We are reclaiming what it means to be a man. Each week we interview the world’s most successful men on the planet - elite athletes, warriors, New York Times Bes...
In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler explores a powerful metaphor for masculinity. Drawing from nature, he contrasts the virtuous, leadership-driven traits of lions with the deceptive, self-serving behaviors of hyenas. Through five key distinctions—leading vs. following, earning vs. taking, brotherhood vs. matriarchy, fearlessness vs. deceit, and protection vs. predation—Ryan challenges men to embody the lion’s strength and integrity. With personal anecdotes and bold insights, he urges listeners to reject parasitic tendencies and pursue a legacy of righteous living. Join Ryan as he unpacks this analogy and offers a path to purposeful manhood. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction to Lions and Hyenas 02:29 - Lions Lead, Hyenas Follow 04:57 - Lions Earn, Hyenas Take 07:18 - Brotherhood vs. Matriarchy 09:40 - Fearless Lions, Deceptive Hyenas 12:03 - Protection vs. Predation 13:30 - Choosing Your Path 15:45 - Iron Council Promotion 17:53 - Closing Thoughts Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready
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18:52
Together for the Kids?, Overcomplicating the Uncomplicated, and Discounting Other People’s Success | ASK ME ANYTHING
In this Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle pressing listener questions on parenting, leadership, and self-improvement. They discuss whether staying together for the kids is truly the best choice, how men often overcomplicate simple solutions, and why discounting others' success is a losing mindset. Ryan also shares insights on leading former peers, navigating the role of a stepfather, and staying accountable within the Iron Council. Packed with practical advice and tough love, this episode challenges listeners to level up. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Introduction & Weekly Headlines 04:48 – Together for the Kids? 13:02 – Overcomplicating the Uncomplicated 23:38 – The Power of Accountability & Battle Teams 26:59 – Leading Former Peers as a New Manager 33:54 – Navigating Fatherhood as a Stepfather 47:41 – Discounting Other People’s Success & Personal Growth 54:01 – Closing Thoughts & Upcoming Events Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready
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56:28
JAMES SWANWICK | How to Break Your Alcohol Addiction For Good
It’s been said that alcohol is the only drug that, if you don’t take it, people think something is wrong with you. And, I know firsthand what it’s like for alcohol use and abuse to take root in your life. My guest today, James Swanwick makes the case that there is nothing good that comes from drinking alcohol – even in moderation and on occasion. Today, we talk about how quickly it can compromise your quality of life, production, and relationships, why he views alcohol as nothing more than “Attractively Packaged Poison,” how you can adopt the alcohol-free lifestyle, the importance of addressing the internal root of addiction, and how facing your own insecurities, although uncomfortable can help you crack the code. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Catching Up 00:24 - Ryan’s Alcohol Struggle and Recovery 01:24 - The Hidden Costs of Drinking 02:52 - Reclaiming Time and Energy 05:25 - Addressing Social Pressure to Drink 08:37 - Alcohol as a Cultural Myth 10:57 - Debunking Alcohol’s Health Benefits 14:09 - The Influence of Big Alcohol 15:59 - Genetic Predisposition to Alcohol 19:20 - Changing Habits, Changing Genes 22:56 - Finding Fulfillment Without Alcohol 25:55 - Starting the Hero’s Journey 28:47 - Building a Like-Minded Community 31:45 - Ryan’s Ongoing Journey 33:18 - Addiction as a Superpower? 37:06 - Balancing Life’s Pillars 40:55 - Leaning Into Personal Development 44:31 - James’s Emotional Breakthrough 48:50 - The Power of Community Support 51:06 - Where to Connect with James Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready
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59:53
Why Every Man Must Advocate for Himself | FRIDAY FIELD NOTES
In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler discusses why every man must learn to advocate for himself. He explains how setting boundaries, communicating needs, and standing firm in convictions are essential for personal and professional success. Ryan challenges the belief that self-advocacy is selfish and presents compelling research on how men who stand up for themselves experience greater fulfillment, stronger relationships, and better health. He also shares practical steps for asserting oneself in all areas of life. Tune in to learn how to take control of your mission, command respect, and lead with confidence. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Introduction 02:40 – No One is Coming to Save You 05:02 – Your Mission, Your Responsibility 09:51 – Your Strength Commands Respect 12:15 – Your Family and Community Need a Leader 17:09 – Weak Men Get Walked On, Strong Men Get Results 19:20 – Final Thoughts & Call to Action Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready
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22:51
Do I Have What it Takes, Everything in Excellence, and Doing the Right Things | ASK ME ANYTHING
In this week's Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle pressing questions from listeners on self-improvement, purpose, and resilience. They discuss the importance of discipline, finding passion, and navigating major life transitions like retirement. They also explore the impact of mindset on success, the dangers of victim mentality, and how small decisions can lead to lasting growth. Plus, Ryan shares a personal story about saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities. Tune in for another insightful and thought-provoking conversation. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Introduction & Monday Mindset 04:35 – Zelensky, Trump, and Diplomacy 11:10 – The Impact of Screen Time on Kids 14:23 – Viewer Question: Am I Enough? 22:52 – Viewer Question: What is My Purpose? 29:48 – Viewer Question: How Do You Get Out of Bed Every Day? 39:26 – Viewer Question: Preparing for Retirement 45:52 – Viewer Question: How to Find Your Passion? 52:29 – Viewer Question: Am I Better Than Yesterday? 58:24 – Viewer Question: How Will I Be Remembered? 1:04:24 – Viewer Question: Are You Doing What You Should Be Doing? 1:10:53 – Viewer Question: What Battle Are You Fighting That Isn’t Yours? 1:15:00 – Closing Thoughts Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready
We are reclaiming what it means to be a man. Each week we interview the world’s most successful men on the planet - elite athletes, warriors, New York Times Bestselling Authors, and world-class entrepreneurs – extract their hard-fought lessons and experiences and deliver them straight to you. Past guests include Jocko Willink, Tim Kennedy, Andy Frisella, Lewis Howes, Grant Cardone, Ryan Holiday, Ben Greenfield, Rich Roll, and so many more. If you’re ready to level up your life as a man, this is the show for you.