Don't Let The Old Man In

Most men that suffer childhood trauma don't disclose it to others for decades of their life, or decide not to disclose it at all. This week on Don't Let the Old Man In, James Elliott shares how his own trauma shaped his toxic work ethic, and how it took him 21 years to look inside and make a change. Plus, we discuss James' recent work with NASA and how his team is shaping the future of medicine. We talk about:How trauma shapes overachievement and perfectionismThe difference between "being a man" and becoming oneChildhood trauma healing — and why disclosure is so hardHis path through EMDR therapy and how it worksWhat his work with NASA reveals about the human body under stressThe African proverb that shifted his entire leadership philosophyWhy community — not achievement — is the foundation of happiness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode of Don't Let the Old Man In, we sit down with longevity expert Dr Jennifer Luman to unpack healthy aging, the blood test your doctor needs to give you, the importance of safe Testosterone Replacement Therapy, and Jennifer's unique stint as a Nike-sponsored athlete ... plus much more. In this episode, we cover: The Crisis of Reactive HealthcareUnderstanding Longevity and Men's HealthThe Importance of Early InterventionThe Gradual Decline of TestosteroneThe Role of Testosterone in Men's HealthPersonalized Health Testing and BiomarkersOptimizing Health for LongevityThe Future of Personalized HealthcareTestosterone Replacement Therapy: A Double-Edged SwordAndropause: The Silent DeclineThe Journey to Longevity MedicineCelebrating Milestones and Personal GrowthTransitioning to Medicine 3.0The New Age of Preventative HealthcareThe Biohacker Community and Health OptimizationUnderstanding Health Choices and ConsequencesThe Impact of Environment on Health ChoicesFrom Olympic Aspirations to Medical CareerDisaster Recovery and Human ResilienceReflections on Health and Future ChoicesLet us know what topics we should cover next: https://dontlettheoldmanin.com/Subscribe to our newsletter: https://dontlettheoldmanin.com/resources/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the key to men's mental health isn't therapy, but community? Pasco Ashton, founder of Men's Circle and former journalist for Al Jazeera and Vice, joins us to reveal why men's mental fitness starts with the people around them. With Men's Circles now operating across multiple continents and expanding into the US and Asia, Pasco has trained and supervised hundreds of facilitators, helping thousands of men move from isolation to authentic connection. In this expert conversation, he breaks down exactly why men struggle to open up, what the research says about male friendship, and the proven framework he's developed over years of community leadership.'In this episode, you'll discover:Why men's mental health is a community problem — not an individual oneThe "mental fitness gym" framework that's helping men across the world open upWhy "brave spaces" work better than "safe spaces" for menThe 3-stage Men's Circles model (Awareness → Acceptance → Action) and how to apply itHow intergenerational connection is the missing ingredient in modern masculinityWhy admitting fault is the most powerful thing a man can do in any relationshipThe crucial difference between Men's Circles and the toxic "manosphere"Pasco's journey — from losing close friends to suicide, to becoming one of the leading voices in men's personal development — is as honest and raw as it is inspiring. If you've ever felt like you're carrying life's weight alone, this episode is essential listening.Pod O'Sullivan brings you the weekly midlife learning podcast: from taking charge of your health, to strengthening your relationships, and finding ways to reconnect with what lifts your spirit – Don’t Let the Old Man In is designed to make sure your second act is even better than the first. Where career pivots, relationship evolutions, and personal reinventions meet practical wisdom, genuine brotherhood, and a healthy dose of humor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a man loses everything he thought defined him, and comes out the other side more himself than ever before? Australian comedian Merrick Watts joins Don't Let the Old Man In for one of the most honest conversations about midlife transformation we've ever had.From identity collapse after leaving radio, to a life-altering experience on SAS Australia, to discovering that his real purpose is "to be, not to do" — Merrick holds nothing back.This one's for every man navigating midlife who's ever asked: who am I outside of what I do?In this episode, we cover:Why the midlife identity crisis hits men harder than they expect — and how to survive itWhat SAS Australia actually does to a person (it's not what you think)The suffering and success connection — why avoiding pain is holding you back"Fame was the actor. Legacy is the director." — shifting from chasing recognition to building something that mattersFatherhood after 40 and why it's the greatest growth accelerator there isHow to find your purpose in midlife when everything you knew has changedThe philosophy of loss: "It's the price we pay for love"Why men's mental health in midlife starts with accepting — not fixing — who you areMerrick's current chapter: combining wine, comedy, and a refusal to slow downAbout Merrick Watts:Merrick Watts is an Australian comedian, radio broadcaster, actor, and SAS Australia participant whose career has spanned decades across some of Australia's most iconic media. Known for his sharp wit and disarming honesty, Merrick has spent the past several years quietly doing the most radical thing a man in midlife can do — growing.About Don't Let the Old Man In:Pod O'Sullivan brings you the weekly midlife learning podcast: from taking charge of your health, to strengthening your relationships, and finding ways to reconnect with what lifts your spirit – Don’t Let the Old Man In is designed to make sure your second act is even better than the first. Where career pivots, relationship evolutions, and personal reinventions meet practical wisdom, genuine brotherhood, and a healthy dose of humor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do you do when your marriage ends and you feel completely lost? Naomi Cao, separation coach and host of the Split Happens podcast, shares her raw, real story of rebuilding after divorce, self-representing in family court, and helping families split with grace.Naomi shares her own powerful healing journey post-divorce, and offers the wisdom she's picked up from helping couples navigate separation when children are involved. This is world-class advice from a professional in the field. If you're in midlife and are facing a separation of your own, you can't miss this episode.In this episode, we discuss:Navigating Relationship FailuresThe Shock of SeparationCoping with Family DynamicsThe Legal Maze of DivorceSelf-Representation in Family CourtTransforming Pain into PurposeThe Importance of CommunicationBuilding Trust in Difficult TimesFinancial Literacy and EmpowermentCreating a Cooperative Co-Parenting EnvironmentManaging Expectations in ParentingThe Importance of Involvement in ParentingNavigating Menopause and RelationshipsBuilding Social Connections Post-DivorceFinding Peace After SeparationA Framework for Moving ForwardPod O'Sullivan brings you the weekly midlife learning podcast: from taking charge of your health, to strengthening your relationships, and finding ways to reconnect with what lifts your spirit – Don’t Let the Old Man In is designed to make sure your second act is even better than the first. Where career pivots, relationship evolutions, and personal reinventions meet practical wisdom, genuine brotherhood, and a healthy dose of humor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, we tackle the very concept of the midlife crisis. In conversation with author Peter Reek, we dive deep into the social narratives around aging, how your mindset about getting older affects your lifespan, and unpack Peter's ways to fight back against internalised stigma. This episode explains why high-achieving men often struggle with personal honesty, and explore the crucial impact of our mindset on healthy aging and longevity. This week's interview is a crucial look at getting older, and what it means for men in midlife.In this episode, we explore:Rethinking Midlife: A New PerspectiveThe Power of Mindset in MidlifeNavigating Change: Personal Stories of TransformationUnderstanding Applied Positive PsychologyThe Importance of Self-HonestyShifts for a Fulfilling MidlifeRadical Acceptance: Embracing Your JourneyThe Role of Stillness in Personal GrowthThe Impact of Narrative IdentityThe Science of Aging: Positive vs. Negative PerspectivesThe Irony of Aging and MindsetGrieving Past Chapters vs. Embracing New OnesThe Importance of Connection in MidlifeAdventures and Community BuildingTaking Practical Steps Towards ChangeThe Power of Poetry in ReflectionLessons Learned in Community CreationVisit our website: https://dontlettheoldmanin.com/Pod O'Sullivan brings you the weekly midlife learning podcast: from taking charge of your health, to strengthening your relationships, and finding ways to reconnect with what lifts your spirit – Don’t Let the Old Man In is designed to make sure your second act is even better than the first. Where career pivots, relationship evolutions, and personal reinventions meet practical wisdom, genuine brotherhood, and a healthy dose of humor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode of Don't Let the Old Man In, we sit down with Stephen Keyes, a former CEO, to discuss the critical importance of owning one's mistakes and confronting life's challenges, especially when pursuing a reinvention. Stephen shares his personal reinvention journey, including the profound impact of his divorce, offering valuable life advice on how to overcome challenges in life. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating personal development and seeking personal growth through difficult times.In this episode we cover:Owning Your Mess: A Journey of Self-DiscoveryThe Pain of Divorce: A Personal PerspectiveNavigating Loneliness and Rebuilding RelationshipsVolunteering: Finding Purpose in ServiceCreating New Connections with ChildrenThe Importance of Community in MidlifeTransitioning from Success to Significance 20:14The Power of Collective ActionLessons from Volunteering: Giving BackRedefining Identity Through Community EngagementThe Power of Dignity in GivingRunning for a Cause: The Journey of an Ultra MarathonerThe Writer's Journey: Finding Voice and PurposeCareer Transitions: From CEO to CSR AdvocateBuilding the IFS Foundation: Community Impact and EducationThe Greatest Gift: Finding Meaning Beyond Career SuccessCreating Community: The Wisdom Vault and Midlife ConversationsIntegrating Life's Parts: A Journey of Self-DiscoveryFacing Complexity: The Hero's Journey in MidlifePod O'Sullivan brings you the weekly midlife learning podcast: from taking charge of your health, to strengthening your relationships, and finding ways to reconnect with what lifts your spirit – Don’t Let the Old Man In is designed to make sure your second act is even better than the first. Where career pivots, relationship evolutions, and personal reinventions meet practical wisdom, genuine brotherhood, and a healthy dose of humor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when your life crumbles, your career is gone, and your reputation is destroyed? This week on Don't Let the Old Man In, we sit down with Craig Williams, an elite royal marines sniper whose life came crumbling down after being sent to prison. Craig unpacks his natural talent for sharpshooting, the mistakes that led to his arrest, as well as his transformation into an extreme athlete by competing in ultramarathons, which saw him running 230km across the Arctic. This video explores facing complete ruin and the journey of rebuilding, as well as avoiding the trap most men fall into – settling for "mediocre".This episode covers:Craig's Military Service & CombatStruggles With Identity & Mental Health After The MilitaryThe Gunfight That Led To PrisonThe Post-Prison TransformationUltra Running & Life After PrisonCraig's Life Lessons & Philosophy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tim Hewson hid crippling panic attacks for 20 years, suffering in silence every single day. Then a divorce shattered the life he'd built, and everything came crashing down. In this week's episode of Don't Let the Old Man In, we sit down with Tim to have a raw and powerful conversation on men's mental health, Tim's own journey through isolation, and how he turned this dark chapter into a movement by founding the charity Mongrels Men. This episode covers:The "masculinity masks" that men wear. Tim's journey from high functioning depression to self-discovery.How divorce forced Tim to change. Defining self beyond work: the shift in identity.Navigating loneliness: the unique struggles of men.Fighting for fatherhood: balancing work and family.Mongrel Men and building male support networks. How team sports are the key to connectionsThe difference between Brave Spaces and Safe SpacesHis Story: A Platform for Men's Voicesand much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when an elite SAS soldier walks away from the special forces to become an emergency nurse ... at 40? Matt Bunker's story is one of the most powerful conversations about midlife reinvention, men's mental health, and finding purpose we've ever had on this podcast.In this episode of Don't Let the Old Man In, Matt opens up about his dysfunctional childhood, the brutal reality of SAS selection, a devastating breakdown in 2019, and how he rebuilt his identity from the ground up.This conversation covers:- The reality of SAS selection and what it takes to pass- Why high-achieving men struggle with identity after leaving their career- How childhood trauma shaped his path (and how he broke the cycle)- The moment his wife told him the truth he needed to hear- Why nursing in a chaotic ED is the closest thing to military operations- Practical advice for any man facing a midlife career change- Matt's views on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and men over 40's health Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Divorce advice for men from a family lawyer who truly understands the male perspective. In this episode, family lawyer Gillian Coote explains why men rush divorce settlements, how to handle divorce grief, and the #1 mistake that can cost you your kids, your house, and your future.If you’re a man facing separation or divorce, this conversation will help you slow down, protect yourself, and make smarter decisions. Jill combines decades of 66 family law experience with her own divorce story to give honest, practical 58 divorce advice for men in midlife.What you’ll learn in this episode:• Why so many men just want to “get it over with” • The grieving process of divorce• How jumping straight into a new relationship can backfire legally and emotionally• Why “50/50” isn’t always fair – and what you’re actually entitled to financially• How to protect your kids emotionally during separation and avoid parental alienation• The one rule Gillian has for every dad • Rebuilding your identity when your role as husband and father suddenly changes• Practical steps to stay calm, think clearly, and avoid decisions you’ll regret Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is your career success costing you your peace of mind? If you’ve ever felt trapped by the corporate grind or wondered if you're going through a midlife crisis, this conversation is the wake-up call you need.In this episode of Don't Let the Old Man In, we sit down with Matthew Lumsden, a former high-level executive at Vanguard who did the unthinkable: he walked away from the status and salary to save his sanity. Matthew opens up about the reality of corporate burnout, the toll it takes on men’s mental health, and how the COVID pandemic forced him to re-evaluate what wealth actually means.In this episode, we cover: Why a high salary, a big title, and corporate success can mask a deep, silent burnoutThe COVID "Fork in the Road": How the pandemic forced a choice between returning to a "normal" that wasn't working or blowing up the blueprint to start over.The reality of who you become when you hand back the title that defined you for 20 years.Why leaving a job feels like a death in the familyFinancial Freedom vs. Life Freedom: Practical insights on how to financially plan an "escape".Japanese Wisdom for Midlife Men: Shibui (Elegant Simplicity)Manzoku (Deep Satisfaction): Why chasing "happiness" is a young man's game, and why "satisfaction" is the superior goal for men in their 40s and 50s. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cancer. The word alone makes many of us shudder. We all know someone who has battled it, perhaps lost to it. Yet here's the paradox that should give us hope: whilst cancer rates are rising as we live longer, mortality rates are falling dramatically.Dr Andy Tay is a Presidential Young Professor at the National University of Singapore, running a laboratory that literally turns our immune cells into warriors against cancer and infectious diseases. In this compelling conversation recorded in Singapore, Andy takes us on a journey from the fundamentals of cancer to the frontiers of treatment.In this episode, we cover:What cancer actually isWhy cancer rates are rising but mortality rates are fallingHow immunotherapy transforms your own immune cells into cancer-fighting machinesThe surprising connection between stress and cancer growth through the nervous systemWhy 70% of cancer risk is lifestyle-associatedHow artificial intelligence is accelerating drug development and personalising treatmentWhy "balance" is the ultimate health strategy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.