Ep. 25 - Man Up: Authentic Masculinity in a Distracted World

What does authentic masculinity look like in our hyperconnected, distracted world? 

On this episode we were thrilled to have Robert Wyrick join the conversation. Robert has been a customer here at the shop for years and has truly become a valued friend along the way. We have had many conversations, while building his arrows or tuning his bow, about the current state of men in our culture and the role we can play to help right the ship. Robert is sharp and a joy to talk with which I am sure you will quickly hear. 

Our conversation reveals powerful insights about finding purpose and spiritual connection through nature, perseverance, and intentional living. Robert shares how hunting became more than just harvesting animals—it created space for a deeper connection with God. "I talk more to God when I'm in the stand or in the woods," he explains, noting it takes about two days for his mind and spirit to truly quiet down enough to hear and feel what's happening around him. This struggle to find stillness reflects our modern condition: our brains process more information daily than our ancestors did in years. 

We confront cultural misconceptions about masculinity, rejecting both toxic dominance and passive weakness in favor of the model Jesus demonstrated—strength under perfect control. True leadership means serving others sacrificially, taking responsibility, and creating spaces where families and communities can thrive. "We live in a world where it is so scary for men to be men," yet the biblical call isn't to dominate but to "love a woman like God loved the church"—a standard requiring complete selflessness. This has bred society's growing acceptance of quitting when things get difficult. Building character requires working through adversity: "Everything that happens in your life is your fault" might sound harsh, but taking ownership rather than blaming others creates opportunities for genuine growth. Robert's African hunting adventures provide vivid metaphors about vigilance, awareness, and community protection that apply directly to family leadership. 

Perhaps most valuable are the vulnerable discussions about parenting and marriage. We shared honest reflections about our failures, the weight of responsibility, and the importance of creating environments where family members feel safe to make mistakes. "I want my kid to go 'Oh my God, I just messed up. I got to call my dad,' not 'Oh my God, I can't tell my dad.'" In a world pulling us in countless directions, this conversation offers a compelling invitation to slow down, take responsibility, and lead with humility and purpose.

Thanks for joining us on The Bowtreader Podcast. Leave a comment to let us know where you are listening from as well as any topics that you would like to hear us cover. Be sure to like the episode and subscribe to follow along.

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Chapters

• 2:09 Introduction and Hunting Memories
• 5:29 Robert's Journey to Hunting
• 9:56 Digital Distractions and Mental Quiet
• 19:00 True Masculinity and Submission
• 30:21 When Quitting Becomes Acceptable
• 37:02 Taking Responsibility for Your Actions
• 45:44 Building Intentional Spiritual Life
• 1:00:44 Robert's African Hunting Adventure
• 1:09:56 Marriage and Parenting Reflections
• 1:28:22 Closing Thoughts on Fatherhood