Why This Conversation Matters

Men often carry trauma silently. Many push through pain without asking for help, hoping it will fade with time. But as the hosts share, trauma always finds a way to show up: in our communication, our leadership style, our confidence, and our ability to connect.

Jonathan explains that trauma can knock leaders “off their game,” making it harder to stay engaged or solution-focused. Mike adds that men often grow up learning to hide vulnerability rather than express it. And Taylor opens up about depression impacting his ability to stay plugged in with his own business.

Their message is simple but powerful:

Trauma is universal. Healing requires awareness, honesty, and community.

In Episode 2 of the Inherent Self Podcast, we explore the difference between “being happy” and living with true purpose. Taylor, Mike, and Jonathan unpack why so many men feel unfulfilled, how upbringing and survival mode shape our identity, and why purpose isn’t something you find once — it’s something you grow into through community, connection, and honest work.

Men’s Mental Health Isn’t a Buzzword — It’s Survival.

Why is it still so hard for men to talk about what we’re feeling? In Episode 1 of the Inherent Self Podcast, host Taylor Draper with co-hosts Mike Regennitter and Jonathan Liebert go straight at stigma, isolation, and the cultural programming that keeps men silent—then offer real first steps that any guy can take today.

“You don’t have to say everything. Start with one sentence: ‘I’m off today.’ That courage opens the door.”

What you’ll learn

• A clear, human definition of mental health (mind + body + community)

• Why men are 4x more likely to die by suicide and how we change that—together

• How generational norms & media shaped today’s silence (and why Gen Z is breaking it)

• Practical ways to notice your signals (tight chest, low energy) and name them

• Why community beats isolation (and how to find your first safe conversation)

• AI PSA: research is fine—AI isn’t your therapist. Talk to a human.

Chapters (update timecodes if needed)

00:00 Welcome & why this show exists

01:05 Meet the hosts (purpose, profit & men’s wellness)

04:10 What “mental health” actually means for men

09:25 Stigma, media & the “invisible injury” problem

14:40 Programming, masculinity & breaking the cycle

20:30 Know thyself: reading your body’s signals

26:10 First steps: courage, one sentence, call a friend

31:15 Community over isolation (+ why AI ≠ therapist)

35:20 What’s next & how to get involved

Join the movement

• Events & community: InherentSelf.org (find a meetup, listen, connect)

• Tell us what to cover next: comment your topic below

• New episodes: we publish 2x per month — hit Subscribe & 🔔

If you’re struggling

You are not alone.

• US: Call/text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org

• UK & ROI: Samaritans 116 123 or samaritans.org

• Emergency: Call your local emergency number.

About the hosts

• Taylor Draper – Founder of Inherent (men’s lifestyle + wellness movement)

• Mike Regennitter – Entrepreneur & community builder

• Jonathan Liebert – Social entrepreneur, ethics/trust advocate, former mental-health professional

We've asked our friends over at the deep dive to do an overview of The Inherent Self Non Profit, and our upcoming podcast! Check out what we're all about.