“The truth is that too many men have traded their sovereignty, self-determination, and masculinity for comfort and validation.”
Statistically around the world, particularly young men are increasingly falling behind in education, career, and social engagement. Fewer men are now attending college, entering the workforce, or even forming relationships, and many are seemingly experiencing social isolation and financial dependence.
On today’s livestream, I’m delighted to be joined by a man who has dedicated himself to addressing this very issue and shining a light on the unique challenges that men face in today’s world, helping men confront their inner shadows, find purpose, and reconnect with their authenticity.
Connor Beaton is a keynote speaker, men’s life coach, best-selling author and the founder of ManTalks – a global organisation dedicated to supporting men’s well-being, which focuses on redefining masculinity, strengthening relationships, and helping men lead more intentional lives.
Connor grew up in a small town in Alberta, Canada and spent his childhood and a large part of his early adulthood “performing”. Lacking any kind of direction, and struggling to maintain basic rituals or routines, Connor flitted between various jobs and relationships without ever being true to who he really was.
On the surface he was successful, he spent time as an opera singer travelling the world, before later taking a prime position at tech giant Apple. But behind the scenes his personal life was suffering, in fact it was something of a “mess”.
“The first step to awakening your greatest potential is facing the parts of yourself that you avoid; shame, anger, regret, sadness.”
Connor began opening up to trusted friends and colleagues and quickly realised he was far from alone. In fact, many of the men in his inner circle felt exactly the same. At this time, a much needed mentor entered his life and so began a journey of discovery that has led Connor to being one of the most respected voices in the realm of men’s health and coaching.
Working with a former pupil of Jungian Psychology, Connor spent two years studying the concepts and the inner workings of the human psyche.
“I went in deep, confronted my demons, owned my shit, learned how to effectively lead myself, and worked hard to come out the other side and take back control of my life.”
From here, Connor developed an innovative approach to healing and facing our “Shadow” – the darkest recesses of our mind that harbour our insecurities, fears, and past traumas. Connor experimented with somatic therapy, alongside transformative breathwork and meditative practices.
In 2014, he founded ManTalks, which has since expanded to a global online men’s group, hosting retreats, courses and a top ranked podcast, He is also the author of the bestselling book Men’s Work: A Practical Guide to Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, and Find Freedom.
“What I’ve learned about men is that we want to live with a deep sense of purpose, have integrity, and love the people around us, but haven’t been taught how to do this. We want to be competent and confident but often feel stuck and directionless.”
Connor believes many men are struggling with a sense of purpose and what he calls an “epidemic of man shaming.” With higher rates of isolation, unemployment, and disengagement, many young men feel disconnected from their roles in society.
Such societal pressures, shifting gender dynamics, and a lack of clear role models have left many men uncertain of where they fit in. But, by understanding and addressing the “shadow” within – men can transform themselves and break free from the cycles of self-sabotage and find their true potential.
I’m looking forward to this one. Today’s world is one of extremes, where society’s current framework often overlooks young men’s unique challenges. Men are lacking direction and purpose and, for today’s guest, men need practical, structured ways to confront their inner struggles and find new meaning.
Connor’s work is a call for men to reimagine what it means to be strong, vulnerable, and fully alive in today’s complex world, offering a roadmap for men ready to rediscover their masculinity and find new purpose and ways to express themselves.
“It’s so important for us to turn towards all of our sh*t. Whether that’s relational stuff, whether it’s low self worth childhood stuff, it’s coming with you until you do the work of turning towards it and understanding it and healing it.”
