In this episode, therapist and author Alex unpacks how even “normal” childhoods can leave lasting emotional imprints. He shares his personal story of fatherlessness and family mental health struggles, offering a rare, vulnerable look at how early emotional needs shape adult behavior. We explore how men often suppress emotions due to societal pressures and why mentorship and healthy male role models are critical. Alex’s reflections offer a compassionate lens on healing, resilience, and redefining masculinity.

Episode Highlights:

00:35 - Unmet needs in childhood drive over-functioning in adulthood

04:17 - The absence of a male role model left a gap

08:26 - Helping others means also doing the work on yourself

10:52 - We say we’re ready—but until it costs us comfort, we’re not

16:30 - Depression is numbness, not sadness

18:21 - We don’t see the world as it is—we see it as we are

21:36 - When being right matters more than being close, love doesn’t stand a chance

26:39 - Old wounds speak loud when you're under pressure

33:29 - What happens when struggle is skipped?

38:20 - Having protection changes how the world treats you

43:42 - A huge part of the problem is men not talking