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July 22, 2025 62 mins

We’re all well-aware of the stigma associated with men’s mental health. Men are often told overtly or covertly to be just be quiet, do your job, and get your work done. And, while there is certainly some validity to us getting the job done when people are relying on us, it’s also valid to consider the mental and emotional battles we often fight as men.

Today, I am joined by retired Green Beret, Nick O’Kelly to talk about his time in service the mental and emotional anguish he faced, and what he’s done to overcome the challenges of anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation. We talk about how a man begins to confront these issues, finding the balance between bearing down and getting the help we need, how to find teams and avenues of support without feeling weak, and how to confront the stigma (even though we all deal with it) of men’s mental health

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 - Men's Mental Health Stigma
01:05 - Balancing Pride and Duty
03:12 - Debating Vulnerability
04:27 - Military Career Transitions
06:36 - Family Dynamics and Decisions
09:22 - Managing Career Expectations
11:36 - Spousal Support and Sacrifice
14:36 - Masculine and Feminine Dynamics
18:37 - Expectation Management Challenges
21:23 - Trust in Relationships
25:16 - Decision-Making Struggles
28:26 - Imposter Syndrome in Financial Planning
31:58 - Onset of Mental Health Struggles
37:55 - Consequences of Seeking Help
43:29 - Personal Anxiety Experience
47:32 - Spiritual and Physiological Factors
52:29 - High Achievers and Mental Health
54:16 - Connecting with Nick's Work

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