In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler explores how creating options leads to true freedom. Expanding on the concept of "discipline equals freedom," Ryan argues that personal responsibility, open-mindedness, and sovereignty are key to unlocking a life of choice. He shares four actionable strategies to cultivate options, emphasizing self-improvement, avoiding rigid thinking, aligning relationships, and prioritizing liberty. Ryan inspires listeners to take control of their lives and p...
May 16, 2025•21 min
Join Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen for an engaging Ask Me Anything episode, tackling listener questions on sobriety, respect, body image, entrepreneurship, and relationships. From navigating a teen’s insecurities to balancing co-parenting conflicts, they share practical advice and personal insights. With humor and heart, they explore overcoming the comparison trap and building a fulfilling life. Sign up for the Men’s Forge at themensforge.com and join the Iron Council at orderofman.com/ironcoun...
May 14, 2025•1 hr 1 min
Leadership is a word that has become completely bastardized in modern culture. Everywhere you turn, someone is hyping you up on why you need to become a better leader, the benefits of leading versus following, and how exactly you should do it. But what if I told you, it’s not the tactics that make you a leader but the mindsets that spell the difference. My good friend, brother, and leadership coach, Kipp Sorensen , joins me today to talk about what it really means to lead in a world where every ...
May 13, 2025•1 hr 19 min
In this poignant episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler delves into the pitfalls of people-pleasing, drawing from personal reflection. He identifies five critical signs—saying yes when you mean no, avoiding conflict, feeling responsible for others’ emotions, tying self-worth to praise, and feeling burned out or resentful. Michler shares candid insights, referencing No More Mr. Nice Guy by Dr. Robert Glover and Let Them by Mel Robbins, offering practical anecdotes to break the cycle. Through...
May 09, 2025•37 min
In this "Ask Me Anything" episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen dive into a St. Louis event recap, sharing its triumphs and challenges. They tackle listener questions on sibling conflicts, leaving work stress behind, the pressures of leadership, marriage cycles, discovering personal values, and managing credit scores. With candid insights, Ryan and Kipp explore self-validation, intentionality, and aligning actions with values, offering practical advice for men striving to live purposefully. Jo...
May 07, 2025•1 hr 4 min
We’ve all heard the quote, “Hard times create strong men. Strong men create good times. Good times create weak men. Weak men create hard times.” Today, I have the author of that quote, Geoff Hopf on the podcast to talk about what he meant when we penned that phrase. Today, we talk about moral weakness and lacking skillsets, why masculinity does not need to be redefined, why accepting reality is such a crucial part of men’s growth, why all men want to be part of something great, the 4 pillars of ...
May 06, 2025•1 hr 19 min
In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler delivers a powerful message on embracing failure as a catalyst for growth. Drawing from personal experiences, he outlines six actionable strategies to learn from setbacks, including avoiding complacency, focusing on controllables, and forgiving oneself. Michler emphasizes resilience and personal responsibility, urging listeners to let go of past mistakes and build a better future. His candid, motivational approach inspires men to confront chall...
May 02, 2025•31 min
In this episode of Ask Me Anything, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorenson tackle tough, real-world questions from men facing divorce, personal setbacks, and disconnection at home. They dive into how optics impact execution, how to master emotional resilience through stress, and why ego can sabotage your growth. From powerful mindset shifts to tactical advice for navigating separation and fatherhood, this episode is packed with hard truths and uplifting insights. Whether you’re healing, leading, or rebu...
Apr 30, 2025•1 hr 5 min
It can be challenging to be faithful towards your goals and objectives in the seemingly endless supply of trials and adversity. Whether you’re dealing with a crippling financial situation, devastating divorce, or something like my guest today, Hal Elrod , dealt with, a life-threatening cancer diagnosis. In spite of all that, and more, you have responsibilities to take care of and duties to fulfill. So, how do you do it? Today, Hal and I talk about being realistic in your pursuits by balancing th...
Apr 29, 2025•1 hr 5 min
Ryan Michler shares seven essential mindsets for effective money management in this episode of Friday Field Notes. Aimed at men striving to protect, provide, and preside, Michler emphasizes money as a tool and metric of value, urging listeners to overcome emotional pitfalls and societal misconceptions. He outlines a strategic approach—fortify, neutralize, attack—and stresses the importance of professional support. With practical wisdom, Michler empowers men to master their finances and fulfill t...
Apr 25, 2025•30 min
Join Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen in this week's Ask Me Anything, exploring the pursuit of pleasure versus the pleasure of pursuit, the cultural shift of young men toward the right, and the power of solitude. They tackle listener questions on imposter syndrome, fatherhood, divorce, dating, financial decisions, and personal growth. With humor and insight, they debunk overhyped headlines, like the "astronaut" space crew, and share actionable advice for living purposefully. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 ...
Apr 23, 2025•1 hr 1 min
It’s no secret that most men want to find love in life and someone they can partner with throughout life. But the reality is that far-fewer men are doing the work required than ever before. And, for those who are actively looking for love, many of them are floundering when it comes to approaching women and building interest that could potentially lead to a long-term relationship. David Meessen is a man who has made it his life’s work to help men understand why they struggle and why society, at l...
Apr 22, 2025•1 hr 2 min
In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler explores the concept of self-betrayal, defining it as failing to act on known responsibilities or instincts. He discusses its consequences, including anxiety, poor relationships, and unfulfilled potential, and identifies emotional signs like frustration and impatience. Ryan provides actionable steps to overcome self-betrayal, such as listing neglected tasks, taking immediate action, and journaling emotions. Encouraging listeners to align actio...
Apr 18, 2025•29 min
Join Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen for an engaging "Ask Me Anything" episode, tackling listener questions on personal growth, trust, and balance. From auditing life’s decisions to rebuilding trust with kids, they dive into coachability, journaling, and managing overwork. Ryan shares insights from his Texas hunting trip and mentions The Men's Forge event (May 1-4). Expect raw reflections on letting go, choosing yourself, and earning trust, with practical advice for intentional living. SHOW HIGHL...
Apr 16, 2025•1 hr 2 min
It’s hard to believe that in the year 2025, child sex trafficking is as prolific as it is today. How is that with all the laws, legislation, and awareness that we’re still dealing with the torment of sexual exploitation with our sons and daughters? My guest today, Nate Lewis , has made it his life’s work to combat and overcoming the epidemic that is plaguing every corner of society. And, not only that, he is a huge proponent of finding your own mission and pouring all in on that – whatever it ma...
Apr 15, 2025•1 hr 18 min
In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler draws inspiration from Theodore Roosevelt’s iconic speech to explore resilience and masculinity. Michler challenges men to rise above criticism, embrace adversity, and take action despite life’s inevitable setbacks. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, he outlines steps to build confidence, act decisively, and critique oneself constructively without losing identity. Ryan emphasizes that true manhood shines in moments of struggle, ur...
Apr 11, 2025•28 min
In this "Ask Me Anything" episode, Kipp Sorensen and Shawn Villalovos tackle your burning questions with raw, actionable insights. From investing $10K wisely to navigating trivial work tasks, coaching U13 soccer teams, and guiding high-performing teens, they cover it all. Plus, hear candid advice on silencing self-criticism and handling toxic colleagues. Packed with life lessons on leadership, choice, and growth, this episode delivers real talk for real challenges. Tune in for wisdom that cuts t...
Apr 09, 2025•1 hr 15 min
We are all well-aware, at this point, that there is a very clear and deliberate assault against the concepts of manliness and masculinity. In fact, men are falling behind on some of the most crucial metrics you can image for a healthy society: depression rates, suicide, higher education, income potential, incarceration, substance abuse, committed relationships, workforce participation, and the list goes on and on. My guest today, after an incredibly successful start in Hollywood as Mike Seaver o...
Apr 08, 2025•1 hr 11 min
In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler explores what it means to be a comprehensive man, introducing a framework of head, heart, and hands—logic, empathy, and action. Reflecting on his own tendencies and biases, Ryan challenges listeners to identify their strengths and weaknesses across these dimensions. Through personal anecdotes, including a friend’s loss and a poignant Iron Council call, he emphasizes the need for balance to lead effectively in family, business, and community. R...
Apr 04, 2025•15 min
In this "Ask Me Anything" episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen dive into a viral morning routine video before tackling listener questions. From the power of comparison and faith in men’s ministries to essentialism in daily tasks and building friendships, they offer practical insights. Ryan shares his half-marathon experience, while Kipp celebrates his son’s jujitsu win. Expect raw, actionable advice on choosing battles, seeking guidance, and property investment, all laced with humor and real ...
Apr 02, 2025•1 hr
My guest today, Scott Payne, spent more than two decades working with some of the most notorious biker gangs, illegal drug operations, and neo-Nazis. And, it would be hard to even imagine some of the things he’s seen and experienced in his decades-long career as an FBI Special Agent. Today, Scott and I talk about what it takes to be a successful undercover agent, the lines that get blurred when working with some of the most dangerous criminals in the world, how to keep your cool under pressure (...
Apr 01, 2025•1 hr 24 min
In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler explores the provocative idea of "making yourself a more dangerous man." Far from advocating volatility, Michler redefines danger as effectiveness—knowing your goals, communicating with precision, and embodying conviction. Through personal anecdotes and actionable insights, he challenges men to reject wishy-washiness, embrace deliberate presentation, and overcome imposter syndrome by simply doing the work. With a blend of tough love and humili...
Mar 28, 2025•26 min
In this AMA episode, Shawn and Kipp tackle thought-provoking questions from listeners on personal growth, leadership, and mindset. They discuss teaching kids about success without overwhelming pressure, the role of humor in strong leadership, and the power of service. They also address workplace challenges, helping introverts engage, and balancing social life with family responsibilities. Tune in for deep insights, practical advice, and candid conversations on becoming a better leader, father, a...
Mar 26, 2025•54 min
We’re all somewhat familiar with our three-letter agencies but rarely, if ever, do we consider what some of the most intelligent people on the planet can teach us about communication, influence, and deception. But my guest is keenly aware of all three and how to implement powerful strategies to build trust, develop credibility, and get people to do what you want. His name is Jeffrey Sanow and he spent years as a Senior Intelligence Office with the CIA. Today, we talk about what the CIA looks for...
Mar 25, 2025•1 hr 10 min
In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler explores the vital role brotherhood plays in men’s lives. Drawing from personal struggles like divorce and alcohol abuse, he highlights five key benefits—belonging, usefulness, insight, support, and accountability—and warns of the isolation plaguing modern men. Ryan emphasizes how authentic male connections combat loneliness and foster growth, sharing candid stories and practical wisdom. He also introduces the Iron Council, his brotherhood init...
Mar 21, 2025•41 min
In this episode of the Ask Me Anything series, Ryan and Kipp discuss the importance of consistency, overcoming personal struggles, and maintaining balance in life. They answer viewer questions on topics such as handling grief, setting boundaries with family, staying disciplined during busy seasons, and dealing with an unruly dog. They also share insights on how small, consistent actions lead to lasting change. Whether you’re looking for practical advice or motivation, this episode has something ...
Mar 19, 2025•1 hr 20 min
Out of the millions of men I’ve worked with over the last 10 years, I’ve heard everything from a deep disdain and animosity towards God and Jesus to a rich and abiding love for His word. For me, I fall somewhere in the middle as I wrestle with my own relationship with Him and towards my faith and spirituality. And, that’s the reason I really wanted to talk with a huge influence in my life, John Eldredge. Today, John and I cover what faith and spirituality really look like, how the distraction er...
Mar 18, 2025•1 hr 16 min
In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler explores a powerful metaphor for masculinity. Drawing from nature, he contrasts the virtuous, leadership-driven traits of lions with the deceptive, self-serving behaviors of hyenas. Through five key distinctions—leading vs. following, earning vs. taking, brotherhood vs. matriarchy, fearlessness vs. deceit, and protection vs. predation—Ryan challenges men to embody the lion’s strength and integrity. With personal anecdotes and bold insights, he...
Mar 14, 2025•19 min
In this Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle pressing listener questions on parenting, leadership, and self-improvement. They discuss whether staying together for the kids is truly the best choice, how men often overcomplicate simple solutions, and why discounting others' success is a losing mindset. Ryan also shares insights on leading former peers, navigating the role of a stepfather, and staying accountable within the Iron Council. Packed with practical advice and to...
Mar 12, 2025•56 min
It’s been said that alcohol is the only drug that, if you don’t take it, people think something is wrong with you. And, I know firsthand what it’s like for alcohol use and abuse to take root in your life. My guest today, James Swanwick makes the case that there is nothing good that comes from drinking alcohol – even in moderation and on occasion. Today, we talk about how quickly it can compromise your quality of life, production, and relationships, why he views alcohol as nothing more than “Attr...
Mar 11, 2025•1 hr
