What does it really mean to be a man today? In this episode, Nic sits down with John Broadbent, author of Man Unplugged and the newly released second edition Man Unplugged: Secret Men’s Business. Together they explore the pressures, confusion, and disconnection many men experience, especially those juggling business, family, and the expectations of modern life.
John’s story will feel familiar to a lot of tradies. He built a strong career and a successful business, then watched everything collapse in a way that shook his identity, his relationships, and his confidence all at once. Instead of skipping past the hard parts, he talks honestly about what came after and how he slowly rebuilt who he was, and not just what he did.
A big part of John’s message is that most men today have never been shown what growing up as a man actually looks like. Traditional rites of passage have disappeared, leaving many blokes unsure of their place as partners, fathers, leaders, and mates. Without clear milestones or healthy male role models, it is easy to feel stuck or disconnected, even when life looks fine on the outside.
Nic and John take a close look at why men struggle to talk openly, why vulnerability can feel risky, and why the expectations on men are so mixed. Be strong but sensitive, be protective but open, be successful but not too much. It is confusing, and John explains it in a way that makes sense of what so many men feel but rarely say out loud.
The episode also offers practical direction. John shares how men’s groups, real conversations with mates, and a better understanding of inner work can help men feel more grounded and supported. He also talks about how important connection is, not just for men themselves but for their partners, families, and workplaces. Often the first step is simply letting someone in or being willing to explore these ideas with an open mind.
When you take care of your inner world, it shows up in your leadership, your relationships, and your business. Feeling connected and supported makes everything else work better.
You can find John’s book and more at manunplugged.com.au. You can also connect with John through Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
