Phenomenal Conversation #39: Evolving the Male Psyche for a New Era with Rudy Waele

In this episode, Rudy de Waele shares his journey and insights on the evolution of masculinity in the 21st century.Key points covered:

1️⃣ Rudy’s BackgroundRudy transitioned from working at the forefront of art, technology, culture, and innovation to leadership development, regeneration, focusing on men’s work. His shift was shaped by his time at Singularity University, where he recognised the risks of a tech-dominated future lacking human connection, and by his immersion in Socratic Design and regenerative practices while living in Turkey.

2️⃣ COVID as a Turning PointWhen the pandemic struck, Rudy lost his career as a futurist speaker, causing a profound identity crisis. The collapse of his “provider” role led him to deeply question his self-worth, ultimately pushing him into inner work and the formation of men’s circles.

3️⃣ Main Challenges Facing Men Today Rudy identifies key issues men face:

• Lack of purpose and direction
• Difficulty expressing and processing emotions
• Struggles in intimate relationships
• Loneliness and lack of male bonding
• Societal pressure to achieve
• Disconnection from the body and intuition
• Unwillingness to integrate feminine energy
• Many of these challenges, he argues, stem from unresolved relationships with fathers and a constant need to prove worth.

• Be vulnerable without judgment
• Explore limiting beliefs and inherited trauma
• Heal both wounded or immature masculine and feminine energies
• Rebuild emotional literacy and connection
• Develop a sense of belonging and shared growth

4️⃣ Impact of Technology and AlgorithmsThe conversation highlights how online algorithms can reinforce toxic masculine ideals by steering young men into filter bubbles, exposing them to unhealthy role models. This digital landscape often replaces the real-world community, deepening isolation, especially among younger men.

5️⃣ The Power of Men’s CirclesRudy’s core response is building community through men’s circles. In these spaces, men are encouraged to:

6️⃣ Path to Healthy MasculinityThe ultimate goal is to help men transition from a state of suffering or victimhood to one of empowerment. Rudy emphasises reconnecting with inner truth, integrating personal wounds, embracing “king” and “warrior” energies, and living intentionally through practices like mindful routines and connection with nature.

More about Rudy's work here

His Unconditional Men Blog on Substack

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Phenomenal Conversations are crafted and curated to expand imagination, ask profound questions and promote generative enquiry in order to embrace the magnitude of the polycrisis and contribute towards a (Re)Generative Worldview

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