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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler discusses why every man must learn to advocate for himself. He explains how setting boundaries, communicating needs, and standing firm in convictions are essential for personal and professional success. Ryan challenges the belief that self-advocacy is selfish and presents compelling research on how men who stand up for themselves experience greater fulfillment, stronger relationships, and better health. He also shares practical steps for asser...
Mar 07, 2025•23 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week's Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle pressing questions from listeners on self-improvement, purpose, and resilience. They discuss the importance of discipline, finding passion, and navigating major life transitions like retirement. They also explore the impact of mindset on success, the dangers of victim mentality, and how small decisions can lead to lasting growth. Plus, Ryan shares a personal story about saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities. Tune in...
Mar 05, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Transcript available on Metacast The way you tap into the matter that represents the 6” between you ears matters. The fact is, all of us have the same amount of time in the day. Sure, some people are born more intelligent, wealthy, or connected than others. But can you level the playing field? That’s the only question that matters. My guest today, John Assaraf, believes that you can. He’s made it his life’s mission to show you how. Today, we talk about finding out if you’re “interested” or “committed” and the difference, how to...
Mar 04, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler explores the concept of Command Presence —the ability to lead with confidence, clarity, and composure. He breaks down the four essential pillars of command presence: Clarity, Character, Competence, and Composure . Through personal stories and real-world examples, Ryan explains why every man should cultivate this leadership trait to positively influence his family, workplace, and community. He also shares insights from a recent leadership discu...
Feb 28, 2025•23 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Order of Man, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle another round of Ask Me Anything, answering pressing questions from the Iron Council. They discuss the importance of letting go of past regrets, dealing with grief, navigating difficult conversations, and taking ownership of life’s decisions. Ryan also shares insights on leadership, personal responsibility, and the value of embracing discomfort for growth. Whether it’s coaching youth sports, handling setbacks, or preparing fo...
Feb 26, 2025•1 hr 19 min•Transcript available on Metacast It’s likely that all of you know my guest today but may not immediately recognize his name. He is Patrick Renna but you may know him his most well-known movie roll, Hamilton Porter from The Sandlot. But Patrick is so much more than the young kid we saw on the movie screen over 30 years ago. Today, Patrick and I talk about struggles people we put on pedestals face, pivoting in life but doing it in something you’re passionate about, how Hollywood has changed and how it will continue to do so, stri...
Feb 25, 2025•58 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler discusses the growing insecurity among men and how it affects their lives, relationships, and success. He shares five actionable strategies to build confidence, financial freedom, physical fitness, and self-discipline. Ryan challenges listeners to take control of their lives by eliminating negative influences, dressing with intention, and becoming men of conviction. This episode is a direct, no-nonsense guide to overcoming self-doubt and livin...
Feb 21, 2025•22 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle insightful questions from listeners, covering topics like overcoming the halo effect, balancing empathy with leadership, preparing for AI-driven job disruptions, and raising daughters with intention. They also discuss how to address concerns about a spouse’s well-being, the importance of personal integrity, and why many men struggle to support friends during hospital stays. Tune in for candid conversations, practical advice, ...
Feb 19, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Transcript available on Metacast Choose a metric regarding the health, wealth, and fulfillment of men and it’s easy to see that men are either falling drastically behind our female counterparts or, at a minimum, on a downward spiral. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think it’s a contest between the sexes (That would suggest that it’s a zero-sum game. It’s not). But it’s a glimpse into modern man’s gradual decline in his ability to protect, provide, and preside in his life and the lives of those he cares about. Matt Beaudreau joins m...
Feb 18, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler challenges men to simplify their lives by focusing on what truly matters. He breaks down five key areas—physical possessions, technology, environment, relationships, and work—where men can cut out the unnecessary and become more effective. By doing less but doing it better, men can increase their value, find deeper satisfaction, and lead more fulfilling lives. Ryan delivers a powerful message on eliminating distractions, setting boundaries, and...
Feb 14, 2025•20 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this AMA episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle hard-hitting questions from listeners on leadership, relationships, career growth, and personal development. They discuss overcoming fear, building strong teams, saving for the future while enjoying the present, and stepping up as a leader. Ryan also shares insights on assertiveness and taking responsibility, while Kipp breaks down the mindset shifts needed for growth. Plus, they highlight the power of networking and making bold career m...
Feb 12, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Transcript available on Metacast You may not immediately recognize the names, Lee and Andrew Child, but I bet you know the name, Jack Reacher. Lee is the creator of Jack Reacher and Andrew is now the man who will carry on the legacy of the man who all of us want to be like. Today, I am joined by the iconic and legendary duo and authors of the Jack Reacher series. We talk about so much including the nature of men, the power of good storytelling (whether you’re a fictional author or just want to be a good dad), the “Robin Hood My...
Feb 11, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler explores the crucial role men play in shaping the next generation. He discusses the consequences of fatherlessness, the importance of mentorship, and the responsibility of men to lead by example. Ryan shares personal experiences and actionable steps to ensure boys grow into strong, virtuous men. He emphasizes leading from the front, getting involved, and knowing when to step back to let others rise. This episode is a powerful reminder that the ...
Feb 07, 2025•25 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week’s AMA episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen dive into a range of thought-provoking topics, from the role of masculinity in the arts to overcoming stagnation and embracing the underdog mindset. They tackle viewer questions on leadership, personal growth, and maintaining momentum after success. Ryan shares insights on self-improvement, discipline, and the power of artistic expression in shaping culture. Tune in for a compelling discussion that challenges conventional thinking and of...
Feb 05, 2025•57 min•Transcript available on Metacast I recorded this podcast with Anson Frericks, former Anheuser-Busch Executive, about a month ago before Trump took office and began putting the final nails in the coffin of “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion,” (DEI) at the federal level. But, even before that, we saw the decline and predicted the ultimate downfall of DEI initiatives with very notable cases such as the Bud Light fiasco and subsequent boycott. Now, with Target, Amazon, Harley-Davidson, and more notable companies are dismantling thes...
Feb 04, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler explores the powerful concept of “Will it Make the Boat Go Faster?” , a mantra for making decisions that drive real progress. Inspired by Olympic rower Ben Hunt-Davis, Ryan shares how this mindset can be applied to career growth, relationships, health, and personal goals. He discusses the importance of setting clear objectives, testing strategies, and adjusting when necessary. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction to the concept 01:42 - The Oly...
Jan 31, 2025•19 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week’s Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle a variety of topics, including building wealth, establishing healthy boundaries, and balancing hobbies with responsibilities. They explore how to lead effectively, the tiers of accountability, and the importance of fostering integrity in relationships and organizations. With personal insights, practical strategies, and engaging humor, Ryan and Kipp deliver actionable advice for men striving to improve their personal an...
Jan 29, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Transcript available on Metacast “Men aren’t emotional.” “Men are more logical than their female counterparts.” “Men don’t cry.” These are all things you’ve heard whether they’ve been directed at you or not. But the reality paints a different story. Men are emotional. But that’s not to say that we ought to let ourselves be led by our emotions alone. Dr. Ethan Kross understands this well as a man who researches how we, as humans, both feel and react to those feelings. Today, we talk about how to deal with intrusive thoughts, how...
Jan 28, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler dives into the powerful concept of the stories men tell themselves and how these narratives shape their identity, success, and outlook on life. Ryan challenges listeners to rewrite negative scripts, adopt a victor mindset, and use their inner dialogue to build resilience and purpose. He emphasizes the importance of self-talk, taking responsibility, and reframing experiences as opportunities for growth. This inspiring episode will leave you refl...
Jan 24, 2025•39 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this "Ask Me Anything" episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle thought-provoking topics like entrepreneurial mindset, rediscovering drive after setbacks, and the dynamics of relationships. They answer listener questions on building self-discipline, explaining love to kids, and navigating life’s challenges with resilience. Ryan and Kipp also share insights on avoiding victimhood and embracing personal responsibility, alongside their thoughts on leadership, success, and living intentiona...
Jan 22, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Transcript available on Metacast Stories are what make the world go ‘round. From selling a product, service, or podcast like this one, to dating, raising kids, and building friendships, the stories you tell yourself and others are going to either unlock doors and open opportunities…or close the doors before you even had to chance to see them there. Donald Miller is an expert storyteller and an expert and helping other people articulate and share theirs. Today, we talk about why humans are so interested in storytelling, what fou...
Jan 21, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler delves into the tragic events of the LA fires to uncover critical lessons about preparedness, responsibility, and leadership. He emphasizes the importance of self-reliance, accountability in governance, and practical approaches to safeguarding our families and communities. Drawing from real-world examples and personal reflections, Ryan challenges listeners to think critically about their own preparedness and role in protecting their loved ones....
Jan 17, 2025•30 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week’s episode of Ask Me Anything, Ryan Michler takes on an engaging solo session to address viewers’ thought-provoking questions. Covering topics like combating complacency, building confidence, improving communication, overcoming insomnia, escaping the comparison trap, and fostering a positive relationship with finances, Ryan delivers actionable advice and personal experiences. Packed with practical wisdom, this AMA is a must-listen for anyone seeking to enhance their mindset, leadersh...
Jan 15, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Transcript available on Metacast With the brand-new year, I figured it would be a good idea to talk with an expert on the topic of health and fitness. For almost 10 years, I’ve suggested that if a man is just getting on (or back on) the path of self-development, the gym is the best place to start. There are a lot of reason for this but I think my guest, Brandon Mancine would agree. Today, Brandon and I talk about three types of fitness goals every man should implement (all three have merit), why a broken past does not define yo...
Jan 14, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler dives into the pressing challenges men face in today’s cultural landscape. From the battle for personal sovereignty to equipping families and communities with the tools to thrive, Ryan delivers actionable advice for reclaiming masculinity and creating meaningful change. He emphasizes the importance of fixing oneself first, engaging in local politics, and building networks of like-minded men to confront societal pressures. Tune in for an inspir...
Jan 10, 2025•24 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week’s Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle thought-provoking viewer questions about personal transformation, leadership, family dynamics, and overcoming challenges. From handling the balance between work and family to breaking free from nice guy syndrome, the conversation dives deep into actionable strategies for growth. Ryan and Kipp also explore boundaries in relationships, the dangers of victimhood, and how sovereignty ties into service. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:0...
Jan 08, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Transcript available on Metacast 2024 has officially drawn to a close and, with all the incredible conversations I’ve had over the past 12 months, I thought it would be a good idea to recap some of the best moments from a dozen of the over 52 interviews I did. All this in one simple and easy place to hit the highlights! SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 0:00 - Episode Intro 2:50 - Adversity Introduces a Man to Himself (with Bedros Keuilian) 11:00 - Control the Controllable with Kyle Thompson 15:30 - How to Build Fierce Empathy with David Waldy 2...
Jan 07, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler delves into the concept of sovereignty and provides actionable insights for men to regain control over their lives in 2025. Ryan emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility, setting goals, maintaining health, and eliminating excuses to achieve freedom in every aspect of life. From creating a compelling vision to tightening finances, Ryan outlines a blueprint for building a strong foundation of self-reliance and leadership. This episode...
Jan 03, 2025•30 min•Transcript available on Metacast 
