How Men Can Embrace Vulnerability to Foster Authentic Connections, with Gino Peremans

In this episode of the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, host Andrew Cohn sits down with Gino Peremans, a men’s work expert and leadership coach from Belgium. Gino’s journey is both gripping and inspiring—from a challenging childhood to becoming a mentor for men seeking to break free from societal expectations. He shares how he went from feeling lost and disconnected to creating spaces where men can rediscover their true selves.

Gino dives deep into the importance of vulnerability, connection, and building healthy communities of men. He talks about the retreats he leads—transformative experiences where men step away from the pressures of performance and status to embrace their inner lives. But this isn’t just theory; Gino offers practical tools to bring this mindset into your personal and professional life. Whether you’re leading a team, a family, or just yourself, his insights are game-changing.

This conversation is for anyone who’s ever felt the weight of pretending to be someone they’re not. Gino’s message is clear: true leadership starts with authenticity. Tune in to discover how you can step into a new kind of strength—one rooted in vulnerability, connection, and your truest self.

Key Takeaways

• Exploration of men's work and healthy masculinity

• Challenges men face regarding vulnerability and societal expectations

• Importance of creating deeper connections and conversations among men

• Personal journey and experiences of the guest related to emotional expression

• Societal pressures on men to perform and provide

• The concept of brotherhood and support among men

• Impact of modern distractions, such as social media, on genuine connections

• Establishing safe spaces for men to share vulnerabilities

• The role of curiosity and reflection in personal growth

• The potential ripple effects of men's work on families and communities

In This Episode:

• [00:00] Introduction to addiction and external validation  

• [01:09] Meet Gino: background and professional journey  

• [08:41] Gino's personal journey and struggles  

• [14:21] The role of vulnerability and brotherhood in men's work  

• [17:32] Challenges of modern masculinity and distraction  

• [22:22] Challenges faced by executives and managers  

• [23:25] The concept of a healthy tribe  

• [24:28] Building a sense of community  

• [25:22] Encouraging vulnerability and personal sharing  

• [29:02] Introducing Gentle Giants

• [32:15] Practical tools for corporate settings  

• [35:32] Reconnecting with the body  

• [38:17] Conclusion and resources 

Resources and Links

Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406

Gino Peremans

• Website: https://www.ginoperemans.com/

• LinkedIn:https://be.linkedin.com/in/ginoperemans

Andrew Cohn

• Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

• LinkedIn: