• Ep. 227 How Do I Talk to My Kids About Mental Health?
    Feb 11 2026

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    Spaceparents! On today's episode, we talk about how to talk to your kids about mental health. Spoiler, you should talk often and openly about what you and they are feeling. You don't have to label it--you can just talk about what's going on for them. But don't worry. We have more to say than that. Listen in.


    Keywords

    mental health, parenting, emergency room experiences, communication, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, youth mental health, emotional well-being, mental health awareness, anxiety, mental health, parenting, communication, emotional support, children, diagnosis, trust, relationships, normalization


    Takeaways

    • It's important to communicate openly about mental health with children.
    • Parents should be aware of their own mental health issues and how they affect their kids.
    • Labeling every emotional experience as a diagnosis can be counterproductive.
    • Conversations about mental health should be age-appropriate and balanced.
    • Emergency room experiences can often be less dramatic than portrayed in media.
    • Parents should guide their children in understanding normal emotional fluctuations.
    • Discussing mental health alongside other topics like sex and drugs can be effective.
    • It's crucial to differentiate between normal anxiety and clinical anxiety.
    • Children often mirror their parents' emotional responses and anxieties.
    • Creating a supportive environment for discussing feelings is essential. Control is often linked with anxiety, creating a cycle of stress.
    • It's essential to normalize conversations about mental health with children.
    • Understanding that mental health issues can manifest differently for each child is crucial.
    • Parents should focus on being present and supportive rather than seeking immediate solutions.
    • Labeling mental health issues can sometimes oversimplify complex emotions.
    • Building trust with children requires consistent communication and openness.
    • Parents should avoid jumping to conclusions when children express their feelings.
    • Creating a safe space for children to share their thoughts is vital for their emotional well-being.
    • Engaging with children about their interests fosters connection and understanding.
    • It's important to remember that love and support are the most significant factors in a child's mental health journey.



    Sound bites
    "You probably don't have either."
    "Just show up and love your kid."
    "You blew it!"


    Chapters
    00:00 Mental Health and Parenting Dynamics
    00:39 Television Shows: Cheers and Frasier Discussions
    03:28 Emergency Room Experiences and Healthcare Realities
    09:36 Understanding Health Concerns and ER Experiences
    12:21 Navigating Parenthood and Mental Health
    16:23 Talking to Kids About Mental Health
    21:46 The Intersection of Mental Health and Parenting
    26:38 Normalizing Mental Health Conversations
    30:59 Understanding Mental Health Conversations with Kids
    32:15 Normalizing Emotions in Children
    34:04 The Importance of Language in Mental Health
    36:43 Navigating Diagnoses and Labels
    38:53 Helping Kids Understand Their Emotions
    39:59 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations
    41:23 The Role of Parents in Mental Health Discussions
    44:06 Building Trust and Communication with Kids
    48:54 The Journey of Parenting Through Mental Health
    52:25 The Foundation of Love in Parenting
    56:48 Integrating Mental Health into Daily Life
    59:14 IntroSHORT.mp4

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    59 mins
  • Ep. 226 How Can I Be Confident?
    Feb 4 2026

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    Spacemen, you're something special. And you should tell yourself that. Not in a "My mom says I'm special," sort of way, but in a "I like myself" kind of way. Because it really matters that we speak and think good things about ourselves. We need to develop narratives that remind us that we are worth something. Come on, spacemen. You know you're beautiful.


    Keywords

    confidence, self-affirmation, personal growth, relationships, self-worth, beauty of places, Dr. Mario, life experiences, masculinity, mental health


    Takeaways

    • Confidence can be situational and is built over time.
    • Self-affirmation is crucial for mental well-being.
    • It's important to recognize and celebrate small victories.
    • Comparing ourselves to others can undermine our self-worth.
    • Building a positive narrative about oneself is essential.
    • Embracing life experiences leads to greater happiness.
    • Self-kindness should be a daily practice.
    • Recognizing beauty in our surroundings can shift our perspective.
    • Engaging in friendly competition can be fun but shouldn't define us.
    • It's okay to not be the best at everything; focus on personal growth.


    Sound bites
    "How do I build confidence in myself?"
    "I need to be nicer to myself than I am."


    Chapters
    05:07 Building Confidence and Self-Perception
    11:48 The Nature of Confidence
    14:39 Self-Perception and Personal Growth
    17:37 The Importance of Positive Self-Talk
    24:22 Confidence as a Situational Trait
    31:36 Comparative Mindsets and Self-Worth
    39:39 Building a Positive Narrative


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    42 mins
  • Ep. 225 Making Friends: Book Review--The Buddy System
    Jan 28 2026

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    SpaceAmigos! On today's episode, we review the book, The Buddy System. It's got a bunch of helpful hints about how to make and maintain friends. Obviously, none of us spaceamigos need that, but in case you want a few tips to level up your game, listen in. And maybe even read The Buddy System.


    Keywords

    friendship, male relationships, buddy system, intentionality, humor, pop culture, actionable steps, self-help, mindfulness, communication


    Takeaways

    • Be intentional about maintaining relationships with other dudes.
    • Initiate friendships without worrying about the other person's interest.
    • Recognize that most people feel awkward in social situations.
    • Scheduled interactions can enhance friendships.
    • It's okay to have structured conversations to deepen relationships.
    • Don't assume others don't want to hang out with you.
    • Be the friend you want to have.
    • Understand that everyone has similar feelings of loneliness.
    • Use humor and pop culture references to connect with others.
    • Mind tricks can help you engage socially.



    Sound bites

    "Be the friend you want to have."
    "Friendship requires work."
    "Be open to the random."


    Chapters

    00:46 Book Discussion: The Buddy System
    04:31 Exploring Unusual Illustrations and Metal Music
    07:46 The Importance of Intentional Friendships
    11:46 Insights from the Book on Male Loneliness
    15:41 Actionable Steps for Building Friendships
    18:42 Challenging Assumptions in Friendships
    24:43 Humor and Authenticity in Conversations
    26:00 Exploring Relationships in Self-Help Literature
    28:51 The Importance of Intentionality in Friendships
    31:56 Navigating Male Friendships and Emotional Connections
    34:37 The Role of Planning in Maintaining Relationships
    37:45 Challenging Societal Norms Around Male Friendships
    40:48 Embracing Spontaneity and Connection in Daily Life
    45:48 Concluding Thoughts on Friendship and Mindfulness

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    50 mins
  • Ep. 224 What if Life Hasn't Worked Out Like I Thought?
    Jan 21 2026

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    Spacemen, don't be upset, or too excited, but Rob's not on the episode. But hey, sometimes life doesn't work out like you thought. See what I did there? Today, Matt and Mike process how expectations don't always match reality. But don't worry. Finding a community of friends...and the Manspace?...can help you flow with the ups and downs of life. Listen in and find some hope.


    Keywords

    life expectations, emotional turmoil, social media impact, vulnerability, male friendships, self-discovery, mental health, community support, personal growth, letting go


    Takeaways

    • Life doesn't always go as planned.
    • It's normal to feel discouraged when comparing ourselves to others.
    • Finding a supportive community is crucial for emotional well-being.
    • Letting go of societal expectations can lead to personal freedom.
    • Embracing both highs and lows is part of the human experience.


    Sound bites

    "Life doesn't always go as planned."
    "Why do I feel so bad about myself?"
    "It was how others perceived me."


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Life's Challenges
    02:38 The Impact of Collective Illusions
    04:41 Family Connections and Personal Discoveries
    09:33 Exploring the Intersection of Therapy and Spirituality
    19:27 Navigating Life Expectations and Social Media Influence
    24:38 Reflections on Life's Expectations
    28:44 Navigating Life's Uncertainties
    32:20 The Importance of Open Conversations
    36:14 Understanding Non-Permanence
    41:06 Embracing the Journey of Life
    50:38 Letting Go of Expectations


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    58 mins
  • Ep. 223 Can I Change and Still Be Myself?
    Jan 14 2026

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    Spacechangers, prepare to board the Ship of Theseus. On today's episode, we talk about change. Specifically, how much can you change and still be yourself. I'll be honest, it's a bit of a philosophical discussion and I LOVE IT. Listen in and start changing!


    Keywords

    identity, change, Ship of Theseus, personal growth, relationships, self-discovery, transformation, essence, self-reflection, emotional health


    Takeaways

    • Change is a constant in life, and we often resist it.
    • The Ship of Theseus raises questions about identity and continuity.
    • Our relationships with ourselves and others evolve over time.
    • Personal growth can be both conscious and subconscious.
    • We often don't recognize our own growth until we reflect on it.
    • The essence of who we are can remain the same despite changes.
    • Understanding our past selves can help us navigate our present.
    • External influences shape our identity and experiences.
    • It's important to embrace change without losing our core essence.
    • Reflection on our journey can provide insights into our growth.



    Sound bites

    • "Sound is the most fascinating thing."
    • "I cut myself 10 times."
    • "I can't take it."


    Chapters

    00:00 The Man-Space: Philosophical Discussions and Listener Engagement
    02:28 Shaving Struggles and Grooming Techniques
    05:57 The Art of Shaving: Tools and Techniques
    09:53 Exploring Identity Through AI and Hair
    11:32 The Ship of Theseus: Identity and Change
    20:36 Exploring Identity and Change
    27:02 The Essence of Self and Relationships
    34:11 The Fluidity of Personal Growth
    40:57 Embracing Change and Self-Reflection


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    47 mins
  • Ep. 222 Manspace Resolutions
    Jan 7 2026

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    New year, new spaceman! Today is our annual resolution episode. Matt, Mike, and Rod talk about what they want to work on this year. And we make some resolutions for the show. Listen in and hold us accountable.


    Keywords

    banter, humor, new year, health, wellness, therapy, addiction, relationships, resolutions, pie making


    Takeaways

    • Banter can enhance conversations and make them more enjoyable.
    • The new year is a time for reflection and setting intentions.
    • Health and wellness discussions can lead to valuable insights.
    • Experiences in therapy can shape our understanding of addiction.
    • Navigating relationships requires vulnerability and openness.
    • Resolutions can be a journey of self-discovery and growth.
    • Developing practical skills, like pie making, can boost confidence.
    • Meaningful connections with others are essential for personal fulfillment.
    • Ego can often protect us but also hinder our growth.
    • Podcast resolutions can guide future content and engagement.



    Sound bites

    "It's now the new year."
    "I love that stuff."
    "It's the year of the spaceman."


    Chapters

    00:00 The Impact of Guest Interviews
    00:41 New Year Reflections and Resolutions
    03:49 Health Remedies and Personal Experiences
    06:43 Experiences in Therapy and Counseling
    09:40 The Challenges of Working in Mental Health
    12:47 Humorous Anecdotes from Therapy Sessions
    16:36 Indulgent Treats and Sweet Discoveries
    18:07 Culinary Creations and Personal Recipes
    20:49 Reflections on Personal Growth and Resolutions
    25:49 Navigating Relationships and Emotional Awareness
    36:51 Ego, Vulnerability, and Meaningful Connections
    47:46 Podcast Resolutions and Future Directions


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    50 mins
  • Ep. 221 UFOs and U! Can Aliens Make You a Better Man?
    Dec 17 2025

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    ET Phone Spaceman. Sup spacemen. Today, we explore an interest of Matts; UFOs. Or, as they are not more accurately called, UAPs. Despite what you may be thinking, this episode is not full of conspiracy theories. But it IS focused on how looking at things a little differently and being open to a differently way of thinking can make you a better man. Tune in and find out.


    Keywords
    UFOs, UAPs, Roswell, gas station food, documentaries, quantum physics, relationships, time, cultural perspectives, memory


    Takeaways

    • The conversation begins with humorous anecdotes and segues into deeper topics.
    • Roswell is portrayed as a tourist trap with disappointing attractions.
    • Gas station food is explored as a unique cultural experience.
    • The term UFO has evolved into UAP, reflecting a shift in societal understanding.
    • Documentaries like 'The Age of Disclosure' provide insights into UAPs.
    • Quantum physics is discussed in relation to UAP sightings and technology.
    • The importance of perspective in relationships is emphasized.
    • Time is presented as a construct that varies across cultures.
    • Openness to different experiences can enhance personal growth.
    • Memory is fallible and should be approached with caution in relationships.



    Sound bites
    "Roswell is a real disappointment."
    "I dropped down seven feet on the roof."
    "We must be open to new experiences."


    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to the Man Space Podcast
    03:01 Exploring Roswell and Alien Culture
    06:00 Gas Station Food Adventures
    08:57 The Shift from UFOs to UAPs
    12:08 Documentaries and the Age of Disclosure
    15:02 The Science Behind UAPs
    17:47 Interpersonal Relationships and Perspectives
    20:57 Challenging Certainty in Relationships
    22:31 The Nature of Time and Its Constructs
    25:08 Experiencing Awe and Insignificance
    27:03 The Value of Openness in Conversations
    30:05 Understanding Different Perspectives
    32:18 Exploring the Concept of Time
    35:43 Integrating Different Types of Time
    38:33 The Impact of Time on Mental Health
    40:51 Cultural Perspectives on Time and Life
    46:14 Finding Balance in Daily Life




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    49 mins
  • Ep. 220 Tipping a Toe into The Tipping Point...see what I did there?
    Dec 10 2025

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    Spacebookers, Gather! Today, we talk about The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell. If you haven't read it, shame on you. Now get over your shame and go read it. You'll thank me.


    Keywords
    Malcolm Gladwell, Tipping Point, Connectors, Mavens, Salesmen, Stickiness Factor, Learning, Hopeful Literature, Nonverbal Communication, Patterns in Life


    Takeaways

    • The Tipping Point discusses how small actions can lead to significant changes.
    • Malcolm Gladwell's work often challenges conventional thinking.
    • Nonverbal cues can significantly influence decision-making.
    • Connectors, Mavens, and Salesmen play crucial roles in social dynamics.
    • Repetition is key to learning and retention of information.
    • Understanding patterns in literature can enhance personal growth.
    • Hopeful literature can provide a positive perspective on society.
    • The stickiness factor refers to how memorable ideas are communicated.
    • Personal connections can be fostered through intentional networking.
    • Listening to audiobooks can enhance understanding of complex ideas.


    Sound bites

    "Nonverbal cues can significantly influence decision-making."
    "Repetition is key to learning and retention of information."
    "The power of repetition in learning is essential."


    Chapters

    00:00 The Influence of Malcolm Gladwell
    00:00 Adaptations of A Christmas Carol
    03:18 The Power of Perception and Expectation
    06:13 Insights from The Tipping Point
    12:24 Cultural Impact of Malcolm Gladwell's Works
    13:24 Understanding Connectors, Mavens, and Salesmen
    14:58 The Role of Connectors in Our Lives
    15:39 Exploring the Depth of Connections
    17:49 The Concept of Social Connections and Networks
    19:08 Personal Growth Through Reflection
    22:14 The Epitome of Connectors and Mavens
    24:33 Patterns in Relationships and Community Dynamics
    27:58 The Stickiness Factor in Learning
    32:00 Repetition and Deep Learning
    35:10 Conclusion and Future Reading Recommendations

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    42 mins