In this episode of Motivated Masculine Men, Chris Chandler-Yates sits down with Ashley Smith to dig deep into the real work it takes to build strong, respectful, and lasting relationships in today’s world.

From the shifting ground of modern gender roles to the importance of vulnerability, communication, and boundaries, Chris and Ashley tackle what makes—or breaks—partnerships. They explore how cultural backgrounds shape our ideas of masculinity and femininity, the evolution of DEI initiatives, and the role of physical appearance in both personal and professional opportunities.

Ashley brings a clear, no-nonsense perspective: relationships should be a team effort, not a hierarchy. Chris reinforces that men who embrace emotional intelligence, self-respect, and authentic connection not only strengthen their relationships but also redefine what it means to lead as a man.

If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate modern dating, maintain balance in long-term partnerships, and be the kind of man who inspires trust and respect, this conversation delivers the blueprint.

Connect with Ashley Smith
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What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why healthy masculinity blends strength, respect, and emotional intelligence.

• How cultural perspectives influence how we see gender roles.

• Why communication is the backbone of any successful relationship.

• How to set boundaries without building walls.

• The evolving challenges of modern dating for men.

• The difference between compromise and sacrifice in partnerships.

• Why teamwork—not hierarchy—creates lasting relationships.

• The role of self-respect in attracting and keeping the right partner.

In this episode, Chris sits down with John Smith to unpack what it means to be a man today. They explore how masculinity is evolving ,cutting through the noise around “toxic masculinity” to focus on what healthy masculinity really looks like: responsibility, vulnerability, and purpose.

John shares personal stories about managing work stress, maintaining relationships, and the importance of physical and mental health. Together, they highlight how men can communicate better, build strong support networks, and know when to hold on or walk away from relationships.

This conversation is a reminder that masculinity isn’t about hiding emotions or fitting a mold, it’s about knowing yourself, growing continuously, and leading with integrity.

Connect with John Smith
🎧 Podcast: I Shower After Work
📧 john@isawpodcast.com | hosts@isawpodcast.com
🌐 isawpodcast.com

Connect with Motivated Masculine Men
📱 Follow on social media: @MotivatedMasculineMen
🌐 www.motivatedmasculinemen.com
📧 brotherhood@motivatedmasculinemen.com
⭐ Leave a rating and review to help us reach more listeners.
🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

What You’ll Learn

• Why vulnerability is key to growth and stronger relationships

• How to spot and reject toxic behavior without confusing it with masculinity

• The importance of honest communication at work and home

• How physical health ties into emotional well-being

• Building a support system beyond your partner

• Recognizing when to fight for or exit a relationship

• Practical steps toward personal growth and self-care

In this episode of Fight the Burnout, Chris sits down with retired LAPD Lieutenant Jeff Wenninger to unpack a career and life shaped by resilience, integrity, and purpose.From being adopted into a multiracial family in Ohio, to a wrongful arrest in college that unexpectedly set him on the path into policing, Jeff’s story is one of transformation through adversity. Over his 33-year career, he served in some of the most high-pressure roles in law enforcement: SWAT, K9, Metro Division, and the Rampart CRASH unit during its federal oversight period, while never losing sight of the importance of empathy, diversity, and community connection.Jeff shares how he avoided severe burnout by refusing to let the badge define him, maintaining outside passions like hockey and coaching youth, and mentoring others in the importance of masculine leadership rooted in integrity. He also opens up about the reforms he believes policing urgently needs today: smarter hiring, more comprehensive training, better mental health support, and building public trust through consistent, authentic engagement.If you’re a man navigating leadership, purpose, or high-pressure environments, this conversation will inspire you to rethink strength, not as unfeeling toughness, but as the balance of discipline, vulnerability, and service.Learn More About Jeff Wenninger🌐 Website: ⁠https://jeffwenninger.com/⁠📚 Book: On Thin Ice – Insights into policing culture, leadership, and reform.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow early life experiences shaped Jeff’s perspective on justice and leadership.The mindset shifts that helped him navigate and prevent burnout in a demanding career.Why mentoring and positive role models are critical for shaping young men’s futures.Practical ideas for reforming law enforcement culture from the inside out.How to maintain mission and purpose after leaving a long-term career.Connect with Motivated Masculine Men📱 Follow on social media: @MotivatedMasculineMen⭐ Leave a rating and review to help us reach more listeners.🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.