In this episode of the Observatory Podcast, Scott and LaRae Wright sit down with Mike Canales, Adam Heaps, Jesse Rich, and Dan McFarland to explore the heart behind the Energy Stack and the Virtual Men’s Council they’ve built together. What unfolds is a thoughtful, vulnerable conversation about men’s work, healing, brotherhood, and the kind of relational space that allows real transformation to happen. The four guests share how the work began, what drew each of them into it, and how these gatherings have changed their lives from the inside out. Along the way, they talk about safety, being witnessed by other men, learning to show up authentically, and the power of creating containers where men can heal, connect, and remember they are far more alike than different. This episode is both an invitation and a testimony to what becomes possible when men gather with honesty, intention, and heart.

Timestamps:

[00:00:17] Scott introduces the Energy Stack and the four guests joining the conversation
[00:01:27] Mike Canales, Adam Heaps, Jesse Rich, and Dan McFarland join Scott and LaRae
[00:02:53] Mike shares how the Energy Stack began and how the retreats took shape
[00:08:23] Adam reflects on stumbling into the work and discovering the need for men’s circles
[00:12:52] Jesse shares how brotherhood and safety with other men were missing in his life
[00:17:37] Dan opens up about being witnessed, healing, and finding a place to belong
[00:23:19] LaRae reflects on the depth she sees and asks how the work has changed them over time
[00:42:28] What would they say to men who feel hesitant about joining something like this?
[00:53:05] Memorable stories and meaningful moments from the in-person and virtual gatherings
[01:04:09] The role of food, hospitality, and care in the retreat experience
[01:09:10] Dan closes with gratitude for the women and feminine support behind the work

Noteable Quotes:

“And it's just been pure magic.” – Mike Canales [06:30]
“It showed us what it is and it's still showing us and it's been showing us layer by layer.” – Adam Heaps [09:21]
“I didn't feel safe enough to connect with men.” – Jesse Rich [14:58]
“That I deserve the air that I breathe and. And the space that I take up in this world.” – Dan McFarland [35:26]
“It shows me every single time that what I get out of it, I didn't see coming out of left field.” – Dan McFarland [44:59]
“An immense amount of gratitude for all the feminine and the women that makes this stuff possible.” – Dan McFarland [01:09:19]

Relevant links:

https://www.instagram.com/theenergystack/
https://www.instagram.com/mikecanales_/
https://www.instagram.com/adamheaps/
https://www.instagram.com/jessleerich333/
https://www.instagram.com/mistermcfarland/

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Produced by NC Productions.