<![CDATA[The Akkeri]]>c78d5f7e-5dd5-5219-b5e4-ecd120d2c6a6Sun, 14 Sep 2025 18:53:53 +0000Captivate.fmMatt Howletthttps://artwork.captivate.fm/de85bb6a-69e5-4098-9f77-e7d639ee5fb0/HzIRo1jo9JhzqEOGm8jWz1vR.jpgThe AkkeriMatt HowlettMatt HowlettWhat makes a good man? Through stories, interviews, and social commentary, The Akkeri podcast highlights how men and masculinities are portrayed, the challenges modern men face, and how to chart a better way forward. ‎‏‏‎ ‎ Why? Because we need a conversation about men and masculinity that is deeply spiritual, profoundly vulnerable, and, with any luck, personally and culturally transformative.https://theakkeri.com/podcasttrueepisodicnopodcastReal Spirituality: A Conversation with Ex-Evangelical Pastor Brian ReckerReal Spirituality: A Conversation with Ex-Evangelical Pastor Brian ReckerBrian Recker is a former Marine Officer, the son of a Baptist preacher, and an alum of the fundamentalist Bob Jones University. Brian spent eight years as an evangelical pastor before deconstructing his faith to find a more inclusive spirituality. He now speaks about following Jesus without the fear of hell, and has written about this in his new book, HellBent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love.

We talk about why he deconstructed his faith and what spirituality looks like to him now. He shares why he believes that hell isn’t real and that love should be radically inclusive, as demonstrated through the life and teachings of Jesus. The conversation also covers why men need an authentic spirituality, why the Western world has “an empathy problem”, why a spirituality of hell creates a divided self, and why the Sears catalogue made him question his faith as a teenager.

As someone who also grew up in an evangelical church and used to be a pastor, I found this conversation–and Brian’s book, HellBent–to be a very refreshing and liberating take on what true spirituality is and what’s really important in this life, not just as a man, but as a society.

Find Brian Recker & 'HellBent' Here:

Website: https://www.brianrecker.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/berecker

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@berecker87

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>Brian Recker is a former Marine Officer, the son of a Baptist preacher, and an alum of the fundamentalist Bob Jones University. Brian spent eight years as an evangelical pastor before deconstructing his faith to find a more inclusive spirituality. He now speaks about following Jesus without the fear of hell, and has written about this in his new book, HellBent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love.

We talk about why he deconstructed his faith and what spirituality looks like to him now. He shares why he believes that hell isn’t real and that love should be radically inclusive, as demonstrated through the life and teachings of Jesus. The conversation also covers why men need an authentic spirituality, why the Western world has “an empathy problem”, why a spirituality of hell creates a divided self, and why the Sears catalogue made him question his faith as a teenager.

As someone who also grew up in an evangelical church and used to be a pastor, I found this conversation–and Brian’s book, HellBent–to be a very refreshing and liberating take on what true spirituality is and what’s really important in this life, not just as a man, but as a society.

Find Brian Recker & 'HellBent' Here:

Website: https://www.brianrecker.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/berecker

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@berecker87

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>f799877d-64ee-4b6a-a7de-c6dc89c1530dSun, 14 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -023001:03:01truefull2626From Bombs to Breathwork with Retired Navy Bomb Diver Brent BesharaFrom Bombs to Breathwork with Retired Navy Bomb Diver Brent BesharaBrent Beshara spent 24 years in the Canadian military, mainly as a special forces Navy bomb disposal diver. In his words, when he retired on a Friday it was all “pats on the back” and “we’ll get together,” but when Monday came “it was tumbleweeds”.

He had a great career, but the highly stressful and traumatic experiences had left a mark and now his mission was to heal.

Through mindfulness, breath-work, and cold exposure - what he learned through his Wim Hof instructor training - he was able to heal himself; mind and body, and now focuses on passing on what he’s learned to others.

Brent shares how his newfound routine enabled him to reverse his pre-diabetes condition, heal from what he calls a “mental meltdown”, and ultimately save his life. We talk about the physical impacts of this work and the potential societal impacts, which is what he is focused on now through HeadStart - a 2-minute breath-work program for students and staff - that is launching in several Canadian schools this Fall, 2025.

Find Brent Beshara Here:

Website: https://besh.ca

HeadStart: https://besh.ca/headstart

Newfoundland Winter Crew: https://www.facebook.com/groups/324829538112496/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@diverbrent

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>Brent Beshara spent 24 years in the Canadian military, mainly as a special forces Navy bomb disposal diver. In his words, when he retired on a Friday it was all “pats on the back” and “we’ll get together,” but when Monday came “it was tumbleweeds”.

He had a great career, but the highly stressful and traumatic experiences had left a mark and now his mission was to heal.

Through mindfulness, breath-work, and cold exposure - what he learned through his Wim Hof instructor training - he was able to heal himself; mind and body, and now focuses on passing on what he’s learned to others.

Brent shares how his newfound routine enabled him to reverse his pre-diabetes condition, heal from what he calls a “mental meltdown”, and ultimately save his life. We talk about the physical impacts of this work and the potential societal impacts, which is what he is focused on now through HeadStart - a 2-minute breath-work program for students and staff - that is launching in several Canadian schools this Fall, 2025.

Find Brent Beshara Here:

Website: https://besh.ca

HeadStart: https://besh.ca/headstart

Newfoundland Winter Crew: https://www.facebook.com/groups/324829538112496/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@diverbrent

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>ae88c95b-d963-432a-a488-3b89e51a7be1Sun, 07 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -023046:04truefull2525Finding & Perfecting Your Craft with Jack AldousFinding & Perfecting Your Craft with Jack AldousFinding a vocation (not a job) is one of the most important tasks for any man.

We want work that makes us feel alive, provides for a strong financial foundation, and has a significant positive impact on the world.

And we find that by pursuing our passions, practicing the discipline required to perfect our craft, and sharing that work with the world.

Jack Aldous–my friend and solo artist–is doing that work right now as he has recently released his debut album, ‘Inertia’, under the artist name White Cricket.

In this episode, Jack shares how he discovered his passion for music production and what producing his debut album, Inertia, has demanded of him. Jack talks about the vulnerability required for any creative endeavour and how he manages the self-doubt and self-criticism that often arise when we put something we’ve made out into the world. He also shares the story behind his choice of artist name, and it makes a lot of sense once you listen to his music.

Jack’s music draws inspiration from artists such as Tycho, Com Truise, and Jon Hopkins, pairing psychedelic elements with warm, lush soundscapes that evoke a sense of calm as well as excitement.

If you’re a musician or someone who wants to devote more time to a creative endeavour–or just someone who feels like you need to spend more time doing what lights you up–then this episode is for you.

Like Jack, we all need to find those things that make us feel alive. In doing so, we learn about ourselves, we grow, and we make a positive contribution to the world. This is about having a vocation, not a job, and it’s one of the most important things for a man to figure out.

Find Jack & His Music Here:

Bandcamp: https://whitecricketmusic.bandcamp.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitecricketmusic

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitecricketmusic

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0SciCwxk3brPpESFw8bJ8A?si=dAlgOX0YR56eqy_jYoENEA

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>Finding a vocation (not a job) is one of the most important tasks for any man.

We want work that makes us feel alive, provides for a strong financial foundation, and has a significant positive impact on the world.

And we find that by pursuing our passions, practicing the discipline required to perfect our craft, and sharing that work with the world.

Jack Aldous–my friend and solo artist–is doing that work right now as he has recently released his debut album, ‘Inertia’, under the artist name White Cricket.

In this episode, Jack shares how he discovered his passion for music production and what producing his debut album, Inertia, has demanded of him. Jack talks about the vulnerability required for any creative endeavour and how he manages the self-doubt and self-criticism that often arise when we put something we’ve made out into the world. He also shares the story behind his choice of artist name, and it makes a lot of sense once you listen to his music.

Jack’s music draws inspiration from artists such as Tycho, Com Truise, and Jon Hopkins, pairing psychedelic elements with warm, lush soundscapes that evoke a sense of calm as well as excitement.

If you’re a musician or someone who wants to devote more time to a creative endeavour–or just someone who feels like you need to spend more time doing what lights you up–then this episode is for you.

Like Jack, we all need to find those things that make us feel alive. In doing so, we learn about ourselves, we grow, and we make a positive contribution to the world. This is about having a vocation, not a job, and it’s one of the most important things for a man to figure out.

Find Jack & His Music Here:

Bandcamp: https://whitecricketmusic.bandcamp.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitecricketmusic

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitecricketmusic

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0SciCwxk3brPpESFw8bJ8A?si=dAlgOX0YR56eqy_jYoENEA

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>53390866-ecef-4331-a0bf-aa76017da608Tue, 26 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -023001:00:42truefull2424Becoming the Man, Partner, & Father You’ve Always Wanted to Be With Larry HagnerBecoming the Man, Partner, & Father You’ve Always Wanted to Be With Larry HagnerThis episode is a conversation with podcaster, coach, and author Larry Hagner. Over the past 10 years, Larry has spoken with hundreds of experts and worked with thousands of men through his podcast and programs at The Dad Edge. Now, he has distilled the essence of what makes legendary fathers different in his new book, The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood.

We talk about how most men have a deep desire to show up intentionally in their lives but often find themselves subtly checking out as they realize that their expectations aren’t being met; a process that he calls ‘The Drift’. Larry talks about the symptoms of the drift, how men can navigate this experience and ultimately learn the skills needed to find their way out.

Our conversation also covers the 3 things that women need from us and how we can build better relationships with them; why being better men is all about skills that any man can learn; how to practice those skills and envision a better life; and why an uncrusted peanut butter sandwich in the bathroom makes a great snack.

Find Larry Hagner Here:

Website: thedadedge.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/thedadedge

Larry's Book: 'The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood: Break Old Patterns & Create an Epic Legacy as a Father & Husband: thedadedge.com/legendary-fatherhood-book/

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>This episode is a conversation with podcaster, coach, and author Larry Hagner. Over the past 10 years, Larry has spoken with hundreds of experts and worked with thousands of men through his podcast and programs at The Dad Edge. Now, he has distilled the essence of what makes legendary fathers different in his new book, The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood.

We talk about how most men have a deep desire to show up intentionally in their lives but often find themselves subtly checking out as they realize that their expectations aren’t being met; a process that he calls ‘The Drift’. Larry talks about the symptoms of the drift, how men can navigate this experience and ultimately learn the skills needed to find their way out.

Our conversation also covers the 3 things that women need from us and how we can build better relationships with them; why being better men is all about skills that any man can learn; how to practice those skills and envision a better life; and why an uncrusted peanut butter sandwich in the bathroom makes a great snack.

Find Larry Hagner Here:

Website: thedadedge.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/thedadedge

Larry's Book: 'The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood: Break Old Patterns & Create an Epic Legacy as a Father & Husband: thedadedge.com/legendary-fatherhood-book/

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>9f6505f1-2f55-43dc-89a4-55f4eba82e23Tue, 05 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -023051:54truefull2323‘The Newfie’: Scott Matchim’s Experience as a Newfoundlander Living Elsewhere‘The Newfie’: Scott Matchim’s Experience as a Newfoundlander Living ElsewhereThis episode is a conversation with content creator and fellow Newfoundlander, Scott Matchim. Since late 2023, Scott’s been creating short-form videos that showcase the many socio-cultural quirks that are distinct to Newfoundland and its people.

Scott is a proud Newfoundlander with a knack for storytelling, a sharp sense of humour, and a deep love for the people and culture that shaped him, and through his videos, he shares his honest takes on life, poking fun at himself, or shining a light on what it means to come from the rock.

We discuss his experience of sharing Newfoundland culture through video, what it's been like as a Newfoundlander living away, and he’s kind enough to provide a little interpretation of some Newfanese for the uninitiated.

Find Scott Matchim Here:

Facebook: Facebook.com/scott.matchim

Instagram: Instagram.com/s.matchim

TikTok: TikTok.com/@scottieshow

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>This episode is a conversation with content creator and fellow Newfoundlander, Scott Matchim. Since late 2023, Scott’s been creating short-form videos that showcase the many socio-cultural quirks that are distinct to Newfoundland and its people.

Scott is a proud Newfoundlander with a knack for storytelling, a sharp sense of humour, and a deep love for the people and culture that shaped him, and through his videos, he shares his honest takes on life, poking fun at himself, or shining a light on what it means to come from the rock.

We discuss his experience of sharing Newfoundland culture through video, what it's been like as a Newfoundlander living away, and he’s kind enough to provide a little interpretation of some Newfanese for the uninitiated.

Find Scott Matchim Here:

Facebook: Facebook.com/scott.matchim

Instagram: Instagram.com/s.matchim

TikTok: TikTok.com/@scottieshow

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>c53d5e0a-1737-46eb-acc8-a9e2e0fe5998Mon, 28 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -023053:35truefull2222The Key to Men’s Health: Restoring the Mind-Body Connection with Mitch WebbThe Key to Men’s Health: Restoring the Mind-Body Connection with Mitch WebbMy guest for this episode is Mitch Webb, a nervous system coach and holistic healing guide who helps people heal from chronic stress and trauma by reconnecting with their bodies. He blends science, somatics, and personal experience to help others feel safe, grounded, and alive.

The conversation centres around the importance of being connected to your physical and emotional experience as a man, the benefits of that connection and how we can do that, as well as the negative impacts on our overall health when we try to force the more traditional, stoic approach of pushing through the pain and pushing down the emotions. There is no denying that our physical health is intricately connected to our mental and spiritual health, and this episode will introduce you to several ideas and practical steps for renewing that connection and working towards a more holistic approach to overall health.

Find Mitch Webb Here:

Website: mitchwebb.com

Facebook: facebook.com/mitch.webb.503

Instagram: instagram.com/kmitchwebb/

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>My guest for this episode is Mitch Webb, a nervous system coach and holistic healing guide who helps people heal from chronic stress and trauma by reconnecting with their bodies. He blends science, somatics, and personal experience to help others feel safe, grounded, and alive.

The conversation centres around the importance of being connected to your physical and emotional experience as a man, the benefits of that connection and how we can do that, as well as the negative impacts on our overall health when we try to force the more traditional, stoic approach of pushing through the pain and pushing down the emotions. There is no denying that our physical health is intricately connected to our mental and spiritual health, and this episode will introduce you to several ideas and practical steps for renewing that connection and working towards a more holistic approach to overall health.

Find Mitch Webb Here:

Website: mitchwebb.com

Facebook: facebook.com/mitch.webb.503

Instagram: instagram.com/kmitchwebb/

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>444eee2d-1abb-482c-b4d6-560f743a74e2Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -023045:56truefull2121From Thailand to Canadian Public Service: A Conversation with Comms Professional, Art AronsonFrom Thailand to Canadian Public Service: A Conversation with Comms Professional, Art AronsonIn this episode, I’m speaking with Art Aronson, a communications professional with the provincial government of British Columbia. Art shares his story of being adopted from Thailand by his American parents and raised in Canada, on Vancouver Island. We talk about work-life satisfaction and the challenges he faces as a public servant. We also discuss the societal pressures to be or do certain things and how they influence our decisions.

If you enjoy the episode, do us a favour and subscribe, write a review, or share the show with a friend.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>In this episode, I’m speaking with Art Aronson, a communications professional with the provincial government of British Columbia. Art shares his story of being adopted from Thailand by his American parents and raised in Canada, on Vancouver Island. We talk about work-life satisfaction and the challenges he faces as a public servant. We also discuss the societal pressures to be or do certain things and how they influence our decisions.

If you enjoy the episode, do us a favour and subscribe, write a review, or share the show with a friend.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>96f90585-2aeb-4d76-bb06-c124f654330fSun, 22 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -023001:06:09truefull2020Empowering Young People Through the Arts with Dr. Dermell BrunsonEmpowering Young People Through the Arts with Dr. Dermell BrunsonDr. Dermell Brunson is a dedicated leader in youth development, mental health advocacy, and the arts. As the founder of Leaders of Tomorrow Youth Centre, he has spent years empowering young people through education, creativity, and leadership training.

Dermell and I talk about the importance of mentoring and how to connect with, build relationships, and support younger people. We also talk about how exposure to the arts can help adolescents and young adults learn about themselves, express themselves, and grow into their full potential.

If you enjoy this conversation, do us a favour and share it with a friend or write a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Find Dr. Brunson & LTYC Here:

Website: https://www.ltyc.net/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LTYCArts

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ltycarts


Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>Dr. Dermell Brunson is a dedicated leader in youth development, mental health advocacy, and the arts. As the founder of Leaders of Tomorrow Youth Centre, he has spent years empowering young people through education, creativity, and leadership training.

Dermell and I talk about the importance of mentoring and how to connect with, build relationships, and support younger people. We also talk about how exposure to the arts can help adolescents and young adults learn about themselves, express themselves, and grow into their full potential.

If you enjoy this conversation, do us a favour and share it with a friend or write a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Find Dr. Brunson & LTYC Here:

Website: https://www.ltyc.net/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LTYCArts

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ltycarts


Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>ff955d78-980c-415d-bd90-e40d4b6c31faSat, 14 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -023047:02truefull1919How to Handle Failure & Find Success with Serial Entrepreneur Peter CollinsHow to Handle Failure & Find Success with Serial Entrepreneur Peter CollinsIf you are interested in entrepreneurship, travel, or you are simply a man who sets the bar high for himself, this episode is for you…why? Because my guest in this episode is Peter Collins, one of the most interesting people I’ve had the privilege of getting to know.

Peter is a serial entrepreneur, former British army commando, and professional photographer. He has been a high-level athlete - competing in marathons, ultra-marathons, and nearly made the Olympics in ski racing - and he has lived and travelled all over the world. Peter’s story is one of failure, never giving up, and always finding ways to pair creativity with business opportunities. I hope you enjoy and are inspired by the conversation.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri


Find Peter Collins Here:

His Current Business: Ship To Shore Designs: https://shiptoshoredesigns.co.uk/

His Photography Instagram: Peter Collins Photo: https://www.instagram.com/petercollinsphoto/

]]>If you are interested in entrepreneurship, travel, or you are simply a man who sets the bar high for himself, this episode is for you…why? Because my guest in this episode is Peter Collins, one of the most interesting people I’ve had the privilege of getting to know.

Peter is a serial entrepreneur, former British army commando, and professional photographer. He has been a high-level athlete - competing in marathons, ultra-marathons, and nearly made the Olympics in ski racing - and he has lived and travelled all over the world. Peter’s story is one of failure, never giving up, and always finding ways to pair creativity with business opportunities. I hope you enjoy and are inspired by the conversation.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri


Find Peter Collins Here:

His Current Business: Ship To Shore Designs: https://shiptoshoredesigns.co.uk/

His Photography Instagram: Peter Collins Photo: https://www.instagram.com/petercollinsphoto/

]]>2ce95ff1-7adb-4160-9e8d-cdb74eee4cb2Tue, 22 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -023001:09:58truefull1818Travel Stories & Shifting Perspectives with Ruben VazquezTravel Stories & Shifting Perspectives with Ruben VazquezHave you ever lived abroad or considered spending an extended period in another country? I have, but my guest has done it a lot more.

Ruben Vazquez is a martial arts and English teacher I met while living in Vietnam. I asked Ruben to come on the show because we have had similar and different experiences with travel, but we both know how important it is to get outside of your comfort zone and experience other ways of life.

We talk about our experiences in Vietnam, how we both got into teaching English in the first place, the challenges and benefits of extended travel abroad, and a few stories about avoiding being ticketed by the Vietnamese police. Ruben also shares a few tips and ideas for those considering teaching English or travelling abroad for the first time.

If you enjoy the podcast, please share it on social media or leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>Have you ever lived abroad or considered spending an extended period in another country? I have, but my guest has done it a lot more.

Ruben Vazquez is a martial arts and English teacher I met while living in Vietnam. I asked Ruben to come on the show because we have had similar and different experiences with travel, but we both know how important it is to get outside of your comfort zone and experience other ways of life.

We talk about our experiences in Vietnam, how we both got into teaching English in the first place, the challenges and benefits of extended travel abroad, and a few stories about avoiding being ticketed by the Vietnamese police. Ruben also shares a few tips and ideas for those considering teaching English or travelling abroad for the first time.

If you enjoy the podcast, please share it on social media or leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>466c2d94-467c-40fc-8a72-b89572086e52Sat, 05 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -023047:15truefull1717How to Be the 'Right Man' & Find the 'Right Woman' with Dr Ron JohnsonHow to Be the 'Right Man' & Find the 'Right Woman' with Dr Ron JohnsonPsychologist & author, Dr Ron Johnson, is back with the final part of our four-part series on his book 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women', and we are tackling the last 'W' of Women.

This episode covers:

  • How men can find "the right woman" (& what it means to be "the right man")
  • A framework for communicating thoughts & feelings with women
  • The importance of the concept of hurt & the emotion of sadness in a man's maturation
  • Why sadness/sorrow is our most important emotion

If you haven’t already listened to the 3 previous episodes with Dr Ron, be sure to check those out and his book 'Balls' with the links below.

Find Dr Ron Johnson Here:

Website: MidlandsPsychological.com

Facebook: @MidlandsPsychological

Instagram: @MidlandsPsychological

YouTube: @MidlandsPsychological

Book: 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women': 🔗 pages.midlandspsychological.com/balls

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>Psychologist & author, Dr Ron Johnson, is back with the final part of our four-part series on his book 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women', and we are tackling the last 'W' of Women.

This episode covers:

  • How men can find "the right woman" (& what it means to be "the right man")
  • A framework for communicating thoughts & feelings with women
  • The importance of the concept of hurt & the emotion of sadness in a man's maturation
  • Why sadness/sorrow is our most important emotion

If you haven’t already listened to the 3 previous episodes with Dr Ron, be sure to check those out and his book 'Balls' with the links below.

Find Dr Ron Johnson Here:

Website: MidlandsPsychological.com

Facebook: @MidlandsPsychological

Instagram: @MidlandsPsychological

YouTube: @MidlandsPsychological

Book: 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women': 🔗 pages.midlandspsychological.com/balls

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>0ddbf792-9c06-41da-aa12-0603fe4833ceSun, 30 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -023050:46truefull1616Understanding & Ending Addiction with Dr Ron JohnsonUnderstanding & Ending Addiction with Dr Ron Johnson"It is rare for a man to have only one addiction."

According to Dr Ron Johnson, addictions start as something that is "good" for us but easily become something that we rely upon for relief or momentary happiness. In this episode, you'll learn the differences between chemical and behavioural addictions, why and how we become addicted, the work required to avoid or end addictions, and the main reasons why men are often susceptible to addiction.

Dr. Ron Johnson is a psychologist and psychotherapist with over 50 years of experience working with men. His latest book, 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women', talks about how men can truly mature by finding, valuing, and expressing themselves and, ultimately, find success in all areas of their lives.

If you find value in this conversation, please share it or leave a review and consider checking out Dr Ron's book with the links below.

Find Dr Ron Johnson Here:

Website: MidlandsPsychological.com

Facebook: @MidlandsPsychological

Instagram: @MidlandsPsychological

YouTube: @MidlandsPsychological

Book: 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women': pages.midlandspsychological.com/balls

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>"It is rare for a man to have only one addiction."

According to Dr Ron Johnson, addictions start as something that is "good" for us but easily become something that we rely upon for relief or momentary happiness. In this episode, you'll learn the differences between chemical and behavioural addictions, why and how we become addicted, the work required to avoid or end addictions, and the main reasons why men are often susceptible to addiction.

Dr. Ron Johnson is a psychologist and psychotherapist with over 50 years of experience working with men. His latest book, 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women', talks about how men can truly mature by finding, valuing, and expressing themselves and, ultimately, find success in all areas of their lives.

If you find value in this conversation, please share it or leave a review and consider checking out Dr Ron's book with the links below.

Find Dr Ron Johnson Here:

Website: MidlandsPsychological.com

Facebook: @MidlandsPsychological

Instagram: @MidlandsPsychological

YouTube: @MidlandsPsychological

Book: 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women': pages.midlandspsychological.com/balls

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>c82fa4c5-e5a1-417a-8265-5cdb7c424431Wed, 26 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -023045:08truefull1515Finding Work That Matters with Dr Ron JohnsonFinding Work That Matters with Dr Ron JohnsonDo you have a job or a profession?

According to psychologist and author Dr Ron Johnson, men should find a profession as soon as they can and never stay in a “job”.

In Ron’s latest book, 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women’, he talks about why men need to find professions, how they differ from jobs, and how men can find them.

And in this episode, we get into the details of that topic. With real-life illustrations and anecdotes from his 50+ years of experience as a psychologist and psychotherapist, Ron outlines the crucial role of feelings in both finding yourself and your profession.

Find Dr Ron Johnson Here:

Website: MidlandsPsychological.com

Facebook: @MidlandsPsychological

Instagram: @MidlandsPsychological

YouTube: @MidlandsPsychological

Book: 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women': https://pages.midlandspsychological.com/balls

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>Do you have a job or a profession?

According to psychologist and author Dr Ron Johnson, men should find a profession as soon as they can and never stay in a “job”.

In Ron’s latest book, 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women’, he talks about why men need to find professions, how they differ from jobs, and how men can find them.

And in this episode, we get into the details of that topic. With real-life illustrations and anecdotes from his 50+ years of experience as a psychologist and psychotherapist, Ron outlines the crucial role of feelings in both finding yourself and your profession.

Find Dr Ron Johnson Here:

Website: MidlandsPsychological.com

Facebook: @MidlandsPsychological

Instagram: @MidlandsPsychological

YouTube: @MidlandsPsychological

Book: 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine, and Women': https://pages.midlandspsychological.com/balls

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>3722db7f-6220-4383-89f8-dae134799527Sat, 15 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -023039:16truefull1414Developing Emotional Intelligence with Dr Ron JohnsonDeveloping Emotional Intelligence with Dr Ron JohnsonMost men would consider themselves to be honest, but what about when it comes to feelings?

Talking about feelings isn't common among men - and it's not something we're naturally good at either - but it is a requirement for maturity (despite what socio-cultural norms have taught us to believe about masculinity).

In this episode, psychologist and author Dr Ron Johnson joins me to share from his 50+ years of experience with men in psychological analysis and therapeutic contexts.

Ron outlines the role honesty with feelings plays in a man's maturity, how that honesty relates to a man's success, why men need to expect and accept that failure will be part of the maturation process when it comes to using feeling-based words, and how maturing in this area leads to a deeper, more satisfying life.

If you find this episode helpful, check out Ron's latest book entitled 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine [Addictions], and Women' through his practice's website: midlandspsychological.com/books.


Find Dr Ron Johnson Here:

Website: midlandspsychological.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/midlandspsychological

Instagram: Instagram.com/midlandspsychological

YouTube: YouTube.com/@midlandspsychological



Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>Most men would consider themselves to be honest, but what about when it comes to feelings?

Talking about feelings isn't common among men - and it's not something we're naturally good at either - but it is a requirement for maturity (despite what socio-cultural norms have taught us to believe about masculinity).

In this episode, psychologist and author Dr Ron Johnson joins me to share from his 50+ years of experience with men in psychological analysis and therapeutic contexts.

Ron outlines the role honesty with feelings plays in a man's maturity, how that honesty relates to a man's success, why men need to expect and accept that failure will be part of the maturation process when it comes to using feeling-based words, and how maturing in this area leads to a deeper, more satisfying life.

If you find this episode helpful, check out Ron's latest book entitled 'Balls: Men Finding Courage with Words, Work, Wine [Addictions], and Women' through his practice's website: midlandspsychological.com/books.


Find Dr Ron Johnson Here:

Website: midlandspsychological.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/midlandspsychological

Instagram: Instagram.com/midlandspsychological

YouTube: YouTube.com/@midlandspsychological



Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>f44d3acd-25d6-4f6f-91d9-5ff81f102c24Thu, 06 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -023044:22truefull1313Growth Through Struggle with Matthew EffordGrowth Through Struggle with Matthew EffordPersonal struggles are often the best opportunities for personal growth, but only if we choose to put in the work.

Matthew Efford is a firefighter, business owner, real estate agent, and father who has found immense personal growth through struggle, and he shares openly about his journey on this episode.

From persistent bullying as a child and suicidal ideation to an ADHD diagnosis as an adult and ongoing counselling, Matthew has committed himself to growing in self-understanding and maturity as he looks for ways to help others do the same.

We talk about how he was bullied as a child and why he became suicidal at one point, how he navigated an ADHD diagnosis as an adult, what he does to process the often traumatic experiences that he has as a firefighter, the challenges he’s experienced in business and yes, how he attended coffee school in Portland but now relies on Keurig for his caffeine fix.

This one’s about the personal discovery that often comes through personal struggles and I hope it inspires you on your own journey towards self-understanding and personal growth.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

Find Matthew Efford Here:

Instagram.com/mattefford

Instagram.com/mattheweffordrealestate

Instagram.com/printnl

]]>Personal struggles are often the best opportunities for personal growth, but only if we choose to put in the work.

Matthew Efford is a firefighter, business owner, real estate agent, and father who has found immense personal growth through struggle, and he shares openly about his journey on this episode.

From persistent bullying as a child and suicidal ideation to an ADHD diagnosis as an adult and ongoing counselling, Matthew has committed himself to growing in self-understanding and maturity as he looks for ways to help others do the same.

We talk about how he was bullied as a child and why he became suicidal at one point, how he navigated an ADHD diagnosis as an adult, what he does to process the often traumatic experiences that he has as a firefighter, the challenges he’s experienced in business and yes, how he attended coffee school in Portland but now relies on Keurig for his caffeine fix.

This one’s about the personal discovery that often comes through personal struggles and I hope it inspires you on your own journey towards self-understanding and personal growth.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

Find Matthew Efford Here:

Instagram.com/mattefford

Instagram.com/mattheweffordrealestate

Instagram.com/printnl

]]>f1c71868-ebba-41ba-ba70-9bd35034b15fFri, 28 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -023047:48truefull1212From Addict to Entrepreneur with Ken CoxFrom Addict to Entrepreneur with Ken CoxKen Cox, an entrepreneur and author, offers a profound exploration of addiction, recovery, and personal transformation. He shares his harrowing journey from a debilitating alcohol addiction, which culminated in a life-threatening liver disease diagnosis at the age of 39, to a life characterized by resilience and purpose.

Ken emphasizes that addictions serve as armor that shields us from confronting our true selves, yet shedding this armor is essential for genuine living. He discusses the uncomfortable yet rewarding process of embracing honesty and vulnerability and shares about his new book, "Reclaim Sobriety," which encapsulates his experiences and the core values that guided him toward recovery and fulfillment.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

Find Ken Cox Here:

Website: KenCox.com

His Book 'Reclaim Sobriety': ReclaimSobriety.com

]]>Ken Cox, an entrepreneur and author, offers a profound exploration of addiction, recovery, and personal transformation. He shares his harrowing journey from a debilitating alcohol addiction, which culminated in a life-threatening liver disease diagnosis at the age of 39, to a life characterized by resilience and purpose.

Ken emphasizes that addictions serve as armor that shields us from confronting our true selves, yet shedding this armor is essential for genuine living. He discusses the uncomfortable yet rewarding process of embracing honesty and vulnerability and shares about his new book, "Reclaim Sobriety," which encapsulates his experiences and the core values that guided him toward recovery and fulfillment.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

Find Ken Cox Here:

Website: KenCox.com

His Book 'Reclaim Sobriety': ReclaimSobriety.com

]]>18f6e901-59f4-4d22-8671-d8411bd8c96fSat, 15 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -023051:05truefull1111Creating Change in Life & Work with Stephen RoblesCreating Change in Life & Work with Stephen RoblesEvery man has to figure out what to do for work, but more than just a job, a man’s work is how he communicates himself to the world and makes a positive impact. So what happens when you find yourself in a position that doesn’t do that for you?

Video and podcast creator, Stephen Robles, was in such a position years ago. Now, his YouTube channel continues to grow - surpassing 100,000 subscribers in late 2024 - and he continues to try new things, like his new tech podcast, Primary Technology.

In Stephen’s words, whatever it is that you want to try or need to do, you have to start now, cause you will regret not starting later.

In this episode, Stephen shares how he changed directions in his life and work, how he made the decision and the challenges that came along with that, and how others can figure out if they may need to make a similar shift.

Find Stephen Robles Here:

Podcast: PrimaryTech.fm

YouTube: @beardfm

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>Every man has to figure out what to do for work, but more than just a job, a man’s work is how he communicates himself to the world and makes a positive impact. So what happens when you find yourself in a position that doesn’t do that for you?

Video and podcast creator, Stephen Robles, was in such a position years ago. Now, his YouTube channel continues to grow - surpassing 100,000 subscribers in late 2024 - and he continues to try new things, like his new tech podcast, Primary Technology.

In Stephen’s words, whatever it is that you want to try or need to do, you have to start now, cause you will regret not starting later.

In this episode, Stephen shares how he changed directions in his life and work, how he made the decision and the challenges that came along with that, and how others can figure out if they may need to make a similar shift.

Find Stephen Robles Here:

Podcast: PrimaryTech.fm

YouTube: @beardfm

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: YouTube.com/theakkeri

]]>ca14817d-f4c6-4a3e-bedf-b8e6d1dc2e27Wed, 01 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -023057:06truefull1010Fostering Growth in Young Men with Social Worker Shawn MercerFostering Growth in Young Men with Social Worker Shawn MercerYoung men ending up “in the system” can feel like a cyclical, hopeless situation, but hope is always found in the parents, teachers, social workers, and others who strive to foster them toward a better path.

Shawn Mercer is one of those social workers who shared his experience in this episode of The Akkeri podcast. Shawn has been in and around the child/youth care and social work fields for over 20 years, so he has an educated and unique perspective on the challenges many young men face and the solutions required.

This is a conversation about emotional intelligence, understanding the needs of others, mentorship…and, well, stacking wood (you’ll have to listen to make sense of that one).

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

]]>Young men ending up “in the system” can feel like a cyclical, hopeless situation, but hope is always found in the parents, teachers, social workers, and others who strive to foster them toward a better path.

Shawn Mercer is one of those social workers who shared his experience in this episode of The Akkeri podcast. Shawn has been in and around the child/youth care and social work fields for over 20 years, so he has an educated and unique perspective on the challenges many young men face and the solutions required.

This is a conversation about emotional intelligence, understanding the needs of others, mentorship…and, well, stacking wood (you’ll have to listen to make sense of that one).

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

]]>f72c2ed8-295c-448b-84ba-c0b307aa88efFri, 29 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -023001:00:42truefull99Faith, Doubt, & Deconstruction with Todd TremblettFaith, Doubt, & Deconstruction with Todd TremblettReligion.

For some, that word sparks thoughts of faith and community; two concepts that are inherently good, but for others, the thought of religion is anything but good.

In this episode of The Akkeri podcast, we get into the Christian religion; specifically, the Pentecostal denomination, through a conversation with my friend and former Christian, Todd Tremblett.

Todd shares his journey of growing up in a Pentecostal family in rural Newfoundland and his profound struggle as he began to question his faith. Over time, Todd transitioned from being a devout Christian to identifying as an agnostic atheist, a change that brought both clarity and challenges. He reflects on the fear-based upbringing instilled by church teachings, particularly regarding concepts of hell, and the mental anguish that accompanied his search for truth.

The conversation reveals the isolation many experience when questioning deeply held beliefs, emphasizing the importance of having supportive communities and mentors during such transformative times. Ultimately, Todd's story underscores the significance of open dialogue about faith, masculinity, and mental health, encouraging others to embrace their struggles and seek connection in their journeys of self-discovery.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

Find Todd Tremblett Here:

www.vimeo.com/toddtremblett

]]>Religion.

For some, that word sparks thoughts of faith and community; two concepts that are inherently good, but for others, the thought of religion is anything but good.

In this episode of The Akkeri podcast, we get into the Christian religion; specifically, the Pentecostal denomination, through a conversation with my friend and former Christian, Todd Tremblett.

Todd shares his journey of growing up in a Pentecostal family in rural Newfoundland and his profound struggle as he began to question his faith. Over time, Todd transitioned from being a devout Christian to identifying as an agnostic atheist, a change that brought both clarity and challenges. He reflects on the fear-based upbringing instilled by church teachings, particularly regarding concepts of hell, and the mental anguish that accompanied his search for truth.

The conversation reveals the isolation many experience when questioning deeply held beliefs, emphasizing the importance of having supportive communities and mentors during such transformative times. Ultimately, Todd's story underscores the significance of open dialogue about faith, masculinity, and mental health, encouraging others to embrace their struggles and seek connection in their journeys of self-discovery.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

Find Todd Tremblett Here:

www.vimeo.com/toddtremblett

]]>700d2a57-999d-410f-8f71-0e20ba61d4dfSun, 06 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -023056:34truefull88Mentoring and Managing Emotions with Jason WalshMentoring and Managing Emotions with Jason WalshAs a police officer and former child and youth care worker, Jason Walsh has seen the challenges that young men face through several different lenses. Growing up in a lower-income family with a single mother and a father who was often in jail, his own story is one of hardship and making his way through “by the power and grace” of his mother.

In our conversation, Jason shares how finding a male mentor at a young age changed his life and how there is a great need for this type of supportive relationship. Why? Because young men are growing up without learning how to cope with strong emotions or how to navigate tough situations and, without support, this leads many men to addictions or criminal activity.

Asking for help - or being that source of help, ourselves - is no small task. Both require the courage to be vulnerable because we risk rejection or shame whenever we put ourselves out there like that, but the potential rewards far outweigh the risks because who cares about a few moments of discomfort when we have the ability to change life for the better?

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

]]>As a police officer and former child and youth care worker, Jason Walsh has seen the challenges that young men face through several different lenses. Growing up in a lower-income family with a single mother and a father who was often in jail, his own story is one of hardship and making his way through “by the power and grace” of his mother.

In our conversation, Jason shares how finding a male mentor at a young age changed his life and how there is a great need for this type of supportive relationship. Why? Because young men are growing up without learning how to cope with strong emotions or how to navigate tough situations and, without support, this leads many men to addictions or criminal activity.

Asking for help - or being that source of help, ourselves - is no small task. Both require the courage to be vulnerable because we risk rejection or shame whenever we put ourselves out there like that, but the potential rewards far outweigh the risks because who cares about a few moments of discomfort when we have the ability to change life for the better?

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

]]>e2eac1b6-a3da-4250-b501-dae7badce19dFri, 23 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -023052:20truefull77The Discipline of Physical Fitness with Joel PriorThe Discipline of Physical Fitness with Joel PriorPhysical fitness is valued in Western culture, but it's often the aesthetic benefits - rather than the mental and overall health benefits - that most people seem to be after. While we know the positive impact that a physical fitness discipline can have, we often undervalue its role in reducing stress, creating mental clarity, and generally making us think and feel better. Getting to the gym or just going for a walk often becomes a “should do” instead of a “need to do”. But when we step up to the challenge of building a physical fitness discipline, we can realize that the benefits can be life-changing.

That’s the story for Joel Prior: a former paramedic turned personal trainer and health coach. When Joel moved with his wife and kids from Ontario to Newfoundland, it was his fitness discipline that kept him mentally strong despite the challenges of building a life in a new location.

In this episode of The Akkeri podcast, Joel shares what that experience was like along with examples of his fitness discipline as he trains for a marathon and works with clients to reach their health and fitness goals.


Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

Find Joel Prior Here:

Instagram: Instagram.com/joelpriorfitness

Facebook: Facebook.com/joelpriorfitness

]]>Physical fitness is valued in Western culture, but it's often the aesthetic benefits - rather than the mental and overall health benefits - that most people seem to be after. While we know the positive impact that a physical fitness discipline can have, we often undervalue its role in reducing stress, creating mental clarity, and generally making us think and feel better. Getting to the gym or just going for a walk often becomes a “should do” instead of a “need to do”. But when we step up to the challenge of building a physical fitness discipline, we can realize that the benefits can be life-changing.

That’s the story for Joel Prior: a former paramedic turned personal trainer and health coach. When Joel moved with his wife and kids from Ontario to Newfoundland, it was his fitness discipline that kept him mentally strong despite the challenges of building a life in a new location.

In this episode of The Akkeri podcast, Joel shares what that experience was like along with examples of his fitness discipline as he trains for a marathon and works with clients to reach their health and fitness goals.


Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

Find Joel Prior Here:

Instagram: Instagram.com/joelpriorfitness

Facebook: Facebook.com/joelpriorfitness

]]>2511b13a-4309-4955-ab72-c89dad56c951Sat, 27 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -023030:20truefull66Building Mental Fitness with Cortez HancockBuilding Mental Fitness with Cortez HancockYou’ve screwed something up…do you laugh it off and move on or do you hear a little voice saying “way to go, dummy”.

We all have an inner dialogue, but the degree to which it is helpful or harmful depends on the level of your mental fitness.

In this episode, I talk with Cortez Hancock: a counselling psychotherapist who is focused on helping people understand the importance of a positive internal dialogue; one of many aspects of what he calls “mental fitness”.

We talk about what it’s like for men to discover the benefits of working with someone on their mental fitness and several practical tools you can implement now to improve your own mental state.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

Find Cortez Hancock Here:

Priority Health Counselling

Facebook.com/priorityhealthcounselling

]]>You’ve screwed something up…do you laugh it off and move on or do you hear a little voice saying “way to go, dummy”.

We all have an inner dialogue, but the degree to which it is helpful or harmful depends on the level of your mental fitness.

In this episode, I talk with Cortez Hancock: a counselling psychotherapist who is focused on helping people understand the importance of a positive internal dialogue; one of many aspects of what he calls “mental fitness”.

We talk about what it’s like for men to discover the benefits of working with someone on their mental fitness and several practical tools you can implement now to improve your own mental state.

Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

Find Cortez Hancock Here:

Priority Health Counselling

Facebook.com/priorityhealthcounselling

]]>da9ed4cd-f72d-4c08-beb0-8eb075a692a9Tue, 02 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -023001:02:51truefull55My Child Is An Addict: Navigating Addiction as a Father with Stephen RandellMy Child Is An Addict: Navigating Addiction as a Father with Stephen RandellEvery father faces challenges because being a good father is no easy task, but what if one of those challenges is a drug-addicted child? That was the case for Stephen Randell who lost his son to drug addiction at just 26 years of age.

In this episode of The Akkeri Podcast, Steve shares the story of how his son Zack became addicted to drugs and gradually turned into someone that Steve didn’t even recognize. He also shares how the writing of his book - My Son Is An Addict - was a deeply challenging yet healing process, as it forced him to relive the loss and come to terms with his own sadness as well as his fears related to telling the story as a fairly new author and public speaker.

In Steve’s own words, “addiction doesn’t show up one day as a full-blown, out-of-control thing”; it chips away at those it inflicts. So this is a conversation for fathers, sons, and men who can recognize the importance of authenticity in relationships and the courage to be "real", so that we can ask for help before we get to the point of potentially facing addiction ourselves.

Find Stephen Randell Here:

Website: https://stephenlrandell.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephennrandell

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephenlrandell

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-l-randell-a576812b2/


Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

]]>Every father faces challenges because being a good father is no easy task, but what if one of those challenges is a drug-addicted child? That was the case for Stephen Randell who lost his son to drug addiction at just 26 years of age.

In this episode of The Akkeri Podcast, Steve shares the story of how his son Zack became addicted to drugs and gradually turned into someone that Steve didn’t even recognize. He also shares how the writing of his book - My Son Is An Addict - was a deeply challenging yet healing process, as it forced him to relive the loss and come to terms with his own sadness as well as his fears related to telling the story as a fairly new author and public speaker.

In Steve’s own words, “addiction doesn’t show up one day as a full-blown, out-of-control thing”; it chips away at those it inflicts. So this is a conversation for fathers, sons, and men who can recognize the importance of authenticity in relationships and the courage to be "real", so that we can ask for help before we get to the point of potentially facing addiction ourselves.

Find Stephen Randell Here:

Website: https://stephenlrandell.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephennrandell

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephenlrandell

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-l-randell-a576812b2/


Find The Akkeri Here:

Website: TheAkkeri.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram: Instagram.com/the.akkeri

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAkkeri

]]>c344c4de-9d28-44e5-819c-b6355a7087e6Thu, 16 May 2024 09:00:00 -023055:00truefull44Fathers, Fathering, and Friendship with Matthew DenisFathers, Fathering, and Friendship with Matthew DenisWhat was your relationship with your father like? Maybe it was somewhat strained, like mine, or maybe it was idyllic. The relationships boys have with their fathers have obvious impacts on the men they later become, but it also affects how they form relationships with other men and how they fill the role of father, if given the opportunity.

In this episode of The Akkeri Podcast, I chat with longtime friend, Matthew Denis. Matt and I both lost our fathers to cancer and we discussed what our relationships with them were like, the societal and cultural factors that likely shaped them, and the important role of grace and empathy in relationship.

Matt has always been someone that I can easily have a laugh with, but I can just as easily dive into whatever is going on in my life and find a listening, supportive ear (even though he hasn’t listened to the podcast yet and didn’t know how to spell Akkeri). I hope this conversation is encouraging, inspiring, and maybe even a little entertaining (appreciation for sarcasm required).

Find The Akkeri Here:

Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram.com/the.akkeri

TheAkkeri.com

]]>What was your relationship with your father like? Maybe it was somewhat strained, like mine, or maybe it was idyllic. The relationships boys have with their fathers have obvious impacts on the men they later become, but it also affects how they form relationships with other men and how they fill the role of father, if given the opportunity.

In this episode of The Akkeri Podcast, I chat with longtime friend, Matthew Denis. Matt and I both lost our fathers to cancer and we discussed what our relationships with them were like, the societal and cultural factors that likely shaped them, and the important role of grace and empathy in relationship.

Matt has always been someone that I can easily have a laugh with, but I can just as easily dive into whatever is going on in my life and find a listening, supportive ear (even though he hasn’t listened to the podcast yet and didn’t know how to spell Akkeri). I hope this conversation is encouraging, inspiring, and maybe even a little entertaining (appreciation for sarcasm required).

Find The Akkeri Here:

Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram.com/the.akkeri

TheAkkeri.com

]]>39d162cd-e9df-45d4-b7c5-01758d616434Wed, 08 May 2024 09:00:00 -023051:53truefull33Balls: Men Finding Courage with Dr. Ron JohnsonBalls: Men Finding Courage with Dr. Ron JohnsonDo you consider yourself courageous?

I think most men would say "yes", but what about when it comes to your emotions?

Dr. Ron Johnson is an author and psychologist focused on helping men understand how they feel, value how they feel, and communicate how they feel.

And that's the reason for his new book 'Balls: Men Finding Courage With Words, Women, Work, and Wine ("wine" is a stand-in for addiction, because why ruin a good bit of alliteration?).

In this episode of The Akkeri Podcast, Ron shares his thoughts on the anxiety common among men, the important role of sadness, and how the courage to be vulnerable with our emotions is crucial to personal growth and success.

Find Dr. Ron Johnson Here:

His Practice: https://midlandspsychological.com/

His Blog: https://midlandspsychological.com/blog

His Books:

'I Want Tell You How I Feel: How to Know What You Feel, Express How You Feel, And How to Listen to Others'

'What's Your Temperament: Identifying and Enhancing Your Personality Strengths'

Find The Akkeri Here:

Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram.com/the.akkeri

TheAkkeri.com

]]>Do you consider yourself courageous?

I think most men would say "yes", but what about when it comes to your emotions?

Dr. Ron Johnson is an author and psychologist focused on helping men understand how they feel, value how they feel, and communicate how they feel.

And that's the reason for his new book 'Balls: Men Finding Courage With Words, Women, Work, and Wine ("wine" is a stand-in for addiction, because why ruin a good bit of alliteration?).

In this episode of The Akkeri Podcast, Ron shares his thoughts on the anxiety common among men, the important role of sadness, and how the courage to be vulnerable with our emotions is crucial to personal growth and success.

Find Dr. Ron Johnson Here:

His Practice: https://midlandspsychological.com/

His Blog: https://midlandspsychological.com/blog

His Books:

'I Want Tell You How I Feel: How to Know What You Feel, Express How You Feel, And How to Listen to Others'

'What's Your Temperament: Identifying and Enhancing Your Personality Strengths'

Find The Akkeri Here:

Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram.com/the.akkeri

TheAkkeri.com

]]>7bceef1d-9ddb-4694-a70d-fb109f34e867Sat, 06 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -023037:55truefull22Origins: What is The Akkeri and Who's The Bald GuyOrigins: What is The Akkeri and Who's The Bald GuyWhat is The Akkeri and who's the bald guy?

Deep, life-altering questions, I'm sure.

This first, inaugural episode is a story of fatherlessness, the good and bad of religion, adultery, separation, and divorce, failed business ventures, and more. It's the biggest challenges from what has been the hardest decade of my life to date.

It's a 10,000 foot view, for sure, but it'll give you an idea about who I am, what The Akkeri is and why it exists, and why I work with men as a mental health coach.

The TLDR: we need a conversation about men and masculinity that is deeply spiritual, profoundly vulnerable, and, with any luck, personally and culturally transformative.

Lofty goals, I know, but why not?

Find The Akkeri Here:

Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram.com/the.akkeri

TheAkkeri.com

]]>What is The Akkeri and who's the bald guy?

Deep, life-altering questions, I'm sure.

This first, inaugural episode is a story of fatherlessness, the good and bad of religion, adultery, separation, and divorce, failed business ventures, and more. It's the biggest challenges from what has been the hardest decade of my life to date.

It's a 10,000 foot view, for sure, but it'll give you an idea about who I am, what The Akkeri is and why it exists, and why I work with men as a mental health coach.

The TLDR: we need a conversation about men and masculinity that is deeply spiritual, profoundly vulnerable, and, with any luck, personally and culturally transformative.

Lofty goals, I know, but why not?

Find The Akkeri Here:

Facebook.com/theakkeri

Instagram.com/the.akkeri

TheAkkeri.com

]]>ffd43463-e74e-42b6-8ea1-ca0b9eb7a547Sat, 06 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -023019:07truefull11