Recently I sat down with Matt Sturm (author of The Organic Masculine) alongside my collaborator Deus Fortier to do a post-event harvest from our immersion Eating the Shadow.

This men’s gathering was the first 5 day offering that Deus and I had put together, and we were beautifully affirmed by what happened in the container. Matt flew up from California to join us and experience the magic of what we created.

He has facilitated numerous men’s gatherings and been steeping in realms of archetypes & myth for many years - therefore, it’s a delight to unpack our time together with his keen eye and thoughtful heart.

This conversation is of particular interest to anyone facilitating transformational spaces for men, especially around the question of eros & sensuality.

“Masculinity is this amazing doorway into transformation. If we can shift our relationship away from something that's competitive into something that's collaborative, it actually illuminates possibilities in a way that supports all of us.”

We outline the state of men’s work today, along with the various permutations that have bloomed, from the mythic to the therapeutic. Matt shares his experiences and insights about crafting transformational spaces and the invocation of archetypes and ritual. We also discuss safety, trust, and collaboration in facilitation, and highlighting how these factors contribute to deeper connections and personal insight.

P.S. If you’re in the Vancouver region, catch Deus on Dec 8th at Resonance and Renewal: A Breathwork & Sound day for men.

The Mythic Masculine is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

SHOW NOTES

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Eating the Shadow

01:21 Background of the Guests

03:11 The Concept of Men's Work

08:45 The State of Men's Work Today

15:29 Exploring Eros and Intimacy

22:07 Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability

40:30 Facilitation and Collaboration

48:57 Future of Men's Work and Inviting A Peer Support Circle

52:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts