Join us on Relational Lives as we sit down with Will Adolphy, a psychotherapist, educator, and speaker who specialises in men’s mental health and masculinity.
Will shares his powerful story of navigating panic attacks, depression, and the pull of online masculinity influencers during his early 20s. From finding validation in rigid ideologies to discovering healing through therapy, community, and self-reflection, he opens up about the challenges of emotional isolation and the “man box” that shapes how men experience the world.
This conversation is raw, honest, and full of insights—covering vulnerability, the impact of online culture, and how Will now helps boys and men find healthier ways to connect with themselves and others through his organisation, Empath. Whether you’re curious about men’s mental health or seeking tools to navigate your own relationships, Will’s journey offers a path to understanding and growth.
Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & Introducing Will Adolphy 02:10 – Will’s Early Struggles with Panic Attacks & Depression 07:45 – Discovering a Masculinity Influencer & Online Rabbit Holes 12:20 – The Pull of Validation & Rigid Ideologies 18:00 – Emotional Isolation & the Block to Opening Up 22:40 – Breaking Free: Therapy, 12-Step Recovery & Community 28:15 – The “Man Box” & Its Impact on Men and Others 33:10 – Working with Boys: Modelling Vulnerability in Schools 40:05 – Red Pill Culture & the Search for Answers Online 47:30 – Advice for Parents: Supporting Boys with Empathy 52:20 – Will’s Ongoing Journey & Building Empath 55:30 – Would You Rather? Fun Quickfire Round 57:00 – Closing Thoughts & Takeaways
Follow Will: @psychwill https://www.willadolphy.com/
Connect with us:
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Want to share your story or come on the show to discuss your dilemma? Write to us, and we might cover it in a future episode. Drop us a message at relationalives@gmail.com or anonymously complete our form here: https://forms.office.com/e/qcrCkbhPiT. We’d also love to hear updates if you’ve written in before. Subscribe for future episodes on trauma, attachment, and more mental health topics.
If you found this episode helpful, please like this video or share it with a friend.
Disclaimer: Please remember, this is not meant to be a replacement for personal therapy and is for information and self-reflection only. Please reach out to an appropriate professional in your area if you feel you need individualised help.
Credits: Hosts: Alison Bickers and Ros Peckham at www.mytempo.co.uk Music by: Stile Tree Studio Produced by: Synergy Podcast Studio
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