Excellence Above Talent Podcast

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1865459/open_sms] Have you ever felt trapped between the person you've been and the person you're meant to become? That uncomfortable space of transformation is exactly where Aaron Thomas finds himself. Aaron opens his heart about the mental struggle he's been experiencing while trying to deepen his relationship with God. He describes the intense pressure that comes from trying to let go of an old identity while simultaneously resisting the birth of something new. "The old has gone, the new is here," he quotes from 2 Corinthians 5:17, but acknowledges that the space between old and new can be excruciating. With remarkable honesty, Aaron shares how this resistance to transformation has led him back to old patterns like pornography, which then creates additional layers of shame, inadequacy, and isolation. He explores the irony of men demanding submission from others while refusing to submit themselves to anything higher.  This episode serves as a powerful reminder that pressure will eventually find release—either through the birth of something new or the destructive bursting of pipes. Aaron challenges listeners to choose their battles wisely: fight to become your best self rather than fighting to impress others with a false image of masculinity. The world doesn't get easier, but you will get stronger. If you're struggling with identity, purpose, or transformation, this episode offers both compassionate understanding and a clarion call to embrace the discomfort of growth. Subscribe now and join a community of men committed to becoming the best versions of themselves. Support the show [https://cash.app/$usarmy3037] #excellenceabovetalent [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/excellenceabovetalent?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #EAT [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/eat?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #dontgiveup [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/dontgiveup?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #youdeservethebest [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youdeservethebest?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #youareenough [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youareenough?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] ... [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youareworthy?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R]

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1865459/open_sms] We challenge the dangerous myth that men must sacrifice their mental health to care for their families. Sharing my own experience with suicidal thoughts from trying to be everyone's hero while neglecting myself, we explore how this common pattern leads men to silent suffering and self-destruction. • Men often operate under a false hero complex, believing self-neglect equals strength • Over 75% of US suicides are men, with approximately 100 men taking their lives daily • Mental burnout and emotional emptiness make you less effective as a husband and father • Children need your emotional presence more than just financial provision • Self-care is not weakness but strategic preparation for leadership • Setting boundaries creates order and helps crush chaos in your life • True leadership is earned through actions that make you worth following • Balance between sacrifice and self-care is essential for sustainable family leadership If your wife and kids got 100% of who you are right now, would it be enough? Check in with yourself. Schedule therapy, journal, exercise, or take just 30 minutes daily to recharge. The world doesn't get easier, but you will get stronger. Support the show [https://cash.app/$usarmy3037] #excellenceabovetalent [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/excellenceabovetalent?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #EAT [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/eat?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #dontgiveup [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/dontgiveup?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #youdeservethebest [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youdeservethebest?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #youareenough [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youareenough?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] ... [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youareworthy?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R]

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1865459/open_sms] Aaron Thomas dives deep into three transformative quotes that have become guideposts in his journey toward authentic manhood. With refreshing honesty, he explores the struggle many men face—wanting to succeed independently while knowing deep down that meaningful achievement requires connection and vulnerability. "Your ability to partner with others will largely determine your potential." Aaron unpacks how this truth challenges the lone wolf mentality prevalent among men. Through personal stories of building a mentorship program and facing his own resistance to asking for help, he illuminates the power of collaboration over isolation. Success isn't about conquering others but lifting them as you rise—a lesson Aaron learned through military teamwork that now shapes his vision for manhood. The podcast takes a profound turn as Aaron examines what makes men "dangerous" in the best sense—not through domination but through personal growth and accountability. He shares raw insights about taking extreme ownership in relationships, differentiating between societal expectations and personal truth, and the transformative effect of men holding each other to higher standards.  Whether you're struggling with asking for help, battling to break free from others' expectations, or searching for authentic male connections, this episode offers practical wisdom for your journey. Aaron concludes with powerful calls to action that will move you toward greater partnership, accountability, and self-discovery. Support the show [https://cash.app/$usarmy3037] #excellenceabovetalent [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/excellenceabovetalent?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #EAT [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/eat?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #dontgiveup [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/dontgiveup?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #youdeservethebest [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youdeservethebest?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #youareenough [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youareenough?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] ... [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youareworthy?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R]

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1865459/open_sms] Esmeralda shares her perspective on raising two teenage boys as a single mother and discusses her views on what makes a good man in today's world. • Being a man comes with unique challenges like societal expectations to be the provider, to be tough, and to take on numerous responsibilities • Men and women have different characteristics that should complement each other rather than compete • Teaching boys practical skills like changing tires and using tools prepares them for manhood • Being a "man of your word" and facing consequences for your choices are foundational values • As boys get older, they need both nurturing and boundaries to develop into good men • Communication is essential - talk to children in the car, at home, and create space for open conversation • A mother can teach masculine values but also needs to acknowledge when male role models are missing • Children need responsibilities without being forced to become "the man of the house" too early • Setting boundaries, following through with consequences, and avoiding overindulgence helps boys develop character • When disciplining children, "talk more to the king in them than to the fool" to bring out their best qualities Remember, excellence isn't about perfection but about moving forward and never giving up. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Excellence Above Talent. Support the show [https://cash.app/$usarmy3037] #excellenceabovetalent [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/excellenceabovetalent?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #EAT [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/eat?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #dontgiveup [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/dontgiveup?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #youdeservethebest [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youdeservethebest?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #youareenough [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youareenough?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] ... [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youareworthy?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R]

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1865459/open_sms] Aaron Thomas explores ten barriers preventing men from reaching their full potential as open, vulnerable individuals who inspire those around them. • Societal expectations around traditional masculinity discourage emotional expression • Workplace stress puts pressure on men to prioritize work over family and personal wellbeing • Relationship issues stem from difficulty expressing emotions and needs • Financial pressure ties economic stability to self-worth causing unnecessary stress • Health concerns go unaddressed as men delay seeking medical help • Substance abuse serves as unhealthy coping mechanisms for emotional pain • Loneliness and isolation result from limited support networks • Mental health stigma prevents men from seeking necessary help • Burnout occurs from constant overworking and seeking titles/awards • Trauma and PTSD remain unprocessed due to societal pressure Aaron encourages listeners to question societal definitions of weakness and strength. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Excellence Above Talent. Keep moving forward, never give up, and remember you are never alone in this battle. Support the show [https://cash.app/$usarmy3037] #excellenceabovetalent [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/excellenceabovetalent?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #EAT [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/eat?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #dontgiveup [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/dontgiveup?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #youdeservethebest [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youdeservethebest?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] #youareenough [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youareenough?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R] ... [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/youareworthy?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVzLAXtTXK4Ky1FWAFfmYrVnlP-U4lgvXY63St-UBCD5feEjaU4mnleGRLIXUiIyi91UBve7RPFn7sDmS3VhkXEsYHSuiSaNBTOK37Td5T7PPIkwqdDGixa4gTpdYQeT7Qf65VOGBWvv9v43eta0DaN&__tn__=*NK-R]