Jiu Jitsu that I have nothing to learn.""I think a warrior is someone who does not shy away from the challenge, who takes accountability for mistakes and learns from it. The everyday warrior is the one who wakes up knowing there are hard things to do and does them anyway.""Fear is my friend. It's a tool, not an enemy. It brings a state of awareness, and when you reframe what it means to you, it can become fuel for courage."Connect with XandeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xanderibeirojj/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@xanderibeirojj The Arena Gym: https://thearenagym.com/more/coaches/xande-ribeiro/ Click Here for our Black Friday Specials! (expires by Midnight PST December 1, 2025) 🔥 Work With Mike=== mention "PODCAST" for a special discount) === Apply for The Grounded King Collective...

    1h 11m
  7. How JP Sears Discovered the Power of Fatherhood to Awaken His Inner Strength

    JAN 1

    How JP Sears Discovered the Power of Fatherhood to Awaken His Inner Strength

    📺 Watch on YouTube and Spotify “A real man should be able to slit a throat and hold a baby in the same day,” says JP Sears, comedian, father, and embodied teacher who joins The King Within podcast to share his unapologetic take on modern masculinity, fatherhood, and the journey to becoming a whole man. With his trademark blend of humor and depth, JP Sears reveals how the warrior archetype was awakened in him during the turbulence of 2020, why being vulnerable without strength turns men into emotional “puddles,” and how fatherhood serves as a ground-zero for both spiritual initiation and self-sacrifice. In this episode, JP Sears discusses why the polarization of men into either relentless warriors or perpetual softies is a recipe for dysfunction, and how he learned the importance of standing for principles—even when the world (and “cancel culture”) pushes back. He shares deeply personal stories about his relationship with his own father, the lessons he’s had to learn outside the home on strength, emotional connection, and providing structure for his son. Plus, you’ll hear JP Sears break down his nightly “clearing practice” for keeping his relationship alive, as well as the milestones and blind spots on his evolving path as a father and partner. Listen to The King Within for an honest exploration of what it means to be a trustworthy, grounded man in today’s world—and to discover why, for JP Sears, it’s the hill you’re willing to die on that defines your legacy. 5 Key TakeawaysGet around good men—seek genuine, in-person brotherhood for real accountability and growth.Clarify the hill you’re willing to die on—define your values and principles, then stand for them without apology.Practice daily relational hygiene—clear emotional charge with your partner every night; own your feelings, communicate directly, and stay connected.Sacrifice for your family—make choices with their best interest in mind, not yours. The strength of a man is shown in what he’s willing to lay down.Prioritize intentional presence—put down the phone, make time for your kids, and show up with unwavering attention; your presence is the true currency of fatherhood.a Memorable Quotes"A man who doesn't have something more important than himself in his life will never be a whole man. The warrior isn't a warrior on the battlefield just for himself—he is representing something greater than himself.""Cancel culture only works if you consent to it. People consent to cancel culture through the bond of fear, but it cannot take away what really matters—your principles, your relationship to God, your mission, and the values you stand for.""It unlocks a death to the old self and a birthing of a new self. Especially as a father, you’re sacrificing, you’re no longer feeding your old sense of self. That old sense of self gradually dies, and it’s a great thing—painful at times, but truly fulfilling."Connect with JPWebsite: https://awakenwithjp.com/ YouTube: a href="https://www.youtube.com/@AwakenWithJP" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 29m
  8. Why Slowing Down Holds the Key to True Gratitude in 2026

    12/25/2025

    Why Slowing Down Holds the Key to True Gratitude in 2026

    📺 Watch on YouTube and Spotify "Gratitude is not something of the mind, it's more something of the body," says Mike Salemi, host of The King Within, as he unpacks why so many men struggle to genuinely feel gratitude—even when they know they "should." In this intimate solo episode, Mike Salemi shares how performative gratitude lists and affirmations left him feeling hollow, and reveals the real barriers men face: unconscious negative self-talk, shallow breath, and a relentless pace that keeps us from being present. Drawing from his own life as a father and partner, Mike Salemi guides listeners through practical steps to shift out of the head and into the body, inviting us to experience gratitude as a living state—one rooted in presence, breath, and intention, not obligation. Tune in to The King Within to discover Mike Salemi’s personal, evidence-based path to embodying gratitude and reclaiming connection, calm, and meaning at home. 5 Key TakeawaysShift your inner language—catch negative self-talk and reframe your words to work for you, not against you.Drop out of your head and into your body—slow your breath, lengthen your exhales, and anchor in the present moment.Break the habit of rushing—create intentional pauses to be present and notice what’s already within reach.Practice gratitude that you actually feel—let go of performative lists and focus on what honestly lands in your heart.Build sacred space for connection—set aside undistracted time with those you love or for your own reflection, and let gratitude naturally rise. Memorable Quotes"It's less about the holidays themselves and more about what it represents to us. We all have history. We all have associations of the past that we bring into our experience of the present day." "Gratitude is not something of the mind, it's more something of the body. Your mind might tell you, 'I'm grateful for this,' but you don't really feel it." "The pace that you've been operating, if you're having difficulty connecting with this superpower of being truly grateful—not the idea of it, not the performance of it, but really being deeply grateful in your body and in your heart—then look at the pace that you're operating at, and if you do want to feel more gratitude, create some intention around it." Click Here for our Black Friday Specials! (expires by Midnight PST December 1, 2025) 🔥 Work With Mike=== mention "PODCAST" for a special discount) === Apply for The Grounded King Collective → https://mikesalemi.io/thegroundedking Men of Movement Retreat → https://mikesalemi.io/retreats 1:1 Coaching - https://mikesalemi.io/coaching 💪 Programs === use code "PODCAST" for a special discount) === Kettlebell Lifestyle - https://www.kettlebelllifestyle.com/ Mastering the...

    19 min
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The King Within explores what it means to embody true strength, purpose, and presence in every area of a man’s life. Hosted by performance coach Mike Salemi, this show bridges the worlds of movement, mindset, and meaning—helping men reclaim their vitality, master their nervous system, and lead from a grounded center. From elite athletes to modern-day warriors, every conversation dives deep into the frameworks, tools, and inner work required to live, love, and lead with integrity. Subscribe for weekly conversations on high performance, embodiment, leadership, and holistic wellness. 💪 Join The Grounded King Collective → thegroundedking.com Mention 'PODCAST' for a special discount 🌐 Learn more → coaching.mikesalemi.io

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