Michael shares thoughts and reflections on the impact his own father had on his development.

 

Michael discusses how an extended community of men can contribute to boys’ development.

 

Michael discusses strategies for making the most of time spent with your son - how to be strength-based, rather than deficit-based, how to talk, encourage, correct.

 

Ages 10-20 is the most important socialization time for a boy to become a man.  Rather than just a one-time event, rites of passage are more effective when set up as long-term processes.  Sports, when seen as a healthy, developmental process, can help prepare young men for the real “danger” world where all males eventually must live.

 

As a result of industrialization and cultural change, men struggle to find meaning in their daily activities.  Michael proposes service as a central theme for finding fulfillment in life.