• Fire & Iron Interview Series: Special Guest Jim Vance
    Jul 14 2025
    Episode Summary:

    This episode features an insightful interview with Jim Vance, a men's coach, who shares his transformative journey from corporate life and homelessness to guiding men in self-leadership and personal growth. The discussion delves into critical aspects of masculinity, emphasizing the importance of internal validation over external approval, and the continuous evolution required in relationships. Jim highlights the significance of self-love, self-acceptance, and the practice of self-forgiveness as foundational elements for a fulfilling life. He also touches upon the often-overlooked concept of 'play' for men and introduces his 'three by five' practice for profound self-reflection and growth.

    Key Topics:

    •Jim Vance's Background: From teacher to corporate life to becoming a men's coach, and his personal journey through poverty, divorce, and homelessness.

    •Masculine Leadership: The core principle of leading oneself before leading others in any aspect of life.

    •The Conscious Man: Jim's brand and his focus on helping men move from a passive to a powerful state.

    •The Pitfalls of External Validation: The importance of self-approval and detaching from the need for external validation, especially in relationships.

    •The Concept of "Home": Finding a sense of home within oneself rather than in external achievements or relationships.

    •The "Three by Five" Practice: A daily exercise for self-love, self-pride, and self-forgiveness.

    •The Importance of Play: The need for men to incorporate play and fun into their lives to avoid burnout and maintain a balanced life.

    •Continuous Learning in Relationships: The idea of continuously learning about one's partner rather than assuming to know them.

    •Emotional Embodiment: The practice of being present with and processing emotions rather than suppressing them.

    Notable Quotes:

    •"If you can't lead you, you can't lead a work, you can't lead a family." - Jim Vance

    •"The only place you're ever home is with yourself." - Jim Vance

    •"The only thing that keeps you from winning is you and your attachment to outward circumstances." - Jim Vance

    •"You have to be selfish in the way you love yourself so that you can be selfless in the way you love the world." - Jim Vance

    •"Live full, die empty." - Jim Vance

    •"We don't try to know each other. We try to learn each other because knowing is a past tense. Learning is who are you becoming?" - Jim Vance

    •"I'm a professional fuck up. I'm great at it. Everything I do. Every day, I'm going to fuck something up." - Jim Vance

    Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to Jim Vance and Rebel Sage Radio


    01:00 - Jim Vance's Background and Journey to Men's Work


    05:00 - The Conscious Man: Leading Oneself First


    09:00 - Overcoming Homelessness and Personal Loss


    14:00 - The Power of Self-Love and Acceptance


    19:00 - The


    Pitfalls of External Validation


    24:00 - Finding Home Within Yourself


    29:00 - The Thrill of the Climb and Self-Sabotage


    34:00 - The Importance of Self-Approval


    39:00 - Practical Sovereignty and Freeing Others


    44:00 - The Role of Play in a Man's Life


    49:00 - Continuous Learning in Relationships


    54:00 - The Three by Five Practice and Emotional Processing


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    54 mins
  • Fire & Iron Interview Series: Special Guest Tyler Woods
    Jul 13 2025

    Join us on Rebel Sage Radio for an unfiltered exploration of masculinity and self-discovery with our special guest, Tyler Woods, a dedicated men's coach and leader. Listen in as Tyler opens up about his personal journey, from his early years as an only child in Washington State to the transformative moment when his family dynamic changed with the unexpected arrival of triplet siblings. This pivotal event led Tyler to experience feelings of withdrawal and self-worth struggles, which he carried into his youth. In his mid-20s, a health scare prompted a significant lifestyle change, resulting in substantial weight loss and a new perspective on life. Despite these external changes, Tyler continued to grapple with internal issues, leading him to seek therapy and connect with the Mankind Project, where he found a community of men who shared their vulnerabilities and supported one another in redefining masculinity and self-acceptance.

    As the conversation unfolds, we explore the broader themes of self-discovery and personal growth. Tyler shares insights from his transformative journey, sparked by an event similar to Burning Man, which inspired a deeper exploration of his internal landscapes often overshadowed by societal expectations. Engaging in men's groups and integrating personal insights shifted Tyler's approach from checking off life's traditional boxes to embracing emotional awareness and healing. We discuss the transition from living a performative, scripted life to experiencing genuine, fulfilling interactions and spiritual growth, underscoring the importance of authenticity and breaking free from societal norms.


    Throughout this episode, we touch on the power of authenticity and the inner journey of self-reflection. With Tyler's experiences as a backdrop, we explore the challenges of peeling back superficial layers to uncover one's true self and the significance of integrity and congruence in achieving authenticity. By confronting personal addictions and distractions, we find the space to align with our true mission and lead a more purposeful life. Emphasizing the balance between structure and flexibility, we highlight the role of intentional living and community support in personal growth and fulfillment. Tune in to be inspired by Tyler's journey and insights, and discover the transformative power of authenticity in leading your own narrative.

    --------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------


    (0:00:12) - Unfiltered Conversations on Masculinity

    (0:09:01) - Exploring Self-Discovery and Growth

    (0:22:53) - Discovering Authenticity and Self-Reflection

    (0:34:45) - Living With Intention

    (0:41:59) - Navigating Authenticity and Personal Growth



    --------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------


    (0:00:12) - Unfiltered Conversations on Masculinity

    Tyler Woods shares his journey of masculinity and self-discovery, including weight loss, therapy, and finding community in the Mankind Project.


    (0:09:01) - Exploring Self-Discovery and Growth

    Transformative journey of self-discovery sparked by Burning Man event, men's groups, and breaking free from societal norms.


    (0:22:53) - Discovering Authenticity and Self-Reflection

    Authenticity coach guides journey to uncover true self, overcome distractions, and align with mission through community and integrity.


    (0:34:45) - Living With Intention

    Wu Wei, discernment, non-negotiables, intentionalizing time, and balance between structure and flexibility for personal growth and freedom.


    (0:41:59) - Navigating Authenticity and Personal Growth

    Transparency, authenticity, and personal growth are emphasized, as well as confronting past patterns and emotions for transformation.



    --------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH FULL SUMMARIES ---------


    (0:00:12) - Unfiltered...

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    45 mins
  • Fire & Iron Interview Series: Special Guest Yeadon Smith
    Jun 15 2025
    Podcast Summary

    Growing up in a strict fundamentalist cult, Yeadon Smith never imagined that he'd one day be a voice for practical masculinity on Rebel Sage Radio. Join us as Yeadon shares his extraordinary journey from the confines of his upbringing to becoming a husband, father, and accomplished entrepreneur. He opens up about the real struggles and triumphs he's faced along the way, from dealing with anger and frustration to embracing vulnerability in a world that often discourages it. This episode isn't just a story—it's an invitation to explore what it truly means to become a man in today's society.

    Our conversation delves into the emotional challenges fathers face while balancing personal and family life, with a spotlight on moments of raw emotion, like the infamous broken granite countertop incident. Yeadon talks about finding guidance through supportive communities such as the Dad Edge Alliance and Porn to Purpose, which offer men a space to confront their personal struggles and cultivate authentic connections. We also examine the societal expectations surrounding masculinity and how programs designed to address issues like porn addiction can be pivotal in breaking generational patterns and fostering healthier family dynamics.

    The discussion doesn't stop there; we explore the transformative power of daily habits and the essence of building a community rooted in authentic conversations. Yeadon reflects on his initial skepticism towards meditation and how adopting daily practices like journaling and exercise has been vital for handling stress and anxiety. By sharing experiences in a non-judgmental space, men can better navigate the complexities of relationships and leadership roles, ultimately creating a more fulfilling life. Tune in for a candid conversation that challenges the conventional notions of masculinity and underscores the importance of growing together as a community.

    Chapters

    Real Men Talk (00:11)

    Yaden Smith shares his journey to practical masculinity, from a cult upbringing to real estate and coaching men recovering from porn addiction.

    The Journey Into Manhood and Masculinity (15:34)

    Struggles of balancing family life, seeking help through Dad Edge Alliance, and transformative experience with a program addressing pornography.

    The Masculine Journey (24:57)

    Manhood is more than external markers; it involves skills like responding, creating structure, and handling stress to be a true protector and provider.

    The Journey to Masculine Freedom (36:52)

    A father's late realization of masculinity, breaking generational patterns, societal challenges for men, and the importance of community and brotherhood.

    Building Community Through Authentic Conversations (47:25)

    Daily habits of reading, journaling, meditation, and exercise can transform our lives and improve relationships.

    Navigating Relationships With Understanding (55:29)

    Maintaining relationships through gratitude and respect, even during conflicts like taking out the trash, with insights from guest

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    57 mins
  • Embracing Modern Manhood through Mindful Practices
    May 19 2025

    The secrets to mastering contemporary masculinity with practical

    sovereignty. Guided by the foundational frameworks of Dr. Robert Moore and

    Eivind Figenschau Skjellum, we navigate the complexities of embodying archetypal roles

    like the king, warrior, magician, lover, and trickster. Discover how to make

    empowered choices under pressure and transform from boyhood into mature

    masculinity, all while reflecting on the stories and experiences that shape who

    we are. This isn't just about understanding masculinity; it's about living it

    with intention and clarity. Our journey challenges you to scrutinize your

    personal narratives and life scripts, urging you to move beyond society's

    expectations and embrace a life of conscious decision-making. Hidden

    frustrations and resentments can cloud judgment, but through community and

    shadow work, we reveal and confront these blind spots. Emphasizing the 'core

    four practices body movement, meditation, journaling, and continuous

    learning we invite you to redefine your relationship with self and

    spirituality, paving the way for a more authentic and fulfilled

    existence. Emotional resilience and mindfulness take center stage as we explore

    the nuances of intimate relationships. Sharing personal tales of overcoming

    default reactions, I emphasize the importance of mindfulness in cultivating a

    compassionate and understanding connection with loved ones. By leveraging

    meditation techniques from Joe Dispenza and Thich Nhat Hanh, we aim to build a

    regular practice that fosters inner peace and equips us to handle relational

    challenges with grace. Through the transformative power of breathwork and

    meditation, learn to break free from reactive patterns and create room for

    empathy and support in your relationships.

    -------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------


    (0:00:12) - Practical Sovereignty for Men


    (0:09:57) - Unpacking and Owning Your Script


    (0:21:12) - Developing Capacity for Intimate Relationships


    (0:31:20) - Mindfulness and Meditation for Men


    -------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------


    (0:00:12) - Practical Sovereignty for Men Practical sovereignty and

    archetypal models of masculinity, influenced by early childhood experiences,

    shape men's choices and roles in relationships and decision-making.


    (0:09:57) - Unpacking and Owning Your Script Questioning life scripts,

    confronting frustrations, and practicing the "core four" for a

    sovereign life connected to self and God.


    (0:21:12) - Developing Capacity for Intimate Relationships. Developing

    emotional resilience and presence in relationships through mindfulness,

    understanding feminine energy, and personal growth.


    (0:31:20) - Mindfulness and Meditation for Men. Meditation and mindfulness

    cultivate emotional resilience, self-awareness, and compassion, enabling us to

    respond rather than react.


    -------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH FULL SUMMARIES ---------


    (0:00:12) - Practical Sovereignty for Men (10 Minutes)


    This chapter explores the complexities and challenges of contemporary

    masculinity, focusing on the concept of practical sovereignty. I discuss the

    importance of making empowered choices, especially under pressure, and how this

    ability distinguishes men from boys. Drawing on the ideas of Dr. Robert Moore

    and Eivind Figenschau Skjellum, we consider archetypal models of masculinity and the

    difficulty of embodying roles like the king, warrior, magician, lover, and

    trickster in real life. I highlight the shared experiences of men in various

    roles, whether as employees or entrepreneurs, emphasizing common themes such...

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    44 mins
  • Unlocking Truth and Consequence: Transformational Leadership and Personal Growth
    May 6 2025

    Unlock the power of truth and consequence to transform your personal and professional life with Max Warren on Rebel Sage Radio. Discover the varied leadership styles, from visionary empire builders to quiet leaders, and those grappling with self-doubt. You'll gain insights into the critical role of self-awareness and honesty in personal growth. Learn how to construct a powerful network of advisors to overcome your blind spots and embrace risks with full awareness, ensuring each step you take is aligned with your true vision. This episode promises to challenge your current commitments and inspire a deeper understanding of genuine power.

    Explore the strategic art of tactical retreat and its necessity in both personal and professional arenas. Max discusses a transformative framework of retreating, regrouping, and resetting to realign with your true path. By incorporating an After Action Report, you'll learn to evaluate past actions honestly and adjust your future approach. This episode also navigates the

    complex emotions associated with burnout and the quest for change. Whether you’re at a crossroads seeking personal growth or exploring a calling, this conversation provides the tools needed for an empowering journey towards meaningful success.

    All content and stories shared are original intellectual property of Max Warren and Rebel Sage. Please do not use or replicate without permission.

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    20 mins
  • Rebel Sage Radio Episode 1: Why this Podcast?
    May 5 2025

    Reflecting on a pivotal time when my first attempt at podcasting felt directionless, I realized the importance of growth and the power of timing. What began as the Emerging Masculinity podcast years ago has evolved into Rebel Sage Radio, a space where genuine conversations flourish. This episode is more than just a podcast—it's an invitation to explore the depths of the male experience, touching on emotions that are often left in the shadows, like fear, anger, and anxiety. With the support of a trusted circle, these discussions become transformative, offering new perspectives and a sense of camaraderie.

    Guided by years of experience and the wisdom of incredible individuals around me, Rebel Sage Radio promises to bring you conversations that are both enlightening and empowering. Drawing from various wisdom streams, I aim to deliver teachings and principles that foster personal growth and uncover life's blind spots. Join me, Max Warren, as we create a community dedicated to unpacking life's complexities and supporting each other on this journey to living our best lives. Whether you're new to men's work or seeking deeper understanding, this podcast is your companion in growth and reflection.

    All content and stories shared are original intellectual property of Max Warren and Rebel Sage. Please do not use or replicate without permission.

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    8 mins