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Hard Men Podcast

Eric Connericconn.com
Recovering biblical masculinity in a world of softness.
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Episodes

The Masculine Toughness of Nolan Ryan

Send us a text! We live in soft, comfortable world today in the West. At least most of us do. In this episode, we're going to talk about the hard virtues of physical courage and toughness—something embodied in one of the greatest MLB pitchers of all time, Nolan Ryan. They called him Big Tex. The Nolan Express. He pitched a record-setting 7 no hitters. In his early days, he threw a blistering 108-MPH fastball. In this episode, we'll explore the manly toughness of Nolan Ryan. Sign up for the New C...

Feb 02, 202453 minSeason 1Ep. 148

Plutarch's Timeless Wisdom: Alex Petkas on Courage, Leadership, and the Shaping of Great Men

Send us a text! In this episode, I talk with Alex Petkas, host of the Cost of Glory podcast . He's also a former professor with a Princeton PhD in Classical Literature. His podcast is a dramatic retelling of Plutarch's Lives, which is one of the most influential books in human history. We'll discuss why Christians can benefit from Plutarch. We talk about why there are so few great men today, why rhetoric is important for leadership, and how Alex once interacted with Elon Musk on Twitter/X about ...

Jan 19, 20241 hr 5 min

Lonesome Dove, July Johnson, and the Failure of Weak Men

Send us a text! Larry McMurtry's book, Lonesome Dove, earned him a Pulitzer prize. The author was a master at unpacking relational dynamics in engaging prose. In this episode, we talk about how July Johnson embodies the failures of the soft Mr. Nice Guy. We also talk about practical steps for me to stand up to their wives, which is the only recipe for a happy home. We'll dissect the compelling interplay between characters like Gus McCray and Woodrow F. Call, offering profound reflections on life...

Jan 11, 202436 minSeason 1Ep. 146

The Patriarchy is Inevitable: Taylor Swift, Rush Limbaugh, & Father Rule

Send us a text! As the Taylor Swift X saga continues, it's interesting to note that her father, her producers, and the support staff around Taylor are largely comprised of—wait for it—men. In this episode, we'll unpack just how God has ordered the world and how patriarchy, like Thanos claimed about himself, is inevitable. Rush Limbaugh talked about girls softening their conservative fathers . The Daily Mail covered my tweet , which now has 22.5 million impressions. Newsweek also weighed in. As d...

Dec 15, 202338 minSeason 1Ep. 145

Smashing Celebrity Idols: Taylor Swift, a Viral X Post, and Duties of Fatherhood

Send us a text! A recent tweet of Eric's went viral on Twitter/X, which at the time of this post, had reached over 10 million impressions. What gives? Taylor Swift appeared on TIME magazine as "Person of the Year," scantily clad and with a cat draped around her neck. It may be the perfect picture of today's feminine ideal, but it's also heinously destructive for women, families, and society. We discuss in this week's episode. In this episode we talk about a father's duty to protect his daughter'...

Dec 08, 202359 minSeason 1Ep. 144

A Response to Kevin DeYoung and the 'Moscow Mood'

Send us a text! Who gets to define the boundaries of acceptable language in Christian circles? Why does the Christian community appear to be divided by the use of strong language? Join me and my co-host, Pastor Dan Burkholder as we tackle these thought-provoking questions. In this episode, we interrogate Kevin DeYoung's critique of the so-called 'Moscow mood,' as embodied by the outspoken Christian leader Doug Wilson. Delving into the discourse, we dissect DeYoung's arguments, offering our own i...

Dec 01, 20231 hr 11 minSeason 1Ep. 143

7 Principles for Starting a Business in a World Gone Mad

Send us a text! When men don't have economic freedom, as we found out during 2020, they don't have freedom, period. What can they do to find economic freedom? In this episode, we talk about the seven principles for starting a business in a world gone mad. We'll talk about how to start a side hustle or small business, and what ingredients are needed to make that endeavor successful. We'll talk about Jim Collins' book, Good to Great, and the Hedgehog Principle—which is your guide to making money a...

Nov 25, 202318 minSeason 1Ep. 142

Dr. Austin Lake on Women's Hormone Health & Functional Medicine

Send us a text! What if we told you that you could feel better, live better and understand your body on a deeper level, all by simply listening to our conversation with an expert? That's right. We're joined by Dr. Austin Lake , a specialist in women's health and functional medicine. He unravels the complex world of women's hormone health, offering a fresh perspective on how functional medicine differs from traditional methods and how it can be a game-changer for women of all ages. Dr. Lake's exp...

Nov 11, 20231 hr 8 minSeason 1Ep. 141

Exploring the Haunted Cosmos with Ben Garrett: Dyatlov Pass, Exorcism, Moon Landing, Vampires & Cessationism

Send us a text! Get ready to embark on a thrilling ride into the Haunted Cosmos with Ben Garrett as we dive into uncharted territories. From the chilling tales of Dyatlov Pass to the enigma of Sasquatch and the captivating narratives of the moon landing, our exploration is sure to take you on a roller coaster of emotions. Ben's deep interest in theoretical physics adds an insightful touch to our conversation as we grapple with supernatural phenomena and their place in Christianity and modern ref...

Nov 03, 202348 minSeason 1Ep. 140

The Boniface Option with Andrew Isker: MLB's Trevor Bauer, Demographic Replacement, Christian Nationalism, & Defeating Trash World

Send us a text! Get ready to challenge your preconceptions as we plunge headfirst into a whirlpool of controversial topics that will make you question what you thought you knew. Together with our insightful guest, Andrew Isker , we'll dissect the damaging fallout of false accusations using Trevor Bauer's case as an example, and expose the sobering reality of how such unfounded claims can erode our faith in justice, and ultimately hurt genuine victims. We'll also shine a light on the distressing ...

Oct 18, 20231 hr 7 minSeason 1Ep. 139

Christian Nationalism with C.Jay Engel: Jenna Ellis, James Lindsay, 'No Enemies to the Right,' and Franco

Send us a text! The battle lines are drawn, and the topic of Christian nationalism is today's fighting ground. Our guest, C.Jay Engel ( follow him on X ), takes us on a riveting journey through the complex terrains of political theory, revealing his personal encounters with Jenna Ellis and James Lindsay, and shedding light on the regime's narrative tactics. The discussion delves into the decline of the post-World War II liberal consensus and its implications on our current political landscape, u...

Oct 11, 20231 hr 8 minSeason 1Ep. 138

Unmasking Hollywood: Kevin Sorbo on Media Influence, Cancel Culture, and Making Men Masculine Again

Send us a text! Could your favorite films be aiding in the emasculation of men? Here's a bold statement for you: Hollywood and mainstream media are playing a significant role in this troubling trend. In this riveting conversation, our special guest, Kevin Sorbo , from the Hercules TV show, offers an insider perspective on this issue. An outspoken Christian and conservative, Kevin unpacks this phenomenon using examples like the Barbie films and discusses the forces shaping these narratives. Kevin...

Oct 04, 202346 minSeason 1Ep. 137

Masculinity & Gendered Piety with Pastor Rich Lusk: A Discussion on Gilder, Nancy Pearcey and 'The Toxic War on Masculinity'

Send us a text! Are you ready to challenge your perspectives on masculinity and gender roles? Buckle up, as Pastor Rich Lusk joins us for an enlightening discourse on these complex issues, dissecting the intricacies of Nancy Pearcey's The Toxic War on Masculinity . With a keen eye on the societal implications, we pull apart the concept of headship in a household, the role of women, and the need for impulse control in both genders. All the while, we don't shy away from critiquing Pearcey's work, ...

Sep 27, 20231 hr 19 minSeason 1Ep. 136

The Toxic War on Masculinity with Nancy Pearcey

Send us a text! I talk with Professor Nancy Pearcey about her book The Toxic War On Masculinity . We delve into the heart of masculinity's trials and tribulations in a secular world. We talk about the struggles men face in education, work, and life expectancy and debunk the often overlooked reality of Christian men breaking adverse stereotypes. We also discuss the power of the father-son relationship and how society can better support fathers. Can you trace the concept of toxic masculinity back ...

Sep 21, 202357 minSeason 1Ep. 135

How to Make Money: A Biblical Guide to Wealth Creation

Send us a text! Is wealth creation a good and biblical concept? If it is, why are so many Christians bad at making money? What if the Bible held the key to financial success? Kevin Love and I delve into an engaging discourse that challenges the conventional wisdom of Christianity and money—dismantling the notion that wealth and faith are opposites. Join us as we dissect biblical teachings on wealth, navigating the fine line between the sinfulness of loving money and the righteousness of using it...

Sep 07, 20231 hr 20 minSeason 1Ep. 134

Unlocking the Secrets of Smart Debt Management with Joe Garrisi

Send us a text! How do you manage debt? It's a tricky subject. Prepare to untangle the complexities of debt management with Joe Garrisi, the brains behind Backwards Planning Financial , who joins us for this insightful conversation with today's guest host, Dan Berkholder. From the popular debt snowball approach to the more nuanced strategies of debt avalanche and consolidation, we'll illuminate the path to financial freedom for you. And hey, we don't just stop at theory—we'll give practical insi...

Aug 30, 20231 hr 10 minSeason 1Ep. 133

Unpacking America's Socio-Political Unrest with Nate Fischer: Oliver Anthony, The War Against Trump, REN, BAP, & Jake Meador

Send us a text! The socio-political landscape in America is currently a bed of hot coals, rife with tension and discontent, as the recent viral song "Rich Men North of Richmond" from Oliver Anthony demonstrates. There's a massive disconnect between elites and the working class. Globalism vs. Populism. Christianity Today vs. actual Christians in America today. Joining us for a captivating discussion of this situation is Nate Fischer of New Founding , bringing to light the widening disconnect betw...

Aug 24, 202347 minSeason 1Ep. 132

Transforming Fitness with Anthony Diehl: Strength, Discipline, and Masculinity

Send us a text! In today's episode, we're joined by Anthony Diehl, who turned his life around by losing 90 pounds in under a year. He discovered his passion for fitness during his freshman year of college, and has since become a strong advocate for the power of physical discipline, sharing insights from his journey as he went from an overweight college freshman to a disciplined fitness aficionado. Anthony is a fitness coach and Strongman competitor. He highlights the sense of camaraderie that th...

Aug 17, 202359 minSeason 1Ep. 131

America's Rural-Urban Divide: Why Jason Aldean's 'Try That in a Small Town' Sparked Controversy

Send us a text! America is divided, but how deep does that division run? Do our small towns and cities see the world through fundamentally different lenses? Today's episode takes a deep dive into this national dichotomy, sparked by the recent release of Jason Aldean’s controversial song, Try that in a Small Town . I dissect the song and its depiction of the ongoing divide between rural areas and urban centers, particularly in the wake of 2020’s events. We also discuss the song’s resonance with t...

Aug 10, 202349 minSeason 1Ep. 130

The Case for Leaving Godless Places with Joel Webbon

Send us a text! How should Christians think about leaving godless blue states? In this episode, I talk with pastor Joel Webbon about his new book, Fight by Flight: Why Leaving Godless Places is Loving Godless Places . We'll also talk about the upcoming Right Response Christendom 2.0 Conference , which is about seven doctrines: Reformed Confessionalism, Covenant Theology, Biblical Patriarchy, Presuppositionalism, Kyperianism, General Equity Theonomy, and Post-Millennialism. Sit tight as we unpack...

Aug 01, 20231 hr 8 minSeason 1Ep. 129

How Should We Think About Women in Sports?

Send us a text! In a Title IX, women's lib era, it's a cultural given that women should participate in sports exactly as men do. After all, anything you can do, men, women can probably do better. And so it's not uncommon to see women in the MMA, Australian rugby, and WNBA. Often, these women are dressed in sexually enticing attire, as is the case with women's beach volleyball. Women often miss menstrual cycles and suffer higher rates of concussion and ACL tears. How should a Christian think abou...

Jul 20, 202354 minSeason 1Ep. 128

Creating a Path to Success with Hon. Ron Simmons

Send us a text! The Hon. Ron Simmons served three terms in the Texas House of Representatives and served as CEO of an investment firm that managed over $3 billion in funds. He later was appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott as chairman of the board of Texas Mutual Insurance Company, with over $1 billion in annual revenue. He's also the father of Allie Beth Stuckey, host of the Relatable podcast on The Blaze. We talk life and leadership lessons, as well as his new book, " Life Lessons from the Little Red...

Jul 12, 20231 hrSeason 1Ep. 127

How Can Young Men Prepare for Marriage?

Send us a text! In this episode of The Pugilist (a Patreon exclusive podcast), pastor Dan Berkholder and I discuss the key principles to help young men get ready for marriage. We'll talk about being a high capacity provider, spiritual leader, and someone who honors their parents. What other things should a young man be aiming at? What should young ladies be looking for? Talk to Joe Garrisi about managing your wealth . Sign up for Barbell Logic . Place your meat order with Salt & Strings . 10...

Jul 07, 202359 minSeason 1Ep. 126

Speaking Boldly on Sexuality with Pastor Michael Clary

Send us a text! Michael Clary recently released a book, " God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality. " We talk about the book, and why pastors today need to speak plainly and courageously on hot button issues like sexuality. Follow Michael on Substack . Or Twitter . Talk to Joe Garrisi about managing your wealth . Sign up for Barbell Logic . Place your meat order with Salt & Strings . 10 Ways to Make Money with Your MAXX-D Trailer . Get your Hard Men ...

Jun 29, 20231 hr 7 minSeason 1Ep. 125

Embracing Rest & Battling Overload

Send us a text! The new Christendom shouldn't be pursued with an overload or burnout pace, but that's often what we default to. There's a lot to do, which means we have to embrace a grace-paced work ethic. In this episode, I unpack Psalm 127 and how it informs our work building God's house. Talk to Joe Garrisi about managing your wealth . Sign up for Barbell Logic . Place your meat order with Salt & Strings . 10 Ways to Make Money with Your MAXX-D Trailer . Get your Hard Men Slonk eggs coffe...

Jun 14, 202334 minSeason 1Ep. 124

Iraq War, Marine Corps Life, & 'March or Die' with Jeremy Stalnecker

Send us a text! Jeremy Stalnecker served in the First Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division as an infantry platoon commander and took part in the Battle of Baghdad. In this episode, we talk about lessons from warfare, including "March or Die." We also talk about transitioning to civilian life, brotherhood and mission, PTSD, and how to overcome adversity. Listen to Jeremy on The Situation Report . Listen to Jeremy on March or Die . Jeremy is the CEO of the Mighty Oaks Foundation . 10 Wa...

Jun 01, 202358 minSeason 1Ep. 123

Acts 29, The Woke Buzzsaw, & The Big Eva Machine

Send us a text! I talk with pastor Matt Patrick , from the Well Church in Boulder, Colorado, about how his church got kicked out of Acts 29. We talk about what went on with Acts 29, how they were connected to the 2020 mainstream narrative, and what it all has to do with the Big Eva machine. Check out the Full Proof Theology Podcast where Matt and Chase Davis talk more about why Acts 29 removed their church from the network. 10 Ways to Make Money with Your MAXX-D Trailer . Get your Hard Men Slonk...

May 23, 20231 hr 1 minSeason 1Ep. 122

Special: How to Build & Manage Wealth

Send us a text! In this episode, Dan Berkholder talks with Joe Garrisi, a wealth management advisor with Backwards Planning Financial , about how you can build & manage wealth. 10 Ways to Make Money with Your MAXX-D Trailer . Get your Hard Men Slonk eggs coffee mug by signing up on Patreon . Sign up today for coaching at Barbell-Logic.com/HardMen . Order your meat bundle today at SaltandStrings.com . Support the show...

May 11, 202345 minSeason 1Ep. 121

What Went Wrong With 90s Men's Ministries?

Send us a text! In this episode, I talk with pastor Jared Sparks from The Shepherd's Crook about 90s men's ministries, including Promise Keepers, and what some of the pitfalls of those movements were. The Shepherd's Crook Podcast with Jared Sparks. 10 Ways to Make Money with Your MAXX-D Trailer . Get your Hard Men Slonk eggs coffee mug by signing up on Patreon . Sign up today for coaching at Barbell-Logic.com/HardMen . Order your meat bundle today at SaltandStrings.com . Support the show...

May 10, 20231 hr 2 minSeason 1Ep. 120

Why You Need to Be the Absolute Best At What You Do

Send us a text! How can you maximize your vocational prowess? In this episode, I talk with pastor, headmaster, and real estate agent Kevin Love about why you should be great at what you do if you want to crush it in your vocation. 10 Ways to Make Money with Your MAXX-D Trailer . Get your Hard Men Slonk eggs coffee mug by signing up on Patreon . Sign up today for coaching at Barbell-Logic.com/HardMen . Order your meat bundle today at SaltandStrings.com . Support the show...

May 03, 20231 hr 25 minSeason 1Ep. 119
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