Mind Over Masculinity

Greatness Without Burnout: Martial Arts, Masculinity & Mastery with Bogdan Rosu

In this eye-opening episode of Mind Over Masculinity, we sit down with Bogdan Rosu—leadership coach, martial artist, and author of Greatness and Mastery. Together, we explore how men can pursue elite leadership and high performance without burning out. From martial arts philosophies to emotional intelligence, Bogdan breaks down how “being like water” isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. We discuss the illusion of hustle culture, the hidden costs of self-doubt, and why stillness is a high-performer’s secret weapon. Whether you’re chasing the next belt in your career or in your character, this conversation challenges conventional success narratives and offers a grounded roadmap for sustainable greatness.
About the Guest:Bogdan Rosu is a high-performance leadership coach, martial artist, and host of the Stories from Your Future Selfpodcast. With clients ranging from seven-figure CEOs to entrepreneurs at pivotal crossroads, Bogdan helps men break through limiting beliefs, align with purpose, and lead without compromise. His upcoming book Greatness and Masteryfuses martial arts with modern leadership—teaching principles that help ambitious men rise without running themselves into the ground.
Key Takeaways:
Greatness begins with love—for the self, the craft, and the journey—not just achievement.
Rigidity is not strength. Flexibility, like water, enables resilience and smarter leadership.
Even multi-millionaires face the same fears—burnout and paralysis don’t discriminate.
Discipline is often mistaken for self-denial. True mastery aligns passion with confidence.
Masculinity isn’t just doing—it’s about knowing when to be, reflect, and recharge.
 
Connect with Bogdan Rosu:Find and connect with Bogdan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themindsetcoach/
https://bogdanrosu.biz/greatness-and-mastery-free-book 
 
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Embracing Vulnerability & Leadership in Tech with Balki Kotarapu

In this episode of Mind Over Masculinity, we dive deep with Balki Kotarapu, a fractional CTO and mentor who has led tech teams through intense growth, scaling companies from millions to tens of millions. Balki shares how vulnerability, emotional intelligence, and mental health awareness have become his superpowers in leadership. We explore why true strength isn't about having all the answers but about building trust, admitting gaps, and working through challenges together. This conversation unpacks lessons from high-stakes tech environments, the toll it takes on mental health, and the balance needed to thrive as both a leader and human. A must-listen for founders, tech leads, and anyone navigating leadership with authenticity.
About Balki Kotarapu: Balki Kotarapu is a seasoned fractional CTO, entrepreneur, and mentor with a proven track record of scaling startups and building high-performance teams. Having raised over $150 million and developed AI products for Fortune 100 companies, Balki’s leadership style is grounded in vulnerability, clarity, and emotional intelligence. He is passionate about reshaping toxic tech cultures and fostering environments where both people and products succeed.
Key Takeaways:
Why vulnerability is a leadership strength, not a weakness.
The hidden cost of overwork in high-stakes tech roles.
How balancing personal and professional life boosts leadership performance.
The role of emotional intelligence in solving technical bottlenecks.
Insights on reshaping toxic work cultures to prioritize well-being.
 
Connect with Balki: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/balki
 
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Alignment Over Pressure: Rethinking Success & Masculinity with Grace Najean

In this powerful episode of Mind Over Masculinity, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with transformational leadership strategist Grace Najean to challenge the deeply ingrained belief that pressure equals progress. Together, they unpack the cost of hustle-driven success, the hidden toll of male conditioning, and how men can reclaim their power through alignment instead of burnout. Grace shares her insights from coaching high achievers, revealing why self-awareness, inner voice, and sustainable practices matter more than ever for modern men. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the grind or disconnected from yourself, this conversation is a must-listen.
About the Guest: Grace Najean is a transformational leadership strategist, creator of the Soulfluence Method, and a former Platinum Coach with Tony Robbins. She guides high-performing leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives toward sustainable, soul-aligned success by bridging strategy with spirituality. Grace also hosts transformational retreats helping people reconnect with their true selves.
Key Takeaways:
Why pressure-driven success leads to burnout, not fulfillment
How societal conditioning traps men in cycles of proving
The critical role of self-awareness in sustainable leadership
How alignment can unlock clarity, freedom, and authentic power
Simple tools like SWOT and Ikigai to reconnect with your purpose
Connect with Grace Najean: Visit Grace’s website at www.gracenajean.comLearn more about her transformational retreats and coaching services.
 
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Challenging Norms: Thomas R. Wilson on Men’s Mental Health, Neurodiversity & True Inclusion

In this deeply moving episode of Mind Over Masculinity, host Sana sits down with Thomas R. Wilson—writer, business owner, sensory-friendly event specialist, and community advocate—to explore the intersections of men’s mental health, neurodiversity, and inclusion. Thomas shares his personal journey of navigating bipolar disorder and ADHD, breaking away from traditional masculine norms, and creating safe spaces for others to express their authentic selves. The conversation dives into societal biases, the lack of mental health resources, and the critical need for gentleness, creativity, and community support in men’s lives. This episode is a call to action for anyone ready to challenge stereotypes and build a more compassionate world.
About Thomas R. Wilson:Thomas R. Wilson is the founder of R&H Creative Advocacy and Storytelling LLC. With a mission to make community engagement more inclusive, Thomas designs sensory-friendly events and advocates for underserved communities, especially those navigating neurodiversity and mental health challenges. His work has gained international recognition and transformed over 40 businesses into more welcoming spaces.
Key Takeaways:
Thomas’s mental health journey with bipolar disorder and ADHD highlights the importance of emotional expression and redefining masculinity.
Men often struggle with finding safe spaces for vulnerability, creativity, and emotional healing.
The biggest misconceptions around neurodiversity and mental health include viewing nontraditional paths as unproductive and judging emotional expression.
Inclusive spaces require patience, gentleness, and the freedom to process emotions without judgment.
Seeking treatment and finding supportive communities are essential steps toward healing and self-acceptance.
Connect with Thomas R. Wilson:
LinkedIn: Thomas R. Wilson
Email: ndtrpg@gmail.com
Website: R&H Creative Advocacy and Storytelling
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Liberating the Monkey Mind & Awakening the Soul Path with Marko Petrovic

In this transformative episode of Healthy Waves, host Sana sits down with Marko Petrovic—world explorer, two-time bestselling author of Soul Path and Embrace of the Elements, and founder of the MARA Project. Together, they dive deep into ancient wisdom, modern mental health, the role of ego, and the art of liberating the restless monkey mind. Marko shares powerful practices like breathwork, cold exposure, and ancestral connection to rediscover harmony and joy. Whether you feel stuck, disconnected, or simply seeking deeper clarity, this episode offers grounded, soulful strategies to reclaim your inner peace and purpose.
About the Guest:  
Marko Petrovic is a visionary explorer, bestselling author, and founder of the MARA Project—leading transformative journeys to sacred sites around the world. His work bridges ancient traditions with modern life, helping people reconnect to their roots, liberate mental chatter, and walk their authentic soul path with joy and resilience. Marko’s philosophy emphasizes living with presence, faith, and honoring the silent strength of our ancestors.
Key Takeaways:  
Ancient wisdom holds keys to healing the modern monkey mind.
Ego, when balanced, becomes a vital ally rather than a barrier.
Breathwork and chanting (OM) are powerful tools for mental clarity.
Sacred sites and ancestral connection can trigger deep transformation.
True harmony comes from honoring both support and challenge in life.
Connect with Marko Petrovic:  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meetmarko/?hl=en
 
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Man Up, Rise Up: Redefining Masculinity with Dennis Procopio

In this transformative episode of Mind Over Masculinity, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Dennis Procopio, founder of Man Up Life Coaching, to tackle the raw and often misunderstood realities of modern masculinity. From surviving the tough walls of Rikers Island to raising a special needs child, Dennis shares his journey and sheds light on why so many men today feel lost or disconnected. Together, they unpack the concept of “manning up,” its traditional weight, and how it can be redefined to empower men in today’s world. Whether you're feeling stuck, pressured by societal expectations, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, this conversation is a powerful reminder that healing and strength coexist.
About Dennis Procopio:Dennis Procopio is a men’s coach, mentor, and founder of Man Up Life Coaching (MULC), an award-winning program that has logged over 10,000 coaching hours, helping men reclaim purpose, discipline, and emotional well-being. With a background shaped by adversity, Dennis offers a brotherly, results-driven approach to personal growth that resonates with men from all walks of life.
Key Takeaways:
The hidden failure script many men operate from, involving self-judgment, depression, and risk avoidance.
How societal rewards for productivity shape male identity.
The deeper meaning behind "manning up" and why redefining it matters.
Masculinity as a balance of both masculine and feminine traits.
Why men need safe spaces and brotherly support to process emotions and grow.
Connect with Dennis Procopio:Website: manuplifecoaching.comEmail: maillifecoach.com for a free consultation.
 
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How Men Can Escape the Medical Vortex — With Brian Hampton

In this empowering episode of Mind Over Masculinity, we welcome 81-year-young wisdom powerhouse Brian Hampton, who shares game-changing insights on navigating the healthcare system without losing your dignity—or your sanity. Drawing from hundreds of medical encounters and his new book It’s a Great Life If You Don’t Weaken, Brian reveals how men often get trapped in the "medical vortex" and what it takes to reclaim control. From asking the right questions to seeking a second opinion and finding a patient advocate, this episode is a masterclass in self-advocacy, especially for men conditioned to tough it out in silence.
About the Guest:Brian Hampton has lived a life as expansive as it is inspiring—ad man, army officer, political consultant, entrepreneur, and now first-time author. His hard-earned wisdom comes from real-life trenches—multiple surgeries, bureaucratic battles, and a relentless pursuit of self-empowerment. His book It’s a Great Life If You Don’t Weaken distills practical tools to help others deal with life’s curveballs and difficult people alike.
Key Takeaways:
The “medical vortex” can drain your time, energy, and identity—learn to spot it early.
Always go into doctor visits prepared—you’re the boss of your body.
Second opinions and radiology double-reads can prevent costly mistakes.
Patient advocates can be life-changing, especially for complex care.
Men must unlearn silence and embrace assertive communication in health settings.
 
Connect with Brian Hampton:Email: BauthorH@gmail.comBook: It’s a Great Life If You Don’t Weaken — available on Amazon and major retailers
 
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From Strength to Sobriety: The Mental Weight Behind Muscles with Benjamin Nevares

In this powerful episode of Mind Over Masculinity, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Benjamin Nevares—former Team USA powerlifting competitor, exercise scientist, and mental health advocate—to explore how true strength is forged far beyond the gym. From a shy, bullied teen to a sober entrepreneur owning three companies, Ben opens up about the mental grit required to overcome addiction, redefine masculinity, and build an intentional life. They discuss how gym culture can either reinforce toxic standards or become a space for radical growth, emotional resilience, and healing.
About the Guest: Benjamin Nevares is the founder of IE Health, host of Ben Thinking Podcast, and owner of the Las Vegas Venom Grid League Team. Once battling substance abuse, Ben now leads with purpose and discipline—coaching others through fitness, emotional honesty, and sober leadership. With a background in elite exercise science and hands-on experience in transformation, Ben exemplifies mental strength, vulnerability, and authentic masculinity.
Key Takeaways:
Strength training can be the first place men feel they matter—but it must evolve beyond appearance to inner work.
Emotional literacy is crucial for growth; learning to sit with feelings is a masculine strength.
Sobriety in high-performance spaces demands intention and discipline—but it’s possible and powerful.
A mentor, therapist, or supportive community can help channel ambition into action.
Healing begins when you stop waiting for someone to save you and decide to show up for yourself.
Connect with Benjamin Nevares: Follow and connect with Ben:
Instagram: ⁠@bennevares⁠
Podcast: ⁠Ben Thinking⁠
IE Health: ⁠iehealth.co
 
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Breakthrough Formula: Transform Your Mess into Your Message

Rob Wentz believes there's a formula for breakthrough—and he's living proof it works. After years of addiction, self-sabotage, and feeling utterly stuck in a painful divorce, Rob discovered a system that transformed his life and launched him into his purpose as founder of the Unstuck Movement.The VITALS system Rob shares wasn't developed in a laboratory or classroom but forged in the crucible of real-life struggle. Vision, Impact, Technology, Action, Leadership, and Service—these six elements form the backbone of a breakthrough methodology that can pull anyone out of their personal mud when life feels like a nonstop mess.Rob's vulnerability shines through as he reveals the moment everything changed. "I had been praying and meditating night after night," he explains, describing how the concept of the Unstuck Movement came to him not just as a platform for others, but as the personal movement he needed to escape his own stagnation. His powerful insight—"If you're going through hell, just keep going"—reminds us that stopping in our pain only prolongs it.Perhaps most compelling is Rob's message about our messes becoming our message. The painful experiences we endure aren't meaningless torture but preparation for helping others navigate similar challenges. As Rob puts it, "You would not be going through something really difficult if there wasn't something amazing on the other side of it. Every breakdown comes before a massive breakthrough."Whether you're struggling with self-doubt, battling burnout, or simply trying to figure out what the hell you're doing with your life, this episode delivers practical wisdom for turning catastrophe into gift. Listen, reflect, and discover how to rewrite your inner script—because as Rob demonstrates, your breakthrough isn't something you wait for; it's something you build.Send us a textSupport the show-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Want to be a guest on Mind Over Masculinity? Send me a message. Subscribe To Newsletter Reviews Sponsor Share Your Story Disclaimer -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/ Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/

Purpose Beyond the Paycheck

The relentless pursuit of success often leaves us hollow, especially when we've followed all the prescribed steps to achievement. But what happens when the career advancement, financial stability, and picture-perfect family life still leave you feeling disconnected from your true self?In this profound conversation with Tanya Prince, author of "Designed for Purpose," we explore the painful reckoning that comes when external success masks internal emptiness. Tanya vulnerably shares her own breaking point at 40—when her marriage ended and her 20-year career suddenly vanished—forcing her to confront the template living that had defined her existence.For men especially, this discussion offers rare permission to question whether achievement and providing are enough. We dig into why masculine identity so often becomes entangled with performance metrics and external validation, leaving many men feeling like imposters in their own lives. Tanya offers practical wisdom for beginning the journey back to authentic purpose without abandoning responsibilities or making dramatic life changes.The most powerful revelation? Purpose isn't something we discover externally but something we remember—an intrinsic design waiting to be uncovered through intentional reflection. Even small pauses throughout your day can reveal patterns of what truly energizes your soul versus what depletes it. Your career isn't necessarily separate from your purpose but can become a vehicle for expressing your authentic self when approached with awareness.Ready to break free from performance-driven living and reconnect with what you were truly designed for? This episode might just be the permission slip you need to begin that journey. Listen, reflect, and remember that authenticity isn't weakness—it's the warrior's walk.Send us a textSupport the show-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Want to be a guest on Mind Over Masculinity? Send me a message. Subscribe To Newsletter Reviews Sponsor Share Your Story Disclaimer -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/ Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/